A home for first-generation founders redefining success

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for the firsts

You’re a First…

The first woman in your family to graduate college.

The first to step into corporate.

And the first to leave it all behind to create something entirely your own.

You’ve always done things differently.

You’ve dared to pave your own path.

And guess what? You no longer have to do it all alone.

Ambition + Mischief is a home for first-generation founders like you.

This is your space to build a life and business on your own terms — while being seen, supported, and celebrated every step of the way.

hey, I’m Sam Cartagena

founder of Ambition + Mischief

certified mindset + visibility coach

I know what it feels like to be a First.

As the eldest daughter, the first to graduate college, and the first to step into corporate, I spent most of my life doing what I was “supposed” to do in order to succeed.

But when I was laid off from my corporate job in 2016, I realized I couldn’t keep living by others’ definition of success.

That moment became my turning point. Instead of following the expected path, I chose to create my own.

I took the leap into entrepreneurship — and began paving a path of success that finally felt like mine.

firsts don’t follow blueprints — we create them.

The old path to success told us we need endless hustle and self-sacrifice to achieve. At Ambition + Mischief, we believe your well-being is your most valuable asset — and protecting it is the foundation of sustainable success.

Being a First means stepping into uncharted territory. It takes vision, courage, and a mindset that refuses to shrink. At Ambition + Mischief, we help you strengthen your inner leadership — so you can trust your intuition, own your story, and confidently lead in spaces no one in your lineage has walked before.

Every First deserves a space where she’s seen, supported, and celebrated — the same way she does for others. At Ambition + Mischief, you’ll find a community of bold women paving their own paths and shining a light on yours.