Today we’d like to introduce you to Cady Hannah Hakim
Hi Cady Hannah, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
t all started when I was 13. I tore my meniscus while playing soccer, which led me to take a break from the sport I loved. During that time, I felt really depressed and lonely, spending a lot of time by myself. It was a tough period, but it was also when my self-improvement journey truly began. My mom, seeing my struggle, introduced a new perspective—how could I make the most of this time? This shift in mindset helped me begin looking within and exploring ways to grow.
I started a clothing brand centered around the idea that each and every one of us is unique and worthy of embracing who we are. Alongside this, I delved deeper into self-improvement, learning more about personal growth, mindset, and overcoming challenges. Looking back, I realize how pivotal that time was, even though it felt difficult—it was foundational to who I am today.
After high school, I went to college and studied business with a minor in leadership studies. I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do, but I knew I wanted something bigger than just a career—I wanted to have a meaningful impact. Throughout college, I faced a lot of insecurity and struggled with comparison, especially in my final year. I didn’t really like who I was, and I knew I needed a change.
After graduation, I was ready to move past those feelings. Going through a breakup, I realized that it was the perfect time to start taking care of myself. I dove deep into self-improvement—building my self-love, pushing myself outside my comfort zone, and, over time, I began to see how much my life had changed.
I started posting content about my journey on social media, and it really resonated with people. It felt like a full-circle moment. I had always wanted to help others, and suddenly, I felt like a new path was opening up for me. Alongside my marketing job, I decided to pursue my life coach certification.
Now, I’m a certified life coach, a freelance marketer, the host of The Happiness Hangout podcast, and the founder of Happiness By Cady—a brand dedicated to helping others become the best version of themselves.
Looking back, I’m incredibly grateful for the twists and turns that got me to where I am today. Every challenge, every risk, and every decision has led me here. And I’m excited to continue helping others unlock their potential and design the life they truly deserve.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been the smoothest road, but I feel fortunate for the upbringing that gave me the foundation to navigate life’s challenges. While I recognize that some people face more difficult circumstances, I believe that everyone deals with struggles that feel just as big to them in the moment.
For me, my biggest struggle was always being against myself. I spent so much time fighting my own thoughts and feelings. Whether it was the injuries I faced as a child, the lack of self-confidence, or the belief that I wasn’t enough, I was constantly in opposition to my own potential. It was like I was never on my own side, and that made everything feel a lot harder.
I also dealt with comparison, insecurity, and self-doubt, especially in college. There was a time when I felt lost and unsure of who I was, and that sense of disconnection from myself held me back from being the best version of me. It wasn’t until I decided to take control of my narrative—through self-love, personal development, and stepping out of my comfort zone—that I started to truly shift.
But the road wasn’t just about personal struggles. I also faced the fear of being seen—starting my business, posting content, and sharing my journey with others. It was scary to put myself out there, unsure of how others would perceive me. But every risk I took, every moment of vulnerability, became part of the process that led me to where I am now.
Looking back, all those challenges—while difficult—shaped me into who I am today. And I’m grateful for them because they gave me the strength to be on my own side, to embrace my imperfections, and to ultimately help others through their own struggles.
Life will always throw challenges your way, but I believe the struggles we face are an integral part of the journey, helping us grow and evolve into who we’re meant to be.
We’ve been impressed with Happiness By Cady , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Happiness By Cady is a mental wellness brand focused on empowering individuals to transform their mindset and create their dream life. Through my Instagram videos, podcast, and personalized coaching, I help people break free from limiting beliefs and step into their most confident, fulfilled selves.
I specialize in mindset shifts, using a combination of life coaching, NLP techniques, and my personal experiences to guide others on their journey to growth. What sets me apart is my unique approach—blending professional coaching knowledge with real-life lessons I’ve learned through my own personal evolution.
What I want readers to know about Happiness By Cady:
My coaching is deeply personalized, tailored to meet each person’s unique needs and goals.
My podcast, The Happiness Hangout, is a space where I dive into conversations on mental wellness, personal growth, and everything that helps us live our happiest lives. It’s a great companion for those looking for motivation, actionable insights, and uplifting conversations.
My ultimate mission is to help others unlock their potential, tap into their inner confidence, and attract the life they’ve always dreamed of.
The brand is an authentic reflection of everything I’ve learned (and continue to learn) on my personal and professional journey.
I’m most proud of how much I’ve grown through this journey, as it’s been a rollercoaster of challenges and triumphs. That same growth fuels my passion to help others on their path to becoming the happiest, most confident versions of themselves.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
When it comes to risk-taking, I truly believe that growth comes from stepping outside of our comfort zones. If your comfort zone isn’t expanding, you’re likely not pushing yourself enough. Taking risks is an essential part of personal development and unlocking your potential. It’s through risk that we evolve, learn, and sometimes, even fail—but those failures can be some of the most powerful learning experiences.
I’ve taken a few major risks myself, and looking back, each one has been a stepping stone in my journey. One of the scariest risks I took was being vulnerable on social media. Putting myself out there, unsure of how people would react or what they would think, was incredibly intimidating. But, the rewards have been far greater than I imagined. Sharing my story and message with others has not only helped me grow, but it’s also created a community of people who resonate with my experiences and my mission. It’s been a beautiful reminder that vulnerability can be a superpower, and it often leads to the most fulfilling connections.
Another risk I took was starting my podcast, The Happiness Hangout, from scratch. I had no idea if anyone would listen or if it would even gain traction, but I poured my heart and soul into it. Now, it’s a platform where I share valuable insights on mental wellness, personal growth, and everything that helps people live their happiest lives. Even when I wasn’t sure where it would lead, it’s been one of the most rewarding endeavors.
I think risks are always a win-win situation. You either get what you want, or you grow from the experience. And the growth—whether it’s learning a new skill, building resilience, or gaining clarity—has immense value, regardless of the outcome. For me, it’s about embracing the discomfort, because that’s where the magic happens.
Contact Info:
- Website: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happinessbycady/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCakDk5rKijuK2gg8NLDfxMg
