In a world where labels often define—and limit—who we are, Deanna Kuempel has made it her mission to break them.
As the founder and host of the Label Free Podcast and a dynamic media personality, Deanna has built a platform rooted in authenticity, resilience, and empowerment. But beyond the mic and camera, she has become a powerful community connector—bringing people together through meaningful conversations and impactful events, including the recent International Women’s Day Collective held at A&N Mortgage in Chicago.
The event was more than a celebration. It was a reflection of Deanna’s journey, her purpose, and the growing movement she continues to lead.
From Reinvention to Purpose
Deanna’s career path has been anything but conventional. Like many women, her story is one of reinvention—of navigating challenges, embracing change, and stepping boldly into new opportunities.
“I created Label Free because I wanted people to understand that they don’t have to live within the expectations or limitations placed on them,” she shares.
What began as a podcast quickly evolved into a multi-platform brand, now streaming on Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire. Through her interviews with entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and change-makers, Deanna has cultivated a space where real conversations happen—where vulnerability meets strength, and where listeners are encouraged to see themselves in a new light.
Her message is simple but powerful: you are not defined by labels—you define yourself.
The Power of Storytelling
At the heart of Deanna’s work is storytelling. Each episode of the Label Free Podcast goes beyond surface-level conversation, diving into the real-life experiences that shape who we are.
“I’ve learned that everyone has a story,” she says. “And when we share those stories, we create connection, understanding, and growth.”
Through these conversations, Deanna has not only inspired her audience but has also grown as a leader herself. Listening to others—hearing their struggles, their breakthroughs, and their lessons—has reinforced her belief that authenticity is the foundation of meaningful success.
Her platform has become a space where honesty is celebrated, and where guests are encouraged to share not just their wins, but the moments that shaped them.
A Celebration of Women, Together
This philosophy came to life at the International Women’s Day Collective hosted at A&N Mortgage—a powerful gathering of women from diverse industries and backgrounds, united by a shared purpose: to celebrate, uplift, and empower one another.
For Deanna, participating in this event was deeply personal.
“This wasn’t just about celebrating women—it was about creating a space where women could truly see and support each other,” she says.
The room was filled with entrepreneurs, professionals, creatives, and leaders—each bringing their own story, energy, and perspective. The atmosphere was vibrant, but more importantly, it was intentional. Every interaction was rooted in connection, collaboration, and encouragement.
It was a reminder that when women come together with purpose, something powerful happens.
Expanding the Vision into the City
To expand the reach and impact of the event, Deanna partnered with her longtime friend and creative collaborator, Annette Patko of Bordeaux Studio. Together, they elevated the International Women’s Day Collective beyond a single event—bringing its energy and message into the city through Gold Coast City Lifestyle magazine.
“Annette and I have always shared a creative vision,” Deanna explains. “Partnering together allowed us to take this experience to another level and give these women a platform to be seen and celebrated.”
Through this collaboration, the stories of the women involved were amplified, ensuring that the impact of the event extended far beyond that day. It became a lasting moment captured in print—one that continues to inspire.
A Community Effort
This unforgettable event would not have been possible without the incredible support of its sponsors. Deanna and her team extend their deepest gratitude to Tecalitlan Mexican Kitchen, Bread & Butter Wines, Chicago Chop House, City of Hope, Pinnacle Fertility, Azul, A&N Mortgage, Viva La Med Spa, The Wayfair Store, Bordeaux Studio, Brazilian Lift Spa, Socialite Media, Wintrust, Sapori Trattoria, and Tequila 1349.
Their generosity and participation helped bring this vision to life and created an experience that resonated with every woman in attendance.
“We are so grateful that so many people showed up, supported, and believed in what we are building,” Deanna shares. “It truly takes a community.”
With such an overwhelming response, the excitement for what’s next is already building.
“We’re just getting started,” she adds. “We’re looking forward to the next one.”
Building Community Through Connection
Deanna’s work is rooted in one core belief: connection is everything.
Through her podcast, events, and media presence, she has created spaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued.
“Community is so important,” she says. “We’re not meant to do life alone. When we come together and support each other, we all rise.”
The International Women’s Day Collective embodied that belief—bringing women together not in competition, but in collaboration and celebration.
Redefining What It Means to Be ‘Label Free’
For Deanna, living “label free” is not just a phrase—it’s a way of life.
It means letting go of societal expectations, limiting beliefs, and self-imposed barriers. It means embracing who you are fully, even when it feels uncomfortable.
“Being label free means owning who you are—fully and unapologetically,” she says.
This mindset has guided her through her journey and continues to inspire others to step into their own power.
A Vision for the Future
As the Label Free brand continues to grow, Deanna is focused on expanding her reach and deepening her impact—through storytelling, media, and community-driven experiences.
She is not just building a brand—she is building a movement.
A movement centered on authenticity, empowerment, and connection.
A Message to Every Woman
At the heart of everything Deanna does is a message she hopes every woman carries with her:
You are not defined by your past, your circumstances, or anyone else’s expectations.
You have the power to create your own story.
And when you choose to live authentically—when you choose to live label free—you give others permission to do the same.
Because when women come together with purpose, passion, and authenticity, there are no limits to what they can achieve.
“When women come together with authenticity, purpose, and passion, we create more than connection—we create collaboration, movement, momentum, and meaningful change that empowers others to rise, live boldly, and step fully into who they are.”