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Startups in Stilettos

Entreprenista Network

Have you recently started a business, or are you considering taking the leap to start? Do you find yourself alone or overwhelmed in the whirlwind of early challenges in your Entreprenista journey? Well, you’re in the right place - Startups in Stilettos is for you. Learn what it takes to grow your startup, from your peers in the startup world, and those who are in your shoes (or stilettos, if you will)

We’re meeting you where you are to get you through your biggest challenges and toward your biggest goals. From the team behind the Entreprenista podcast, tune in to Startups in Stilettos as you take steps to build your startup from the ground up.

So what can you expect from Startups in Stilettos? Each week, we’ll interview a startup founder in our community to uncover their early challenges, learn from the solutions they’ve found, make new connections, and strategize for the future growth of their business. You’ll walk away with practical tips and resources to help you along your journey and a new community member to connect with through the Entreprenista League!
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  • 29 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 36 min
  • English

Episodes 29

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  • Tuesday · 39 min

    Elizabeth Watson Helps Founders Recover Their Lost Energy

    “I hate the phrase “Its not personal, it's just business ", not for an entrepreneur. Our business is our baby. It's another piece of us. It is personal.” On this episode of Startups in Stilettos, Ingrid Zapata-Read and Carlyn Bushman sit down with Elizabeth Watson, founder of Sovereign Success Enterprises, to unpack the concept of Energetic ROI and why so many female founders struggle with burnout, overwork, and the feeling that there simply aren’t enough hours in the day. Elizabeth shares the personal experience that inspired her business and explains how she helps entrepreneurs identify where their energy is being spent, what’s actually moving the needle, and which tasks are quietly draining their capacity. She also opens up about running her own business in roughly 25 hours a week while homeschooling three children—and how boundaries, AI, delegation, and intentional use of small pockets of time make it possible. What We Talked About: From Burnout to Energetic ROI [2:11] Building a 25-Hour Workweek [10:20] How Energetic ROI Works [19:20] A Holistic Business Audit [26:26] The Biggest Energy Leaks [29:11] Connect with Elizabeth: @yourclarityedge on Instagram Elizabeth Watson on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ yourclarityedge.com Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • October 6 · 36 min

    Emily Dean on Building a Brand That Reflects Who You’re Becoming

    “If you deleted your logo, your fonts, you colors tomorrow would anyone still be able to explain what you do and why you do it and if not you don't have a brand yet. You have a look.” On this episode of Startups in Stilettos, Carlyn Bushman and Ingrid Zapata-Read sit down with Emily Dean, founder of Bolt & Bloom, to talk about the evolution of a brand, the transition from corporate marketing to entrepreneurship, and why great branding goes far beyond logos, fonts, and colors. After more than 15 years working in entertainment and corporate marketing—including campaigns for brands and properties like RuPaul’s Drag Race, Yellowstone, the MTV VMAs, and Fortune 500 companies—Emily made the leap into entrepreneurship. She shares what it was like to leave behind a corporate identity, redefine success on her own terms, and ultimately realize that her previous experience wasn’t something she needed to leave behind—it was part of what made her uniquely qualified to serve women founders. ‍ What We Talked About: 05:24 Building a New Founder Identity [5:24] 12:52 Infusing Personality into Your Brand [12:52] 22:54 Refresh or Rebrand? [22:54] 28:29 Brand Diagnostic and Reset [28:29] 31:15 One Action to Strengthen Your Brand [31:15] ‍ Connect with Emily: @mledean on Instagram Emily Dean on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ ‍ Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ‍ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ‍ ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • September 29 · 38 min

    Katie Miller Turns Personal Story Into Magnetic Brand Strategy

    “So the more dialed in to your story, the easier it is gonna be to find your people.” On this episode of Startups and Stilettos, Carlyn Bushman and Ingrid Zapata-Read sit down with Katie Miller, founder of Portia and Cleo, a marketing studio specializing in women-led and community-based businesses. Katie shares how her background in theater, storytelling, real estate, motherhood, and community advocacy ultimately shaped her approach to marketing—and why authentic stories can create the trust that turns audiences into customers. Katie opens up about the evolution of her business, including the emotional process of rebranding from KM Marketing Services to Portia and Cleo, and how Shakespeare inspired the new name. She also explains why she believes entrepreneurs often overlook one of their biggest assets: the story behind why they started. What We Talked About: From Theater to Marketing [6:34] Why Community Is a Growth Strategy [12:34] A Client's Brand Breakthrough [20:13] Growing Beyond the Side Hustle [26:30] Three Prompts to Find Your Story [30:04] Connect with Katie: @katiem_portiaandcleo on Instagram Katie Miller on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • September 22 · 33 min

    Marta Spirk Turns Personal Stories Into Signature Talks

    “Cause anyone can speak and I think everyone should speak.You know go out there and find opportunities” On this episode of Startups in Stilettos, Carlyn Bushman and Ingrid Zapata-Read sit down with Marta Spirk, professional singer turned TEDx speaker, bestselling author, and strategic speaking advisor for women entrepreneurs. Marta shares how her lifelong experience on stage—from singing and interpreting to speaking—ultimately led her to help women entrepreneurs find their voice, build their confidence, and become more visible. Marta breaks down what separates a good presentation from a truly powerful thought-leadership talk, explaining why your goal shouldn't simply be to inform an audience, but to make them think differently and take action. She shares the key elements of an effective signature talk, including storytelling, vulnerability, specificity, audience connection, and a clear message that naturally leads people to want to learn more about you and your business. ‍ What We Talked About: From Singing to Speaking [1:52] Showing Up Online with Confidence [7:12] How to Build a Signature Talk [12:04] Finding Your Signature Story [20:28] How to Own the Stage [28:36] ‍ Connect with Marta: @martaspirk on Instagram Marta Spirk on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ ‍ Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ‍ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • September 15 · 35 min

    Natalie Sterling Builds Trust Into Every Palm Beach Luxury Deal

    “It was a gamechanger for me. It really opened the doors for what was coming next, and next was just my ambition to go on my own and build my own brand.” On this episode of Startups in Stilettos, Carlyn Bushman and Ingrid Zapata-Read sit down with luxury real estate entrepreneur Natalie Sterling to explore her inspiring journey from building engineering to becoming a rising force in South Florida’s luxury real estate market. After moving from Cuba to Spain and eventually to the United States, Natalie built a career grounded in technical expertise, discipline, and an entrepreneurial drive to create opportunities without limits. Natalie shares how her engineering and architecture background became a competitive advantage in real estate, allowing her to help clients see the potential in a property, understand renovations and construction, and make more informed decisions. She also opens up about the mentors who shaped her career, the importance of building relationships and referrals, and what it really takes to establish a personal brand in the luxury market. What We Talked About: From Cuba to Spain: An Engineering Foundation [2:15] Mentorship and Building a Personal Brand [11:43] Building a Team and Support System [18:22] Advice for Aspiring Real Estate Agents [26:17] Growing a South Florida Real Estate Brand [30:34] Connect with Natalie: @Nataliesterlingrealestate on Instagram Natalie Sterling on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ Natalie Sterling Real Estate Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • September 8 · 42 min

    Jaclyn Ionin Protects Founders' Brands Before It's Too Late

    “It became both important and a point of pride for me to then be able and do it in the other direction once I really did feel like I had the expertise.” On this episode of Startups in Stilettos, Ingrid Zapata-Read sits down with Jaclyn Ionin, trademark and business attorney and founder of Ionin Law, for an essential conversation about protecting the brands we work so hard to build. Jaclyn shares her unconventional journey from advertising, fashion, music, and entertainment into trademark law, including the unexpected connections and opportunities that helped shape her career. She opens up about why she chose to gain deep expertise before launching her own practice, the challenges of building a boutique law firm, and how entrepreneurship allowed her to show up more authentically and strategically for her clients. What We Talked About: From Advertising to Trademark Law [2:26] Mentorship and Community [13:42] Clearance Searches and Risk [20:25] Choosing a Strong Brand Name [25:09] Protecting Your Brand Now [37:41] Connect with Jaclyn: @ioninlaw on Instagram Jaclyn Ionin on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • September 1 · 41 min

    Sydney Dozier Built Her Own Renaissance

    Resources: If you're interested in attending the Renaissance Women’s Summit use code "Entreprenista" at checkout for 25% off a ticket. The Renaissance Podcast “We have to be building towards creating profitability in the business. Not just revenue, but profit, and really understanding what that is and how to get there.” On this episode of Startups in Stilettos, Carlyn Bushman and Ingrid Zapata-Read sit down with Sydney Dozier, founder and CEO of Renaissance Marketing Group, host of the Renaissance Podcast, and creator of the Renaissance Women’s Summit. Sydney shares the incredible story of starting her agency at just 22 years old with no industry connections, a $500 budget, and a determination to prove herself—and growing it into an agency that has worked with more than 1,000 brands. Sydney opens up about going door-to-door to land her first clients, working for free to build experience, overcoming the insecurity of not having a college degree, and learning how to turn social media visibility into real business results. She also shares the lessons she's learned about client retention, communication, processes, founder-led marketing, and why trust is one of the most valuable currencies in business. What We Talked About: Moving to Nashville With No Connections [3:06] Using Data and Results to Prove Value [9:02] SOPs, Trust, and Predictable Systems [16:00] Transparency as a Business Strategy [22:11] How the Summit Has Grown Across Cities [28:41] Commit to Personal Growth, Not Just Business Growth [35:10] Connect with Sydney: @renaissancesydney on Instagram Sydney Dozier on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • August 25 · 41 min

    Danielle Ruess Builds Skincare Rooted in Health, Not Hype

    “I want to teach women to read an ingredient list and actually simply understand, not every ingredient, but what they need to be looking for.” On this episode of Startups in Stilettos, Ingrid Zapata-Read sits down with Danielle Ruess, founder of Ionian Skincare, to discuss how a personal skincare crisis led her from a successful corporate marketing career to building a science-backed skincare brand focused on education, transparency, and healthy aging. Danielle shares the story of struggling with an unexplained skin condition in her 40s, discovering the importance of the skin barrier, and developing her own formulations after traditional solutions failed. She also opens up about launching a product-based business, bootstrapping a skincare company, finding mentors through the Entreprenista community, and navigating the steep learning curve of entrepreneurship. What We Talked About: A Personal Skin Health Turning Point [1:44] From Corporate Career to Founder [7:40] How to Read Skincare Ingredients [17:46] What Happens to Skin as We Age [24:31] Advice for Beauty Founders [36:52] Connect with Danielle: @eonian_skincare on Instagram Danielle Ruesson ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • August 18 · 45 min

    Erica Wood Turns Client Experience Into Your Growth Strategy

    “Business spend a lot of money and a lot of time on marketing and sales, but once the client actually signs the contract its kind of like “okay we got them in the door, now what?” In this episode of Startups in Stilettos, Ingrid Zapata-Read sits down with Erica Wood, founder of Client Journey Advisors, to explore why so many service-based businesses focus on winning new clients while overlooking the systems that keep them. Drawing on more than 20 years of experience in client success and leadership, Erica shares how intentional onboarding, thoughtful client touchpoints, and strategic offboarding can increase retention, boost referrals, and create loyal customers who keep coming back. She also introduces her signature Compass Clarity Method, a framework designed to help founders move from constantly reacting to proactively building a seamless client journey. What We Talked About: Challenges Faced Client Management [3:27] The Role of Offboarding in Client Retention [9:30] Mapping the Client Journey [15:27] The Role of AI in Client Success [21:59] The Transition from Corporate to Entrepreneurship [30:31] Connect with Erica: @clientjourney_erica on Instagram Erica Wood on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • August 11 · 37 min

    Joy Errico Helps Founders to Communicate With Confidence

    Resources: The Most Expensive Line Item in Your Business Isn’t on Your P&L “So that's what gets me up in the morning. I love working with people and seeing them transform.” In this episode of Startups in Stilettos, host Carlyn Bushman sits down with Joy Errico, founder of Maven Row Communications and former Fortune 200 communications executive, to discuss the leap from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship and why executive presence has never been more important. After more than 25 years leading communications for iconic brands like Staples, Macy's, Bic, and Rite Aid, Joy shares how she built a business helping founders and executives align their image, messaging, and delivery to create authentic, confidence-driven personal brands. She explains why expertise alone isn't enough, how first impressions shape credibility, and why investing in yourself may be the highest-return investment you'll ever make. What We Talked About: From Corporate Leadership to Entrepreneurship [2:14] Building a Business Around Purpose [6:42] Personal Branding in the Age of AI [15:01] Why Founders Must Invest in Themselves [25:16] Growing Maven Row Communications [31:55] Connect with Joy: @joyerrico20 on Instagram Joy Errico on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • August 4 · 39 min

    Lori Lalonde Coaches Women to Own the Room

    “Every person regardless of their role operates as an individual leader. And when you eventually get to leadership, what do you want people to know you for?” In this episode of Startups in Stilettos, Carlyn Bushman sits down with Lori Lalonde, founder of Her Executive Ascent and former Microsoft executive, to discuss her journey from nearly 30 years in corporate leadership to building a business dedicated to helping senior women break through the barriers holding them back. Lori shares the pivotal moment she walked away from corporate, the leadership patterns she repeatedly saw keeping women from advancing, and why high performers often end up doing the work that earns someone else a promotion. Together, they explore practical strategies for setting boundaries, communicating with confidence, navigating workplace politics, and building a leadership brand before you need it. What We Talked About: Leaving Corporate [2:16] Why Women Get Overlooked [6:15] Leadership, Boundaries & Practice [14:04] AI Readiness and Governance [20:36] Build Your Leadership Brand [31:33] Connect with Lori: on Instagram Lori Lalonde on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • July 28 · 27 min

    Founders Weekend Panel: Give First, Grow Together

    “If you don't open up and share your story, you're never going to find the people who are meant to find you and that you're meant to find.” In this special live episode of Startups in Stilettos, host Ingrid Zapata-Read sit down with three accomplished Entreprenista members—Emily, founder of Electric Collab; LinkedIn strategist Natasha Walstra; and trademark attorney Lauren—to explore how collaboration, authenticity, and community have transformed their businesses. From landing first clients and creating powerful referral partnerships to protecting your brand and overcoming imposter syndrome, this conversation is packed with actionable networking advice for founders at every stage. The panel shares practical tips on following up after events, finding complementary business partners, building trust before making a sale, and why collaboration will always outperform competition. What We Talked About: Why Community Matters [1:06] Natasha: LinkedIn Strategy [6:02] Lauren: Protecting Your Brand [10:55] Making Meaningful Event Connections [16:59] Getting Outside Your Comfort Zone [21:13] Closing: Be Open and Vulnerable [24:21] Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Emily: ⁠⁠ @heyemilypaulsen on Instagram ⁠⁠ Emily Paulsen on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ Connect with Natasha: ⁠⁠ @nearpoint.strategies on Instagram ⁠⁠ Natasha Walstra on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ Connect with Lauren: ⁠⁠ @storylocklegal on Instagram ⁠⁠ Lauren Bercuson on ⁠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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • July 21 · 36 min

    Jess Gleim Helps Founders Make Meta Ads Pay for Themselves

    Resources: Meta Ads Readiness Checklist “So I just decided to participate way more in Entreprenista and that changed my damn life last year and like 70% of my leads last year were from women that I met that wanted to talk about ads.” In this episode of Startups in Stilettos, hosts Carlyn Bushman and Ingrid Zapata-Read sit down with Meta ads strategist and revenue growth expert Jess Gleim to unpack what it really takes to scale a business through paid advertising—without wasting time or money. Jess shares her inspiring journey of rebuilding her business after becoming a mom of two, navigating postpartum challenges, and redefining success on her own terms. From doubling her revenue through the power of community to finding 70% of her leads through Entreprenista, she reveals how authentic relationships, strategic networking, and resilience transformed both her business and her life. What We Talked About: Jess’ Origin Story and Rebuilding [1:37] How Community Changed Jess’ Business [7:02] What Meta Ads Actually Work For [18:03] What to do Before Scaling with Ads [24:23] The Real Cost and Risk of Ad Spend [31:57] Connect with Jess: @jessgleim on Instagram Jess Gleim on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • July 14 · 35 min

    Luba Patlakh Helps Parents Navigate Their Kids' Development

    Resources: Bobo Wears a Bowtie “So all of these pieces started to come together to become this personal brand. The voice of the families. That's who I am.” What does it take to pivot careers, build a million-dollar business, and impact the lives of more than 150,000 families? In this inspiring episode of Startups in Stilettos, hosts Carlyn Bushman and Ingrid Zapata-Read sit down with Luba Patlakh, founder of Kidology, speech-language pathologist, entrepreneur, author, and podcast host. Luba shares her unconventional journey from working in broadcast journalism at Good Morning America to launching Kidology, a pediatric therapy practice that has earned a spot on the Inc. 5000 list for two consecutive years. She opens up about navigating burnout, learning the business side of healthcare, finding mentors later in her entrepreneurial journey, and why asking for help sooner can change everything. What We Talked About: From Journalism to Speech Pathology [1:43] Learning the Financial Side of Business [10:25] The Parent Pathway and Brand Mission [16:11] Self-Care, Mindset, and Wellness [24:50] Where to Find Luba Online [31:12] Connect with Luba: @lubapatlakh on Instagram Luba Patlakh on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • July 7 · 39 min

    Hayleigh Hayhurst Teaches Founders to Build Podcasts With Real Strategy Behind Them

    “Understanding your audience and creating something specifically for them is the best approach you could take with any of this.” What does it really take to launch a podcast that drives business growth? This week on Startups in Stilettos, Ingrid Zapata-Read and Carlyn Bushman sit down with Hayleigh Hayhurst, founder of Espresso Podcast Production, to uncover the strategy behind successful podcasts and why there’s still plenty of room for new voices in the industry. Hayleigh shares her entrepreneurial journey from studying journalism and launching a podcast for fun to building a thriving podcast production agency that helps business owners grow their brands through intentional content. She breaks down common podcasting myths, explains how entrepreneurs can turn their podcasts into powerful marketing tools, and reveals why having a clear strategy matters more than chasing download numbers. What We Talked About: Is It Too Late to Start a Podcast [6:39] From Podcast Production to AI Education [21:57] How AI is Changing Podcasting [26:31] Growing From Zero to Ten Episodes [30:55] Where to Find Hayleigh Online [34:53] Connect with Hayleigh: @espressopodcastproduction on Instagram Hayleigh Hayhurst on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • June 30 · 31 min

    Dr. Dominique Carson Proves Two Callings Can Become One Business

    “An inspirational vision is not a pipedream. Give it a chance to mature and reveal its true potential” In this inspiring episode of Startups in Stilettos, hosts Carlyn Bushman and Ingrid Zapata-Read sit down with Dr. Dominique Carson—licensed massage practitioner, journalist, author, and founder of the mobile massage business Mani Benedette. Dr. Dominique shares her remarkable journey from a young writer inspired by family and storytelling to a wellness entrepreneur helping clients heal through bodywork and specialized lymphatic drainage therapy. From earning historic recognition as the first African American recipient of Brooklyn College’s Wall of Fame Award to building a thriving business rooted in purpose, Dr. Dominique opens up about the power of listening to intuition, honoring the wisdom of mentors, and embracing unexpected opportunities. She also discusses investing in continued education, balancing multiple passions, and why entrepreneurs should never box themselves into a single identity. What We Talked About: The Journey to Massage Therapy [1:34] The Birth of Mani Benedette [7:26] Certification and Continuous Learning [12:33] Balancing Business and Education [15:49] Making History and Reflecting on Achievements [19:13] Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs [24:26] Connect with Dr. Dominique: @domcarson90 on Instagram Dr. Dominique Carson on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • June 23 · 34 min

    Devin Lee Helps Service Businesses Stop Running on Broken Processes

    Resources mentioned: Entreprenistas get 35% off Dubsado with code ENTREPRENISTA35 at dubsado.com/entreprenista. “Once you launch into entrepreneurship and start providing a service, you need to figure out how you are bringing your money in and how you are presenting yourself with your clients from proposals to everything else.” In this episode of Startups in Stilettos, hosts Carlyn Bushman and Ingrid Zapata-Read sit down with systems strategist and Dubsado expert Devin Lee to uncover how founders can create businesses that run more efficiently, deliver a better client experience, and free up time for the work they love most. Devin shares her unconventional journey from art school and professional organizing to becoming a sought-after systems consultant for creative agencies and service-based businesses. Along the way, she discovered a powerful truth: before you automate anything, you need to understand how your business actually works. What We Talked About: Devin Lee's Unique Career Path [1:14] Choosing the Right Tools for Business [6:23] The Role of AI and Automation [9:11] Building Robust SOPs and Team Culture [15:07] Personal Touch in Automation [21:44 Personal Insights and Offers [28:55] Connect with Devin: Devin Lee on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • June 16 · 37 min

    Annie Graziani Challenges the Definition of Success Modern Work Created

    “We've got to find a way to keep the good people contributing their talents in the workforce.” In this thought-provoking episode of Startups in Stilettos, hosts Carlyn Bushman and Ingrid Zapata-Read sit down with Annie Graziani, founder of Sovera Strategy Company, doctoral researcher at the University of Pennsylvania, executive coach, and author of the upcoming book Leave Life and Live. Annie shares insights from two decades of leading organizational transformations and her groundbreaking research on work-life integration, personal sovereignty, and the future of leadership. Together, they explore why traditional definitions of success may be failing us, how the pandemic accelerated a shift toward freedom and flexibility, and why today’s workforce is prioritizing time abundance over climbing the corporate ladder. Annie also discusses the impact of AI on the workplace, the importance of autonomy and trust in leadership, and how entrepreneurs can design their businesses around what truly matters in each season of life. What We Talked About: Annie’s Journey and Insights [2:35] The Shift in Work Dynamics Post-Pandemic [5:40] Flexibility and Autonomy in Work [10:51] Redefining Success and Personal Choices [15:55] AI’s Impact on Work and Human Capacity [25:30] Connect with Annie: @anniegraziani on Instagram Annie Graziani ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • June 9 · 30 min

    Ruchi Pinniger Teaches Women Founders to Rewrite Their Money Beliefs

    “You can’t outperform your relationship with money.” In this episode of Startups in Stilettos, hosts Carlin Bushman and Ingrid Zapata Reed sit down with Ruchi Pinniger, founder and CEO of Watch Her Prosper, to explore the powerful connection between money mindset and business success. After spending nearly two decades as a Wall Street executive, Ruchi left corporate finance to help women founders build healthier relationships with money through financial guidance, bookkeeping support, and mindset coaching. Together, they discuss why so many women avoid their numbers, how childhood experiences shape financial behaviors, and why true prosperity goes far beyond revenue and profit. From overcoming shame around money to implementing practical habits that create financial confidence, Ruchi shares actionable strategies founders can use to build both wealth and wellbeing. She also introduces her RIR Method (Recognize, Interrupt, Reframe), a simple but powerful framework for transforming limiting beliefs into empowering ones. ‍‍ What We Talked About: Leaving Wall Street to Follow a Greater Purpose [3:00] Why Women Carry Shame Around Money and How It Impacts Business [7:30] Redefining Prosperity Beyond Revenue and Profit [11:00] The Power of the RIR (Recognize, Interrupt, Reframe) Method [15:00] Practical Steps to Build a Healthier Relationship with Money [24:00] ‍ Connect with Ruchi: @ruchipinniger on Instagram Ruchi Pinniger on LinkedIn Watch Her Prosper ‍ Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ‍ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

  • June 2 · 39 min

    Suzy Haber Wakefield Teaches Lingerie and Swim Founders to Launch Without Losing Money

    “...I had all this knowledge and way of putting design into work because I had learned from my partners to say, yes, it's a creative entity, but you have to have a process to it…” In this episode of Startups and Stilettos, host Carlyn Bushman sits down with product development expert Suzy Haber Wakefield, founder of Suzy Wakefield Designs, to unpack what it really takes to build a successful product-based brand in today’s crowded market. From lingerie and swimwear to activewear and intimates, Susie shares insider insights from her years leading design at major brands like Victoria’s Secret and explains why great brands are built “product first.” The conversation dives into market research, product pillars, founder involvement, fit testing, innovation in sustainable fabrics, and the costly mistakes founders can avoid before launching. What We Talked About: Understanding Your Target Consumer [1:01] Identifying Market Gaps and Unique Ideas [6:40] The Importance of Product Pillars [10:02] The Role of Founders in Product Development [18:52] The Importance of Feedback and Iteration [26:12] Actionable Steps for Founders [32:34] Connect with Suzy: @suzywakefielddesigns on Instagram Suzy Haber Wakefield on ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ Connect with Ingrid: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@itsingridsworld⁠⁠ ⁠⁠on Instagram ⁠⁠ Ingrid Zapata-Read⁠⁠ on⁠⁠ ⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow With Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Carlyn: ⁠⁠ @carlynbushmanconsulting⁠⁠ on Instagram ⁠⁠ Carlyn Bushman⁠⁠ on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠ Carlyn Bushman 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! 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 Podcast Network. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠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.

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