Q: Where did you grow up? Go to college? First job? Tell us a little about yourself.
I grew up in Atlanta and went to Emory University for undergrad in Nursing and went to VCU for Nurse Anesthesia Doctorate in Nurse Anesthesia Practice. My first job—ironically—was at a day spa, doing laundry and cleaning. From there, I worked various waitressing jobs before my first real nursing position: caring for patients after open heart surgeries and heart transplants.
Q: Tell us about your journey to becoming a CEO.
I spent over a decade working full-time as a nurse anesthetist, all while developing a strong interest in financial freedom and entrepreneurship. I dabbled in short-term rentals and turned our vacation home into the #1 Airbnb on Wintergreen Resort before selling it. But the entrepreneur bug wouldn’t go away.
In the first month of COVID, I took my first aesthetics course. The timing was ironically perfect—suddenly everyone was seeing themselves on Zoom for hours a day! I started injecting Botox as a side hustle and writing a blog to document the process. I offered in-home Botox parties, which became hugely popular during that time when people preferred seeing providers within their “COVID crew.”
I subleased a small space off Parham Road, just a couple days a week. After receiving my own Botox and filler treatments, I knew I’d found my calling—something that helps women in ways that go much deeper than skin. The business grew organically, fueled by mom’s groups on Facebook and word of mouth. Eventually, I reached a breaking point trying to balance full-time anesthesia job, my growing aesthetics practice, and occasionally being a wife and mom.
At the end of 2021, my husband and I purchased and renovated our current building off Staples Mill Road—well, he did most of the renovating! Now Cassie Lane Aesthetics is home to a bright, cozy space and an all-female team of 10 smart, kind, and driven women I’m incredibly proud to work alongside.
That little blog I started has grown into Injectables EDU—a training company with five national locations and an annual business-focused conference just for RNs and NPs. Like many nurses and doctors, I had zero business training. I’ve learned everything from my incredible mentor (now business partner in Injectables EDU) and by listening to endless business books on Audible and library apps.
VACEOs has been instrumental in this journey. Every single person in my group has shown up for me in some way to support both my business and personal growth.
Q: Any new business ideas or initiatives on the horizon?
I’m currently rolling out a structured performance review and 1:1 process with my team that I’m super excited about. Next up: implementing the Traction framework.
Q. What books, podcasts, or media have had an impact on you?
Business books have been a huge influencer for me. Right now, I’m listening to One Great CEO. (Let’s be honest—“reading” means “listening” these days.) Some of the most influential books I’ve devoured over the years have truly shaped how I run my business include Simple Numbers, Straight Talk, Big Profits!, 100M Offers, Your Next Five Moves, and Small Business for Dummies (I know it sounds crazy but this book is the most foundational business book I read).
I can’t say I have a single bible or book that truly guides me, but more of a gleaning something new with each book that speaks to me based on whatever I’m currently at in my business.
Q. What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I love riding the Cap to Cap Trail with my family. I’ve got two boys, ages 9 and 10, so we’re always on the move. I also enjoy binging Netflix, drinking on patios, and relaxing in my hot tub.
Q. How are you involved in your community?
We’re very involved in kids’ sports—too involved if you ask me! One of my sons is an avid soccer goalie, and the other is a rising tennis star. We’ve also dabble in swim team, baseball, and tae kwon do.
Cassie Lane Med Spa regularly supports local events and charities we believe in, like CASA and Little Hands Virginia. That’s one of the beautiful things about small business—the deep, local connections.
Q. How have you grown as a CEO since joining VACEOs?
My group has been an incredible source of insight, support, and connections. From helping me find and renovate our new home (thanks Jordan Hutchins at Spruce Construction!), to taking our marketing to the next level (Lauren Sweeney at Dotted Line Agency), to navigating an insurance claim (Ryan Atkinson at Atkinson Insurance)—every member has contributed to my journey in a meaningful way. I’m consistently blown away by how these successful, busy people still show up for one another.
Q. How has your Roundtable helped you become a better leader?
It’s comforting to know that we’re all facing the same types of challenges, no matter the industry. That shared experience creates a powerful support network.
Q. Any fun plans coming up?
I’m taking my entire team to Bermuda to show my appreciation for their incredible work and dedication! I’m also headed to San Diego for a fun speaking opportunity—and a kid-free getaway with my husband.
