Bold Like Her Podcast: Recent Episodes
Kim Douglas
Welcome to Bold Like Her, a weekly podcast hosted by Boston Realtor Kim Douglas. Bold Like Her features weekly interviews with local Boston businesswomen, entrepreneurs, leaders, trend setters and influencers.
Since starting her own jewelry line, Talia Don Designs, the Newton, MA designer believes that women should always be able to feel and look beautiful. Talia's philosophy, "make every day beautiful" is visible in all of her creations.
Many of these creations have already been featured in numerous regional and national magazines, including Boston Magazine, Modern Bride, Vogue and many more. Her line has also been seen on the Today Show!
On this episode Talia shares how she went from studying theater to a career in computers. It was the loss of one of her favorite pieces of jewelry that actually led her to recreate it herself. What started as a 6 month trial in the jewelry business has now been going on for 20+ years!
Talia Don Designs | Talia Don Jewelry-|Precious Stones, Freshwater Pearls, Sterling Silver Necklaces-|Jewelry By Talia Don
When she started Dri, she didn't set out to be an entrepreneur. She just wanted to be someone who saw a problem and did something about it. After learning that 33 billion pounds of plastic enters our oceans annually, she knew that the reusable water bottles and paper straws were no longer going to cut it.
Deirdre first learned about this problem after watching a documentary. On this episode she shares what she learned about all of the plastic bottles entering the world's oceans.
With no business background, no MBA, she's taken a staple in our lives and re-imagined it while also creating jobs for many women in Thailand.
Deirdre has faced some challenges along the way, starting back in 2020 when the pandemic was making things hard for everyone with supply chain issues.
She kept pushing with her vision and eventually left the corporate world to go full time with Dri and it's paying off as she's now expanding where the umbrellas are available, working with lots of big organizations and is also working on golf & patio umbrellas and more!
Dri Umbrellas: Eco-Friendly, Durable Rain Umbrellas
CEO & Founder of Ovation Communications, Kerri has trained hundreds of professionals internationally on presentation skills, story telling, professional presence. Their communication skills training consultants are business-savvy professional actors with a variety of experience in fields such as sales, management and education. Who better to help train you to feel comfortable on stage or in front of a camera!
Kerri shares some tips on how to feel more comfortable speaking including things like pausing and knowing your "crutch words"
Communication Skills Consulting Firm | Professional Speaker Coaching Company
I'm joined by the hosts of "Talk Girlie To Me" Podcast, Lexie Hannah and Sarah Anzalone on this episode for a little collab! I felt very connected to these ladies right away as we (and our podcasts) are all about empowerment and the female experience!
Sarah & Lexie met 3 years ago, found themselves having lots of deep conversations and wanted to share them!
We chat about how they met, the podcast process and bringing it to life!
The ladies also turn the tables on me, asking about my coming out (Perfect for Pride Month) and we also got into my former radio career and something I hadn't yet shared on the podcast. Lots of laughs and yes a few tears as well.
Doing a deep dive into GLP-1's on this episode!
As Co-Founder and Chief Care Officer at Tyde Wellness, my guest, Beth Gerhart leads the patient experience and care model that ensures every patient receives personalized, compassionate support on their journey to better health. Tyde Wellness was built to solve a problem they saw firsthand: many weight loss programs focus only on prescriptions, leaving patients without the guidance, accountability, and education needed to achieve lasting results.
Their focus is helping patients navigate GLP-1 therapies and other wellness treatments in a way that builds confidence, creates sustainable habits, and delivers meaningful long-term results. Before founding Tyde, Beth worked extensively in nutrition and wellness as a certified nutritionist, health coach, and group personal trainer.
We talk about the role of hormones in our bodies, side effects, and other benefits that have been uncovered over the past few years.
Tyde Wellness - Sustainable Weight Loss for Women - Doctor-Led GLP-1 Therapy
The Honorable Tina Brozman Foundation for Ovarian Cancer Research (Tina's Wish) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding innovative scientific research for the prevention and early detection of ovarian cancer and to providing gynecologic health education. Know Early. Know Hope.® This is their mission.
On this episode I'm joined by Beverly Wolfer, Executive Director and Joyce Kulhawick, 3 time cancer survivor.
Since its inception, the foundation has raised over $29 million for its cause. Annually, Tina's Wish now funds $2.4 million of scientific research for the early detection and prevention of ovarian cancer.
The ladies share information on the organizations mission, the research their doing along with signs/symptoms and the importance of self advocacy.
Ovarian Cancer Non Profit Organization and Awareness
After a successful career in account management, founder Robyn Daigle traded in spreadsheets for serving boards and never looked back. What began as a passion project quickly blossomed into Boards for Days, a full-fledged business fueled by creativity, attention to detail, and a deep love for food and connection.
On this episode Robyn shares her story of an unexpected medical diagnosis that completely changed her life. She left her corporate career to heal both mentally and physically. She found herself drawn to creating boards for she and her husband and others were instantly drawn in!
Boards for days became her first baby, her second one, Grace was born just a few months ago. We talk about all of it!
Boards for Days
Nurse Cassandra is a former pediatric cardiac nurse and certified nurse practitioner with over two decades of clinical experience. She's been working for 8 as a certified Blomdahl ear piercer, along with advanced training in Clinical Aesthetics through LexRx at Boston College. She provides in-home ear piercing and clinical aesthetic services for clients who value privacy, comfort, and expert care.
In addition, she's been adding pop up events, which is how we met. On this episode we chat about her nursing career, how she came to start a concierge/traveling nurse business as well as her personal journey with family and more. Her approach is calm, developmentally appropriate, and trauma-informed, with a strong emphasis on education, safety, and precision. Every experience is thoughtfully designed so clients feel confident, informed, respected, and beautifully cared for.
Ear Piercing and Botox Treatments in Boston and Brookline | Cassandra Hunter
Andreina is an award-winning serial entrepreneur, author, and advocate for women's economic empowerment. As co-founder of Arka HR (the largest HR firm in the Northeast, U.S.) and founder of The Vieras and Boss Lady Inc., she has built a career transforming survival into sustainable success. Andreina's
journey from foster care, human trafficking, DV, and teenage motherhood to managing a $50M portfolio gives you an idea of just how strong and
resilient she is. In her debut book, Rising Fierce, Andreina speaks on using survival skills as leadership skills, building wealth after trauma, and running mission-driven businesses with spiritual grounding.
Be prepared to be inspired!
Geena and her husband Paul didn't just dream of opening a mental health clinic—they built Hometown Mental Health as an extension of who they are: parents, professionals, and proud members of the community they serve. With three kids of their own, they understand the real-life challenges people face and are passionate about creating a welcoming space where individuals feel supported, respected, and empowered on their journey to wellness On this episode we talk about Geena's out of the box thinking when it comes to sharing information about mental health from going out to where her community is to creating an on line community to share this information.
With a practice that is entirely virtual, she focuses on medications and takes all insurnace plans!
Hometown Mental Health | ABOUT
Jen is a certified doctor of physical therapy with advanced training and certification in pelvic floor rehabilitation and obstetric physical therapy. With over 16 years of being a physical therapist, her passion for pelvic floor therapy fits perfectly to help pregnant-postpartum and pelvic floor dysfunction clients.
Jen's personal experience of labor made her realize the importance of pregnancy and postpartum care. She felt there must be more, like her, who need education and assistance. She's now on a mission to help as many people as she can overcome this phase.
On this episode, we talk about who she can help and how. We chat everything from sexual health to bowel health, leaking and how kegel exercises are not for everyone!
Dr. Jennifer helps to heal your pelvic issues & all private part related issues
Joining me for the second time on the show, Nicole and I sat down to catch up on life and business!
One of her big accomplishments over the past few years is the expansion of the space at her Cambridge location. That brought with it lots of challenges that she shares. Who knew you had to be a realtor, attorney, therapist and more as the owner of a business.
Believe it or not, in her 8th year as a business owner, Nicole talks about how she did not go to business school or take any classes on being an entrepreneur. She's done it all by getting her hands dirty, boots on the ground!
While feeling like she's on the other side of some major challenges over the past few years, Nicole shares what she's done to help her through it all. She's adopted a holistic wellness approach to life including spirituality, fitness, acupuncture and more. It's all lead her to a feeling of wanting to give back and asking the question "what am i here for, how can i better serve"?
The conversation is powerful!
Vester Cafe - Boston & Cambridge Cafe + Remote Working Space
As National Vice President of Marketing at Coldwell Banker Realty, Lindsay leads one of the largest marketing organizations in residential real estate. She essentially was born into the business, as she grew up with both of her parents in real estate! Now with 14+ years in the business she helps promote the brand and it's agents to grow their business. Lindsay's passion for inclusive growth is reflected in her leadership of Coldwell Banker's Inclusive Ownership Program and her role as Executive Chair of What Moves Her, helping women in the real estate industry develop their leadership skills and realize their professional development goals
A proud mom of three boys Lindsay is also obsessed with AI! She uses it in both her personal and professional life daily. During our conversation she shares her current go-to apps that can be used by anyone in business to help things run smoother and to be more organized.
What Moves Her
Patty has not let disabilities slow her down one bit! She is in the blind-deaf community, she sat down to talk to me about the challenges she's overcome and the book that she self published, "Charging Into Life", sharing pieces of her life so far.
She also talks about some of the challenges facing others in the blind-deaf community including isolation, lack of transportation and work place oppression.
Patty is active on social media where she spreads her love and positive attitude.
She has been out to do book signings and hopes to become a speaker.
DeafBlind Resources | National Federation of the Blind
I'm joined by a fellow realtor on this episode. Like me, Katherine moved to Boston without knowing anyone and continued the real estate career she had begun in Washington, DC. We both agree, it's not for the faint at heart, but here we are.
Katherine shares how she shared information on her social media about a local business that had closed with something new opening in it's place. She woke up to lots of comments and the understanding that this was the type of content people were looking for. Now with over 22,000 instagram followers she continues to share information about new buildings, construction, restaurants and more that are coming to the area with her TV personality like approach.
In addition, Katherine has a passion for supporting other women. With that in mind, she started a dinner series called "The Table" inviting women from all different real estate brokerages across the city and state to sit down to share, collab and grow!
Kicking off season 7 of Bold Like Her with an old friend I had the chance to catch up with as we sat down to chat fitness, life and where she is now in her career.
Kate is the COO of Higher Ground Fitness, helping them to continue to grow and open more locations around Boston. We talked about what the workout looks like along with their proprietary HGF Machine!
Fitness has always been a part of Kate's life, in fact she ran the Boston Marathon at the age of just 15! She followed the path she thought was meant for her with positions in finance at companies like Wayfair and Pintrest but felt a pull in another direction.
She found herself mentoring and coaching other fitness studio owners on how to run their locations as money making businesses and as fate would have it met the owner of Higher Ground.
From an early age, Sam battled anxiety and depression, feeling like something was missing—like life was meant to be more. For years, she stayed in my comfort zone, unsure of where to turn. But deep down, her intuition told me there was another path.
As she embarked on her personal journey—through therapy, spiritual practices, and journaling—she made the decision to rise above her struggles and embrace a new mindset. Sam took the leap, leaving behind the familiar to step into her power—and she never looked back.
Now with her story and her sneakers she's helping other women do the same.
Intuition Kicks is more than a sneaker brand—it's a movement. It symbolizes resilience, self-trust, and the power of listening to that inner voice.
IntuitionKicks.com – Intuition Kicks
On this episode I sit down with Jenni Rose DiCecco.
This former record breaking collegiate basketball player is a very busy woman.
She's a volunteer with a local non-profit, works with the Celtics to help young girls interested in the sport and has even started a women's networking group for other women that lead here in Boston!
We talk about her experience in college basketball, the growth of women's sports and more!
Karly is the Chief Information Officer at Zinkerz an academic tutoring, test prep and admissions counseling company. Karly is a leader who has consistently pushed boundaries in education and technology to create meaningful change.
Her journey began after earning her degrees, working in public relations for a major company. She quickly recognized that the industry often prioritized competition over collaboration, which led her to pivot. She applied last-minute to Boston College's Graduate School of Education, earned her master's, and then returned to the classroom at Newton North High School.
During her time home with her daughter and then her son, she continued to support students by writing content for test prep companies. It was during this period that she discovered Zinkerz, a startup focusing on online education.
On this episode Karly shares more on her journey, how she continues to help her company grow and fosters a culture of "leading with yes" always encouraging her team to try to think of ways we can make things happen, instead of reasons why we cannot.
Welcome to Zinkerz
Back for her second visit to Bold Like Her, Sue Ellen shares information on diabetes during Nation Diabetes Awareness Month. We discuss healthy eating habits and signs to look for.
I was really surprised to hear that 1/2 the people who have diabetes don't even know it!
We also get into the protien craze, exactly how much we're supposed to have in our diets and great ways to get it!
Always a good time to get reminders on what a healthy plate actually looks like!
360girls&women | Plant-Based Women's Health Holistic Dietitian Nutritionist
Amelie Hennessy is a licensed real estate agent with 15+ years experience as a landlord and property manager. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Finance as well as a Master's degree in Project Management.
Amelie and her ex-husband Josh started out as owners of a 2 family home in the Boston area years ago. They continued to invest in real estate over the years while growing their family while Josh played professional hockey. Although they are no longer married, they continue to work together as business partners and co-parents of their 4 children.
We talk all about how she basically fell into the property management business along with the beautiful family story and how they keep it together both professionally and personally.
ABOUT US | The Hennessy Group
Back for her second appearance on Bold Like Her, Madison joins me to catch up on life since we last sat down 3 years ago. (Check out Episode 131) A lot has changed, she's now a dog mom, has a new baby girl and just hit her 10 year anniversary as an instructor with Sould Cycle.
As always, Madison keeps it real with her experiences so far as a new parent.
She also has her own podcast! For more real talk and lots of inspo, check it out:
Wicked Fearless - Podcast - Apple Podcasts
Holly shares that her journey began in 2007, when the inspiration for Dune Jewelry took shape at her kitchen table. She began capturing seaside memories in the form of unique, sand-filled jewelry designs that she made for family & friends. Inspiration became a passion, and her passion became a business.
The business is all about capturing cherished memories and encouraging wanderlust by personalizing demi-fine, experiential jewelry with sand & earth elements from thousands of locations around the world.
We chat all about Holly's life journey to bring this business to life as well as the many (she says upwards of 50) jobs she had leading up to this moment!
She's also a wife and mother of two, we chat about the team mentality of making it all run (both the business and the family!)
Ocean Wave Jewelry | Beach Wave Necklaces | Ocean Wave Necklace
Marie Aspling was born in Africa, raised in Sweden, and has been a resident of Boston since 2004. In 2010 she opened Balans (“balance” in Swedish), with the mission to reform the health and wellness industry.
With her MS degree in Biomedical Science, and after two years into her PhD in Stem Cell research she left her position to change career path. After observing so many health issues, and with a heart in health, she was determined to dedicate her life to inspire for a healthier lifestyle. Marie’s mission is to empower individuals with self-care therapies to support their health and wellbeing. She loves working with people and watch them transform into healthier, more alive and radiant human beings.
I spent some time with Marie at Balans to talk about her journey, the services offered at the spa and so much more!
Balans Organic Spa & Wellness - Facials, Massages, and Posture
Jacqui's journey started in 2018 as a trendy women's clothing pop-up and e-commerce site. However, it wasn't until 2019, when she had her first daughter, Capri, that she realized something was missing. The challenges she faced during pregnancy and her postpartum journey made her recognize the need to cater to soon-to-be and postpartum moms and women with real bodies just like her!
During our sit down she shared her journey from the corporate world to something that really lights her up, fostering a community of mothers. She cherishes the conversations about motherhood, teething, nursing, and all the ups and downs that come with raising little ones! Shop Cosmo & Capri – COSMO + CAPRI
Wendy is a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist in Massachusetts and President of Wellness Allied, an organization advancing science and the integration of ancient wisdom and modern medicine in order to improve prevention, performance and recovery for patients. Wendy is the founder of CBS Acupuncture, now with 8 locations around Boston. She's also a visionary healer. Her mission is to educate others on how ancient wisdom and modern medicine are coming to a better understanding. Dr. Li believes that it will lead to a wider acceptance of integrated approaches to healthcare allowing all people to live longer, and healthier.
On this episode we get into Wendy's story, her journey and some of the lesser known uses for acupuncture, like for anxiety, depression, restless leg syndrom and even breast health.
CBS acupuncture Home page
Liz is the owner of Strength & Grace Life Coaching, a certified life coach, a certified Positive Intelligence coach, and a certified Yoga instructor just to name a few of things she does.
But when we sat down it was talk about her other passion, writing. When she found herself searching for something of interest to read, she wrote it herself. That is how The Billie Mahoney Series was created.
When Liz sat down to start writing, it just poured out of her. So much so that her first book (self published may I add) came out in 2023. Three more have come out since and the 5th book is coming soon.
On this episode we talk about her background, the book series and she drops a couple nuggets for budding writers.
Home | Liz Simmons Author
The Organized You is a professional home organization company located in the greater Boston area. They specialize in decluttering, organizing and creating the right systems for your lifestyle. Their mission is to transform your space into something that you can manage forever.
On this episode I catch up with it's owner, Heather Aiello. She shares how she "thought" she was going to retire after many years in the staffing industry. But life had another plan for her! She created The Organized You in 2019 and has since built an all female team helping clients all over Greater Boston!
The Organized You - Professional Home Organization
Alyson Iarrusso, founder of Cove Fine Jewelry grew up with salt air in her lungs and sand between her toes. With three generations of family roots on Cape Cod and a home in the coastal town of Hampton, New Hampshire, the ocean has always been a constant in her life.
Alyson’s journey into fine jewelry began in Hawaii in 2008, where she first learned the art of bench work and metal smithing. Years later, she brought her vision to life in New York City’s Diamond District, working alongside expert jewelers to create pieces that blend coastal charm with fine craftsmanship.
We talk all about her decision to transition from 20 some years in teaching to running her own business, imposter syndrome, the power of manifestation and more!
About Cove Fine Jewelry
Never thought quinoa could be in beer? Neither did the founder until she encountered a quinoa-barley brew on her travels through South America. Inspired, she returned to Boston, enlisted a few bold MIT scientists and embarked on a journey of experimentation to create a beer that would deliver all of the refreshment, with none of the bloat. The team refined the recipe for three years and over 100 formulations, until the crisp perfection that is Meli was born — the first beer in the U.S. brewed exclusively with quinoa as the base.
It's sugar and gluten free and tastes so light and crisp, I had the chance to taste it when we sat down to talk all about Samara's journey that is now her full time gig!
Meli
Juliana has been in the party business since she was a kid, whether she knew it or not, it was going to be her future! Her mom would often host events in their home and she would help.
She didn't immediately go that direction. She chose what she and her family thougt was a "safer" route, nursing. Before too long she knew that wasn't the direction for her. As a young mom, she knew she needed to be successful. And with the support of her husband she ventured into the event rental business.
On this episode we chat about the start of Dez Collective and Juliana's goal to bring her quality event designs and top notch customer service to her customers.
Juliana's passion for helping others create beautiful spaces stems from her previous roles as an event designer and building home interior projects. As a mother and an inspiring role model to her children and those around her, Juliana's bold but classic approach makes Dez Collective a modern and unique brand for all.
Home
Simone Bernstein is the owner of Barre 3 in Brookline and the founder of Spark, a permanent jewelry company.
I sat down with her for her very first podcast where she shared how she got involved in the fitness world and grew quickly. Like many fitness studios, she was affected by the pandemic, even having to close one of her studios. These challenges did not stop her.
Simone continued her entrepreneurial journey and goal to connect with more people by starting Spark, where she does pop ups with her permanent jewelry in tow and connecting with community.
During our conversation Simone shares how she continues to work through mental health issues while creating and continuing to grow her businesses. Her strength shows as she embraces the idea of sitting in discomfort so that she can flourish.
Permanent Jewelry - Boston Area - Spark by Simone
Barre Classes at Brookline Massachusetts Studio | Official barre3® Studio
Angelica is the Founder of The Aligned Method, a Three Phase Journey for Powerhouse Women to Rewire Their Minds, Reclaim Their Bodies and Achieve Peak Performance in Life and Business. It is a completely customized, individualized program designed to change your habits for the long haul. She also coaches women in business, mindset & career growth, helping them expand their business and create a fulfilling high-impact career without burnout. During our conversation Angelica shares some of the challenges she's faced as a kid and as an adult that she has grown and worked through, how she continues to work on herself and now helps others to build a life by design.
ANGELICA VENTRICE - Health & Lifestyle Transformation Program
SmartSKN is leading the charge in AI-driven personalization, transforming how we approach skincare with technology that adapts, evolves, and empowers. By crafting each product based on real-time skin data, this innovative approach meets the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly solutions, paving the way for a more sustainable future in the beauty industry.
I spoke with Val who was key in bringing this technology to America and is now giving customers the opportunity to see and experience the technology through their Beverly, MA Lab and affiliated aestheticians.
smartskn.com
Specializing in growth and marketing strategy, Amy's company partners with indie, female-founded businesses to develop results-driven strategies that attract customers, expand market presence and drive revenue growth.
With so many entrepreneurs as guests and listeners of this podcast, we now have an expert on as a guest to talk about the realities of being an entrepreneur. In addition she shares fundraising insights and some of the biggest marketing mistakes that companies make.
the fwrd group - growth consulting firm for indie brands
Figurella combines science and technology to design your body. A women's fitness center with two locations in the Boston area I spoke with the owner of the Brookline location, Aleeza Reznik.
First I had the opportunity to check out the work out which includes a 30 minute low impact work out in the "bubble" followed by a relazing seat in the "spa shell" where oxygen flowed around me to boost metabolism and blood circulation after a work out.
Aleeza shares how she found Figurella and how it helped her in her efforts to heal following back surgery. Now she's helping others with the low impact, one on one work out that has shown results for her clients with weight loss, toning and detoxing.
Figurella - Women health and fitness through commitment and results
Joined by my besties Alexandra Goresh Pittampalli, Owner of Petalouda Salon and Mia Andreoli Owner of Staygold Photography on this episode, we catch up on what these ladies are up to!
They are both doing incredible things with their careers, literally manifesting and making it happen, interrupters if you will, in their respective industries. We talk about exactly that word means to them and shout out some people they consider to have been mentors along the way.
petaloúda - Brookline, MA | Hair Salon
STAY GOLD IMAGES
Salma is a personal growth coach that is passionate about helping women transform their lives from the inside out.
Through her own deep self-work, personal growth, and manifesting her desires, she's created a life filled with happiness and success.
On this episode she talks about her own journey achieving significant professional growth in her career, fitness and personal relationships.
She also shares the importance of aligning with sucessful people and finding balance in every area of life. And now she's helping others do the same through her Hera Academy
After graduating from college, Lexi missed being surrounded by her family. She became the go-to party planner for all birthdays, holidays, and special events. In 2021 she was given the opportunity to coordinate a corporate event and hasn't looked back.
On this episode she shares her journey into owning her own floral business. At the time of this podcast recording she was also working a full time job and says "it's not for the weak" while also agreeing there are some benefits (literally) to having the "corporate" job while getting a business up and running.
Lexi also shares how grateful she is for the strong women around her that have and continue to be mentors.
Lexi Palumbo Florals | Florist | 7 Ryer Lane, Middleton, MA, USA
Fifth Wellness is a fitness, lifestyle, & wellness brand + full-service marketing and management agency based in Boston and is leveling up the way brands strategically activate with their communities, their consumers, & their influencer relationships.
On this episode, I sit down with CEO Kaitlyn McDonough to talk about her background including moving around quite a bit with her military family. She decided not to go to college and jumped right into work, ending up at Reebok where she quickly showed her value and became a leader and true expert within her field.
Listen as she chats about how she ended up starting her own company with Reebok actually being one of the first to work with her!
Home | FIFTH Wellness
Maria Sansone is an Emmy Award-winning television host with an illustrious career in broadcasting. She is a social media personality, lifestyle expert, cookbook author, podcaster, brand ambassador and mom of two.
Her genuine and authentic approach to broadcasting has won top honors and the hearts of many. A little sweet and a dash of snark, her no-nonsense style of cooking has made her recipes, homegrown digital content and cookbook, OH $#!%, What’s for Dinner? an instant sensation. Her debut cookbook was a “#1 New Release” before it even hit bookshelves.
Maria has received numerous accolades for her work. Most recently, she earned back to back Edward R Murrow Awards and an Emmy nomination as the creator and host of the MOM2MOM with Maria Sansone, television show and podcast.
On this episode, she shares the story of how she got started in TV at just 11 years old and just kept going! She drops a few BIG TV names that she worked with even before she really got started! What a career she's already accomplished and it's so easy to see why colleagues and audiences alike love her!
Maria Sansone
The daughter of immigrants, Eunice was raised to pursue stability in her career. An empathetic and caring individual, she was drawn to nursing. Eunice has helped patients in the ICU and beyond for over fifteen years, but it was working under the incredibly demanding conditions during the COVID pandemic that she witnessed how truly precious life is – the brevity of our time.
Simultaneously, she and her family moved into their dream home – a blank canvas begging for an injection of personality. A nurse by trade and designer by heart, Eunice embraced the opportunity to break the mold, break from tradition, and break whatever rules of traditional design to make that home hers. Eunice realized how empowering it felt to unleash her authenticity through design. And with a carpe diem attitude, she set out to share that gift with others, too.
On this episode we chat about her continuing journey and how her design of a friends' salon that played a big role in moving her forward in her design career.
Residential + Commercial Interior Design | Home | Crown The Cool Studios | Boston Massachusetts
Rosy Sandhu, M.D. is a board-certified internal medicine specialist and founding director of Neem Medical Spa, Boston’s premier wellness destination. With more than a decade of experience treating patients, Dr. Rosy integrates the roles of physician, scientist and sculptor. Her unique approach combines compassion, analytics and artistry to tap into the inner beauty of each unique patient—and help them achieve their wellness and cosmetic goals. She focuses on inner health as well as outward appearance.
On this episode, we hear about her journey to open the medical spas, her continued goal toward always being curious as well as some of the treatments offered at Neem including, laser, injectable and hormone treatments.
Home - Dr Rosy Sandhu
Med Spa Boston | Medical Spa in Winchester, Lynnfield, & Salem, NH | Neem Medical Spa
Francesca Montillo is the founder, Chief Travel Planner and Escort at Lazy Italian Culinary Adventures. She's a native Italian and I loves helping others see, taste, and experience all the flavors of Italy.
Her business came about in 2016. At the time, she was everyone's go-to person when it came to traveling to Italy - answering all sorts of questions.
She loved sharing info on her heritage, cooking Italian food, traveling to Italy and what they should see or miss. It came pretty natural to her. In 2016, on the verge of turning 40, she decided it was time to take her passion, knowledge and love for all things Italy and turn it into a business.
The Lazy Italian - Culinary Adventures
The Lois Weber Film Festival is a female-forward 501(c)3 dedicated to promoting gender equality in the film industry by celebrating the legacy of silent film pioneer Lois Weber and the history of women in film, past, present, and future.
Coming up on it's 3rd year here in Boston, the festival's creators Gabby Rosson & Katie Killouhry talk about how they met and the back story on Lois, a film pioneer.
Lois Weber Film Festival
Shaking up the format a little bit on this week's episode with a little round table chat! I invited my besties Mia & Alexandra on to chat like we often do at work outs, events or just over dinner. And we go deep, talking about the importance of having your girl gang to be able to chat with about all things, good bad and ugly!
These girls inspire me every day with the way they run their own businesses while always taking the time to support and promote other women and their businesses too!
On this episode they share some of their life challenges and how they've managed to process, heal and continue to grow.
One thing we all agreed on here is that you don't need to have it all figured out at 25 or ever actually, we're all a work in progress!
This young lady is truly an inspiration! Still in her 20's, she's already done so much. She's got a successful career in finance, has run 8 marathons and is also a fitness instructor. Not only that, she's got a light that shines bright! You can see it in her smile and hear it when she talks!
We get into the marathons she's run (including one on a sprained ankle) and who she runs for. Lillian also shared her thoughts on relationships, her close group of girlfriends and how and the place these things hold in her life at the moment.
Christen has been a photographer for 17 years and started shooting boudoir about 12 years ago. When she did, she never looked back. Boudoir is now her specialty and passion and it shows!
I visited her studio in Amesbury, MA and got the full experience from hair and make up with the talented Christine Rutledge to choosing just the right outfits and yes, the shoot.
Christen is incredible at not only showing her clients how to pose but bringing those poses to life in amazing photos. She helps with lighting, poses and confidence. It's more than just a shoot for both of these ladies, it's an experience!
"DJ Nicki" is the owner and operator of VSP. Her expertise in both private and club events makes her a seasoned professional capable of playing for a diverse crowd for over 15 years. Her success has brought her to become the resident DJ of MGM Springfield, Foxwoods Resort Casino and Miami Heat NBA Basketball Team.
On this episode we chat about how she started dj'ing and how she built her business to what it includes today. She now has a team of people working under her company and provides everything needed for special events.
Nicole also reacently bought what was a run down building in her town and has turned it into an incredible space for people to connect and create.
HOME | VSP
Meghan has over 20 years experience in Marketing and Public Relations. She launched Chikmedia over 10 years ago to help women in business find their voice and continues to do so with the expansion of this passion project. Her work across New England has gained her multiple awards and recognition from various organizations. She is a nationally recognized spokesperson for multiple organizations and travels the country giving lectures on various topics.
We sat down while she was in Boston to chat about her background, along with some social media tips and how she continues to help women build their brand.
chikmedia - Home
Meredith has been in facial aesthetics for over 20 years. She has worked for both plastic surgeons and dermatologists and most recently with a group of integrative practitioners. This has allowed her to formulate a holistic and therapeutic approach in her facial treatments. Meredith's goal is to educate her clients about their best skin practices tailored to their individual needs.
On this episode we talk about her background, a very special mentor her in her life and business and the importance of "staying in your lane" as a business owner.
Meredith Lane Aesthetics
Colleen Eyges, Co-creator of Velo Vodka joins me for the second time! This time along with the other co-creator, her daugter Riley!
Last time we chatted (about 2.5 years ago) the two were just getting started with the brand and had been in about 250 locations around MA. Now they are in more than 700 in 4 states!
We caught up to find out how things are going, what they're up to, what it's like working together as mother/daughter creating and promoting the vodka made right in Boston. They also mixed up and shared a couple holiday drink.
HOME | Velo Vodka
Jessica Puleo had an idea, she approached her friend and make up artiest Bree Lentz with an idea, a concept, and the name “Pretty Simplified” which was drawn from her own desires to learn her everyday look and most importantly feel confident going into her interior design consultations.
All she needed to bring it to fruition was a friend/makeup artist who shared the same passion for helping women achieve their desired makeup looks and not only look amazing but feel that surge of confidence. And so, "Pretty Simplified" was born. Now they help women learn how to use their own make up to create the look they are looking for, from every day to glam!
Learn Everyday Makeup or Evening Glam with Pretty Simplified’s Customized Makeup Lessons
Creator and Founder of InspiHER Empire, KB started a Positivity Platform Page on Instagram a few years back which evolved into InspiHer which is all about uplifting, helping and inspiring women to be the BEST versions of themselves through self love, body positivity and confidence. She's now continuing to do so through her clothing, lifestyle accessories and products as well.
On this episode, KB and I sat down for some real talk about her struggles and challenges, how she connected with others who were also struggling and how now she uses her platform to help and encourage others.
She calls herself an "inspirationalist" spreading inspiration and uplifting women with her products at pop ups around Boston and on line.
InspiHER Empire Clothing – inspiherempire
Ciara D’Amico is a third generation North End resident who attended Eliot School and Boston Latin Academy.
We spent some time walking around the neighborhood where she grew up and where she also now works.
Ciara works for The Mayor's Office of Neighborhood Services as a liaison for this neighborhood along with The West End and Wharf District of Boston. So she is basically the go between for residents who are having issues or looking to help make change. On our walk she shared how she was exposed to public service by her mom as a kid and what it's like to now help the people she still calls neighbors.
I had the pleasure of taking part in FFFCon 2024 a couple weeks ago, It is known as The World's Greatest Convention of Purpose Driven Women Leaders. This event, the brainchild of my friend Neda Hovaizi, was a full day of women stepping into their spotlight with speakers, panels, vendors, immersive experiences and more.
We all left feeling energized and inspired to say the least! I was set up inside the venue to capture the feelings, take aways and reactions to the day of attendees and speakers. On this episode you'll hear from lots of Boston ladies that joined us, what they do and the things that most inspired them about FFFCon. I also caught up with Neda after the event to see how she felt and whats she's planning next, including a membership to go to similar events on a regular basis.
The Fab Fierce Females Society - Fab Fierce Females
Amanda spends her days helping people shop, style, edit their closets and elevate their wardrobes. She came by my place to check out my closet for a mini edit session and sit down to talk about her journey to this place.
Her love for fashion has lasted her whole life, growing up reading the pages of VOGUE and dreaming of working in the industry. She worked on the corporate side of advertising & media before joining The RealReal, the largest luxury consignment e-commerce company in the US. With a background in fashion and business, Amanda understands the importance of a strong personal brand expressed through style and how this can impact success both personally and professionally. And now, she’s founded Wave + Woven to deliver exceptional concierge personal styling experiences and a 360 approach to shopping and getting dressed.
Personal Stylist | Align Your Style with Your Goals with a Virtual Stylist
One of my besties, this is Alexandra's 3rd appearance on Bold Like Her. I am proud to have her on to share her latest endeavor, the opening of Petaloúda Salon!
Her interest in the beauty industry began in high school. She worked for 16 years at a salon on Newbury Street, building long-lasting relationships before taking the leap to open Petaloúda.
We chat about what it took to get to this place, finding the perfect location and team!
As a friend, it's been an honor to watch as she brings her dream to life with not just this location but the community, environment and vibe that is felt by both clients and her team alike.
Alexandra also just dropped a new product, Metamorphasis Hair Serum. Check out the website to find out more!
petaloúda - Brookline, MA | Hair Salon
Ashley is a personal chef who has shared her love of health and wellness through food for more than 6 years. After living with MS for over a decade, Ashley discovered the power of clean eating and knew she had to share it with her community. Her expertise has allowed her to educate all age levels, from 4-100, on the value of healthy, organic food and its impact on overall health. As host of Food For Life, a show on E360tv, Ashley captures the joy of food and how it is woven into our lives. She shares inspiring stories of wellness through food, tips & tricks in the kitchen, and delicious recipes to help you in your own food healing journey. Additionally, Ashley is a regular guest on Mass Appeal, a local lifestyle talk show in Western Massachusetts. She has been featured on various media outlets and believes that health starts from the inside out. Bella Foodie - Home
Neda is back with me for the second time to talk about the Movement she's created.
Founded in 2022, Fab Fierce Females began as a means to reconnect driven female leaders to their innate power and resilience in order to unleash their full potential.
On November 17th, 2024 at Seaport Hotel Boston, through an electrifying day full of immersive experiences, impactful speakers, and powerful connections - this passion will be reignited and reacquaint women with the limitless capabilities within each of us.
Use the Code Kim10 for a discount on your tickets
Fab Fierce Females Convention 2024 Presented by Neda Hovaizi
Joining me for a second time on this podcast, Kristina and I reconnect to have an important conversation about breast cancer awareness and early detection.
We discuss her early diagnosis of the BRCA1 gene mutation and the steps she took knowing her chances of getting breast and/or ovarian cancer. Kristina also shares how and when other women can be tested.
When we spoke the last time she was on the podcast, she shared the story along with her two sisters (one of which was also diagnosed with the gene mutation). The 3 have bonded together to not only bring awareness but to support one another through their surgeries.
One of the things they've bonded over is running marathons! They also support and run along side eachother and have just returned from running Berlin!
Through this journey Kristina says she has found her voice, thinking at one time that it was possible that cancer might end her life...instead she is out educating, supporting and raising funds for research!
Mom Runs Marathon to Cope With Double Mastectomy, Hysterectomy (today.com)
2024 Run Any Race: Mrs. Kristina Coccoluto's Fundraising Page - Run for Dana-Farber (jimmyfund.org)
Gabriela is a proud product of four Boston Public Schools and graduated from Boston Latin Academy. She currently lives in East Boston with her partner, Sebastian Zapata where she also grew up.
Her mother played a large role in helping to shape her career in public service from an early age as she watched her advocate for her community.
Gabriela shares her background, passion for public service and exactly what her job is as a City Councilor and how she uses things like social media and coffee conversations to connect with people in the communities she serves.
Gabriela Coletta Zapata | Boston.gov
Born in the Dominican Republic, Olga emigrated with her family to Salem, Massachusetts in the early 1990s. Her family maintained strong connections to their Caribbean heritage by speaking only Spanish at home. As a fully bilingual English and Spanish speaker, Olga translated for family and friends who had limited English skills. In 1999 she assumed a leadership role in the “La Union Latina” organization, established in 1987 at Salem High School to celebrate Latin-American culture and traditions. In 2007, Hispanic Business Inc. recognized her as a Winner’s Circle Scholar at the Hispanic Business’ annual Woman of the Year Awards event.
Olga now uses her platform in leading and empowering Latinas and women of color in leadership, career advancement, and overcoming adversity. She has seen the hardships, ranging from positional leadership struggles as well as awareness of Latina women working in business. Olga is proud to have won countless awards for her work.
Like many women, this mother of 3 spends her days balancing motherhood and career. One of her mottos is "if you can't find a village, build one", and thats exactly what she did when creating Boston Moms.
It's written BY Boston moms FOR Boston Moms and is a place where the group cultivates community, cheer each other on, and celebrate the many contributions that they make to their families and to the world around them proving that motherhood doesn’t have to be lonely.
During our conversation Meghan shared her background and path to creating Boston Moms. She's truly passionate about connecting Boston-area moms to each other, to important and relevant resources, and to local businesses.
Boston Moms Home
I had the pleasure of meeting Nash at a dinner party I went to recently with a beautiful room full of amazing women. We sat next to each other and instantly connected. She's warm, funny, engaging and super driven!
I immediately followed up so that I could have her share her story on this podcast. We recorded at her store, Milk Money in Wellesley, MA. It's filled with jewelry, clothing, accessories and fun home items! When we sat down Nash explained what she was trying to achieve with the store, just one of the many businesses she's run since her 20's. She's been a publisher, publicist, store owner and more. When faced with any new opportunity/challenge it's like she says "oh I can do this" and she does!
Cute Clothing Online | Popular Women’s Clothing at Milk Money
Valen is a passionate advocate for organ donation and polycystic kidney disease (PKD) with a zest for life and boundless gratitude for an extraordinary journey. She was diagnosed with PKD at the age of 10 which led to a challenging childhood full of hospital stays.
On this episode we talk about her health journey and how she has now become a patient advocate and consultant to help the medical industry understand things from a patient's point of view.
She also started a podcast "Unpacking the gift of life" where she and her co-host talk all things transplant and more!
She discovered a love of public speaking and has shared her story at more than 100 events across North America. She's coordinated educational and fundraising events and helped raise over $1,300,000 for polycystic kidney disease research.
Valen Keefer: patient advocate, consultant, public speaker and writer.
This week marks a milestone for me here in Boston. I moved here 10 years ago!
As a celebration I did my first solo podcast. On this episode I recount my journey over the past 10 years, the challenges, triumphs and more!
I am so grateful for all of it! I highlight my real estate career, the Boston Fitness Community, my daughter Devon and pup Frankie. I am especially grateful for everything this podcast has brought into my life. Little did I know how it would tap into my creative side, help me to enjoy other parts of my life even more and bring into my world so many incredible women and relationships.
To my guests, thank you for joining me to share your incredible stories. To the followers, listeners and subsribers thank you so much. More to come!
Jackie has always been interested in dance and cheerleading from a very young age, even auditioning to be a character for Disney at one point.
During her time as a teacher Jackie saw a need for more movement in the daily lives of kids. Thus Mini Movers was born! It's Studio and on-location dance dedicated to bringing quality dance and movement education to children ages 2-10.
For the past 6 years shes been committed to providing an inclusive, nurturing and fun environment to children of all backgrounds. In offering an array of classes to schools, communities and more, Mini Movers Studio provides top notch instruction while instilling confidence and creativity in young movers!
Home | Minimoversstudio
On this episode I sit down with Casey Marielle, one of the two sisters behind Jaju Pierogi.
Sixty years ago, their Jaju (dziadziu, or grandfather) started a Polish food business with his brothers and sisters in Western Massachusetts—hand-crafting pierogi, golabki, and kielbasa for their community. Fast forward to the ‘90s and you’d find the girls spending their weekends cutting, stuffing, and sealing pierogi in the back kitchen alongside their elders.
Finally, in 2015, Vanessa & Casey decided to head to the family store and dust off their grandfather’s recipes. They started selling at farmers markets and grew the business! They are now available in 2500 stores nationwide!
We chat about their history, leaving the corporate world and some of the dynamics of running a family business.
Check out instagram for a pierogi giveaway! @boldlikeherpodcast
Jaju Pierogi website
So much fun sitting down with podcaster, author, speaker and Christian Coach Kelly Tyan! We bonded immediately over our pink & white outfits and love for empowering other women!
Kelley shares how faith has always been a part of her life and how she now gets to share that with her children. We walk through her career path going back to when she became a teacher and just did not find it fulfulling through selling Mary Kay Cosmetics, being a fitness coach and to today where she is helping other women through faith!
We have both gone through some big changes/challenges in our lives and agree that you can literally re-start at any time or any age!
Kelley Tyan - YouTube
Addicted To The Climb
I met Jessica recently at a networking event. She said she wanted to meet me to talk to me about real estate. Turns out, I loved hearing what SHE had to say!
On this episode she shares how she started buying properties at just 24 years old. Her first with her (soon to be husband) at the time. She was even so traditional that she wanted to wait to move into it until they were married.
And it took off from there, each time her husband identified a possible investment, she trusted him. And it's paid off. They now own 4 properties together.
Jessica also shared with me the story of her sister Jenny, who had a stroke a few years ago at a young age. Since then Jessica and her family have gathered around to give love, support, raise awareness and funds to help Jenny. And the goal is to eventually help others with these efforts!
She shares information on a couple upcoming events that you can help with too!
Jill founded “Movement with Jill” because she wanted people to have an open, welcoming and non-judgmental space to move. To Jill, movement is something to help us feel better both physically and mentally. Growing up in Marblehead, MA she was extremely shy and self-conscious. Her goal for clients is to help them gain confidence in movement and become their best selves through her Pilates classes.
We sat down in her Boston studio to discuss how she was drawn to pilates, the benefits she saw with it and how she now shares that with her clients in private and on line classes as well as pop ups around Boston. Check out her webiste and instagram for inspiration, an authentic approach to fitness and to find out where she'll be teaching this summer!
https://www.movementwithjill.com/
The Rose Maven was founded in 2019 by UMass Boston Graduate, Elle, who believes that roses should be more than just beautiful flowers—they should be an expression of love and joy that lasts. Roses are the gift of love, and that's why she creates unique designs of preserved roses that look as beautiful on day one as day 365.
We talk about how she became inspired by roses, donated them to first responders during the pandemic and has grown her business into what it is today.
Real Roses That Never Wilt – The Rose Maven
Liz has worked as a nurse for 20 years in various areas, mostly acute cardiac care, case management, and critical care.
After dealing with personal experiences of not feeling her best, she sought out to provide care for those that don't want conventional medicine. A chance to look deeper and fix what could be causing that exhaustion.
On this episode we talk thyroid, hormone replacement therapy, gut health, the rise in popularity of medical weight loss and more!
Lux Health
Lauren started her career in the residential space in her early 20's and has been in some facet of it ever since including gigs at Stanley Steemer and 2 Maids & A Mop.
In this episode she shares how she started a painting company early on, decided to go to law school in her early 30's (while working 4 other jobs) and eventually ended up at the cleaning co.
It was post pandemic that the owner of 2 Maids & A Mop started looking into other ways to help people. It was then, they decided to shake up the moving business when they created Pink Zebra Moving and started making moving fun!
Now with 14 locations including one in Boston, Lauren says all of things added to the experince are to help elivate stress!
Movers Boston, Ma | Pink Zebra Moving of Boston, Ma
DJ Valentina Marianetti is an in-demand and sought after International Music Artist with a devoted following. She's known for her keen ability to read a room!
Coming from a small village in Cape Verde West Africa, her passion for music began early thanks to her musician grandfather.
We sat down to chat about her background, family, keeping a dance floor full and finding your purpose.
Valentina also recently started a networking group for women, Babes in Business Boston a place for women to come together to share ideas, grow and be inspired and its already hugely successful!
Home | DJ Valentina
I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Manali to talk about her background, coming to the US from India as the first in her family to do so and finding her passion.
After many years in the electronics & technology world and suffering not one but two incredilble losses, she found herself looking for more. She knew that the answer was within nature.
On this episode she shares her story, her search and finding it in jewelry.
At her company, Gratinsta, (instant gratitude) they believe in the beauty and power of nature. That's why they've dedicated theirselves to creating nature-inspired jewelry that celebrates the natural world and the unique beauty of each living creature. Each piece is crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail, using only the highest quality materials like sterling silver and gold.
Nature Inspired Jewelry (gratinsta.com)
Susie has been matchmaking for 20 years! After years of working with another company she started her own company, Susie Q Matchmaking here in Boston.
Together with her son, they've been helping couples find love for 13 years.
On this episode, we chat about the state of dating today, the lengths she goes to really get to know her clients and how she gives feedback to her clients after their dates.
Boston Matchmaker | Susie MacDowell | Susie Q Matchmaking
Founded in 2020, even during a time of uncertainty Jelissa has been committed to serving up delicious goodies to all of her customers.
In addition to creating top quality, imaginative & delicious baked treats she started doing pop up events where attendees get the opportunity to connect and decorate!
On this episode we chat about her start with the pop ups, how they've grown (and consistantly sell out!) and we actually decorate while chatting!
Home | The Sugar Connection (thesugarconnectionbakeshop.com)
It's a special meeting of two podcasts on this episode!
Melissa Dudek of Signature Witch & Kim Douglas, host of Bold Like Her sit down to chat about their meeting at a yoga retreat in Tulum, Mexico and their instant bond!
The chat includes just what it's like go on a retreat, some of the things they did including not just yoga but excursions and other health & wellness experiences.
The ladies chat witches, Sasha Fierce, Rachel Hollis, the power of intuition and more!
The title of this podcast pretty much desribes the enthusiasm Meghan has for what she does and in fact, were her exact words!
She spent 10 years teaching and felt that she was being pulled to do something else.
On this episode we talk about how Meghan was able to help families by tutoring and bringing in a whole team to do the same during the pandemic. As time went on fewer people were needed and Meghan made a shift to open her own location right down the street from where she taught fo so many years.
She now has her own location, focusing on helping children with their learning experience and couldn't be happier!
Home | Next Step Education (nextstepeducationtutoring.com)
Styling for more than ten years, Kerilynn shares the story of how she fell into the career after working as a gallery director.
On this episode she shares the shaping of her career, her move from Washington, DC to Boston and how she continues to help both men and women.
We chat about giving up some of those old styles, how exactly she helps clients with the closet clean out, photo shoots, branding and more!
We also share stories on moving to Boston and trying to start a business without really knowing anyone....and she's been able to crush it!
KLV Styling
Dryvve is the largest woman owned branded merchandise services co on the East Coast and Charleen has been with them since day one!
She started in the business more than 40 years ago, thats amazing amount of time to be in any business, let alone the same company!
On this episode Charleen shares the story of how she got started at a small desk in her brother's business, before long he took interest in what she was doing and gave her more space and eventually partnered with her.
Earlier this year Charleen merged her company with Progressive Promotions, a company they had aquired in 2021 and changed the name to Dryvve, a name she desribes as representative of energy, motion and creative success in marketing.
Dryvve
Cassi is a leadership coach, podcast host (Not your drinking Buddy) and after this past year, she is now also a bikini competition participant.
We talk all about how she was with a friend and they each decided to do whats called a "Misogi", loosely meaning the practice of purifying the mind, body and spirit through physical and mental challenges.
Cassi decided hers would be participating in a bikini competition. And thats just what she did, not once but twice this past year.
We talk about the journey, the lengths she went to get her body and mind ready and the importance of building a roadmap to achieve your goals.
Welcoming back my friend for the 3rd time on the podcast, we catch up on the expansion of her business and family and get into some of the treatments being offered at her office in Stoneham, MA.
Stefanie brings an intimate knowledge of health & fitness to her treatment style, with her 15 years of Personal Training experience. Stefanie has grown to love running after completing 15 Marathons!
In 2014, she decided to create a High-End, Concierge company called Boston Health & Wellness, that would collaborate her skills & bring convenience to her clients in their own home. She provided in-home Physical Therapy, Personal Training, Yoga, Massage, & Run Coaching.
In 2020, she decided that she wanted to expand her business model since not everyone can afford Out-of-Pocket care. She knew she needed a Physical Location that DID ACCEPT ALL HEALTH INSURANCES. Even during a pandemic, she knew her timing was correct and she had to take the leap of faith and open an office. Stefanie opened Boston Health & Wellness in November of 2020 which provides Physical Therapy, Telehealth PT, Personal Training, Yoga, Pilates, Massage, Dry Needling, Cupping, Run Coaching, Adult Fitness, and Injury Prevention.
Home - Boston Health & Wellness - Stoneham MA (bostonhealthwellness.com)
Giovanna is obsessed with watercolor and has loved to paint since the 80s! After a brief hiatus (only 20 years) to establish her career as an Interior Designer, & grow her family with husband Joe in Newbury, MA, she thought it was time to get back to her passion. Why watercolor? Her daughter actually taught her! They started playing during the early days of Covid & she quickly fell in love with the blends & bleeds of this awesome medium. Fast forward 2 years & she created her first notecard collection. She now has a variety of printed & original art pieces ranging from home accents to personalized clutch handbags & lots in between.
On this episode we chat about that sit down with her daughter that changed everything and how now she shares that with women to help them see their sparkle!
Home | GS Chaisson Design Studio
Mia is a Boston-based photographer and creator known for her expertise in capturing personality portraits and creating branding content. Her clients appreciate her ability to infuse energy and vibrancy into any project, leaving them feeling refreshed and inspired. Mia loves collaborating with entrepreneurs to create visually appealing branding content for their businesses.
On this episode we sat down at one of the studios Mia uses to help her clients capture exactly what they're looking for. We chat about my recent experience working together on branding content for this podcast and my real estate business.
Mia shares her background working on sets in NYC, being inspired by her family to take pictures at a young age and feeling like she is now exactly where she is meant to be. Watch out for the year of Mia!
STAY GOLD IMAGES
Christina Brings It! She's recognized as one of the top mortgage professionals in the Boston Metro Area. She began her career in the mortgage industry 19 years ago and is now one of the most knowledgeable and reliable sources for mortgage financing across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.
On this episode we talk about the beginnings of her career, some of the challenges she's faced along the way and how she now helps customers work through some of the challenges in the real estate market. And Christina does it all with enthusiasm, she does what she says and firmly believes in following through with clients to help them with their financing goals.
She brings that same zest for life to her family! She has 2 young boys that she makes sure understand that she loves what she does and keeps a consistent date with her husband every week!
Christina Longo Trethewey at Guaranteed Rate (NMLS #79510) - Senior Loan Officer Boston, MA 02116
I had the honor of chatting with Kristie to talk about her background, her family and the need she felt for better connections. She's created that and so much more with "The Soul Project" From their mission statement: "We are helping women feel seen, heard and celebrated for being their authentic selves. When women feel seen and heard, they know they matter; when women know they matter they do BIG things in the world, they take better care of themselves, they engage in healthier relationships, they stand up for what they believe in and they go after their dreams." Find out more and how you can get involved The Soul Project
Kristen was introduced to the world of knitting by a friend that had a piece she really liked.
She had been in the finance world for many years and found herself having an awakening. She wanted to learn the world of fashion and use her creative and business background. She's done just that with Third Piece. She's created a brand, a company and insight for others with classes both in person and on line.
We talk about the surge in popularity of the craft and some celebs spotted wearing her brand! In her new location and on line you're able to buy OR create for yourself!
Bridging the world of sustainable fashion & craft through knitting – Third Piece
What a special episode. I get to chat with a bestie that also drops some major nuggets of inspo on how to transform your life!
We start by calculating just how long we've known each other, doing some reminiscing to "the old days" when we met in the radio industry and do a little catching up.
We talk about her journey from those days and the "things" that she thought made her happy, to the realization that they didn't and pursuit of what exactly "happy" looked like.
After years of training & coaching she now helps others; schools, businesses and organizations. Her journey is an awe-inspiring testament to the power of positivity and the profound impact one person can have in spreading joy and wellbeing.
Along with her husband Lee, who she met along her journey, they've created Shift Happens Global. See below for more information on all that they do and for a free 21 journal.
About Us — ShiftHappens
Shift Happens 21-Day Journal — ShiftHappens
Jenn found out less than a year ago that she had breast cancer. Stage 2 and grade 3 (yes, that is important and not so often talked about).
She immediately called her doctor and began the process of how to treat it. On this episode we talk about how open Jenn's been in telling her story to her team at her salon, her landlords (who were super supportive), her 4 year old son and to her on line followers.
Jenn's learned a lot in less than a year about being a patient and how to be a friend to others. She's transparent and shares how others stepped up in big and small ways to help while she was going through treatment. She also has some tips for people who may not know how to help someone who may be doing the same.
Thank you to Jenn for her time and grace, who's status by the way is currently NED (no evidence of disease!)
Jenny has always worked with kids and education. She found herself very interested in Waldorf education and just knew this was the path for her and her daughter Stella.
As a single mother Jenny got the education she needed in order to be able to teach not in a classroom but to create her own cirriculum and resources for others, for families who can not access Waldorf schools either for financial reasons or because of a lack of schools nearby.
We talk about the philosophy of Waldorf education, Jenny's path to be able to share this info and the growth of people reaching out from all over the world!
Waldorf Kindergarten Handwork Basics (thealchemykids.com)
Krysta Van Ranst is the CEO and founder of Building PPL, a leading Massachusetts-based construction learning and development consulting firm. In her role, Krysta connects her client list of small and mid-sized construction companies with innovative L&D solutions that begin by investing in people.
After over a decade of holding major titles like Senior Global Learning Specialist for TripAdvisor, Director of Talent for Dellbrook | JKS, and L&D Manager at Suffolk Construction, Krysta wanted to make more space for her family. She left corporate behind to begin her entrepreneurial journey and shift to full-time founder in an industry she had previously planted roots - construction.
In her first year of business in 2020, Krysta translated her passion and sense of purpose in the construction industry to $430,000 in grants for her clients and reduced turnover by 10% for each of her clients. Less than 4 years later, she has netted more than $4 million in grants which will fund training for nearly 3,000 employees, retained 100% of her clients, and has grown the firm from 1 to 5 employees.
When Krysta isn’t dreaming up her next change-making learning directive, she’s wrestling her 3 boys, reading as many books as possible or going to Broadway shows with her husband.
Carolyn never would have believed it if you told her in school that she'd eventually find herself as a leader in the finacial services industry. She started out in Bio/Pre-Med, but the constant has always been that she has a passion for people!
She is now the CEO of her own wealth advisory practice.
On this episode we talk about the path that lead her there and how she's really found her groove.
She's a wife and mother of 3 with an incredible knack for creating an inviting environment both in the office and her community.
We discuss everything from creating a good mindset, to discipline and the importance of journaling. She drops some really great nuggets that she's picked up through years of continuing to be coached.
think2perform | Apply Your Values to Drive Leadership, Growth and Teamwork
Keisha Greaves, the founder of Girls Chronically Rock, has always been passionate about fashion. Born and raised in Cambridge, MA, Keisha has a bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design and Merchandising and an MBA. At age 24, she was diagnosed with Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy, and her life changed. But far from being bogged down by it, Keisha decided not only to embrace it but to celebrate Muscular Dystrophy and other chronic illnesses, giving life to her dream of starting a fashion line.
Today, Keisha is a motivational speaker who talks about spreading awareness of Muscular Dystrophy, balancing life with chronic illnesses, raising money for causes, advocating for disability, and other related topics.
Girls Chronically Rock
Boston Women's Market is not just another market; it’s a place to become a change-maker and an opportunity for you to amplify your voice in support of women-founded businesses and artists.
I had the best time chatting with Cara & Africa by zoom about how they met (that is still a topic up for debate between the two!), how they meant to just do a one time event and how it's transformed into what it is today!
Ever since it's 2017 debut at the beautiful Loring-Greenough House in Jamaica Plain, these ladies have been working tirelessly to preserve a space for founders and artists of all kinds; from wood-workers, to candle makers, to illustrators. And it's simple to join their journey for change. Head to one of their upcoming markets, give a shout-out to your favorite women-founded brand on your social media, or send mom a locally-made gift from the Shop.
Boston Women's Market (bostonwomensmarket.com)
I sat down with Allison at her Charlestown, MA salon where we chat about how life is looking and feeling for her at this stage in her life! A mother of two, Charlestown is actually Allison's home town so it makes it that much sweeter for her to have this space in a place she grew up and continues to help grow.
She recently transformed the adjacent space thats been used for a variety of things over the years to a boutique, Haute 44 and it's already flourishing!
We talk about Allison's path, which she says she saw only in one direction, the beauty industry. She says she listens to her clients as to what to offer at both the salon and boutique.
Hair & Beauty Boutique in Charlestown, MA | Salon 44 Hair & Beauty Boutique (salonfortyfour.com)
Jennifer has spent the past 30 years in the fashion industry in many different roles.
On this episode we dive into her career, support from her husband and her goal to create joy through fashion!
In 2017 she came up with the idea of the "capsule"...a line of clothes that can actually be used in a variety of ways to create a month's worth of outfits!
She just celebrated a year since Good Robe & Co launched!
Wrap Star | GoodRobe&Co (goodrobeandco.com)
From the moment she up her first camera in 2004, Elaine knew that she had found her true calling. Becoming a professional photographer in 2009 she considers herself not just a photographer but a storyteller.
She focuses on highlighting and empowering women in all phases of life. Whether it's preserving family bonds or celebrating new beginnings Elaine knows that the images you create together serve as a treasure of memories you can revisit over and over.
She works closely with each of her clients to understand their vision, to create a relaxed and enjoyable environment, and to ensure that every photograph represents the authenticity of the moment.
Check out her work at Family portrait Photographer Concord MA (elainefreitas.com)
The Half Cookie is a licensed cookie company operating out of Foundation Kitchen in Charlestown, MA.
On this episode, Owner + baker, Danielle, shares her passion for dessert with creative recipes and new monthly flavors. She also talks about how she got into the business of baking these extra large and yummy cookies and always wanting them to taste as good as they look!
You can snag her amazing cookies through exclusive online drops, local Boston pop ups and event/corporate catering and now being shipped nation-wide!
The Half Cookie
Healthcare expert Lilly Stairs created this professional networking group for ambitious business women living with chronic conditions while prioritizing their health.
Chronic Boss Collective is the only professional networking collective for women with chronic conditions, and is launching the first local chapter in Boston MA, with online access available to women around the world.
This is not a support group- those already exist and serve their purpose, but this is a never-before-seen professional networking Collective focused on elevating and amplifying women’s ambitions.
Nearly 60% of adults have at least one chronic disease, and about 50 million Americans live specifically with an autoimmune disease– 80% of them being women! Additionally, people often don’t think of conditions related to mental health and ADHD as chronic conditions, but they are. These women usually are forced to go through the day to day at work or running their businesses without any true acknowledgment of what they’re navigating. But not anymore. The Chronic Boss Collective is the first of its kind Collective specifically aimed to create space for these women.
It officially launches on Tuesday, October 24th, for people to sign up and join, with limited spots at first, and programming begins in January 2024. Local chapters are expected to open across the country after the initial one in Boston, in addition to the online programming available worldwide.
https://youtu.be/9OlhtlvhSeo
Neda is a true powerhouse business owner, and her journey is nothing short of remarkable. She is not only a highly skilled dentist but also a pioneer in the field of aesthetic dentistry and minimally invasive aesthetic medicine. What sets Neda apart is her ability to create an environment where patients and staff feel like family. Her vision for Lumiere Dental Spa was born out of a desire to go beyond the conventional norms of dentistry and build a place where people could feel comfortable, safe, and leave with more than just dental treatments – they leave with a sense of self-worth and confidence. Neda's journey is a testament to her passion for beauty and aesthetics. She seamlessly integrated aesthetic treatments into her dental practice, becoming one of the first in Massachusetts to offer Botox and Fillers. Her commitment to enhancing her patients' self-love and self-care shines through in her work. In 2014, Neda, along with her husband, a physician, opened Lumi Aesthetics, a medical spa where they offer a wide array of minimally invasive, medical aesthetic treatments. Their mission is to help people "embrace the fountain of YOU," and they believe that "true beauty is the ilLUMInation of your soul." Neda's practice is more than just a medical spa; it's a community of trusted professionals dedicated to inspiring self-love, self-worth, and self-care.
Lumi Aesthetics - Embrace the fountain of YOU
Tracy worked in the homecare setting with clients with complicated issues for 20 years helping thousands get RESULTS! An expert in translating complicated messages into easy-to-understand language, she helps you create achievable goals.
On this episode we talk about the importance of reading nutrition labels. Tracy helps people with this along with discussing food trends, sharing cooking and snacking tips and explaining fad diets. She has worked with clients with diabetes, high blood pressure/cholesterol or heart disease, struggles with eating (e.g. emotional eating) and more, to get RESULTS.
Tracy hosted a cable TV show on many topics including cooking demonstrations-to watch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracyyemma/
site title | Welcome page (thetlife.com)
Books have always played a big role in Christina's life.
She worked in corporate marketing for 10 years. After being laid off in 2019 she decided to follow her passion, her dream of opening a book store. It started with pop ups and selling out of her 2nd bedroom.
Christina signed the lease for her new space in Somerville in early 2020, moving in a couple months later at the same time the Pandemic hit! That didn't stop her from being able to get started with curbside delivery until she could officially open the doors. And when she did, it was just her for a long time!
Today she's got a staff and a fierce community that follows her Queer/Feminist Book Store.
She's currently facing another challenge, rising rent costs but again is not letting it stop her. She's been able to find a new location and with the help of her staff and community are able to move it along! New location is opening in October!
Intersectional Feminist Queer Bookstore | All She Wrote Books
Laura is a certified fertility coach, trained to assist and guide women through infertility and medical treatments with a specialty in IVF and Donor Conception.
In addition to her professional training, she's a mother of two children conceived through infertility treatment, including her own donor conception journey. While trying to get pregnant, she was obsessed with researching fertility treatments, looking for stories to offer hope, and gathering as much information as she could to maintain a sense of control.
On this episode, Laura shares her story of navigating through the somewhat stressful and complicated process. And how the process offered her a new opportunity to become an expert in fertility health and be able to help other women realize their dreams of having a family.
Positive Fertility Coaching – Expert Support for Couples Struggling with Donor Conception, Egg Donation, and IVF Treatment
Nikki Grifone started all things events as a hobby and passion project about 10 years ago, but now is thrilled to say that Ishe loves what she's doing and now doing it for a living.
On this episode we chat about how she got started in the event business. I believe it was meant to be as someone plucked her out of a crowd based just on her warm energy and asked her to come to work for him!
After doing that for a while and doing some side things that had her helping other people organize events she was actually building a business and didn't realize it!
She now helps people bring their vision to life with event planning, day of coordinating and more!
NMG Marketing & Events (nmgevents.com)
Erin Myles, founder of Brave Daughters has over 20 years of experience in jewelry design and manufacturing. The bulk of her corporate career was spent designing for the fashion jewelry industry. Brave Daughters brand is grounded in personal connection, conscious consumerism and providing a fun and special in-store experience.
Brave Daughters was formed in 2018, out of a desire to do jewelry differently. The aim is to bring sustainability, celebration and intention back to the jewelry we wear every day. They are a women-run women-led business that flips the script on the traditional retail model by focusing on connection, collaboration and celebration. With locations in Providence, RI and Boston, MA, they create forever jewelry that is welded on permanently, custom jewelry designed with you, and whenever pieces that are available online and in-store.
Krissy, aka Nacolepsy Betsy chats all about content creation. She got her start in college and continued just posting fun things happening in her life. It was one special video that got A LOT of attention that really pointed her in the direction of being a content creator outside of her full time job.
Her focus is on navigating life as a 20 something in Boston, which includes of course dating, the bar scene, St Patrick's Day in Southie and more!
She also has a lot of interest in lifting other women and empowering them, unlike what she saw growing up when women, especially high profile women, would be ridiculed for not having the perfect body, skin or hair!
Alessandra Pollina is the founder of Quotable Media Co., a PR and media agency which works to elevate women-led brands and produces Quotable: A Female Entrepreneur Podcast and Quotable Magazine. She also hosts PR workshops and educational programs for small business owners and runs the Female Founders of Boston networking group. Alessandra sits on the board of the Massachusetts chapter of the National Organization for Women (Mass NOW), and was awarded the 40 Under 40 from Boston Business Journal in 2022. She's based in Boston, where she lives with her husband and 8-year-old son.
During our conversation she shares how she got her start in the PR industry and her desire to make her company a place people love to work!
Find her at quotablemediaco.com.
I had the pleasure of popping in to Becca's new studio in Charlestown for a little work out and a sit down to hear all about her journey (so far)!
She shared how she came up with the idea of an indoor run studio before anything like that really existed. Then, the journey to make it happen.
Becca admits she didn't know much about making this dream a reality. But she did have friends that could help, and they did.
Her first studio opened a few years later in the North End in Boston. Just as she was settling in and feeling good, the building the studio was located in was experiencing structural issues and they had to move out, quickly!
She shares how she and her team managed that, the pandemic and eventually opening the newest Mystryde in Charlestown!
MYSTRYDE Charlestown — MYSTRYDE
Movement Remedies is a Pilates and Wellness business that specializes in reducing the negative impact of pain for people recovering from injury and/or trauma, or living with chronic conditions. And physical activity is a proven contributor to overall well-being.
DK shares her own journey with pain and finding pilates! She's also in the process of writing her first book. She talks about how the Pilates method is safe and accessible for every body and offers sessions that are designed to give clients a sense of empowerment in and connection to their bodies, with the goal of alleviating pain symptoms.
Christine is a mom of 2 who's been in the Property Management Business for 17 years.
During the pandemic, she found herself curating little gifts to send to people who needed a little warmth and love (didn't we all!) The gifts included self care and inspirational items along with a note of encouragement.
Before long other people were reaching out to have her curate boxes to send to friends, family members, etc. Thus Buttercup was born even with Christine saying she wasn't trying to start a business!
She is now focused on continuing to build the business by connecting with other women owned businesses and local vendors!
Nikki popped over to my place in Charlestown (a section of Boston) to sit down and chat about her background, her love of dogs and Charlestown and her position as President of Charlestown Dogs.
Since taking over in this position shes done a lot to increase visibility for the organization both in town and on social media.
Charlestown Dogs is actually not just a social organization but a non-profit that (among other things) is working to increase awareness of the need for sanctioned off-leash spaces, as well as other resources for dog owners including waste bag dispensers and water fountains. They also hold regular efforts to clean up the neighborhood and repair damaged turf in parks around town.
Home | CharlestownDogs
On this episode I'm joined by my friend and PR Queen Jackie Zuk. She is the founder of Next On Scene, a Marketing/PR Firm, Magazine and Podcast!
We've been on eachother's podcast in the past, this time we re-connect to catch up!
We chat personal branding, social media, being a mom, pop culture and more!
Jackie is amazing at bringing people together to connect and network. We recently gathered at one of her events with a panel of media experts sharing best ways for people to get themselves and their businesses noticed!
NEXTonSCENE Media - Showcasing Tomorrow's Scene Today
Kelly Sullivan joined Boston 25 News as a reporter in June 2017. As a native of Auburn, MA, it has always been her dream to work in the television market she grew up watching. Prior to working in Boston, Kelly was an evening anchor and reporter at WPRI in Providence, RI. There, she had the opportunity to cover several big stories, from President Trump on the campaign trail, to traveling to Cleveland to cover Tom Brady's return from his suspension, and then to Houston to report on the Patriot's Super Bowl win. Before Providence, she also worked at NewsChannel 8 in Washington, D.C. where she reported along the parade route following President Barack Obama's first inauguration.
On this episode we chat about some of these amazing moments in her career along with her passsion for covering the local stories and stories of local businesses on her feature "Be Your Own Boss".
Kelly and her husband have also dipped their toes into real estate, getting their licenses together, doing a few deals a year for people they know and buying a couple of their own investments.
Kelly Sullivan, Boston 25 News - Boston 25 News
Ali discovered the incredible power of acupuncture and herbal medicine through her own struggles with stress and hormone imbalance. After years of unresolved stress, It was a wake up call to listen to her body.
When conventional medical diagnostics failed to provide any conclusive answers or solutions she decided to see what acupuncture and a more holistic approach had to offer.
Together with her acupunturist, they addressed her symptoms with a course of consistent acupuncture treatments, herbal formula supplementation, and diet and lifestyle modification.
Within a matter of months she went from depressed and exhausted to vibrant and exuberant! This experience offered her an invaluable lesson in attuning to her body's messages and intuition.
Fast forward, today she owns 2 locations of Yintuition where she and her team focus on Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine, Fertility, Pregnancy along with Mental Health and Wellness.
Yintuition Wellness | Acupuncture Services
Bajer is a Kurdish word that simply means a city, but it has a much deeper meaning for the Kurds.
As a long-oppressed minority in the Middle East, the Kurds have often been forced to abandon their small towns and villages, flee to safer ground in cities. As a result, the notion of a city has come to represent not only a physical space but also a state of mind.
During her childhood in the 90s, Leyla Uysal and other Kurds in Turkey were not allowed to travel between cities due to the war conditions.
It is this spirit of freedom and resilience that drove Leyla to found Bajer Watches. She wanted to create a brand that would showcase the talent and strength of Kurdish women. The watches are Swiss-made timepieces, but they are also so much more. They are a symbol of hope for a better future for the Kurdish people.
Bajer is a tribute to all Kurdish women who have fought for their rights and refused to be silenced, whether that be their most recent armed struggle against the Islamic State or their centuries-old struggle for education and equality in a patriarchal society.
Despite their challenges, Kurdish women are a force to be reckoned with—and Leyla wants the world to know it.
Leyla is proud to carry on this legacy with her luxury line of watches. Each timepiece is crafted with the utmost precision and care, showcasing the unique beauty of Kurdish women.
Bajer Watches Online | Luxury Watches Online Store USA (thebajer.com)
The initial idea for Park-9 grew out of love for Nora, the 3-year old golden retriever parented by Tess + Emily and spoiled by uncle Chris. They love spending time with her while socializing with their (human) family, friends, and often their four-legged best friends. However, there are very few “dog-friendly” spaces or environments truly dedicated to the comfort and enjoyment of both dogs and their people. Park-9 is the answer.
Inspired by the unconditional love between dogs and humans, the family owned business strives to create unique and inclusive gathering spaces that delight our guests and enrich our lives.
We celebrate Pride Month with the highlight of these ladies and the inclusive environment they have created for their guests and their team! Park-9 Dog Bar (park9dogbar.com)
Teeru shares her experience learning about cancer at a very young age when a friend lost her mother to the disease. It was at that young age that she knew she wanted to help.
Fast forward she actually is helping! Teeru is now in cancer research and has been for years.
We discuss some of the strides being made in the efforts to cure cancer and her other passion, jewelry.
Teeru was also exposed to jewelry design/sales by her mother when she was young and today she combines that passion with her continued efforts to help with cancer research.
With Bihani Jewelry she continues to donate a portion of sales to the American Cancer Society.
Bihani Jewelry - Etsy
Cristina moved to America from Romania when she was just 11 years old. Very unfamiliar with the culture, not to mention the language it was a bit of a challenge. She recounts, “I struggled a lot with acclimating to this country, and I had to suppress my emotions for a long time,” As she grew older she says she wanted to explore embracing her feelings and even saying the words ‘joy’ or ‘love.’
After getting married and working in the beauty industry at such big brands at Avon, Bath & Body Works and Living Proof she decided to launch her own fragrance brand Emmotiv, a clean fine fragrance brand designed to enhance emotions with wearable scents. It premiered just 6 months ago with four fragrances—Joy Rush, Love Euphoric, Calm Soul and Cozy Reverie.
We talk about her background, how she has been able to fully self fund her business along with some of her challenges and rewards!
Amber is a proud New Englander with a passion for creativity in all its forms.
With over a decade in video production, education, and advocacy, Amber knows what it takes to build audiences and help folks become more confident in expressing themselves. She’s done everything from developing a marketing campaign for a city-wide inclusivity initiative to creating a video for a campaign that raised over $150,000. All of that to say, she likes thinking outside the box and creating a measurable impact!
At IvyHill, Amber’s work centers on strategically connecting clients and the public, mixing traditional and emerging media for improved outcomes. She oversees all creative asset development, strategy, and messaging.
We chat on this episode about her background, being a "weird kid", her passion for her work and being a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community!
IvyHill PR – reimagining public relations.
Upcoming webinar on branding your business:
Branding your business your way webinar (ivyhillpr.com)
The title of this podcast gives you an idea of what my three guests have been faced with and what they are full of! Nothing is stopping these three sisters, Kristina Coccoluto, Vanessa Federico & Stephanie Bramante.
They've been affected by cancer in their family from a very young age including their mother (a 2 time cancer survivor, their aunts and their father)
Two of the sisters have tested positive for the BRCA1 mutation. In our conversation we get into what that is and means and how they've gone about their individual journeys with this discovery.
Recently all three of these strong ladies ran the Boston Marathon together, just one that they've completed and there are more in the future!
They are open books about their experiences and journey and invite anyone with questions to reach out for insight and inspiriation!
Nicole Liu is the Founder and Owner of VESTER Cafe. A native of Boston, Nicole was born into a family of restauranteurs. Naturally, her passion for food and travel led her towards a career in hospitality. Nicole’s experience in the industry range from New York City’s Plaza Hotel to The Langham Hotel in Chicago. She is seasoned in event management, fine dining operations and a certified sommelier. Upon a solo trip to Copenhagen in 2014, Nicole stumbled into “Vesterbro”, a meatpacking district that was revived by local restaurants and cafes. Inspired by the city aesthetic, culture of hospitality and complex simplicity of Nordic cuisine, the concept of VESTER was born. During our conversation we talk about her goal to use her space to empower women and it shows!
VESTER Cafe
This week we turn the tables and microphone on Thirty, Flirty & Surviving podcast, Tracy Scherm! Her podcast is geared toward embracing your thirties and normalizing that turning a certain age doesn't necessarily mean you have your sh*t together. Tracy navigates you through all the different topics that come with this decade like dating, finances, work, and play through guest interviews, games, and listeners' questions.
We get into her career path from college to a position with a staffing firm and things in between! She's definitely a force that lets nothing get in her way of achieving what she wants!
Thirty Flirty and Surviving - YouTube
Jen and Ashley are the co-founders of Big Day Besties, and besties IRL. They both have a passion for creating content and capturing the moment. As your big day besties, they make sure that you don’t miss a moment, and neither does your phone.
Their goal is to make you the main character of your big day. All the content is on your own device for you to relive! Their mission is to hype you up on your big day, and deliver those moments without the wait time or the price tag. They are at your event for a good time, and will not take a long time to get finished products back to you.
We talk about how they came up with the idea and how they're bringing it to life!
Big Day Besties – You live in the moment. We capture it. (wordpress.com)
Trisha Pérez Kennealy is the Owner & Culinary Educator of the Inn at Hastings Park, located in historic Lexington, MA. Trisha is a proud Puerto Rican Jewish woman, growing up in Puerto Rico before moving to Massachusetts as a teen. The Inn features 22 stylishly luxurious accommodations.
Before opening the Inn, Trisha had a successful finance career, but decided to pursue her true passions in life: cooking and teaching. Trisha is a graduate from Harvard Business School and has earned both her Diplôme de Cuisine & Diplôme de Pâtisserie from Le Cordon Bleu. Since opening in 2014, the Inn at Hastings Park has been featured in Forbes, Boston Business Journal, the Boston Globe, Travel + Leisure, and more.
The Inn offers hotel guests & the Lexington/greater Boston community an immersive food and wine destination unlike any other in New England with fresh, local ingredients, impeccable service & a farm-to-table philosophy. Trisha also shares her passion for teaching in her role as Culinary Educator, offering cooking classes, as well as immersive Culinary Weekends, for hotel and day guests alike.
Christina Gordon is co-founder, and CEO of the Women’s Foundation of Boston. Christina is a charismatic business leader with an impressive resume who saw a lack of support for women and girls in Massachusetts’ philanthropic community just 5 years ago. As a result, she decided to create WFBoston to develop, fund, and accelerate high-impact economic and leadership programs that equip Greater Boston women and girls to be financially independent and successful leaders.
In just five short years, WFBoston has become one of the top 10 women’s foundations in the United States with a $5M endowment. Additionally, the organization’s year-end fundraising increased by 90 percent in 2021, from $1.9M raised in 2020 to an astounding $3.6M raised in 2021.
Christina’s incredible business acumen has allowed WFBoston to flourish into a vibrant organization that helps thousands of women and girls in Massachusetts.
I was drawn to a story that Caroline did on 7 News here in Boston highlighting a new stroke center in Charlestown, MA. At the end she mentioned it was especially important to her as she is also a stroke surivor.
As it turns out, she suffered a stroke at the young age of 27. Who knew that could happen right? She certainly didn't. She instantly went on to do research on the topic, share it and her story with her viewers and continues to do that!
On this episode Caroline and I connect on our home state of PA, the "Philly Accent" and so much more!
Since her stroke she's connected with Our Team - Tedy’s Team (tedysteam.org) co-founded by Tedy Bruschi, a former New England Patriot who also suffered a stroke at the young age of 30. She even ran with his team to raise money and awareness for stroke victims in last year's Boston Marathon!
An experienced public relations, social media, and marketing professional with a passion for storytelling, after years in the industry Robbin founded her own firm, Wave Collective in 2016. Robbin has expertise working with a diversified portfolio across media, entertainment, retail and hospitality, as well as both regional and national brands.
While Robbin was building her PR/retail companies, she was simultaneously building her personal brand by amassing her following on Instagram, who were interested in/related to her day-to-day life of being a mom and female entrepreneur.
Stationed in Boston, Robbin continues to immerse herself in the city’s growing business communities and developing relationships with top-tiered journalists and social media influencers. After seeing a growing trend in influencer marketing, she launched the region’s first influencer management firm, representing some of the city’s top talent, and securing partnerships with brands such as Walmart, Sperry, Dunkin Donuts, NIVEA, Free People, Home Goods, and more. Alongside her team, Wave handles the influencer campaign strategy and execution for clients across several different industries.
WAVE Collective (wearewavecollective.com)
We interrupt the previously scheduled program for this spontaneous podcast recording.
Out to dinner with my girl and fellow podcast host (Anything for Love | Katie Grimes on Apple Podcasts) she says "lets do podcast episode"...so we did.
I think it's her third appearance here and they get better every time! I originally had her on after seeing her at an event, finding her on insta, then became one of her coaching clients. After that it was clear we'd be friends! We now hang out, try different sh*t (thus the title) and laugh our asses off!
On this episode we get into dating, coaching, real estate, friendship and chicks that support eachother! Thank God for the magic of social media, coaching, scooters and hype women!
Katie Grimes | Business Coach
Abigail Hueber, RD, LDN is the dietitian behind Above Health Nutrition. Abby has a deep desire to help each unique client achieve long-term digestive health through nutrition and lifestyle counseling based on holistic, science-based functional medicine.
Above Health Nutrition works one-on-one with individuals to achieve their health and wellness goals. Above Health Nutrition offers virtual telehealth counseling services which help each client achieve their health and wellness goals anywhere their lives take them!
In our conversation she shares some of her own gut struggles & some "Abby Approved" supplements. She also shares lots of great tips on her instagram and during her own podcast "Your Body Has Your Back"
Home | Above Health Nutrition
Allison Bloch is one half of the duo that started the instagram "Beers Over Boston" She and boyfriend Bill Hall started dating right before the pandemic, with a first date, that was of course, at a brewery! Before long they were checking out and sharing beers and breweries from all over and people loved it, now with a following of more than 11,000 they continue their passion together and so much more!
They've gotten involved with creating beers, doing collabs and Allison even runs social media for 3 local brweries, Small Change, 7th Wave & Distraction while continuing to work her "real job" in finance!
She has put that financial background to good use as the finacial liason for "Pink Boots Boston", a non-profit that assists, inspires and helps educate women in the alcoholic beverage profession.
She is definitley busy but loves every minute of it!
The doors of Canvas Studio/The Design Lab opened one year ago this month. I had the chance to sit down with the creator, Daphne Walker.
She doesn't necessarily consider herself to be an artist, but definitely has a creative side, which is clear but what she has and continues to create inside the studio.
Its not only a fun, amazing experience but she keeps in mind her community in the Hyde Park section of Boston, always listening to them and creating special events for all to feel welcome and represented.
The Canvas Studio was intentionally built to be an intimate space (fitting approximately 18 people at one sitting) where people could reconnect, especially coming off of the pandemic.
Clearly this unique space has gotten attention with viral social media videos and sold out events for months in advance! WIth this, Daphne is already making plans for expansion!
Canvas Studio | The Design Lab (canvasstudiobos.com)
Adrianne Haslet is a professional ballroom dancer and motivational speaker who was injured while observing the Boston Marathon in 2013. Despite the amputation of her left leg as a result of the bombing, she has been able to continue her dancing career and run in the marathon in 2016 & 2022 (coming in 4th place!) even after being hit by a car in 2019. Talk about GRIT!!!
Adrianne was featured in a 2014 TED talk, a movie with Anderson Cooper and has another on the way!
She's also working on a book and is a sought after worldwide motivational speaker!
I was so honored to be granted time to get to know her, she was warm, engaging, open and funny! I will never forget this conversation and know that you'll be inspired too. Thank you Adrianne! Keep going!
Sue-Ellen Anderson-Haynes, is a mother, wife, co-author, health writer, recipe developer, health speaker, holistic plant-based women’s health registered dietitian. She has been featured in multiple media outlets including Harvard Health Publishing, CNBC, SELF and Huffington Post.
Anderson-Haynes is a dietitian of over 15 years with specialties in diabetes, weight management, girls and women’s health, prenatal/maternal nutrition, vegan/vegetarian diet, integrative and functional nutrition and general health and wellness (cancer, heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders, etc).
Sue Ellen founded 360Girls&Women® at 360girlsandwomen.com – a holistic health & wellness company for girls, whose mission is to provide evidence-based information and services to help maximize a woman's complete health through the complete life-cycle.
She is also the co-founder of culturd™ at iamculturd.com – a Digital Healthcare App that connects Dietitians to Clients based on culture.
360girls&women | Plant-Based Women's Health Holistic Dietitian Nutritionist (360girlsandwomen.com)
Colleen is the Boston-based blogger & content creator behind Travel Like a Local: MA, with a focus on travel across Massachusetts and New England. She covers destinations, hotels and restaurants, as well as cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, events and local shops, businesses and products, all from the perspective of a local resident.
Colleen started Travel Like a Local: MA in 2019 and has organically grown her Instagram following to more than 17.5K engaged followers. She has become a trusted source of recommendations and travel inspiration for those living in and visiting New England.
With a background in public relations and marketing, Colleen is passionate about helping raise awareness of - and drive sales for - the partners she works with through storytelling and compelling visuals.
Monisha has always loved entertaining and being able to provide creative food art. So when the opportunity presented itself to create a charcuterie styling business, she jumped on it! BoardsbyMo started as a side hustle, and grew to her full time career shortly after.
While growing BoardsbyMo, Monisha has taught over 1,000 entrepreneurs worldwide how to start their own charcuterie catering businesses through her business courses. She was named a 2021 Boston Business Journal 40 Under 40 Winner, and a Harvard Business School ManageMentor.
During our conversation she shared some of the challenges she's encountered while building her business and does the same on social media. She also opened up about social media, saying that she likes it and sees it's place but also needs to build her business in a way that if social media went away tomorrow, she and her business would be ok!
BoardsbyMo
Simplify By Lauren was created in a small office on a cool fall night in New England. Lauren says she wasn’t 100 percent sure of what business she would create but was ready to take the leap. What evolved is not just a business but a commitment to peace, happiness, and community within each project and client.
In this episode she shares the importance of a good support system (in her case, her hubby), some of the challenges of starting her own business (lots more hours than the 9-5!) and gives some great organizing tips!
Simplify is a way of life and they wholeheartedly believe transforming and organizing a space has the power to ignite your passion, inspire, and bring joy to you and your family.
Simplify By Lauren (simplifybylaurennh.com)
Little Cocoa Bean Co was created to make culturally diverse, ready-made, fresh and healthy baby and toddler food for the next generation of parents. Their meals are served in a chic, baby-friendly café setting that’s every millennial parent’s dream eatery!
My guest on this episode is Tracy Skelly, the Founder & CEO of the Co and owner of The Tot Cafe in the Jamaica Plain section of Boston. A place for parents and kids to connect, eat, play, learn and be themselves!
Tracy shares her story of making food at home for her first born, having other parents ask about it, start to sell it and then open the first Cafe! Wishing her the best and knowing this will NOT be the only location!!!
Little Cocoa Bean Company
Amy is a rare breed, she's been in the same industry AND at the same location for her entire career! There have been some changes along the way but, she started as an employee at Susanna in Cambridge and is now the owner of that location and a new store in the Jamaica Plain section of Boston.
She's also started an on line version of her store, geared mostly to women with clothing, jewelry, gifts and cards.
On this episode she shares how she came from the midwest to Boston, the origin of the name of the store and has a nice discount for Bold Like Her Listeners!
*Discount Code BOLDLIKEHER
Unique Women's Clothing Store – Susanna (shopsusanna.com)
Nike John is the founder and CEO of The Heritage Club and The Boston Heritage Fund. At 29 years old, Nike founded the Boston-based cannabis dispensary and its non-profit subsidiary to support safe cannabis consumption within the community and fight back against the war on drugs. Nike is currently the youngest dispensary owner in Boston. A Boston native, Nike is proud to support the growth of her community through her business and non-profit.
Home - The Heritage Club (heritageclubthc.com)
Starting the New Year with a conversation about goals & keeping it real!
My guest, Ashley has been an avid dancer all of her life, especially drawn to ballet. Once she found out about Barre, it became her go to work out! She then became Barre Certified in 2015.
On this episode she shares how she started teaching while doing her full time job as an executive assistant and it was actually her boss that suggested she buy the studio when it became available.
Ashley prides her studio on being a place to connect with others on not just fitness, but community, inclusivity and being a non-judgemental environment.
Ashely is very involved with her community and even highlights some of it's small businesses on her podcast "Coffee At The Barre". The name is inspired by it's hosts, she & her friend that owns a couple coffee shops in town.
Barre Life LLC (barrelifenh.com)
Cynthia's goal is to get you thinking differently about desert and she's doing just that with her new alcohol infused icecream!
While her first gig was at an icecream shop, Cyn never imagined she'd be back here in New England making it! But she will tell you that her Biology/Chemistry degrees are definitley being put to good use!
After college she spent 6 years in the IT space. It was her love of icecream to lead to starting the brand "Popscoops". It only launched about a month ago but is already a big hit with vendors, distributors and restaurants with more to come in the new year!
Cyn prides her business on her partnerships with other locals businesses and creates her icecreams using only milk from New England cows!
Check out the flavors and how to get yours on the website!
Popscoops
Yiota shares her experience of being on "So You Think You Can Dance-Greece", how her parents influenced her to not only be on the show but to get into dance at a young age and how its helped her in her journey back to Boston to start this amazing dance team!
WTF - We The Females is an all-female dance company based out of Boston, Massachusetts. The team was created in January 2019 by three Boston based female dancers. The team’s mission is to empower women of all ages through the art of dance. The team takes special interest in locally owned businesses, fashion, community service, and youth outreach.
In 2020 We The Females was chosen as Adidas Game Changers and featured in a nationwide campaign about people who make a difference in their community. The same year, they launched the "We’re The Future" program that brings affordable dance classes to young girls around Massachusetts.
Some of their professional credits include:
- Adidas Originals Superstar Campaign
- Boston Celtics Halftime performers
- Pride Boston, opening act for LGBTQIA+ artist, Todrick Hall
- Boston Cannabis Festival
Dance Company | WTF - We The Females | United States (wtfwethefemales.com)
Lynne is the founder of Power of Patients. She shares her journey of learning through her 2 daughters’ distinctively different head injuries, concussions versus TBI, (Traumatic Brain Injury) that if you have seen 1 brain injury, then you have only experienced 1 brain injury. No 2 brain injuries are alike.
It was a test of her own patience, but more importantly, a test to her commitment to understand what has happened to my daughters and how to help them. And it is through this journey, that she wants to share her knowledge and help others.
She's spent 25+ years in the clinical trial industry and is now putting all of her knowledge and experience into the website and an app called "Sally" which allows patients to input their own data to be used for research. Lynne is now in the process of planning out the 2023 initiative which will include more reserach, fund raising, and marketing! In addition, she's on the hunt for George Clooney! #wheresgeorge As it turns out his Aunt Rosemary established the Betty Clooney Foundation to help those with traumatic brain injuries back in the 80's!
Power of Patients
Sponsor: www.andriandolce.com
Becky has been an Occupational Therapist in the Boston area for 13 years.
On this episode she shares her experiences working in hospitals at the time of the Boston Marathon Bombings (actually having to move patients into the new Spaulding Facility at the time) and during the Pandemic.
Becky used the servies of a Doula for her first pregnancy and found it to be very helpful. Once the pandemic hit, her family members, out of concern for her health were urging her to leave the hospital.
Within no time, she knew just which direction to go. She began her path to becoming a Doula, helping couples with their pregnancy and post-partum journeys. She found that many of the tools she was using with Occupational Therapy were easily transferrable to this new career!
She is a mom to 2 young children and the owner of Capstone Doula Services. She helps new moms and their partners with childbirth, post-partum and infant education and care. Becky has also started classes for Grandparents and C-section consults as well!
Capstone Doula Services
I'll admit I did not know that Travel Agents still existed and like most probably thought that "oh I can do this myself". My guest on this episode actually schooled me right away on that, dispelling the myth that travel agents cost more. They actually don't cost anything and could SAVE you money on your trip.
Courtney shares the story of how she has always been a planner and found herself doing most of the work for her own travel agent when planning her honeymoon!
She shares some great tips on this episode on travel (especially during the busy holiday season), plus some useful apps and websites.
Madison Ciccone is an emerging thought leader and relentless, fierce, cheerleader for women with big dreams. With an energy that’s both inspirational and aspirational, Madison takes her crew to church each week on her podcast - delivering the news that they, too, can be Wicked Fearless.
Madison is like the older sister you never had, the one who's always got you back. She’s real about who she is and where she’s been. And by sharing her experiences openly, she offers a vulnerability that helps the women in her community feel seen and understood.
As a D1 athlete and a master instructor at Soul Cycle, Madison knows what it takes to achieve success. She also knows that success can feel empty when it’s not aligned with purpose and desire. That’s why she offers the Wicked Fearless coaching container for women who are ready to identify and embody their purpose, set the stage, and step into the lives they were meant for.
Wicked Fearless on Apple Podcasts
In June 2021, Julie invented a product to enhance the calf area of the body because she was not happy with hers (we are all our own worst critics, right?)
In March 2022, she hired a marketing expert to help build awareness of the product, and what happened next both scared and excited her! Jackelyn of Jackelyn Dacanay Consulting, after receiving the product, decided to wear them in her bra as opposed to on her leg, and VOILA, BODYMOONS™️ was born!
The moral of the story is she now has a product that can be worn on multiple body parts versus one, giving you the freedom to enhance yourself however and wherever YOU want. Your body, Your choice!
BODYMOONS Enhancement Shapewear
In June 2021, Julie invented a product to enhance the calf area of the body because she was not happy with hers (we are all our own worst critics, right?)
In March 2022, she hired a marketing expert to help build awareness of the product, and what happened next both scared and excited her! Jackelyn of Jackelyn Dacanay Consulting, after receiving the product, decided to wear them in her bra as opposed to on her leg, and VOILA, BODYMOONS™️ was born!
The moral of the story is she now has a product that can be worn on multiple body parts versus one, giving you the freedom to enhance yourself however and wherever YOU want. Your body, Your choice!
BODYMOONS Enhancement Shapewear
"It's Never Too Late To Be A Healthier You!" The decision to get and stay fit can transform your life. CIndy truly believes everyone should have the opportunity to live a full, happy and long healthy life! She is a Certified Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor from the American Council on Exercise (ACE) and the Athletics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA). She offers fitness programs to improve and strengthen your body, balance and brain health. Her goal is to empower her clients to get in their best shape and feel great, regardless of their age, size or fitness level.
Cindy hasn't always been in the fitness world, although it's always been a part of her life. She did a complete 180 in her forties after years of working in the PR/Marketing industry. After finding that she was burnt out and not happy she decided to make a shift. With her husbands support she began teaching and then personal training! She continues to teach on line and in person with her clients as well as giving fitness tips on her instagram!
Cindy Sullivan Fitness - In Home Personal Trainer, Senior Fitness
"It's Never Too Late To Be A Healthier You!" The decision to get and stay fit can transform your life. CIndy truly believes everyone should have the opportunity to live a full, happy and long healthy life! She is a Certified Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor from the American Council on Exercise (ACE) and the Athletics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA). She offers fitness programs to improve and strengthen your body, balance and brain health. Her goal is to empower her clients to get in their best shape and feel great, regardless of their age, size or fitness level.
Cindy hasn't always been in the fitness world, although it's always been a part of her life. She did a complete 180 in her forties after years of working in the PR/Marketing industry. After finding that she was burnt out and not happy she decided to make a shift. With her husbands support she began teaching and then personal training! She continues to teach on line and in person with her clients as well as giving fitness tips on her instagram!
Cindy Sullivan Fitness - In Home Personal Trainer, Senior Fitness
Hannah Florman is a fine jeweler specializing in custom diamond engagement rings and fine jewelry. Hannah is based in Boston, but works one on one with her global clientele who trusts her for her depth of knowledge, unique sense of style and her commitment to quality craftsmanship.
She hasn't always been in the jewelry business, she actually has a law degree and worked with a law firm for a while when she found that wasn't a good fit!
Around the same time she was also shopping for engagement rings with her then boyfriend. It was that experience that lead her to go into the jewelry/diamond industry. She found that there weren't really any places around the Boston area to give her the experience she wanted and now gives to her clients. A more personal experience.
Hannah Florman is a fine jeweler specializing in custom diamond engagement rings and fine jewelry. Hannah is based in Boston, but works one on one with her global clientele who trusts her for her depth of knowledge, unique sense of style and her commitment to quality craftsmanship.
She hasn't always been in the jewelry business, she actually has a law degree and worked with a law firm for a while when she found that wasn't a good fit!
Around the same time she was also shopping for engagement rings with her then boyfriend. It was that experience that lead her to go into the jewelry/diamond industry. She found that there weren't really any places around the Boston area to give her the experience she wanted and now gives to her clients. A more personal experience.
Brittany started The Boston Food Journal in late 2015. With a degree in biomedical engineering and a background in software, she wanted to create a platform that combined her skills and experience in technology with her long-time love of food.
Growing up in her family, eating was always a symbol of love, family and togetherness. When she moved to Boston in 2014, she was enamored by the authentic food scene and on a complete whim started The Boston Food Journal.
In late 2019, Brittany resigned from working the corporate 9-5 to pursue the Boston Food Journal and launch her boutique digital marketing agency, Eleven Seven Media.
In 2021, Brittany and her older sister Caitlin launched a new podcast - The Side Dish Podcast - where they highlight food, wine and local culinary experts and leaders.
Misty Lynch, CFP® helps busy business owners and their families handle finances with confidence using investment management, financial planning and coaching strategies.
Misty hosts the realty TV series Heartbroke and the weekly podcast Demystifying Money. She is a personal finance expert and a resource for media outlets including The New York Times, Cosmopolitan, CNBC, CNN, Investopedia, Real Simple, Student Loan Hero and many others.
Investopedia named her one of the Top 100 Financial Advisors in 2021 and US News and World Report named her one of the 9 Women in Finance to Follow "because sometimes you need life advice, not just financial advice".
Katie built an international relationship coaching business that earned over $350,000 in 3 years! Now, she teaches you how to become a coach and feel confident running a business that makes more money than your full-time job.
Between her podcast, "Anything for Love," social media, and online coaching programs, Katie has helped over 30,000 people learn how to feel their feelings and trust themselves more in love, life, and business.
When she's not coaching, you can find Katie busting a move at her favorite dance studio or at the beach reading a Colleen Hoover book or listening to a digital course from one of her favorite coaches!
To have Katie help you grow your confidence as a coach and as a business owner, head to www.katiegrimes.com/workwithme
A Boston fitness instructor and Mom Coach, Julia shares the shift that happened for her during the pandemic. Her need to find a sense of self has now become a way she helps others do the same. She's also become a Fair Play Facilitator. The Fair Play Method is a communication system that helps to rebalance the invisible labor within the home with the goals of reducing the chaos of daily life, strengthening one’s partnership with their spouse, and creating space for individual pursuits. Julia Ludwig Wellness
Home | Fair Play Life
A Boston fitness instructor and Mom Coach, Julia shares the shift that happened for her during the pandemic. Her need to find a sense of self has now become a way she helps others do the same. She's also become a Fair Play Facilitator. The Fair Play Method is a communication system that helps to rebalance the invisible labor within the home with the goals of reducing the chaos of daily life, strengthening one’s partnership with their spouse, and creating space for individual pursuits. Julia Ludwig Wellness
Home | Fair Play Life
Gus Grip™ founder, Jen Psichopaidas DeAngelo, got her first Peloton® bike two days after receiving clearance to workout postpartum. Jen quickly realized that she and so many other riders– both at the studio and at home – would place a towel over the handlebars to absorb sweat, provide padding and a bit of friction.
At the time, Jen searched to no avail for a product that satisfied those same needs. So, she set out to prototype her own.
We talk about the inspiration for the product and the name, her dad and the way she wants to honor him. And how she does it all with a full time job and 2 kids!
Gus Grip | Stationary Bike Handlebar Cover | Boston, Massachusetts
Gus Grip™ founder, Jen Psichopaidas DeAngelo, got her first Peloton® bike two days after receiving clearance to workout postpartum. Jen quickly realized that she and so many other riders– both at the studio and at home – would place a towel over the handlebars to absorb sweat, provide padding and a bit of friction.
At the time, Jen searched to no avail for a product that satisfied those same needs. So, she set out to prototype her own.
We talk about the inspiration for the product and the name, her dad and the way she wants to honor him. And how she does it all with a full time job and 2 kids!
Gus Grip | Stationary Bike Handlebar Cover | Boston, Massachusetts
Taylor is the owner and founder of Little Miss Cupcape. Her Story began in the spring of 2014 when she graduated from Manhattan College with a degree in business marketing and a minor in communications. While in college for business, she catered birthdays, graduation events, parties, and much more, but always felt that she was missing out on her true aspirations as a baker and entrepreneur.
Halfway through her senior year of college, she realized she couldn't wait any longer to pursue her cupcake dreams. In partnership with her business savvy mom and the help from her family, she was able to open her first Little Miss Cupcape on historic Main Street in Hyannis, Massachusetts in June 2014.
Since then she's opened a second location on Newbury Street in Boston and brought lots of other exciting things to both locations.
On this episode she shares the story along with the challenges, her love for her team and future goals for Little Miss Cupcape!
Little Miss Cupcape | Cupcake Shop in Boston and Cape Cod
Taylor is the owner and founder of Little Miss Cupcape. Her Story began in the spring of 2014 when she graduated from Manhattan College with a degree in business marketing and a minor in communications. While in college for business, she catered birthdays, graduation events, parties, and much more, but always felt that she was missing out on her true aspirations as a baker and entrepreneur.
Halfway through her senior year of college, she realized she couldn't wait any longer to pursue her cupcake dreams. In partnership with her business savvy mom and the help from her family, she was able to open her first Little Miss Cupcape on historic Main Street in Hyannis, Massachusetts in June 2014.
Since then she's opened a second location on Newbury Street in Boston and brought lots of other exciting things to both locations.
On this episode she shares the story along with the challenges, her love for her team and future goals for Little Miss Cupcape!
Little Miss Cupcape | Cupcake Shop in Boston and Cape Cod
Angela Gentile is the founder of Sweat Remix and a fitness instructor who has dedicated her life to helping people feel their best.
Sweat Remix is a fitness experience that fuses together a spiritual practice with movement.
She grew up in Western MA and was a teacher for 11 years. For more than half of those years she felt unfulfilled but resisted growth & change.
It was the sudden passing of her father in 2015 that became sort of a wake up call that we only have this one life so she made a change!
Sweat Remix | Workplace Wellness, Fitness Classes
What started as a way for one girl (Ana) to find her tribe here in Boston has catapulted into a much bigger movement of women empowering women. GirlFriends is a community building platform, that allows its members to find those movie worthy friendships of girls that support each other, help each other grow, and of course, have a little fun together.
We talk about her journey, coming to America from Venezuala knowing no one. She was, as a photographer attending some very beautiful events and thought, what if she could bring other women together to do the same thing and have fun making friends at the same time! And so she did and continues to grow the group of women and the business of Girlfriends as well!
GIRLFRIENDS (girlfriendsboston.com)
What started as a way for one girl (Ana) to find her tribe here in Boston has catapulted into a much bigger movement of women empowering women. GirlFriends is a community building platform, that allows its members to find those movie worthy friendships of girls that support each other, help each other grow, and of course, have a little fun together.
We talk about her journey, coming to America from Venezuala knowing no one. She was, as a photographer attending some very beautiful events and thought, what if she could bring other women together to do the same thing and have fun making friends at the same time! And so she did and continues to grow the group of women and the business of Girlfriends as well!
GIRLFRIENDS (girlfriendsboston.com)
When Alexa was 13 years old her dad passed away. As she explains, it is difficult to put into words the pain and heartbreak her family endured. Now, 16 years later, the pain is still there and so real.
After her dad's death, she made a promise to herself to help others going through similar situations. And so she is, she wrote a children’s book to help kids and families with the extraordinary pain that comes with losing a loved one or even a pet. Her goal is to give whomever needs it a place to cope with their loss, and with all the sadness they feel, maybe give them some peace and happiness as well.
Her hope is that this book can provide some light in all the darkness.
I know one thing for sure, her dad is proud!
Childrens Book for Grief | My Hot Air Balloon Ride
Fernanda moved to the USA from Brazil in 2016 to get a masters degree in Business, with English as a second language. After a few positions in the financial/real estate world and a pandemic, she left school to pursue her real passion, fitness!
She went on to obtain her personal Trainer Certificate. Now she shares her love for all things fitness on line, social media and with her clients.
On this episode we talk about the importance of not just eating healthy, but also moving your body and getting the proper rest!
She's built an amazing following on Instagram and TikTok showing her work out regimen and fitness tips!
Home | Fernanda Shaw
Having a pasta business was always a dream for Carol and husband Giulio! They lived in Europe for a while, then came back to Boston working "regular" jobs while they still had the dream. They initially started their business selling Italian wine crackers called “taralli” which helped them get an idea of the market and food scene in Boston, intially starting with a small shop in Melrose, MA. Listen to hear more about their journey and their plans for the future at their latest location in the Boston Public Market.
Home | sevenhillspastaco
Tonya and I team up for a little podcast mash up, appearing as guests on eachother's shows for this episode.
We talk about her change in careers and how she helps other women do the same! She's worked for Fortune 500 companies and multi-billion dollar businesses along the way, changing careers 4 times. She shares how she had to take steps back in order to move forward, and in doing so has always been able to work her way back up to a senior role in the new career.
Her mission is to empower women to discover their true potential and gain more fulfillment out of their careers.
Career Coach | Tonya Empowers
Melissa wakes up everyday excited to help women who are passionate about pursuing their dreams, so they can make an income AND an impact. Her passion is energizing and supporting women to take action in building their dream life. She's proud to be the founder of an organization that is making waves, changing lives and helping women in business achieve their next level.
Her message to female founders, women entrepreneurs, business owners and dream chasers—it is possible.
Women's Business League is a community where women connect, grow and prosper. Founded by two North of Boston, MA moms and corporate refugees, Amy Pocsik and Melissa Gilbo, the Women's Business League has reignited the power of networking. The core of their mission is kindness and community, values that drive the connections created amongst its members. Together, Pocsik and Gilbo, have created a community for female entrepreneurs and business women to come together, share resources, and promote their businesses.
Website:https://womensbusinessleague.com
Yara Zgheib is a reader, writer, traveler, lover of art and jazz. She was born in Beirut and has pieces of her heart in Paris, London, Boston, and one particularly beautiful, one-road Tuscan village.
She is the author of The Girls at 17 Swann Street (St. Martin’s Press, 2019), which was a People Pick for Best New Books, a Barnes and Noble pick for Best Books of 2019, and a BookMovement Group read.
Her second novel, No Land to Light On (Atria Books, January 2022), a Simon and Schuster pick and Indie Book read, has been called a “masterful story of tragedy and redemption” written in “soul-searing prose,” and has been featured in The Washington Post, The L.A. Times, and Newsweek as one of the top books of 2022.
Her essays and stories have appeared in Glimmer Train, The Huffington Post, The Four Seasons Magazine, HOLIDAY Magazine, The European, and others. Also, every Thursday, she publishes an essay on The non-Utilitarian: thoughts on life, art, and things neither practical nor useful, like love and fresh water, for example.
On this episode she shares her love story of falling in love, with her husband, getting married and finding their way to Boston.
She now continues to write while raising her twins and is working on book number 3.
- Yara Zgheib
Ali Elliott founded The Farmer Foodie LLC, as her food blog in January 2020 to share her lifelong passion for recipe creation and sustainable organic food. She is a plant-forward recipe and product developer. Many of her recipes are inspired by her four year career as an Organic Farm Education Manager in Millerton, NY. Ali has published over 160 original sustainable recipes. Ali is a passionate solo social entrepreneur. Ali earned her MBA in Social Impact and an MA in Sustainable International Development from The Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University.
Ali launched her first product, Everything Cheeze, on May 17, 2022 through eateverythingcheeze.com! Everything Cheeze is a raw vegan, gluten free, and soy free Cashew Parmesan Alternative. It is inherently sustainable with its plant-based organic ingredients and long shelf-life. It is made with fairtrade organic cashews. Everything Cheeze is also a multi-use product that can be hydrated with boiling water and blended into a Queso, Ricotta, or Mac & Cheeze sauce in 30 seconds.
Vegan and Gluten Free Recipes | The Farmer Foodie
I'm joined by my friend and sponsor of Bold Like Her, Andria Dolce on this episode along with her girlfriend Ashley Davis. They've both been on the podcast (seperately) before, but this time they are together and talking about pride, pups, and a little mortgage talk from Andria.
We also get into the beautiful thing they've been doing over the past year or so, fostering children. They share the process they went through to become foster parents, their experience and the need for more people to do the same.
Foster parent eligibility | Mass.gov
The title of this episode comes from my guest, Alexandra Goresh. She's my friend, a hair stylist at Stilisti on Newbury St in The Back Bay of Boston and also has her own podcast (The Alexandra Show). She invited me to do a co-podcast where we talk to eachother for both of our shows during the month of June to talk about topics around Pride. Alexandra is super open, gay friendly and a wonderful ally to so many in the LGBTQ+ community. Our conversation focuses on having open conversations, myths about how someone looks and how people are attracted to others and I even share my "coming out" story. Thank you Alexandra for always being a wonderful friend and a safe space for so many!
Stilisti Boston: A Salon Retreat on Newbury
Jen's literal goal is to help great people make a "shit ton" of money, just ask her!!
Seeking to find someone to help her with her financial goals and not being able to find anyone outside of the typical planner or advisor, Jen decided she'd do it herself. And now she helps others by giving them the support and encouragement to do what most aren't willing to do when it comes to their money!
We discuss just how easy it is once you get started and how literrally anyone can become a millionaire. It's never to early or late to get started.
We also chat about a 7 step on line course Jen has created called "Know your money" and how you can sign up for it!
About BASE — Base Planning Co.
My guest on this episode loves creating artwork that evokes a sense of joy. Whether that be an original landscape to display in your home or the honor of being chosen as your live wedding painter, She puts all that she has into her paintings with the hope that her art will spark the same joy in you for years to come.
Live Wedding Painting | Erin Micozzi - Massachusetts Artist
Susan has been around construction and design her whole life! When she brought her husband Paul into the business 15 years ago they made it their mission to bring change to the business while creating spaces that are practical, beautiful, and inspiring all while having fun! If you don’t think they have enough going on, Paul is also a firefighter and they have 4 children to keep them on their toes!
As part of their journey in making their client’s homes their favorite place on earth, the Kadilak’s have built their business on the power of social media. Five years ago they were given a very strong piece of advice: MAKE VIDEOS! So they tried it and it quickly grew their business, with a 60% increase in revenue after the first year! Video works! Through their social channels they have been able to connect directly with potential clients, grow their social media audience, and develop a relationship before ever getting that first phone call.
Mona shares that she's got more titles than anyone including nutritionist, cookbook author, publisher, wellness entrepreneur and creative food strategist. But they all have one common goal….to satisfy her undying passion to make the world a healthier place. You can usually find her in her office creating, inventing or writing away, or in the kitchen testing out new recipes while having an 80s dance party or singing along to her favorite Broadway show tunes with a wooden spoon as a mike.
On this episode she shares her background and info on her latest cookbook, Satisfry, all about cooking with the Air Fryer!
Mona Dolgov
The two ladies on this episode met and became fast friends. Amanda Portillo & Lauren Maloney are both business women/entrepreneurs and were looking to fill what they found to be a whole for Boston women professionals to socialize and network. They wanted a place that was inclusive, a place to have fun and network with like minded women especially over the past couple years of the pandemic when we all needed it so badly. So they created it! They are now hosting monthly events and growing along the way.
BIZZY Women Social | Boston Female Professionals Network & Social Group
On Episode 105 I chat with Julie about how she went from the corporate world to social media influencer by sharing her love for DIY Home Projects.
She born in Brazil and moved to the US (Boston Area) at the age of 5!
In 2020 she was feeling unfilled as a digital marketer, so she started to share her love of home decor and design, on social media. Just six months later, she was able to finally pursue her dreams as an interior stylist and content creator.
She gives us a little insight on the partnership aspect of social media and also shares some home hacks!
Julie Sousa | Avant Garde Home
Like to many guests on this podcast, Alexandra found that "corporate America" was not for her. She had a passion for writing from childhood when her mom would read to her.
A bout with shingles at the young age of 29 lead Alexandra to realize the stress her corporate job was causing and found herself jumping into real estate as an independent contractor while continuing to write a novel that had been in her mind for years.
She shares her path to publishing her own book and then re-working the title/coverart to re-publish. She's now working on her second novel and has really focused on the practice of sitting down at the same time each day to write at least 2000 words!
Amy is a staple in the Boston Fitness Community, teaching yoga for 20 years here. During that time she thought about opening her own studio but never really wanted to do it.
It was a recent opportunity to own the studio that she had long been a part of that had her change her mind. She decided to do things diffently than she says she usually does and not over think it. So she's going for it in every way and embracing the new journey!
During the pandemic she found a way to stay in touch with her loyal following by doing on line and zoom classes. She's now found a way to incorporate all of that plus the in person classes for students as well at Soma Yoga Center in Boston's Historic North End.
Soma Yoga Center
My guests on this episode are the co-founders of this unique on line magazine Alison Rochford & Aya Lanzoni! Together they have backgrounds in writing, marketing, PR & web design! They found a hole in a place for entrepreneurs and freelancers to go to find support and networking. With this magazine they are hoping to bridge that gap with great information as well as supporting local!
They've already put out the first issue and look forward to continuing to grow!
No Cilantro, Please™ Magazine (nocilantroplease.com)
Being half Spanish, half German, Sharin grew up on the Canary Islands, Spain and has always loved getting inspiration from nature around the islands. Specially the sea and sky.
On this episode she shares how she was exposed to art from an early age. She came here to Boston about 5 years ago and has been completely inspired by her surroundings!
She's now working with realtors, stagers and has her work featured in many places around Boston!
Sharin Schober ART (sharinschober-art.com)
Laura joined me to celebrate Episode 100 by sharing the story of how she and Co-Founder Ellen Fitzgerald started Mother Juice almost 10 years ago! They refer to themselves as "just a couple of Boston born women with a shared love for green juice" Back then, there were no cold pressed juice bars in Boston so they set out to change that and boy did they! It soon became clear that what started as a side hustle would quickly become their life's work! They now have 6 locations around Boston!
Our Story – Mother Juice
As a proud graduate of the University of California at Berkeley with a B.A. in Sociology, Elizabeth started her professional career with a Fortune 500 Company for 7 years. After realizing that climbing the corporate ladder leaves her unfulfilled, she decided to step away from said setting to pursue a completely different career. In 2004, Elizabeth decided to take a risk by leaving the comforts, benefits, and job security that her company offered, to pursue a trade that compliments her tireless work ethic and her love of animals by becoming a dog walker. Hear her story, how her business has been effected by the pandemic and how she connects with her community!
Boston's Award-Winning Dog Walking & Pet Sitting - MonumenTails
Who knew getting an IV could be relaxing AND hydrating!
Noreen has been a nurse for many years but always felt the pull to do something on her own.
Just when everyone has been getting sick, she did it! She started the IV Hub, a Hydration Clinic in Medford, MA.
Joined by a staff of nurses when many years of ER and labor/delivery experience, Noreen opened in 2021 at the Sola Salon Studios.
They now offer clients the opportunity to relax & glow after indulging in IV's for performance, recovery, weight loss and even hangovers!
IV Therapy Services | The IV Hub Boston | Medford, MA
Meg is the owner of Crosby’s Coffeeshop, an independent coffee shop in Wrentham, Massachusetts serving locally-roasted coffee, baked goods and good vibes.
In 2018, Meg and her family were excited to welcome their son Crosby into the world. At a routine appointment, she found herself alone in the doctor’s office grappling the news that Crosby’s heartbeat had stopped. This would be her fifth miscarriage.
Fueled by the motivation to heal and overcome grief, Meg set out to create her own happiness. She quit her corporate job and began looking into her childhood to uncover what brought her joy. Meg found herself reminiscing on the happy times had at her town’s community center and refocused her energy into creating a place within her community that was identifiable, where people wanted to go.
A place that brings happiness and sparks joy within the community. You can find more about Meg and Crosby’s Coffeehouse here: https://cjpr.egnyte.com/fl/W7EyQF4pnL.
It's been an incredible two years for Bridget Hunter-Jones: Among other achievements, the MIT-educated engineer-turned-CEO launched her first company, obtained two provisional patents, and raised $6.5 million over two rounds of funding. She also gave birth to her first child.
Hunter-Jones's next big milestone comes in May, when the first product made by her company, Impact Biosystems, is slated to begin shipping out to customers. It's a percussive muscle-massager, the Pact Pulse, which, when paired with a handheld scanner called the Pact Sense, delivers massages catered to its users' muscles.
We chat about growing up around her father, an inventor. Bridget also shares her experience working at Sonos and bringing her new product to life during a pandemic!
Keirsten brings more than 20 years of project experience to Ci Design, Inc. Her diverse professional background in the coordination and management of both commercial and industrial projects makes Keirsten a versatile member of the Ci Design team.
On this episode she tells her back story, how she knew in 2nd grade that she wanted to be an architect! She also shares the stories of her travels around the country and world before she came to call Boston home!
This talented woman wrote her story long before she even knew it would become a reality. At the age of 16 she did a school project writing about where she saw herself in 10 years, traveling taking pictures of people and sure enough after positions in architecture and graphic design, she came back to do just that. Alice shares her story of starting with taking pictures of kids around her Charlestown, MA neighborhood to working with moms, newly engaged couples, familes and more.
She recently worked on a project taking pictures of moms around Boston doing their "primal scream" as a release during the pandemic which gained national attention!
We also did a lifestyle shoot recently where she made me feel super at ease and comfortable! We ended up with some really cool shots!
Colleen started showing signs of her entrepreneurial spirit at the young age of 11 when she started selling Avon! And it's never left her!
She worked for years as an independent contractor in the mortgage industry, flipped houses and created a body wrap to help freeze fat cells.
Her latest creation, Velo Vodka was inspirped by a need she found for a smoother, more high quality vodka. It's made right in South Boston and is really gaining in popularity despite rolling out during the pandemic!
Colleen shares how she's had some great (and big name company) mentors and enjoys paying it forward too!
Emily just released her very first book Wholeness Within: Insights from One Woman's Journey of Creating a Life & Career in Alignment. The book is part memoir, part healing framework using her life examples to illustrate how creating a life that's aligned starts by taking a journey within. It shares awareness, tools, and spiritual concepts for the reader to use in their own life when in periods of uncertainty, rebirth, and challenges.
During our conversation she shares some of her own story and the overwhelming excitement of achieving the goal of finding joy in her career, her podcast and her new book!
Kayla is a pre & and postnatal specialist, entrepreneur and personal trainer. She gets to combine the love of all three by helping women prepare for pregnancy, and continue their fitness throughout. In our conversation, she busts some myths like women shouldn't work out or start working out during pregnancy. She shares how women can do so and how it can help with delivery and the recovery process after! Check out her master class here
www.yourfitmom.mykajabi.com
I had the chance to grab a few minutes of this very busy woman's time (teacher, buisness owner, mother of 4 with one on the way!) to hear about her journey to owning 3 locations of her "wellness bodega" as she calls it!
"It begins with passion", says Ammy! She really was in search of a place to get good, healthy food for she and her family, so why not just open it! And thats where it began with the first of their 3 locations in Jamaica Plain!
My guest on episdoe 90 is an expert double board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon that specializes in facial procedures.
We talk about her two office locations in Boston and Palm Beach, her conservative approach (not wanting her patients to look like caricatures of themselves!) and some of the other anti-aging procedures she provides including mini facials, microneedling and more!
As we Christen the new name of this podcast I welcome another guest in the month of January to help focus on your mind, body & soul! Great way to start the year right?
Danielle is also another of many of my guests that left the corporate world to do something she found to be more meaningful. Not only did Reiki save her life (3 times, as she describes) but she shares how it can help others with things like stress, anxiety and more.
Danielle also shares her journey of discovery of both herself, what lights her up and brought her to this practice.
Starting a New Year, I thought it would be a great time to bring guests that are all about health & wellness! This episode's guest is a holistic health expert helping her clients focus on mental, emotional, spiritual and physical aspects of health.
She shares her own journey of self-discovery and how she went from State Street (in the financial world) to owning her own fitness studio. And the pandemic has not slowed her down, in fact it's helped her ramp up and help people all over the world!
As we close out 2021, I went to send so much love and thanks to the listeners of What Moves Her! Thank you for following along, downloading & liking!
Super excited to continue to bring great conversations with amazing women of Boston to you each week! If you know someone or would like to be my guest, feel free to reach out on instagram @whatmoves her.
My guest on this final episode of the year started a recruiting co with her husband here in Boston and has also expanded to NYC, she's a lover of fitness and helping women create health, wealth and joy!
Amanda is also a brain tumor survivor. She shares the story of the diagnosis, her journey through that and how it's inspired her to make a difference with this one life!
Boston Artist Stephanie Stiassni shares her story on this episode, of being a teacher of art. She enjoyed it but just didn't feel it really lit her up!
She made the decision to leave and follow her dream of creating art, starting with using watercolor to paint what was around her, homes, people and pets of Charlestown. And just like that, people started reaching out, wanting more!
She's also been asked to pair up with Monroe, Monroe Home & Style (monroeboston.com) a local store that now sells her paintings.
While following her passions, she's become a mom and is now expecting her second child!
Back for her second appearance on What Moves Her, my friend and Physical Therapist Stefanie brings with her inspirational stories of how she maneuvered through, no PLOWED through the pandemic! Not only did she open the doors to her new business, build it from one to a staff of 16, buy a house and get married, she's got more excitement on the way (literally!)
She makes it look easy, but this woman puts in the work!
Check out Stef PT - YouTube
Boston Health & Wellness (bostonhealthwellness.com)
Owner Page Buldini was meant to run a successful skincare business! Years of battling problematic skin as a teen has provided her with the knowledge and understanding to ensure the highest quality of service and care for her clients.
In our conversation we get into her love of collaborating and referring to other professionals, working through her business during the pandemic, staying in her own lane by focusing on the 4 services she loves the most and the power of affirmations!
PAGE Aesthetics
Speech pathologist by day, cookie baker every other hour of the day! Jody came to Boston with her family just a few years ago. Her daughter was just 6 months old at the time, so they didn't know a lot of people yet to come to her first birthday. Then came the Pandemic, next thing you know she was 3 years old and mom Jody was determined to give her a party.
When her daughter (Ebba Jean) wanted a very specific party it was tough to find a baker to make a cake that included it all, (strawberry-mermaid-sparkle with shoes) So, Jody went to town making cookies that included it all!
All it took was one or two friends posting these amazing cookies and her business was born!
Jackie showed her entrepreneurial spirit at the tender young age of 13 when she helped her DJ Brother promote his gigs in NYC!
She moved to Boston in 2014 and hit the ground running! Her first week here she landed a gig as a stylist on Top Chef while also working at a start up radio station.
When Jackie realized she could help businesses grow by getting them exposure she went to work creating a business that would do just that.
She's a marketing and media specialist helping businesses get noticed with email marketing, social media, her own podcast and international magazine!
Katie is an acupuncturist and owner of Vibe Wellness in Charlestown, MA. She was drawn to this practice when her mom, as dancer had troubles with her feet and felt complete relief after going for acupuncture.
Fast forward, she runs her business and over the past year has also developed an app for people to be able to do acupressure on themselves. This was an idea that came out of the inability to see patients in person during the pandemic.
She, along with her business partner have also started giving tips on TikTok and have grown an audience of over 114k!
Back for a second time on this podcast, my friend Aly Raymer shares her background in fitness, indoor cycling, yoga and her latest passion, sound healing.
For over a decade and a half, Aly has been bringing her unique brand of instruction and wellness to the greater Boston Area. She is a TSHA Certified Sound Healer, 200 E-RYT and master indoor cycling instructor. She is also currently in residence at B/SPOKE Studios in MA where she is the Head of R/DE and a co-founding instructor of the YOGA program. She also leads a training program for other instructors, helping them to develop their own practice and community. Her graduates have been among the winners of the prestigious Best in Boston award for best indoor cycling.
Anastasia is a working mom with a 3 month old. She's just getting back to work as a real estate attorney after giving birth. She very candidly shares her journey through pregnancy, child birth and what is referred to as "the 4th trimester", when baby is going through so many changes and yes, so is MOM!
Anastasia talks about how easy it is for women to get caught up in what's considered to be "normal" and all of the unspoken pressures to deliver the proper way, breast feed, etc.
The bottom line is that you need to do what works for you and your family!
We also get into working from home, going back to work after the baby and more!
My guest on this episode had the entrepreneurial spirit in her from a very early age. She was selling headbands that she created on the playground at the age of 9! Stephanie went on to go to school for engineering. She also always held on to her artistic side, creating art and teaching yoga.
During her yoga training, Stephanie was introduced to the vegan lifestyle. At one point she found that there was space for more options and decided she'd create one! She started her own company, Kind Roots and made her first product in June of 2020, The Kind Roots Burger, a 100% vegan veggie burger. She's been selling them on line, at pop ups and most recently has shown up on shelves in her first store in Scituate, MA!
Cassandra is the CEO, Organizational and Leadership development practitioner of COR Consulting Group where she supports her clients with talent management, leadership development, team efficiency strategies and much more. She often applies her research in working remotely and has first-hand expertise in small business development at her High-quality CBD Boutique in Brookline. She's also passionate about bringing women together from various backgrounds, businesses and cultures to connect over a dinner she hosts once a month.
For as long as I've known my guest on this episode, she has had both an entrepreneurial and free spirit! Always continuing to grow, learn and understand her body in every way, she does yoga, juice cleanses and has most recently become even more in touch with her physical self. Her sexuality.
She's now helping others do the same thing as a Sex Doula.
She explains what that is, and how she's helping people with empowerment, pleasure and quality of life! Check out her instagram @harness.your.horniness & @healing.with.heatha
My two guests on this episode are friends, spin instructors and now business partners!
Beth & Kristen spent the past few years as instructors at the local spin studio in Charlestown. The pandemic forced the closing of the studio but they had a plan! The two are moving forward with their goal to own their own studio and bring it back to the community!
We talked about being a mom with a full time job but also a passion project! City Square Cycle Opens this weekend, I'll be cheering them on!
This brave young woman, like so many, found herself in a place of reevaluating over the past year. She made the leap from teaching to being a mortgage lender in the middle of the pandemic. Fast forward, trying to work from home in a completely different field with no one nearby to ask questions. Well, she did have one person, her boyfriend (now fiance, congrats!!!) who also works in the industry but for a different company!
We talk about how she's taken things she's learned as a teacher to incorporate into her new career in addition to the group she's cofounded (Women's Real Estate Collective) a place for women in the industry to connect & collaborate!
I met this amazing woman when I saw that she was teaching Shuffle classes at a studio in my building. Within minutes I was sucked in to her energy and knew I needed to have her as a guest on this podcast.
Not only did she decide to go to school for Expressive Art Therapy at what some would consider "later in life" she continues to chase her passion and bring it to others!
We talk about the history of the "shuffle" dance, how she managed to keep teaching it during the pandemic and my humbling experience over the past few weeks with her!
The Title of This Podcast is the mantra for this lady! Julie, like me, was a Broadcast major in college. When she dipped her toe in and found it wasn't for her, she took another position, at a hospital. Which lead her to nursing. She's been an RN at Children's Hospital in Boston and a couple years ago found herself drawn to the growing beauty industry of injectables.
Julie has since started her own business helping clients with Botox injections, fillers and even Vitamin Shots!
We talked about the "zoom effect"....yes, it's a thing. With people looking at themselves on camera all day! Also, a nice giveaway for a What Moves Her Listener!
Their business started just like that, with that simple question, "wanna start a business?"
Nicole Hayes & Michaela Thorne became fast friends after moving in next to one another in Tewksbury, MA. Not only are they friends, now they're business partners as "The Woodworking Ladies" making everything from signs to shelves, stools, dog beds and more! A lot of this came to be during the height of the pandemic and now they're coming up on a year in business!
And did I mention they're doing all of this while raising 5 boys? And it's definitely a family affair. Husbands, kids, parents, neighbors and friends all lend a hand by donating wood, handing down tools and more!
Strap in! On this episode I sit down with the force that is this woman, Constance, "Connie" Stowers! We met a few months ago at a real estate networking event and have become fast friends since!
In our convo, she shares her story of the major career pivot she made while just giving birth to her first child and trying to survive a pandemic! She was a retail rock star for 16 years of her life but found it was no longer serving her. She started to dip her toe into real estate a few years back and went full time last year leaving behind the security of a bi-weekly pay check, benefits and more.
She's now a full time realtor and crushing it with all of her energy and enthusiasm, wanting to bring a full experience to her clients!
I chatted with this Trial Attorney, mom of 3, baseball-basketball coach and highly successful direct sales team leader while she hid out in the pool house for some privacy!
Her energy jumps right out and it's no surprise she's crushing it!
After falling in love with her first child, she decided to stay at home to be with him, spent some time blogging about mom life, life hacks, style, etc. Along the way had 2 more children and continued on her path to find something that inspired her, a way contribute in a meaningful way to the family in a financial way through direct sales with One Hope, a wine company that is more than just wine.
www.facebook.com/groups/stylinwithsally
The owner of 2 shops in the Charlestown section of Boston was gracious enough to sit down with me despite also having a new baby at home!
Amanda shared with me what the past year has been like for her, trying to run her two stores, finding out she was pregnant just before the pandemic (when the store couldn't open and she had to do a lot of flower delivery on her own while being sick the entire time!)
She is lucky enough to have the support of her wonderful husband Jason, her mom, who moved from Florida to help and her dad and sister who've made appearances to help at the stores as well!
I had that chance to speak with this young entrepreneur about how she got started in the Macaron business while just a sophomore in college. It started at home, watching her mom cook/bake.
She shares the story of bringing things back to Boston College where everyone wanted some. So she started to bake and became known as the "Cookie Girl".
Her studies were in Math and Music. Now, out of school, she works in the accounting business, while keeping her side hustle/passion alive at night and on weekends continuing to fill all of the orders!
Check out her company, Solodko, the Ukrainian word for sweet!
Emily's energy just oozes out of her the moment you meet her, not to mention when she starts to show her moves on the dance floor.
She started dancing at the age of 4 and has been brought back to it with this amazing class that is inspiring, inclusive and empowering.
Emily has been able to bring her experience as a yoga instructor into the dance class and create what she calls a more feminine practice. In her words, a way of connecting to your body, she makes it meditative and almost spiritual.
I had the opportunity to take her Beyonce themed class and felt is for days after (in a good way!)
Lauren has spent the last decade working in the Accounting & Finance Industry but her passion lies in the fashion industry. After spending some time getting way out of her comfort zone, traveling and exploring Italy, she was moved to start her own fashion line.
She aims to bring along a sustainable and transparent supply chain while also helping women build their confidence in the workforce. Not letting the pandemic slow her down, she continued to launch a line of accessories.
Entirely self taught, Lauren had no background in sewing or designing. Just a passion and it's clear to see in her work!
Shop Here: www.parlaapparel.com
If you've listened to any of the early episodes of this Podcast, you've heard my former co-host, Kitt Farrington.
Last year, during the pandemic, she left to take care of herself. Like so many, Kitt was dealing with a lot mentally during this time. I was so glad when she reached out a couple months ago to reconnect. We got together and chatted about where she'd been, what she'd been up to and some revelations she'd had.
This is one of the most open and real episodes I've ever done. I thank my friend for her openness on so many levels including mental health, being authentic and being kind.
We all know the Pandemic hit lots of industries really hard. And that includes the wedding industry. My guest on this episode was a wedding/event planner with some of the biggest companies for 15 years producing events for names like Clinton, Obama and more! Like so many others she was furloughed from this work in the beginning of 2020. This sent her home to figure out what was next while home schooling her 2 children, which she admits was NOT her gig! While her husband, also furloughed was helping she began to formulate a plan to continue to do the work she loved on a different level. Thus, the Wedding Kickstarter was born. As the name implies she helps with the first stages of the planning and can help couples save lots of time and money! To contact Erin Erin Davies The Wedding Kickstarter
We have talked so much on this podcast about the Pandemic considering we literally started at the same time last year. It's become what I hope is a safe and informative place to share feelings, thoughts, struggles, pivots and even triumphs over the last year.
But we've never spoken about the affects on children. My guest on this episode brings us this topic through her book "When the World Closed" seen through the eyes of two children. She's got a background in Psychology & Linguistics and shares some of her research as well as why she wrote the book and who it's for. Now available on her website Whentheworldclosed.com and Amazon.
Happy Pride Month!
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, it's my honor this month to be able to highlight some people and events happening around Boston during the month of June, Pride Month! I was able to connect with Pierce Durkin, the Director of Operations for Boston Pride.
Although the 50th Anniversary celebration of Boston Pride was put on hold last year, this year it's back, at least virtually with lots of events to commemorate and celebrate.
We talk about the history of Pride in Boston, plans for the next parade, how to volunteer and being an ally! For more details and resources: www.bostonpride.org
Engineer by day, card maker by night, my guest on this episode, like so many started her business because of need that wasn't being met.
This commercial real estate engineer was in the midst of planning her own wedding last year and like so many, it got delayed. She also had some friends in the same boat. When she found that the "sorry your wedding was delayed" card didn't exist, she just made it! And her business was born! Since then she's created spinning class milestone cards ( a personal fave!) graduation, pet birthday and even created a special "What Moves Her" card for me!
Ashley is now working on personalized note pads and her website will be up and running just as she celebrates 1 year of business!
During this month of May, Women's Health Month by the way...I'm joined by Mindset & Success Coach Charlene Valentine. After all, health comes in a variety of forms, mental, nutrition, physical, finance, careers and yes, relationships.
Charlene comes from a health coach background and has recently spread to a more holistic approach by offering coaching with Mindset and Career. She helps ambitious women unlock their success mindset to confidently pursue their passions and manifest their dream life!
Maureen has a knack for bringing things into her life and creating things that she finds a need for. She was in search of sleepwear that both made her feel good and comfortable. And with that, "I Love My Nighty" was born.
Admitting she had no background in fashion, retail or marketing and did NOT like to sew, she did it anyway! Funding everything on her own, Maureen did take some sewing lessons and start to create some styles. She then learned she could outsource the sewing part and came up with the great idea of having her male friends buy gift certificates for the ladies in their lives. What a great way to get feed back and sell some product!
She's now working on a website and an exciting announcement that she makes during this episode!
This episode has me sitting back down for a zoom chat with Paige Burns who is a Video Strategist, so of course we needed some video!
She shares the story of how she was working as a video editor basically alone, just looking at and editing in the late night. Her passion was really to help tell people's stories, what drives them! She eventually was able to start her own business doing just that!
Paige uses video content (she both shoots and edits!) to show behind the scenes work and "who are you" type videos to help mainly women showcase their businesses on different platforms!
She even created a class to help people who might be shy to get started feeling comfortable on camera, what type of content to use, etc.
My guest on this episode only came to America 10 years ago. Not knowing anyone, Viki and her husband laid down roots in the US and she brought with her a dream of opening a Gelato Shop. But not just any shop, she wanted it to be the BEST! And she's doing just that, named after her daughter Delini opened it's doors less than a year ago in W Roxbury. Viki hit some road blocks on her way to opening, but did not let that stop her. She's the kind of woman that pushes past all of the no's to get to a yes! Not "we can't do it" but "how can we do it?" Opening during the pandemic she missed the opportunity for a "grand opening" but plans to make it happen this year! I have no doubt this will not be the last we hear from her!
On this episode I had the pleasure of chatting with mom of 3 and fitness coach Melissa Hadley!
She shares her story of helping women create a healthy relationship with food and feel fabulous! We also talk about the importance showing up for yourself! Not just the kids, sig other or work!
Melissa was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis 12 years ago and has chosen to battle it in a natural way, by eating right, exercise, and prayer!
This 9 Boston Marathoner has a 21 Day On Line Master Class starting in May. For more details check out her facebook page (6) Destination You Fitness by Melissa Hadley | Facebook
"Even lighting another candle doesn't take away from the flame that started the fire"
This is something that Triple Decker Candle Co owner said to me on our first meeting, in regard to helping others and paying it forward. Pretty much sets the tone to the type of person she is.
On this episode we chat about how, with no real creative background (according to her :)) Johanna had a love for burning candles and decided to do some research into making her own. This all just started in June of 2020 - mid pandemic! Who didn't need something to do! She did a ton of research into the best, safest, most organic products, processes and even small business insurance.
Johanna's business has since taken off to be sold locally in at least 4 stores, on line at Triple Decker Candle Co. and she's giving back to her Dorchester community too!
On this episode I'm joined by the owners of Lux Lab Studio in Medford, MA. Emily Hernandez & Arielle Moynihan barely knew each other last year when they both found themselves trying to figure out what to do next. Being in the salon/hair industry that took a big hit during the beginning of the pandemic these ladies decided, "lets just open a salon". And that they did! They took the risk on the business and each other! And it's more than paying off! They became fast friends/business partners that are very open about their communication styles, their differences and even their fights! No matter what, they learn from it and each other while making their dream a reality! We talk about hair trends, products and the latest side vs middle part controversy!
My guest on Episode 52 (WOW, it's been a year of What Moves Her!) is a woman like so many of my guests who has followed her passion. She had the guts enough to know that her career in teaching had, in her words "run its course"....she has an eye for style and decorating that she felt a pull toward. With the incredible support of her single mom who helped her get the degree to teach and her husband, she made the switch! She started her staging and design business, (Kit Easton Designs www.kiteastondesigns.com )as fate would have it, in January of 2020. We all know what that year brought. But it didn't stop her or her business. Kristen shares her story and more on staging your home for sale and to live!
My guest on this episode, like so many others is taking a passion of hers and turning it into a business! Artist Sally Lee has taken her love for pottery, ceramics and pups and created made-to-order ceramic pet-ware!
She shares her love for her pup Hugo and how the pandemic had her switching gears from in person teaching to making these bowls.
She started out making them for other dog parents by request and it started to take off! She's got an etsy and insta page where you can see her work
www.etsy.com/shop/hugobowls
www.instagram.com/hugo.bowls
Also check out the What Moves Her Insta page to enter to win a FREE custom bowl
www.instagram.com/whatmovesher
Your annual doctor visit isn’t enough to prevent disease and cancer—learn how to have the needed conversations and make choices that protect your health.
Lifestyle habits are the key to cancer prevention and early detection but choices for women’s health can be overwhelming. Board certified women’s cancer surgeon, Valena Wright, MD, offers simple and straightforward tools to help you listen to your body and achieve your best health today.
Valena Wright, MD is a women’s wellness expert and board-certified gynecologic oncologist at Beth Israel Lahey Health and Hospital in Boston, MA with over 25 years of experience. She has been recognized numerous times by Castle Connolly Regional Top Doctors List, Boston Magazine, North Shore Magazine and as an Exceptional Women in Medicine. She teaches as an Adjunct Clinical Associate Professor of OB/GYN at Boston University School of Medicine. Visit ValenaWrightMD.com for more.
Geri is a former startup and corporate marketing leader turned Life Alignment Coach, Business Launch Coach, and Speaker. After a decade of starting and growing businesses from the ground up and passively experiencing life, she hit rock bottom and decided to go on a solo-backpacking trip of self-discovery. Geri then decided to take back her power and actively design the life she wanted. She completely transformed her mindset, health and lifestyle, and left the corporate world to help other people align their life with what brings them joy.
Geri guides others to awaken to their potential, live their life out loud, and free themselves from the subconscious beliefs that keep them in lifestyles and work they don't love.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geripaige/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geributner/
Website: https://www.geripaige.com/
Sponsor: www.andriadolce.com
My guests on this episode have an incredible story. I'm joined by Emma & Raquel Teixeira (yes I butchered it a few times), co-owners of Vistas Cleaning Service. They not only tell the story of how they came to own and run their service but also how they met. They were open about the beautiful story of meeting on line and breaking through language barriers while falling in love. Raquel had started the business, Emma later left her job in architecture to join her. They weren't sure how things would shake out over the past year but they are flourishing! They now run the business end and have a team that works the business in homes and commercial spaces. They've stepped up their service and make it work for people even while they are working from home!
Check out the What Moves Her Instagram for your chance to win free cleaning services!
Residential - Commercial - Janitorial - Vistas Cleaning Services INC
Necessity is definitely the mother of invention! My guest on this episode saw a need for a natural sun tan product after feeling her teething daughter put her mouth on her shoulder! And it went from there. Paula Hoss, Founder and CEO of CLN & DRTY Natural Skin Care began making and selling her products to her friends. She shares on this episode her own skin care woes and once again went to work developing a product to heal her skin rather than continue to torture it! An advocate for mental health, her authenticity has helped her to develop an amazing community. Her product line continues to grow and she's got some exciting things in the works this year!
Today we talk money....and much more! I'm joined by Andria Dolce of Radius Financial Group. She's a mortgage lender who shares her path to this position, where she's won multiple awards! She also talks about how she reluctantly went into this business thinking she wasn't interested in "sales". As it turns out, she's pretty damn good at it and continues to do it in her own style! Andria also shares her passion for animals, her pet project "Every Being Deserves a Home" and how she started a mentoring group for female lenders.
I'm super excited to announce she is getting on board as a sponsor of The What Moves Her Podcast!
My guest on this episode came to my attention when I saw her Bernie Sanders cookie on TV! Bri Caracciolo shares her story with me on how, with no baking or artistic background she was obsessed with watching cookie baking on social media. That lead to her trying to make her own. This self taught woman has since become the go-to for all of her friends and family gatherings. Not just that, but the Bernie Cookie has brought her lots of exposure, she even did a give away of the Bernie and has requests for more! By checking out her instagram (@sugarhi_bybri) you can see that there is nothing she can't make into a cookie! And she asks no questions, no judgement! As of now cookies are for the most part picked up at her location in Holden. Deliveries are in the works, best of luck Bri!
Fellow Podcaster Alexandra Goresh joins me on this episode! She started hers in 2020, much like this show, with a lot of guests that surround and inspire her! We chat a little bit about getting a podcast off the ground, the on line class she also started during the pandemic to help other stylists, not so much with technique but the other aspects that surround having a person in your chair like communication, psychology and listening! Alexandra has worked for many years at Stilisti Salon in the Back Bay in Boston as a stylist and colorist. Our chat about blonde hair and being honest with clients is pretty funny! Check out her podcast "The Alexandra Show" on spotify and itunes!
My guest on this episode has literally been around the work and back to Boston! She entered the fashion industry very young and had the opportunity to learn from some amazing people at some of the businesses biggest companies!
But that wasn't enough, Michelle surrounds herself with friends who are also very entrepreneurial and inspired her to her goal of owning her own shop in the very mall where she worked when she was young!
She shares the path and the challenges of this past year along with the thumbs up from her parents to live with them again while making all of her dreams come true!
Over the last year I've listened to so many stories of people who have had to close their businesses, struggle to keep it alive or have been laid off. While many have been able to pivot (word of the year) to either shift or go in another direction with their business, still many more have lost so much if not everything. At the same time, there are businesses that have thrived during the pandemic. Network marketing is one of them. My guests on this episode have been able to take a side hustle and turn it into something that they never could have imagined (more than 6 figures in the first year). I speak with Toni & Meridith about their careers up to this point and their involvement with Kannaway, a CBD company.
For more details @therealcoachtoni on instagram
Happy New Year! My first guest of the year is Victoria Badolato, a certified personal trainer, group fitness instructor (Barre, HIIT, Strength and Indoor Cycling) and lover of all things health and wellness.!
Born and raised in Boston, Ma she started her journey into full time fitness over eight years ago and quickly became a household name for her high energy and no BS approach to fitness.
Victoria trained her first bride to be and the rest is history. She quickly gravitated to the excitement and motivation that comes with all things wedding prep and knew that she wanted to be a part of that process. When she created VBbrides it was important that the program was a learning experience. Six months of self discovery that will give you the tools to maintain the results of your hard work and dedication. A true change of lifestyle and mindset and a new love and appreciation for your body that lasts a lifetime. Through movement, coaching and community her mission is to help you feel like your best, most confident self as you walk down the aisle on your wedding day.
Victoria can also be found enjoying delicious food, traveling, spending time with family and of course taking care of her fur baby Marvin.
On this last episode of 2020 I speak with yet another person from an industry that was hard hit this year because of COVID-19. KJ, the owner of Trips Travel tells her story of leaving the Finance Industry to follow her passion of travel and fill what she saw as a need for people looking to travel especially to foreign countries. We discuss how her industry and business made changes this year in order to continue to service her clients while keeping them safe. She started a unique facebook sit down to keep people posted on the changes.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Tripsloveoftravelgroup) (www.tripstravelagency.com)
With this year being as crazy and challenging as it has and with so many peoples jobs effected, the network marketing industry has just exploded. My guest on this episode has added to her Holistic Coaching business the title of Independent Consultant for Scout & Cellar, a clean crafted wine Co. Like so many of my guests, she shares her amazing story of leaving the corporate world to follow a new path. On the way she did some self discovery and incredible travel.
www.scoutandcellar.com/nourishwithalish
https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/2326266097/
https://www.facebook.com/job_opening/397537701453394/?source=share
I'm joined on this Episode by a Charlestown, MA fitness instructor who, by way of her authenticity has been able to create a following, a community of not just moms like her, but others who can see her passion for what she does.
During our conversation, Jen shares how she left the corporate world as she felt the pull to fitness. And in her own words, "has never looked back". She's continued her career in health & wellness through the birth of her two sons and yes, even a pandemic.
She shares the story of how she saw a need for kids, moms and people in general to reconnect with movement & community in a safe way over these many months and hopes for the future as we head into 2021!
Back for her 2nd appearance on What Moves Her is Sober Dating Coach, Katie Grimes! She explains exactly what that means, it may not be what you think! Katie shares her own experiences with dating and her career path from the corporate world to coaching. We also talk about coaching we did together over the past few months! Her goal is to help women find loving and committed relationships, even during a pandemic! She's an amazing speaker, coach and has her own podcast, "Anything for Love".
Elizabeth Pehota is a reporter and host for the New England Revolution.
Elizabeth started her journalism career at Boston College. She interviewed BC players and coaches across all Division I sports including football, basketball and hockey, and also hosted in-game promotions as an emcee. An athlete herself, Elizabeth was a member of the Boston College cheerleading program for three years. She dedicated her senior year to furthering her reporting career at BC, while elevating her passion for sports by cheering for the Boston Celtics. Elizabeth then went on to become an in-arena host for the Celtics, a reporter for Boston Business Women, and also a reporter for SB Nation's NBA and WNBA platform, Swish Appeal. She is now a reporter/host for the New England Revolution, where you can find her on the sidelines reporting, interviewing players, creating content and engagement on the team's social media, as well as writing, hosting and directing the 'Revolution Pregame Live' show. You can find her on instagram and twitter as @pehota.
When Elizabeth is not working as a reporter, she is extremely passionate about health and fitness. During the COVID-19 pandemic she started a fitness Instagram account and blog (@healthy_cheers), which shares free workouts and recipes to help inspire others to live healthier, happier and more positive lives. Elizabeth recently completed one her biggest fitness goals to-date, running the 2020 Boston Marathon and finishing in 3:36:06. She believes that anyone can accomplish a fitness goal if they set their mind to it.
Owner of Boston Jumps, Amy Brackman chats with me about starting this new work out in Boston at the beginning of 2020, yes you get it. The beginning of COVID, quarantines, masks, fitness studios closing. But she's making this unique fitness class work, both on line and safely in studio! An entrepreneur for many years, she's also owner a spa and her energy is infectious. Amy & I chat about how she became certified to teach and sell the "Kangoo Jump" boots. I took the class and not only is it fun but a killer work out! Listen in and follow What Moves Her on Instagram for your chance to win a class for you and 3 friends!
Nikoleta & Vicky Liratonakis are sisters and business partners. Owners of Best Dressed in South Boston where they rent dresses and accessories. They grew up in Salem, MA and have shared a love for fashion for as long as they can remember. Obviously COVID has changed has hit the dress rental business. These sisters did stop for a moment and think "what are we going to do now" but didn't wallow in it for long! They reached out to mentors and their PR people and came up with an incredible pivot that caught the eye of Forbes! They discuss the business/sister dynamic, their new business and also have a give away for What Moves Her listeners!
Want to step up your business' on line/social media presence? My guest on this episode is the CEO of Namra Consulting Group, a full-service digital marketing agency providing end-to-end services for businesses of all sizes in Boston, MA. Their in-house services include Social Media Marketing & Management, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Digital Content Creation, Digital Advertising, and Marketing Consulting. We sat down and chatted about being authentic with your clients, the challenges of entrepreneurship, the power of video and more!
Dr. Hirsch is Board certified in Internal Medicine and completed advanced fellowship training in Women’s Health at the Cleveland Clinic. Her specialty practice includes internal medicine and office gynecology with a focus on menopausal hormone therapy, contraception and family planning, breast health, sexual dysfunction, and urinary incontinence. Fellowship training included an emphasis on scholarly activity, development of women’s health curriculum, clinical research and leadership. Her clinical work and research centers on inequalities or unanswered questions in the field of women’s health, specifically in menopause and its role in chronic disease development. Her Academic work centers on enhancing women’s health curriculum for the fellow, resident, and medical student. She currently practices at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston MA.
Book recommended during this episode is "Breasts, the owners manual" by Dr. Kristi Funk
Stephanie is the founder/owner of Boston Diamond Company. In this episode she talks about her road to becoming one of very view women jewelry store owners, who would have thought!? After a few year stint in real estate, she went back to her passion, her love of jewelry and diamonds and opened her own store. She talks about growing up with a single mom that inspired her to go in the direction of jewelry. We also chat about the recent uptick in engagements, the types of rings that are popular now and what to look for in a diamond and jeweler!
I spoke with Charlestown Resident, mom & dog mom Katelyn Flint about her TV career, getting back to TV in Boston and the road here! She shared her experiences as an intern with The Young and the Restless, a 4 year TV gig in LA, having to carry all of her own equipment around and broadcasting from her house during COVID. She's very connected to her audience and shares a lot of her personal life with them including lots of new mom stories! She's super real and for that, inspires so many!
Prepare for my geek out! In this episode, I talk with fitness entrepreneur and creator of the Kick it By Eliza work out class! I'm a big fan and it shows while we chat about how she got started in the fitness world and how she turned a class into a community that is called the Fempire! Eliza has managed to remain humble while becoming an influencer, a term she reluctantly accepts. We talk the importance of family, how NOT to get caught up in the comparison trap, women's empowerment and the value of a good business coach!
I'm joined on this episode by Lisa Mercurio of Dalton Finegold who shares her path to real estate law, how her mom influenced her career choices and how real estate has been effected by COVID-19.
She also gets into her love of fitness, her pup and work out gear!
This episode is filled with the energy of Ale Przemielewski, the owner of Beauty Avenue Aesthetics in Worcester, MA!
She's certified in breast cancer tattooing and does scalp micropigmentation for people who are losing hair or have receding hairlines and has a specific room in her shop to offer those services.
“This is a pretty cool room. It means a lot to me,” says Ale. “The whole permanent makeup part of it, it’s not just what you see on the outside but also restoring someone inside out.” We talk about getting the location open just as COVID hit, how they continue to service clients and one of her exciting new artists, Liz! Plus in this episode, listen for the wonderful discount just for What Moves Her listeners!
Jessica Fracalossi, once thought of being a doctor, but it was when she came to Boston she found her REAL passion in the health & wellness space. She's the founder and CEO of The Handle Bar Indoor Cycling Studios with 4 locations in the Boston Area. In this episode, she talks about how it came to be, how the studios are handling COVID and her other initiative, through The Handle Bar of raising awareness and ending the stigma of mental health.
It's so exciting to welcome my first sponsor on this episode, Hungry Heart Healing, details on instagram and in this episode.
My guests, yes...2 of them this week are a Boston Power Couple, but more over, they are the sweetest people ever. Lana & Karson Tager. Karson you may know as the morning show host on Mix 104.1 for the past 12 years, Lana is his sweet, southern wife who owned a gift shop in Charlestown and after having their son Barrett decided she wanted more time with him. She was able to achieve that while starting a business at home! The couple share their love for Boston and Charlestown, experience during COVID and more during this episode!
This episode I'm joined by Jessica Salani, who calls her yummy energy bite business and "unintentional" business! She shares the story of how it all got started with another idea (imagine protein donuts!) Jessicas journey for BodyFuel began a few years back when she saw the general public struggling to make healthier choices. As a personal trainer and nutrition coach, she’s always had clients needing food that they looked forward to eating, but was also healthy. After a few pivots of what that idea would be, she stumbled upon “energy bites”, little balls of raw and natural ingredients that are clean, portable, and delicious. In November 2018 she began BodyFuel Cafe, which since then has taken off to a very successful E-Commerce business, making fresh custom energy bite orders and shipping them to people's doorstep. She also has begun selling them in local cafes - currently in Wakefield MA with plans to expand in late 2020. Her vision is to become a regional brand that can provide clean and delicious treats to all.
If you are a Millennial, you may not have heard of a show that came on before HGTV was around called "This Old House". It was the first of it's kind, showing how to fix things, update/rehab your house. It actually started here in Boston. This show is still on the air, on PBS. My guest this week is Ross Trethewey, who is the technology expert on the show. He shares info on some of the latest home technology and his story of how he's become the 3rd generation in his family to star on the show!
Kim is joined in this episode by Laura Qureshi who shares her story of traveling to Turkey with her family. The trip was meant to join her husband there as a physician, but turned into so much more. Listen to this inspiring story of how they met up with farmers and refugees while harvesting olives. During these trips they learned the women were being paid much less than the men for the same work. Because of Laura, that and so much more was about to change. Her humanitarian efforts have changed so many lives and gave birth to Zaazey Extra Virgin Olive Oil, a 100% women owned and run business!
Like it or not, video is here....and it's not just because of COVID-19, although that has definitely kicked it up a notch. This week Kim talks with Meaghan Corson, a former CBS news reporter with experience building video programs for various organizations from startups and small businesses to billion-dollar software and medical companies. Executives and professionals seek Meaghan’s expertise to map out their video strategy and improve their on camera skills so they can achieve their marketing, sales, and internal communications goals.
In this episode she also shares some great tips on building your comfort and confidence in front of the camera!
In this episode, Kim discusses real COVID-19 facts with David Storto, President of Partners Continuing Care & Spaulding Rehabilitation Network who implores you to WEAR your MASK! He shares his own experiences, including losing a family member to the virus and what it actually looks like in a hospital treating patients.
This week Kim talks with the founded Pure Glow, an organic airbrush tanning studio in the Back Bay section of Boston. Pure Glow was born out of a need for a sunless tanning experience that is genuinely safe for our health and that looks and performs like the real thing. Lauren became privy to the innovation happening in cosmetic chemistry while living in California and wanted to combine this knowledge with an opportunity to revamp an industry with a reputation for lacking professionalism and modernization. Recently, Pure Glow announced plans to begin expanding nationally as a Boston based franchise system and has recently opened a second location in Wellesley.
A first for Kim as she collaborates and does a podcast "simulcast" with fellow Realtor and Budding Podcaster Erica Carson! The 2 chat about everything from work outs, puppies, podcasting, supporting other women, oh and Boston real estate too!
Listen to how this former Dunkin' Donuts and Radio Exec raised her family while also leaving the corporate world to find her passion.
She's the owner of Kiki D Design and Consign in Newton Center, MA. Celebrating her 9th year, she walks host Kim Douglas through the adventure, the support from her family and how she continues to keep things going through COVID-19. There may just be a little bonus in this episode for listeners!
On this episode Kim sits down with local news reporter Cassy Arsenault. It's definitely REAL TALK with Cassy! She shares her television background from working with Good Morning America, coming back "home" to Boston to work on NBC and her amazing new series "Bosstown" where she features bad ass women business owners and entrepreneurs (sound familiar?) Cassy's super proud of the bi-product of the show, that is the unstoppable Boston girl gang of friends she's developed! More info on the series is available at Bosstown.org, her Youtube Channel, https://www.youtube.com/user/1827cassy and Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/cassyarsenault/
This week Kim chats with Award Winning Business Coach Hanneke Antonelli who left Wall Street to start 2 of her own! With over 15 years of international business experience. She couples her business degree with her Wall Street sales experience, as well as her decade in entrepreneurship and coaching certification to help business owners build sustainable and profitable companies while transforming them into confident CEOs. She gives tips on how to rethink your business for 2020 post COVID-19 and shares information on a 6 week course and book she's working on called "The Level Up Project"
https://hannekeantonelli.com/the-up-level-project-6-week-course
Kim catches up with 25 year old 2nd generation owner of Vow's Bridal in Watertown, MA, Olivia DeAngelo. She shares her path through college and the corporate world only to find herself coming back to the family business! She jumped in just in time for a rebranding and also needed to help guide their brides through COVID-19, unprecedented times for brides! Whats trending and changing in the new world of finding just the right dress, we talk about that as well!
Because no one wants to be #13, Kim & Kitt catch up on Father's Day, A look at life as we start to come out of COVID and a look ahead at what's to come with the podcast.
Spin Instructor, Natural Body Builder and Sr. Manager of Retail Operations at Converse, Kadeja Gaines joins Kim & Kitt on this episode for a candid conversation on race. She also shares some very helpful resources for those looking to be more educated, get involved and do more than just post on social media.
Kim & Kitt are joined by 2 fabulous juice girls! Georgia O'Keefe & Heather Jaffe share the story of how they met and how their love for health and fitness has brought them together in a Juice Making Journey and how it's now evolving into a new mind-body-soul connection and way of helping others with their Road to Body Love.
In this episode, Kim & Kitt chat with Female Entrepreneur and Northwestern Mutual Financial Advisor Gabrielle Toro. She shares some great tips on what to do with your investments in uncertain times and the importance of having that 3-6 month living expense emergency fund!
Dr. Julie V Steller, Palliative Care Specialist at Bringham & Women's Faulkner Hospital talks with Kim & Kitt about what it's been like to be on the front lines during this pandemic and how it has affected day to day operations of hospitals. She also gives a look into what things might look like for health care and "normal" life moving forward.
They say necessity is the mother of invention! Make Up Artist Karen Kawahara tells Kim & Kitt how she moved from Hollywood to making her own product! Her inspiring and interesting story of the creation of Avonaise came out of a need for one of her daughters! She also fills them in on life on the set of Ellen and Will & Grace and has great tips for entrepreneurs! Kim & Kitt also finally reveal the item they've both found in their homes during isolation.
Kim & Kitt are joined by Scituate Animal Shelter Director Of Operations, Ashley Davis. They talk about both ladies' experiences with adopting their pups while Ashley shares great tips on how to care for your pets while in isolation so that you're not setting yourself up for separation anxiety when life changes. Thinking this may be a good time to foster or adopt, she's got information on that and how you could spend some time being a volunteer.
Everyone is seeking human connection, especially during this time of social isolation. In this episode Kim & Kitt talk with Love Addiction Coach Katie Grimes about exactly what "love addiction" means and how to use this time to figure out just what it is you want! Reaching out to your ex, trying to connect using dating apps? We're talking about that too!
Kim & Kitt catch up with another amazing Boston area entrepreneur! This episode, Stephanie Treantos discusses her business, Lemonaid Solutions. She went from being admittedly, not so organized, to a highly sought after Home Organizer! She's also helping people with small, easily achievable DIY organizing projects through her Instagram while we're all staying at home during COVID-19.
Doctor of Physical Therapy, Stefanie Rousselle chats with Kim & Kitt about how to keep moving while working from home and how she continues to work with patients through telehealth. She also shares her experience running in 15 marathons and planning for the first ever Fall Boston Marathon rescheduled due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Kitt & Kim talk with Toni Filipone, Kim's Life Coach about how she got started before it was a "thing". She shares her experiences on TV shows like "The Biggest Loser" and "Real Housewives" and gives great advice on how this "at home" time can be a game changer.
Kim & Kitt speak with Aly Raymer, spin & yoga instructor. Aly is also a motivational speaker who talked to us about ways to stay strong and healthy both physically and mentally during this "stay at home" time.
Just getting started with our podcast during the Corona Pandemic, we wanted to bring on a guest that was could talk about it's affects on the real estate industry from a legal aspect. We welcome the uber smart attorney and friend Ali Alavi to break it down!
This is WHAT MOVES HER. A weekly podcast, hosted by Kim Douglas & Kitt Farrington. Each week we dive into the people and places around Boston that excite us! We think you'll be inspired too!