From Survival Mode to Sustainable Growth: Heather McElrath on Why Not Today?

In a recent episode of the Why Not Today? podcast host Leslie Kane welcomed Heather McElrath, founder of Sandbox Communications, for a honest conversation about building a business — one that starts in survival mode and slowly evolves into something sustainable, intentional, and fulfilling.

Heather shares her path from corporate uncertainty to entrepreneurship, reflecting on the early days of juggling multiple responsibilities, navigating burnout, and pushing forward without a perfectly mapped plan. Rather than presenting a polished overnight success story, she offers a refreshingly honest look at what it really takes to keep going when clarity comes later.

"You don't need to have everything figured out before you start — sometimes the act of starting is what creates clarity."

A central theme of the conversation is mindset. Heather emphasizes the importance of trusting your intuition, even when the next step feels uncomfortable or unclear. She challenges the idea that you need to feel "ready" before you begin, reminding listeners that momentum often comes from action, not certainty.

The episode also explores how closing certain doors — whether that's leaving a job, shifting priorities, or letting go of expectations — can create space for better-aligned opportunities.

"Growth doesn't always arrive in bold moves; often it shows up quietly, through consistent choices and self-trust."

For anyone navigating career change, entrepreneurship, or simply feeling stuck, Heather's message is both grounding and encouraging — you don't need all the answers to take the next step, you just need the courage to ask: why not today?

Listen to the full episode of Why Not Today? featuring Heather McElrath