From Purity to Liberation: A Conversation with Erica Smith
In this powerful episode of Finding Fearless, we explore the intersection of authenticity, entrepreneurship, and social change with Erica Smith, founder of Purity Culture Dropout.
Erica’s work in deconstructing harmful sexual narratives and creating pathways for healthier, more liberated perspectives. Erica is a truly pioneering voice, and frankly, we need more voices like hers. I was so impressed by her journey, which not only challenges traditional business norms (that desperately need challenging) but inspires so many to pursue values-driven work. It's a refreshing change of pace.
Erica’s background is deeply rooted in sexual health education.
She has over two decades of experience supporting young women and LGBTQ youth in some of the most challenging environments. What truly drives Erica, though, is her incredible ability to identify gaps where no solutions exist and then create impactful, lasting change.
Her pivot to entrepreneurship was driven by this very desire—to fill a crucial void. She wanted to support individuals affected by purity culture, a niche she discovered by listening to voices, much like her own, yearning for healing and truth. It’s something I feel passionately about as well; it's high time these conversations are brought into the light.
Erica's journey, of course, wasn't without its hurdles. Her transition from a structured job to self-employment required her to embrace some unfamiliar territory, specifically, learning how to sell her wealth of knowledge. This leap of faith asked her not only to trust her intuition but to completely transform her thinking around monetizing her expertise. It's a struggle so many entrepreneurs face.
What really struck me about Erica’s story is the critical importance of aligning your work with your authentic self.
Erica shared how, early on, she confronted the pressure of aggressive sales tactics that just felt unethical to her. Instead of succumbing to that pressure, which so many unfortunately do, Erica found that her true success lay in building trust and respecting the autonomy of her clients.
Her approach, rooted in consent and authenticity, taught her the significance of finding her own way to connect and offer value to those she serves. It's such a powerful lesson, and one that far too few businesses embrace.
Erica’s openness about both her struggles and her triumphs is a testament to the power of finding your own rhythm. For her, that means embracing unconventional work hours, hours that align with when she feels most productive and inspired.
She’s a strong advocate for creating your own structures and settings, ones that nourish rather than confine - an ethos that’s absolutely central to fearlessly crafting a business that truly mirrors your values. I think that's something we all need to hear; we need to break free from the traditional 9-to-5 grind.
The world around us is shifting so rapidly, and current events are heightening the importance of Erica's work more than ever.
Erica foresees community as absolutely instrumental to thriving amidst these changing landscapes, and I couldn’t agree more. Community moves faster than government, and by fostering meaningful connections, she encourages resistance against narratives that attempt to dictate personal identities and freedoms. This is vital work.
As a true agent of change, Erica's story illustrates that being steadfast in authenticity can pave the way for others. Her efforts to destigmatize and educate are so crucial, especially right now, as they equip individuals with the tools to challenge and redefine repressive norms.
Erica isn't just fostering change through her practice; she's broadening her reach with some exciting upcoming initiatives. She’s about to launch a transformative six-week course designed to help those deconstructing harmful ideologies related to purity culture. And, even more exciting, her forthcoming book, set to release later this year, aims to serve as an empowering resource for those raised with religious shame around sexuality. I can't wait to read it! I have a feeling it's going to be a game-changer.
If you connect with Erica's mission or are inspired by her journey, I encourage you to support her work by visiting her website at purityculturedropout.com.
Taking steps to educate yourself, or even just connecting with Erica, might be the very first step toward addressing the narratives that are holding you back. Don't wait.
Erica's story is such a compelling reminder that true impact starts with listening—both to ourselves and to those we strive to help. Her journey encourages all of us to step courageously into spaces that need voices like hers—voices filled with passion, purpose, and authenticity.
I hope you’ll join me in supporting the voices that are shaping a new era of knowledge, inclusivity, and understanding. It's time for a change, and Erica is leading the way.
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