In partnership with
Have you ever wondered how long it really takes to go from a 9–5 to a six-figure influencer?
What if your next chapter starts by trusting your gut, and not your job title?
Les Alfred didn’t come from wealth. She didn’t have connections. But she had a voice, a podcast, and a powerful desire to grow beyond what her 9–5 at Hubspot allowed. In this episode of Hot Smart Rich, I sit down with Les, the host of @shessoluckypod (Dear Media), to talk about what really happened for Les to reinvent herself, create her dream life, and make six-figures while doing it.
We go deep on:
♡ How Les actually makes money as a creator (sponsorships, live events, speaking, and more)
♡ How to launch a podcast that people actually want to listen to—and how she grew to 10K+ downloads per episode
♡ Why her biggest opportunities (Michelle Obama, Melinda Gates interviews) came from her existing network—not cold pitching
♡ What changed when she stopped DIY-ing and hired people better than her
♡ How moving to New York unexpectedly unlocked everything she was craving
♡ And the truth about dating when you're an ambitious woman building something big
Whether you're side-hustling, thinking about quitting, or feeling the pull to do more—this episode is your sign to get started and bet on yourself.
♡ Are You A Member? ♡
I’ve been a Bilt member and partner from the beginning (I was in their OG Bilt Originals Class!!) and I am THRILLED to see the team announce their latest $250M fundraise to expand their impact across the housing ecosystem and help Americans fall back in love with where they live.
Now Bilt is rewarding people for paying rent, buying a home and by turning their neighborhood into a luxury loyalty club through exclusive benefits at hotspot restaurants, cult fitness favorites and more.
If you’re paying rent or a mortgage and not getting rewarded for it, you’re missing the entire point (and a better version of a Soho House membership). Check out their latest announcement in their newsroom.
♡ 01. Blackout Sleep Game ♡
Literally like wearing blackout curtains on your face. I’ve never slept better since using this sleep mask—it blocks out everything and feels so luxe.
♡ 02. Daily Wellness Check ♡
I use this ring to track my sleep, steps, cycle, and overall wellness. Such a simple way to stay in tune with my body throughout the month.
♡ 03. Books on the Go ♡
I’m a big reader and always have my e-reader with me. It’s so lightweight and perfect for travel—hundreds of books in one tiny device.
♡ 04. Free Reads Hack ♡
This library app is my favorite life hack. It connects with my local library card and gives me free books straight to my e-reader.
♡ 05. Breathwork Anytime ♡
My go-to app for breathwork, meditation, and quick yoga flows. I use it when I need to reset or calm my anxiety during the day.
♡ 06. Monthly Skin Reset ♡
I signed up for a monthly facial membership and it’s been amazing for my skin. Quick, effective treatments that keep my skin clear without breaking the bank.
♡ 07. Calm in Five Minutes ♡
This YouTube practice is my favorite tool for anxiety and nervous system resets. EFT tapping helps me feel calmer, faster.
♡ 08. Rental Style Fix ♡
My favorite way to switch up my wardrobe without buying more. Clothing rentals have been a lifesaver for events and travel—plus you can get $28 off your first month with code BALANCEDLES.
♡ 09. Lip Care Staple ♡
This lip salve keeps my lips smooth, hydrated, and happy—zero stickiness, all-day comfort.
♡ 10. Summer Skin Essential ♡
I love this glowy SPF body oil for summer. It protects and leaves my skin looking radiant at the same time.
♡ Hot, Smart, Rich Tips ♡
♡ Hot Hack ♡
Strength training is the ultimate hot hack for aging gracefully. Aim to challenge your muscles three days per week.
♡ Smart Hack ♡
Don’t only read self-improvement books, you can learn so much from reading fiction too! It boosts creativity and empathy, and helps you be a better communicator.
♡ Rich Tip ♡
Spend and manage your money according to your values, not to keep up appearances.
♡ Favorite Part of The Conversation ♡
I loved chatting about the numbers behind podcast monetization, and how much the medium has changed over the years.
♡ Something People Don’t Know About You ♡
I’m not a fan of reality TV, but love a good documentary.
♡ About The Guest ♡
Les Alfred — Entrepreneur and Influencer
Les Alfred is a writer, podcast host, and entrepreneur best known for founding Balanced Black Girl, a groundbreaking wellness podcast and community that centers Black women’s experiences. Starting her career in corporate communications while becoming a certified personal trainer, Les recognized the lack of representation in mainstream wellness and launched her platform in 2018 to change the narrative. Through honest conversations about mental health, self-care, and personal growth, she built a space where women could feel seen, supported, and empowered to prioritize their well-being. In 2025, Les rebranded her platform to She’s So Lucky, expanding her focus to include themes of self-trust, luck, and intentional living. Her work continues to inspire women to embrace their unique journeys, cultivate balance, and lead lives rooted in authenticity.