Exploring Life & Business with Susan Austin of Gingham Cat Business Consulting

Today we’d like to introduce you to Susan Austin.

Susan, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started my career in fashion manufacturing, working with startups and managing production teams. It was fast-paced and creative, but I quickly realized I loved solving operational puzzles—figuring out how to make things run more smoothly behind the scenes.

That curiosity led me into the corporate world, where I worked as a business analyst and project manager. I helped large organizations—like healthcare systems and utilities—make sense of their data and improve their processes. But over time, I felt pulled toward work that had a more direct impact.

While volunteering with animal rescue nonprofits, I saw how much small teams struggle with data, reporting, and systems—especially without a dedicated data person. That’s when I realized I could use my skills to help.

So, I started Gingham Cat, a data consulting business focused on helping small nonprofits and mission-driven businesses. Now, I help people turn messy spreadsheets and scattered information into clear, useful insights—so they can make better decisions, raise more money, and focus on what they do best.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like most small businesses, the biggest challenge has been finding new clients—especially in the early days. I knew I had the skills to help, but building trust and visibility takes time, especially when you’re working with small teams that are already stretched thin.

Another challenge was learning how to wear all the hats. I went from being a data expert to also being a marketer, a salesperson, and a business owner. It’s a big shift, and there’s a learning curve. But every step has helped me better understand what my clients go through, which makes me even more committed to keeping things simple and supportive for them.

The road hasn’t always been smooth, but it’s been meaningful. And every challenge has helped shape Gingham Cat into what it is today—a place where small businesses and nonprofits can get the clarity and confidence they need to move forward.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Gingham Cat Business Consulting helps small businesses and nonprofits make sense of their data—so they can make smarter decisions without getting overwhelmed. I work with teams who are juggling a lot and just need clear, simple tools to understand what’s working, what’s not, and where to focus next.

I specialize in turning messy spreadsheets, scattered reports, and clunky processes into clean, easy-to-use dashboards and systems. No tech jargon, no pressure to buy software—just practical solutions that fit the way you work.

What sets Gingham Cat Business Consulting apart is how personal and hands-on the experience is. I take time to understand your business, your goals, and your pain points. Then I build something that actually helps—not just something that looks good on paper.

Here’s what one client had to say:

“Susan is amazing. She really helped us create and execute a unique event that required precision with no room for error. Her organization and her knowledge of databases changed the scope and breadth of our event. She is thorough, detail-oriented, and a critical thinker. Susan is professional and a pleasure to work with. I feel so lucky that we found her!”

At the end of the day, I want small teams to feel confident using their data—not overwhelmed by it. That’s what Gingham Cat Business Consulting is all about.

What does success mean to you?
For me, success is when a client feels both relief and trust. That moment when the chaos clears, the numbers make sense, and they know they have someone in their corner who truly understands their business.

It’s not just about delivering a dashboard or cleaning up a spreadsheet. It’s about building a relationship where my clients feel heard, supported, and confident in the decisions they’re making. When someone says, “I finally feel like I understand what’s going on,” or “I trust you to help us figure this out”—that’s success.

I believe trust is earned through listening, showing up consistently, and delivering work that actually makes a difference. That’s what I aim for in every project: clarity, confidence, and a sense of partnership.

Pricing:

• Detailed pricing information is available on my website

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ginghamcat.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theginghamcat/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ginghamcat
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ginghamcat/
• Other: https://bsky.app/profile/ginghamcat.bsky.social