We’re looking forward to introducing you to Madelyn Bass. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Madelyn, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What battle are you avoiding?
What battle are you avoiding?
Honestly, the battle I find myself avoiding most is letting go of old systems and habits that no longer serve my growth—both personally and professionally. After over a decade in business, it’s easy to stick with what’s familiar, even when new technology or fresh approaches could make things more efficient or impactful. Sometimes, it feels safer to stay in the comfort zone rather than risk the unknown, even if that risk could lead to greater innovation or deeper connections with my audience.
I’m working on being more intentional about embracing change—especially in the fast-paced technology space. I know that to keep leading, serving, and empowering others (especially young people preparing for the corporate world), I have to be willing to challenge my own routines and step into new territory, even when it feels uncomfortable.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Absolutely! First of all. Thank you for this opportunity.
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My name is Madelyn Bass, and I’m the founder of Madelyn’s Business and Things, a technology-focused company that’s been serving my community for over a decade. With summit events “So Real with Madelyn” a program for seniors and empty nesters to come virtually and learn technology. At the heart of my work is a passion for empowering young people to prepare for the corporate world, using innovative tools like iDecide and TextAlertz to bridge the gap between learning and real-world success.
What makes my brand unique is my commitment to collaboration, practical growth, and inclusion. We don’t just offer solutions—we build partnerships, provide hands-on training, and create spaces where everyone can thrive, especially those who are often underrepresented in tech and business. Our signature programs focus on actionable marketing, affiliate engagement, and fostering a supportive team environment where every member’s success is celebrated.
Right now, I’m excited about introducing my intern program and launching new resources that make business transformation accessible, simple, and rewarding for everyone. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, my mission is to help you build confidence, develop real-world skills, and achieve your goals with the support of a community that truly cares.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Bonds between people are often broken by a lack of communication, trust, or understanding. When assumptions take the place of honest conversations, or when people feel unheard or undervalued, distance naturally grows. In business and in life, I’ve seen how competition or fear of vulnerability can also create division —even among those who share the same goals.
Taking the time to listen and understand someone’s story, to show genuine appreciation can heal some of those rifts. Over the years, I’ve found that transparency, empathy, and shared purpose can be powerful tools for bringing people back together. When we focus on collaboration over competition and celebrate each other’s wins, we rebuild trust and foster an environment where everyone feels seen and supported.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely—there have been moments when I felt like shutting down and justfocuson myself, especially during periods when the challenges of recovering from trauma and paralysis seemed overwhelming. One moment that stands out was a few years ago when I was juggling multiple projects, and it felt like nothing was moving forward fast enough. I questioned whether all the tears, words of encouragement and sacrifices were really making a difference.
It made sense and I realized that setbacks truly are just setups for comebacks, and every challenge was an opportunity to learn, adapt, and grow stronger.
Looking back, I’m grateful I didn’t give up. Those tough times taught me resilience, deepened my empathy for others facing obstacles, and reminded me that even small steps forward can lead to big transformations.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
In this industry it is often said, “AI/virtual assistants can do everything perfectly, right out of the box.”
Truth is: While AI has made huge leaps, there’s still a lot of nuance, context, and human judgment that technology can’t fully replicate. Real productivity comes from thoughtful integration with human workflows, not just plugging in a new tool.
Or, “Automation will completely replace human workers.”
Truth is: Automation is awesome for repetitive tasks, but it’s best when it empowers people to do more creative or strategic work—not when it tries to eliminate the human touch entirely. Most successful teams use AI as a partner, not a replacement. AI understands you as well as a human would. Just know AI is getting better at context and tone, but it still relies on the information it’s given and can miss subtle cues. Human connection, empathy, and intuition are still super valuable!
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
The story you hope people tell about me when I’m gone is, that I was someone who truly cared—who used my gifts and my business not just to build success for myself, but to open doors for others. I want my story to be one of empowerment: that I helped young people step confidently into the corporate world, that I created spaces where people felt seen, valued, and equipped to grow, and that I always led with integrity, faith, and compassion.
If people remember me as someone who inspired them to believe in themselves, to embrace new opportunities, and to support one another along the way, then I’ll know I’ve fulfilled my purpose. My hope is that my legacy lives on in the lives I’ve touched, the leaders I’ve helped develop, and the community I’ve built—one that continues to lift others up long after I’m gone.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://SoRealWithMadelyn.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/SoRealWithMadelyn
- Twitter: https://Twitter.com/MadelynBass
- Youtube: https://YouTube.com/MadelynBass
