Startups in Stilettos

“Just because you don't know people, just because you don't have the budget, just because you don't know anything about the media space doesn't mean that you aren't valued and that you shouldn't put your foot in the door.” When Nicole Pearl Kaplan joined Clubhouse, she was incensed by the advice 'quote unquote experts' were giving to small business owners, which led her to realize she had valuable expertise to offer. As a former national magazine beauty editor and seasoned TV beauty and style expert, Nicole has evolved into a PR and media strategist. Through her consultancy, she empowers small businesses and creatives, guiding them through the complexities of media engagement and brand elevation. Her two decades of experience combined with insider knowledge and strategic insights are pivotal in securing top-tier media coverage, enhancing brand visibility, and driving sales growth for her clients. Tune in and hear how Nicole went from regional TV segments to becoming an on-air expert for the Today Show, her early career experiences reminiscent of 'The Devil Wears Prada,' and her dedication to helping those who need assistance in gaining media visibility. What we talk about: Networking and finding key relationships (05:20) Progress over perfection (10:28) Effectively organizing a tight budget (14:06) Misconceptions about pitching to media (18:21) The impact of AI on the PR and media landscape (20:43) Connect with Nicole: Instagram Website Join 5 Days to Free Press Course Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders that have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts|TuneIn|GooglePlay|Stitcher|Spotify|iHeart Radio Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more startup founders, like you, and have a chance to win a one-on-one mentor and strategy session with Stephanie Cartin. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. And for even more exclusive content and information – and to get access to the 8 Secrets to Success in Your Business video course and worksheet – visit our website.

“The responses that I had to my intro post inside of Entreprenista pales in comparison to all of these other networks that I've introduced myself in. I've met so many wonderful women there. And that is part of my marketing strategy, is that every week I have a consistent amount of time that I invest in these groups… Investing in those relationships has paid off immensely.” Mariana Henninger had a highly successful career in filmmaking but she considered herself a “closeted entrepreneur” until 2022, when she realized that there was an opportunity to capitalize on her brand of creating emotional connection through storytelling. Mariana is an Emmy award winning documentarian with over 15 years of experience, having worked in major media outlets including NBC, The Today Show and The New York Times. With a deep passion for visually compelling personal and intimate storytelling, Mariana has turned her talents to the digital realm helping entrepreneurs forge powerful emotional connections through brand videos. As the founder and CEO of Brand Magnetic, she specializes in crafting singular two to four minute videos that build trust faster and significantly accelerate the sales process for entrepreneurs. Tune in and hear what Mariana told us about the truth about cliche buzzwords, how her journalism background informs Brand Magnetic, and the importance of spending time networking in the right circles. What we talk about: Building a scalable company (04:48) Identifying a gap and filling it (12:40) Reaching a target audience (17:50) A slow build is a solid build (19:36) The importance of telling the story of a business (29:58) Connect with Mariana: Instagram Brand Magnetic Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders that have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts|TuneIn|GooglePlay|Stitcher|Spotify|iHeart Radio Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more startup founders, like you, and have a chance to win a one-on-one mentor and strategy session with Stephanie Cartin. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. And for even more exclusive content and information – and to get access to the 8 Secrets to Success in Your Business video course and worksheet – visit our website.

“As a leader, I knew that it was important for me to know the job. I have to know what it takes financially, physically, mentally to do any job. I would never want to tell somebody to do a job and be responsible for managing them in that position if I didn't know what the job entails.” When Lena Jenkins-Smith decided to make a major pivot in her entertainment career, she knew she would have to overcome her intimidation and focus her determination. Lena is an Emmy nominated executive producer with an impressive 18 year resume in the entertainment industry. She’s collaborated with some of Hollywood's most elite figures in the comedy world and is also the president and executive producer of Goldstrand Media, a company leading in film, television and music production, where her focus is in transforming creative visions into reality with her guidance and expertise. Tune in and hear what Lena’s many varied roles have taught her, how she honed her leadership skills, and her approach to building and leveraging a professional network. What we talk about: Lena’s experience being a woman in a male dominated industry (04:18) How Lena uses the skills she learned as a teacher (06:59) Cultivating a wholesome team culture (11:31) An Emmy nomination changed Lena’s career (16:28) Maintaining work-life balance (22:23) Connect with Lena: Instagram LinkedIn Website Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders that have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts|TuneIn|GooglePlay|Stitcher|Spotify|iHeart Radio Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more startup founders, like you, and have a chance to win a one-on-one mentor and strategy session with Stephanie Cartin. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. And for even more exclusive content and information – and to get access to the 8 Secrets to Success in Your Business video course and worksheet – visit our website.

“We don't have to do a million things, we just have to do the right things. We often feel like ‘I don't have a big budget to spend on ads and that's why I'm not successful.’ We're chasing all of these different marketing tactics… In truth, we don't actually need to be doing that much.” Lindsey Breitwieser spent nearly a decade of her career in marketing working in-house for international agencies, but after starting a family, she realized it was time to find a solution to feeling chained to her desk. Now, Lindsey is the founder of The CMO Lab, a boutique marketing consulting company that delivers top tier marketing strategy and leadership to burgeoning and established B2M and service based businesses. With more than 15 years of experience with high revenue brands and global ad agencies, Lindsey acts as a fractional Chief Marketing Officer to guide entrepreneurs through the complexities of marketing in order to foster growth and mitigate burnout. Established in 2021, The CMO Lab realizes Lindsay's vision of providing expert marketing guidance for businesses at pivotal stages, equipping entrepreneurs for sustainable growth and long term success. Tune in and hear Lindsey’s advice on when it’s time to outsource your marketing strategy, the importance of taking a holistic marketing approach, and how she leverages data to make an impact. What we talk about: The benefits of having a CMO in your business (03:30) Lindsey’s “a-ha!” moment realizing the need for a service like hers (07:12) Finding marketing clarity (11:51) Focused marketing strategy (13:06) When it comes to marketing, you win or learn—you never lose (18:16) Exactly how The CMO Lab functions (20:29) Connect with Lindsey: LinkedIn The CMO Lab Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders that have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts|TuneIn|GooglePlay|Stitcher|Spotify|iHeart Radio Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more startup founders, like you, and have a chance to win a one-on-one mentor and strategy session with Stephanie Cartin. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. And for even more exclusive content and information – and to get access to the 8 Secrets to Success in Your Business video course and worksheet – visit our website.

“You know, it hurts. Nobody likes rejection and somebody didn't like you—whether it be in a relationship or in a job. But you have to figure out how to get up and dust yourself off and make it work. And that's a large part of what I try to impart to my clients, too, when I'm working with them.” After Billé Frazier was laid off from what she believed to be her “dream job,” she decided to take it as a sign from above that it was time to turn her side hustle into a full time career. Today, Billé is a keynote speaker, an author, and the founder of Follow the LeadHer, a coaching agency aimed at empowering women to align with their authentic selves beyond societal expectations. With over 20 years of experience in human resources, Billé has honed her skills in transformational change, conflict resolution, and diversity and inclusion. In her work with Follow the LeadHer, Billé uses Neuro Linguistic Programming to help clients overcome negative thoughts and limiting behaviors in order to foster a life of authenticity and purpose. Tune in and hear Billé explain why we should start incorporating NLP into our lives, the lessons she’s learned about marketing Follow the LeadHer, and what she considers her biggest business win to date. What we talk about: After being laid off, Billé allowed herself a brief pity party—then it was time to get back to work (03:58) The process of using hypnosis to make our minds work in our favor (07:28) Billé’s favorite marketing tools (19:21) The biggest challenge Billé has faced in building her business (22:11) Connect with Billé: Instagram Website Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders that have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts|TuneIn|GooglePlay|Stitcher|Spotify|iHeart Radio Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more startup founders, like you, and have a chance to win a one-on-one mentor and strategy session with Stephanie Cartin. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. And for even more exclusive content and information – and to get access to the 8 Secrets to Success in Your Business video course and worksheet – visit our website.

“Show up dressed as your next level self. So, whoever that ‘her’ is that you're projecting—whether that's five years or 10 years—show up as her. Embodying her, not just dressed as her… Proving to yourself like, ‘Hey, I just did it 10 years before I thought that I could do it.’” When Dr. Noor Ali moved back to the US after completing her medical training and starting her career as a surgeon in Bangladesh, she found herself unable to continue practicing medicine—and she felt like she’d completely lost her identity. Nearly a decade later, Noor has pivoted her career from medicine to health insurance expert, leading her own consulting practice in Tampa, Florida. Drawing upon her medical education and training, Noor dedicates herself to empowering female founders by demystifying health insurance and guiding them through the complexities of the industry. By connecting her clients with accessible and effective plans that work for their unique lives and businesses, she ensures that they feel secure and confident in their coverage. Tune in and hear how Noor remains committed to her medical roots despite her busy schedule and why she prioritizes volunteering her time and services any chance she gets. What we talk about: Dr. Noor’s current business came from her biggest struggle (02:05) How Dr. Noor recovered from the toughest professional set back of her life (06:47) The red tape and bureaucracy of the US health insurance industry (09:37) Cookie cutter insurance plans don’t make anyone happy (12:05) Dr. Noor’s favorite success story (16:40) Long-term business goals (21:30) Connect with Dr. Noor: Website LinkedIn Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders that have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts|TuneIn|GooglePlay|Stitcher|Spotify|iHeart Radio Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more startup founders, like you, and have a chance to win a one-on-one mentor and strategy session with Stephanie Cartin. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. And for even more exclusive content and information – and to get access to the 8 Secrets to Success in Your Business video course and worksheet – visit our website.

“In the beginning, if you don't have a team or a system or community around you, it's very easy to feel lost. There are these amazing communities out there for amazing female founders that will really help guide and support you. So, the greatest lesson I learned pretty quickly was that you're never alone. Or, if you feel alone, there are ways to get out of that.” When trademark attorney Lauren Bercuson began the process of founding her own boutique firm, she quickly learned just how lonely and intimidating the process could be. Now, Lauren is the founder of Storylock Legal where she helps entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of intellectual property. At Storylock Legal, Lauren uses her unique blend of legal expertise and creative talent as the foundation of her company. Her dedication to providing honest, ethical guidance and personalized attention has helped her build strong relationships with a diverse clientele from startup business owners to creatives of all kinds. Tune in and hear how Lauren balances being an Entreprenista with family life, the power of joining a community of founders, and her early lessons on founding her own firm. What we talk about: The difference between a trademark and copyright (04:30) Knowing when the right time is to file a trademark or copyright (07:22) As an entrepreneur, you're never alone… even if it feels that way (10:57) Lauren’s children’s book reviews (15:18) The power of the community you can find in a book club (21:23) The resources Lauren offers for budding Entreprenistas (23:31) Connect with Lauren: Storylock Legal Instagram LinkedIn Happily Ever Elephants on Instagram Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders that have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts|TuneIn|GooglePlay|Stitcher|Spotify|iHeart Radio Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more startup founders, like you, and have a chance to win a one-on-one mentor and strategy session with Stephanie Cartin. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. And for even more exclusive content and information – and to get access to the 8 Secrets to Success in Your Business video course and worksheet – visit our website.

“It's a crowded space. It's expensive. It takes time. And not everybody is an overnight success. So, I think it's important to know how to play with the rules of the game and how to set yourself in a way that is really going to differentiate you and… is going to serve you. I want to make sure that your formulation, that your packaging, that anything you develop is aligned with your vision.” When Emilie Mascarell first started at cult fragrance powerhouse Le Labo, they were still a small start up with just a handful of stores worldwide. After a decade growing with the company and through their acquisition by Estee Lauder, she found herself nostalgic for those early growth stages of a beauty company. Now, Emilie is the founder and CEO of Emilie Consulting, a firm specializing in removing the secrecy in fragrance and beauty product development and setting new brands up for success. Today, she collaborates closely with brands to bring their unique vision to life, ensuring that every product receives the attention it deserves to lead it towards market success through her personalized approach. Tune in and hear our conversation with Emilie about transforming a girlhood passion into a lifelong career, how sitting down with NASDAQ has boosted her brand, and her approach to product development and strategy within her own business. What we talk about: Transitioning from a full time role into consulting (06:26) Gaining visibility while avoiding overexposure (07:46) Always starting with a brief (10:10) The process of approving a scent or formula (16:12) Nose fatigue (17:32) Emilie’s favorite success story (18:49) Connect with Emilie: LinkedIn Emilie Consulting Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders that have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts|TuneIn|GooglePlay|Stitcher|Spotify|iHeart Radio Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more startup founders, like you, and have a chance to win a one-on-one mentor and strategy session with Stephanie Cartin. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. And for even more exclusive content and information – and to get access to the 8 Secrets to Success in Your Business video course and worksheet – visit our website.

“We really have to get into this mindset of, ‘Maybe I'm not the best at sales, but I'm doing my best.’ I'm going to get better every conversation I have. I'm going to learn with every conversation that I have. We're going to get better with every single call.” Candice D’Angelo spent the first year of her corporate career having doors slammed in her face and getting fired—six times! Though she eventually found some success, the experience made her realize how little interest she had in playing the big business game. That’s when she became a corporate drop out and made it her mission to bring her skill set to the world of entrepreneurship. In 2018, Candice founded The Selling Lab in response to the need for a collective space dedicated to women seeking sales support to grow their self-made businesses. Today, we’re chatting with Candice about all things sales, what it’s like to work with her one-on-one, and how to avoid many solopreneurs’ biggest mistakes. What we talk about: Sales is all about relationships (05:45) Where the future of sales training is headed (08:27) Follow up is the backbone of successful sales (10:51) How Candice balances the demands of running two businesses with her family life (12:40) Candice’s two favorite business tools that keep her and her team on track (24:12) Connect with Candice: LinkedIn The Selling Lab Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders that have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts|TuneIn|GooglePlay|Stitcher|Spotify|iHeart Radio Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more startup founders, like you, and have a chance to win a one-on-one mentor and strategy session with Stephanie Cartin. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. And for even more exclusive content and information – and to get access to the 8 Secrets to Success in Your Business video course and worksheet – visit our website.

“You don't need to always feel like you have to belong to six or seven networking relationship groups that account for thousands and thousands of members. As I always say, go narrow and deep.” -Carlyn Hey Entreprenistas! It's Stephanie and Carlyn here and we’re talking about some of our favorite relationship and network-building tips. We’re covering all you need to know about networking as an introvert, the power of breakout groups, and utilizing your social platforms to support relationship building. What we talk about: Managing energy during network events (02:22) Debunking ‘networking’ as a dirty word (03:49) Prioritizing the quality of networking groups over quantity (06:59) The importance of celebrating our wins (10:32) Our incredible guest speaker lineup for our Entreprenista Founders Weekend (11:41) Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders that have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts|TuneIn|GooglePlay|Stitcher|Spotify|iHeart Radio Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more startup founders, like you, and have a chance to win a one-on-one mentor and strategy session with Stephanie Cartin. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. And for even more exclusive content and information – and to get access to the 8 Secrets to Success in Your Business video course and worksheet – visit our website.

“I see that a lot of these young women are struggling to feel like their impact matters and I really want to create something that incorporates my own stories, my own journey, to show them that our choices matter. But more importantly, that they matter, and that everything they bring to the table is significant and meaningful.” When Brianna Ruelas and her husband were thrust into entrepreneurship overnight, she had little choice but to fully embrace the multiple hats she was now wearing. A decade on, Brianna is now a multifaceted entreprenista who helps women in business bring their big ideas and vision to life while tapping into what lights them up so they can love the work that they do. In her keynotes, she integrates live performance and original music with her teaching to reinforce key concepts that ignite motivation, innovation, and performance. Today, we’re chatting with Brianna about being CEO of Ruelas Music Group, passing down the entrepreneurial spirit to her kids, and the inspiration behind her books. What we talk about: Joining three startup businesses at once—while being a full time mom (06:32) Authoring a book is like having a very elaborate business card (12:57) The secret to landing speaking opportunities (17:57) It's okay to have multiple streams of income while you're building your business (24:24) Brianna’s American Idol experience (27:01) Connect with Brianna: Website On Spotify Instagram Books by Brianna Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders that have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts|TuneIn|GooglePlay|Stitcher|Spotify|iHeart Radio Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more startup founders, like you, and have a chance to win a one-on-one mentor and strategy session with Stephanie Cartin. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. And for even more exclusive content and information – and to get access to the 8 Secrets to Success in Your Business video course and worksheet – visit our website.

“I time block and I say, ‘This is going to be the time specific to managing the business.’ Being able to manage my time correctly and know when I'm doing what. In this post COVID era where we're all working remotely, being able to connect face to face is also important. So, our weekly zoom calls, those are important to stay connected and really understand what everybody else is working on.” As a new mom, Stephanie Purzycki found herself on an endless string of playdates with her little one at different homes, but everyone seemed to have the same question. Whenever a new friend found out that she was an interior designer, they inevitably started to ask for her design advice. Now, five years later, Stephanie is the co-founder and CEO of The Finish, a design company with an on-demand platform that pairs clients with interior designers. The Finish’s focus is on accessible in-home, in-person design with seasoned professionals. Today, we’re chatting with Stephanie about those playdates that came to inspire The Finish, some of the most important business tools in her arsenal, and how her company decides what locations to expand to. What we talk about: Entrepreneurship is 24/7 (07:27) Successfully scaling a business is dependent on trusted relationships (08:42) Time management is the key to entrepreneurship (10:06) Expanding and marketing to different markets (14:45) Stephanie’s design advice (16:27) Why The Finish practices budget accessibility and price transparency (17:28) Connect with Stephanie: LinkedIn The Finish Instagram Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders that have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts|TuneIn|GooglePlay|Stitcher|Spotify|iHeart Radio Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more startup founders, like you, and have a chance to win a one-on-one mentor and strategy session with Stephanie Cartin. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. And for even more exclusive content and information – and to get access to the 8 Secrets to Success in Your Business video course and worksheet – visit our website.

Kristina Bartold has successfully built a career through creating community online and bringing people together. She learned that as an entrepreneur, showing up in these spaces authentically is key to connecting and building resonance with your target audience. As many small business owners often struggle to tap into the spaces that will offer them the most long-term growth, Kristina and her team offer insightful guidance for finding their online home. In today's episode, we sit down with Kristina Bartold, CEO of The Social Snippet, a social media and podcasting agency that helps entrepreneurs and small businesses grow online communities. She shares tips for how to make sales via Instagram, methods for maximizing calls to action, how her company utilizes done-for-you social media, shares her story of navigating the social media landscape, and much more! This week on Startups in Stillettos: Kristina shares the mission behind The Social Snippet (2:57) Kristina talks to key to online visibility and what to remember when posting (4:34) Jessica shares a story about behind-the-scenes of entrepreneurial life (5:46) Kristina discusses ways to maximize calls to action using stories or reels (7:41) Why its important to let your community show up for you (13:21) Kristina shares her journey since leaving her corporate job (16:56) Kristina explains why consistency is the hottest trend right now (18:50) Kristina shares her favorite tools for business and social media (21:29) Join us for Entreprenista Founders Weekend: Join us from May 3-5th at The Ritz-Carlton in Orlando for your opportunities to connect and build relationships with the most powerful women in business. We can’t wait to be with you in person at our Founders Weekend Wealth & Wellness Retreat. Reserve your tickets here. Connect with me on Instagram @stephjillcartin and @entreprenistas and send me a DM and introduce yourself! I can’t wait to learn more about you and your business. Are you ready to make meaningful business connections that lead to real business results? Join our Entreprenista League community of women founders at entreprenista.com/join! You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded Entreprenistas who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website and social channels, and access to Office Hours with top founders who have been on our show! We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of The Entreprenista Podcast – the most fun business meeting for women founders and leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | Spotify | Stitcher | iHeart Radio | GooglePlay Be sure to share your favorite episodes across social media to help us reach more amazing female founders, like you. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, and LinkedIn and for more exclusive content, tips, and insight, join our community of founders right here.

As the mother to four children under the age of 10, Marnie will tell you herself; she loved being pregnant. So much so she couldn't bear the idea that there were Mothers out there struggling with their pregnancies and failing to find the support they needed that solely focused on them. Marnie recognized the challenge in this, as she recalls feeling like she was losing her identity as she further transitioned into motherhood. Supporting women through this transition and shaking up the way women truly experience pregnancy is what Marnie has dedicated herself to in the building of her company. In today’s episode, we sit down with Marnie Madras, founder, and CEO of Rumbly, a modern DTC pregnancy lifestyle wellness brand that helps women navigate the transition to motherhood while bringing more joy to the overall experience. She shares with us how they accomplish this through a monthly subscription and stand-alone themed boxes, her process of bringing her vision into creation, how the search for a co-founder held her back, the key to outsourcing for your business, and so much more! This week on Startups in Stilettos: Meet Marnie (2:56) How Marnie came up with the idea for her business (3:29) Marnie’s process of bringing Rumbly into creation (7:14) What held Marnie back from getting started (8:59) The benefits of outsourcing for what you already know (12:32) Marnie explains her subscription model (14:24) Matrescence and the process of losing your identity in the journey to motherhood (18:54) Marnie discusses the shift in the conversation around pregnancy (21:34) Stephanie and Jess talk establishing your business on new platforms (24:55) Join us for Entreprenista Founders Weekend: Join us from May 3-5th at The Ritz-Carlton in Orlando for your opportunities to connect and build relationships with the most powerful women in business. We can’t wait to be with you in person at our Founders Weekend Wealth & Wellness Retreat. Reserve your tickets here. Connect with me on Instagram @stephjillcartin and @entreprenistas and send me a DM and introduce yourself! I can’t wait to learn more about you and your business. Are you ready to make meaningful business connections that lead to real business results? Join our Entreprenista League community of women founders at entreprenista.com/join! You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded Entreprenistas who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website and social channels, and access to Office Hours with top founders who have been on our show! We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of The Entreprenista Podcast – the most fun business meeting for women founders and leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | Spotify | Stitcher | iHeart Radio | GooglePlay Be sure to share your favorite episodes across social media to help us reach more amazing female founders, like you. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, and LinkedIn and for more exclusive content, tips, and insight, join our community of founders right here.

“I’ve had a few setbacks. One was our first [launch in] March 2020. And guess what? The world shut down. And so I tried again on March the 13th 2023. I was at the London Stock Exchange when, guess what? That was the day that Silicon Valley crashed. So, all you can do is laugh it off and move forward. You don't cry over spilt milk.” When Ruby Russell’s partner suffered a back injury that left him unable to make the bed, she was inspired to design a product that would significantly simplify the daily chores for those with disabilities. Ruby is now the founder and CEO of RR Distinctive Beddings, a revolutionary bedding company aiming to combine luxury with accessibility and to take the complexity out of making the bed. With her two patents, Befitted Bedding and Stay Put Bedding, she is changing how we sleep. Today, we’re chatting with Ruby about the personal inspiration behind her inventions, designing a product with a particular consumer in mind, and her strategy to garner more visibility for her inventions. What we talk about: Using a personal disability to achieve greater good (02:47) The process of securing a patent (08:11) Why product variety is key (11:38) Ruby’s experience bootstrapping without investors (18:47) How Befitted is expanding their product line (21:35) Connect with Ruby: LinkedIn Befitted Bedding Instagram Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders that have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts|TuneIn|GooglePlay|Stitcher|Spotify|iHeart Radio Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more startup founders, like you, and have a chance to win a one-on-one mentor and strategy session with Stephanie Cartin. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. And for even more exclusive content and information – and to get access to the 8 Secrets to Success in Your Business video course and worksheet – visit our website.

“If you don't have the time or money to do it once, you definitely do not have the time or money to do it twice—so make sure you outsource to experts the first time.” When Heather Cox was pregnant with her first baby, she knew continuing to work was a non-negotiable—she just wasn’t sure what, exactly, that would look like after her little one arrived. Now, 15 years and five kids later, Heather is the co-founder and president of Certify My Company, a service that facilitates diversity certifications for women, ethnic minority, LGBT, veteran, service disabled veteran, and disability owned businesses so that owners can put their time and energy into what matters most. With CMC, Heather and her co-founder have created the national leader in transforming Fortune 1000 supplier diversity programs into profit centers. Today, we sit down with Heather to talk about the importance of raising independent children, the process behind getting a diversity certification through CMC, and the importance of leveraging your diversity certification once you receive it. What we talk about: Early rising can be a key to success (03:33) Your time is a nonrenewable resource (06:54) Business owners should prioritize applying for a diversity certification (14:31) Organizing and building out an in-person calendar (17:24) A real life example of how diversity certification can transform a business (22:07) Connect with Heather: Certify My Company LinkedIn Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders that have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts|TuneIn|GooglePlay|Stitcher|Spotify|iHeart Radio Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more startup founders, like you, and have a chance to win a one-on-one mentor and strategy session with Stephanie Cartin. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. And for even more exclusive content and information – and to get access to the 8 Secrets to Success in Your Business video course and worksheet – visit our website.

“You're always focused on the big goal, and you don't celebrate the little wins in between. And that is so important. And for me, it's something that I had to learn, was to celebrate the little wins in between—because that's what keeps you going to the ultimate goal.” Harli Gawronski’s eureka moment came to her during the COVID-19 pandemic: her true purpose was outside of corporate America. Though she had gained experience and knowledge as she made her way through the ranks, she realized that her voice wasn’t being used to its fullest potential. Out of this period of self discovery, Harli’s podcast was born. Inside the Bubble with Harli G was created for moms on-the-go and every day super women who excel at their 9-5s while nurturing their loved ones at home and contributing to their greater communities. Today, we’re sitting down with Harli to talk about the inspiration for her podcast, the importance of real, purpose-driven self care, and focusing on the big goals. What we talk about: Crafting self-care time even in chaos (05:45) The importance of engagement and interaction (09:32) Setting an example for your kids (15:19) Mentorship can lead to greater success (18:49) Consistency is key (20:30) Connect with Harli: Instagram Inside the Bubble with Harli G Inside the Bubble podcast Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders that have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts|TuneIn|GooglePlay|Stitcher|Spotify|iHeart Radio Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more startup founders, like you, and have a chance to win a one-on-one mentor and strategy session with Stephanie Cartin. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. And for even more exclusive content and information – and to get access to the 8 Secrets to Success in Your Business video course and worksheet – visit our website.

Hey Entreprenistas! It's Stephanie here. Happy New Year! As we step into 2024, let's take a moment to reflect on and celebrate the outstanding achievements of some of the Entreprenista League members who visited us in 2023. This week on Startups in Stilettos, we hear from Courtlyn Jones, graphic designer, visual artist, and founder and CEO of The Design Database, about how she turned her vision into a reality by building her own website from start to finish. Right after, you'll hear from Karen Skinner, coach facilitator, co-founder, and CEO of Gimbal-Lean Practice Management Advisors, about the legal operations conference she led, which brought together nearly 500 people from over 60 countries. Many exciting things await us in 2024; I can't wait to see where the thousands of new connections and collaborations will lead us this time. Resources Mentioned: Aqua Notes Connect with Courtlyn: Courtlyn's Instagram Design Database Instagram Website Connect with Karen: Website Facebook Twitter Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We're currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder's journey. You'll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week's episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts|TuneIn|GooglePlay|Stitcher|Spotify|iHeart Radio Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more startup founders like you and have a chance to win a one-on-one mentor and strategy session with Stephanie Cartin. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. For even more exclusive content and information – and to get access to the 8 Secrets to Success in Your Business video course and worksheet – visit our website.

Hey Entreprenistas! It's Stephanie here, and we are featuring some of our favorite conversations throughout December to help inspire and educate you with what you need to know to grow your businesses all 2024. This week on Startups in Stilettos, we'll hear about using AI to scale startups. Today, we start with the highlights of our conversation with Kara Venus, founder of Stella's Way Marketing, as she shares how she uses AI in her business and what attributes of AI you should consider for your business in 2024. Next, we revisit our conversation with Kristina Bartold, co-founder of The Social Snippet, on how to use AI for content repurposing. Finally, you'll hear my top tips on using AI and how we've been using it to enhance the Entreprenista community. So join us! Listen to the last episode of the year and learn how to use AI to trick gravity and grow your startup beyond your wildest dreams. We talked about: The importance of the human behind AI Why AI is the best tool for repurposing content How we've been using AI to enhance the Entreprenista Community AI isn't here to take anyone's job; it is here to help us get more things done Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders who have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can't wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Connect with Kara Website Instagram Connect with Kristina Social Snippet's Website Kristina's Instagram Social Snippet's Instagram Facebook Linkedin Build Your Digital Community Podcast Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We're currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder's journey. You'll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week's episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Apple Podcasts|TuneIn|GooglePlay|Stitcher|Spotify|iHeart Radio Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media to help us reach more startup founders like you and have a chance to win a one-on-one mentor and strategy session with Stephanie Cartin. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. For even more exclusive content and information – and to get access to the 8 Secrets to Success in Your Business video course and worksheet – visit our website.

Hello and Happy Holidays, Entrprenistas! It's Stephanie Cartin here, and as we wind down the year, we're bringing you a special treat. December is all about inspiration and education, guiding you through the essential lessons to elevate your business in 2024. This week, we're diving into the art of building brand recognition for startup founders. In this not-to-miss episode of Startups and Stilettos, my co-hosts and I, along with a stellar lineup of guests, unpack the mysteries and strategies behind establishing a solid brand presence. First, we have Kelsey Closs from Closs Creatives, who shares her insider tips on securing press for your business, emphasizing the power of platforms designed to help build out journalistic stories. She gives practical advice on pitching to journalists and building a compelling story without exhausting yourself. We then chat with Emily Paulsen, founder of Electric Collab, as she offers a unique perspective on branding, comparing business stages to TV show seasons. She provides insightful advice on when and how to invest in branding, ensuring that your brand reflects the quality of your work. Lastly, we're joined by Whitney Leigh of True Story PR, celebrating a decade in the business. Whitney sheds light on common PR misconceptions, emphasizing the importance of visibility in various forms. She also touches on the significance of aligning PR strategies with your business goals and timeline. Whether you're in your pilot season or gearing up for season six, this episode is packed with insights to help your brand shine. Remember, it's not just about being seen; it's about being remembered! So, let's make 2024 the year your brand stands out in the crowded marketplace! We talk about: Press strategies and leveraging platforms like Help A Reporter Out (HARO) Strategies for crafting pitches and balancing brevity with informative content Developing and maintaining relationships with media professionals The role of storytelling in PR Presenting a compelling narrative that aligns with the journalist’s audience and objective The stages of business brand development and determining when to invest in branding Personal Brand vs Business Brand Conducting a brand audit Misconceptions about PR Media features and brand partnerships / The importance of brand visibility Understanding the long-term nature of PR and learning to manage expectations about immediate results Tips on integrating PR efforts with key business milestones and seasons. Members of our Entreprenista League get access to live Office Hours with top founders that have been on our show! Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey! Connect with Kelsey Closs Linkedin Website Connect with Emily Paulsen Email Instagram Connect with Whitney Leigh Instagram Website True Story PR Podcast Linkedin Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE! Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.