In this episode, host Sid Bensalah welcomes Lesle Lane, founder and lead photographer at Studio 13 in Indianapolis and a former U.S. national-level figure skater. Lesle’s story blends high performance, artistic leadership, and entrepreneurial grit.
From her early mornings on the ice to reimagining a third-generation photography business, Lesle unpacks the mindset, mentorship, and moments that shaped her purpose. She reflects on failing a skating test seven times and how that grit carried over into running a creative business, mentoring photographers, and leading with authenticity.
You’ll also hear her take on gender bias in the creative industry, how she’s embraced AI in commercial photography, and what legacy means when balancing personal standards with community impact.
00:00 From Ice Rinks to Industry: Lesle Lane on Discipline, Legacy & Leadership
01:07 Leslie Lane’s Background and Early Passion for Skating
01:40 The Discipline and Independence of Skating
03:31 Lessons from Coaches and Dealing with Failure
06:47 Transition to Photography and Overcoming Business Challenges
10:57 Balancing Personal and Professional Life
25:28 Taking Over the Family Business
27:34 Challenges of Being a Female Photographer
29:28 Proud Achievements and Milestones
31:45 Navigating Gender and Age Bias
33:40 Advice for Women Leaders
35:34 Importance of Mentorship
37:49 Adapting to Technological Changes
44:09 Personal Legacy and Impact
48:11 Lightning Round Q&A
Key Takeaways
- Sports can teach lifelong discipline and leadership
- Grit is built through failure and tested in business
- Coaching others reveals more about yourself
- Being a female leader in commercial photography requires courage and clarity
- AI is changing the creative space, but not replacing human vision
- Mentorship isn’t optional; it’s a responsibility
- Legacy is built moment by moment, with intention
🎧 Listen now and walk away with insights, not just opinions.
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📲 Watch the full interview on YouTube + Spotify