Authenticity in Action
Shawn Nelson, founder of The Social Content Lounge, is on a mission to help women 40+ step into their power through authentic social media content creation. With a background in nursing and a passion for empowering others, Shawn brings a unique and real approach to teaching entrepreneurs how to navigate the digital world with confidence and joy. Her story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and a deep commitment to serving others—both in business and in life.
What does success mean to you, and how has this definition evolved over time?
Honestly, joy in what I am doing. I work with a lot of female entrepreneurs that are just emerging from a cocoon. Witnessing the transformation from caterpillar to butterfly is success to me. When you serve first, income success will follow.
Who is your ideal client/customer/collab?
Women 40+ who are coachable, willing to stretch themselves, and ready to have fun. You gotta have fun in business building!
What is the inspiration behind your business journey?
I volunteer for a non-profit called Saprea, which helps victims of childhood sexual abuse. Empowering women is in my blood, so building a business that also empowers and educates women felt natural to me.
Tell us about your personal journey and how it has shaped who you are today.
I’m a retired RN of 13 years, and my son was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when he was 11. That changed my life, as I knew I needed to be home for him. I started content creation at 38, self-taught, and now at 49, I’m confident teaching others.
What are the core values that guide your personal and professional decisions?
Authenticity is a huge core value for me. It’s something we need more of, especially on social platforms.
What makes your approach or business unique?
People often tell me, “Shawn, you’re so real.” I take that to heart. I always say, "If I ever show up as anything but real, please whoop me upside the head!"
"Authenticity is a huge core value for me. It’s something we need more of, especially on social platforms."
— Shawn Nelson
What role has the VCBW community played in your journey?
I’m the new girl here! I’ve enjoyed getting to know this community and look forward to connecting more.
What advice would you give to women who aspire to lead and make an impact in their fields?
Service before self. If more business owners focused on serving others, their businesses would thrive. Don’t worry about growth—it will follow.
How do you nurture your mental and emotional health while pursuing high professional goals?
I got into pole dancing, and it’s been so empowering! Besides being a great workout, it pulls me out of my head and shows me how strong I am.
What's one thing you do regularly that keeps you grounded and focused?
Meditation! I also use a tool called "segment intending," where I visualize and map out my day. It keeps me focused and grounded.
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for the next phase of your life and career?
I want to impact over 1,000 women business owners, teaching them how to create authentic content that helps their businesses thrive—especially for those of us over 40! Let’s take up space, but do it in a real and human way, not like sales sloths!
Connect and Discover More
Shawn Nelson| The Social Content Lounge
If you’re ready to transform your social media strategy with authenticity and confidence? Connect with Shawn to learn more about The Social Content Lounge and how she can help you elevate your content game.
Join her community and start creating content that truly reflects who you are!
