Born To Be - SoundSage

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Get ready for another insightful journey on "Business Before Fashion." In this third solo episode of the season, we're delving into the dynamic world of omnichannel marketing.

Reflecting on my days at Canopy Labs, where my adventure in intertwining online and offline data began, I've seen firsthand how the fashion and beauty industries have evolved. It's not just about staying ahead; it's about redefining connections with customers.

In this episode, I'll unravel why omnichannel isn't just a buzzword but an essential strategy for providing a seamless customer experience, whether your customers are shopping online from the comfort of their homes or browsing in a brick-and-mortar store.

Key takeaways: * The essence of customer journey mapping and its pivotal role in understanding how omnichannel strategies have evolved since my time at Canopy Labs. * The future of retail, as predicted by Shopify's President, Harley Finkelstein. * Real-world examples of successful omnichannel implementation (yes, Sephora fans, you're in for a treat!). * The challenges retailers face in integrating personalized strategies and how to overcome them. * Practical tips on using online traffic to drive in-store initiatives. * Insights into data management, analysis, and how they play a crucial role in omnichannel success.

This episode is not just about understanding omnichannel marketing; it's about embracing it to ensure your brand thrives in today's competitive landscape. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your strategy, these insights are bound to spark ideas and drive your brand to new heights.

So tune in, take notes, and let's explore how to seamlessly merge the digital and physical realms in fashion and beauty marketing.

Let's dive into the world of omnichannel marketing together!

Stay Engaged with Sam McGregor:* Your host, Sam McGregor, is your guide to the pulsating heart of fashion and digital marketing. Join the 'Business Before Fashion' community for more insights: * Connect on LinkedIn * Follow on Instagram

Exclusive Newsletter:* Craving exclusivity in your inbox? Head over to Business Before Fashion and sign up for our newsletter.

Support Our Show:* Love what you're hearing? Support us by subscribing, liking, or giving us a rating on your favourite podcast platform to support our mission of bringing you cutting-edge insights from industry experts.

Business Before Fashion is produced by Story Studio Network. www.storystudionetwork.com/

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Join host Sam McGregor as she unravels the crucial significance of copywriting within the digital marketing sphere with none other than Chase Dimond. A name that echoes in email marketing circles for his profound expertise. So, gear up to delve into this thrilling exploration!

Key takeaways:
The Essence of Copywriting: Effective strategies and the vital role that crafting compelling content played as a foundational pillar for every campaign Chase has spearheaded. * Copywriting Techniques: Learn about the frameworks and strategies that Chase employs to create impactful messages, including his take on AI's role in content creation. * The Challenge of One-SKU Brands: Chase shares his approach to working with brands that sell a single product and how creative copywriting can overcome marketing challenges. * Deliverability and Engagement:* Dive deep into the intricate world of email deliverability. See how cracking the code on it can be a game-changer for your business. Then, shift gears and consider copywriting - not just any old words strung together, but impactful writing that hooks readers from their inboxes.

In an era where digital marketing is omnipresent, mastering the art of copywriting is essential for standing out. Should your objective be the optimization of email outreach or simply elevating your marketing prowess, this podcast episode is a goldmine. Overflowing with practical wisdom, it's an invitation to immerse yourself in expert guidance and get fueled by tales of triumph - all potentially catalyzing innovative approaches for propelling your brand forward!
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chasedimond/ * Twitter: https://twitter.com/ecomchasedimond * Sign up for the Newsletter: https://www.chasedimond.com/

Stay Engaged with Sam McGregor:
* Your host, Sam McGregor, is your guide to the pulsating heart of fashion and digital marketing. Join the 'Business Before Fashion' community for more insights: * Connect on LinkedIn * Follow on Instagram

Exclusive Newsletter:
* Craving exclusivity in your inbox? Head over to Business Before Fashion and sign up for our newsletter.

Support Our Show:
* Love what you're hearing? Support us by subscribing, liking, or giving us a rating on your favourite podcast platform to support our mission of bringing you cutting-edge insights from industry experts.

Business Before Fashion is produced by Story Studio Network. www.storystudionetwork.com/

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Welcome to a heart-to-heart episode where host Sam McGregor and guest Mary Young unravel the beauty of intertwining fashion, business, and a huge dose of self-love. This episode isn't just about lingerie; it's a rallying cry for women everywhere to embrace their true selves, powered by the story behind Mary Young's brand and her new venture into podcasting with "The Self Love Club." It's about finding your tribe, facing the challenges head-on, and shining brighter than ever.
Key Takeaways:
* How embracing your unique story can revolutionize your approach to building a fashion brand, with a spotlight on turning self-love into a powerful business strategy. * The secret sauce to creating a seamless connection between brand values and marketing strategies fosters a space where empowerment and business growth intersect. * The challenges of evolving consumer expectations in the fashion and beauty industry and the pivotal role of authentic engagement in fostering brand loyalty. * Transforming challenges into stepping stones for growth by infusing your marketing with genuine stories and relatable experiences. * Actionable steps for fashion and beauty entrepreneurs to refine their marketing approach, ensuring it aligns with the core of what they stand for and the change they wish to see.

This episode is a comprehensive guide for those aiming to intertwine personal narratives and brand ethos into the fabric of their fashion brand. Dive in to discover how to craft a brand that not only meets but anticipates consumer desires, strengthens loyalty through authenticity, and transforms challenges into opportunities for growth. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your approach, you'll find actionable insights to elevate your brand's impact. So tune in, share your insights, and let's navigate the ever-evolving landscape of fashion and beauty together.
Connect with Mary Young:
* Follow MARY YOUNG at @itsmaryyoung * Mary at @maryoforiattah * Read the self love club journal here * Watch MARY YOUNG on YouTube

Stay Engaged with Sam McGregor:
* Your host, Sam McGregor, is your guide to the pulsating heart of fashion and digital marketing. Join the 'Business Before Fashion' community for more insights: * Connect on LinkedIn * Follow on Instagram

Exclusive Newsletter:
* Craving exclusivity in your inbox? Head over to Business Before Fashion and sign up for our newsletter.

Support Our Show:
* Love what you're hearing? Support us by subscribing, liking, or giving us a rating on your favourite podcast platform to support our mission of bringing you cutting-edge insights from industry experts.

Business Before Fashion is produced by Story Studio Network. www.storystudionetwork.com/

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Welcome to a solo episode of 'Business Before Fashion,' where your host, Sam McGregor, takes you on a deep dive into the world of customer journey mapping. If you're curious about what sets apart the best email strategists and how they harness this powerful tool to elevate brands, you're in the right place!

In this episode, Sam shares her passion for customer journey mapping, a skill honed during her time at Canopy Labs. Prepare to be enlightened about why many brands, big and small, often overlook this critical strategy. Sam brings to light the transformative power of visually mapping out a customer's interaction with a brand, from awareness to advocacy, and how it can lead to insightful conversations and groundbreaking strategies.

Here's a sneak peek at what this episode covers:
* The essence of customer journey mapping and its pivotal role in understanding customer-brand interactions. * A breakdown of the key touchpoints in a customer journey: awareness, consideration, conversion, post-purchase, retention, advocacy, loyalty, and re-engagement. * How to utilize email, SMS, and digital ads as effective interventions at different stages of the customer journey. * Pro tips for optimizing your customer journey map, including how to use exit-intent pop-ups effectively. * Insights into behavioural intervention strategies, like cross-selling, upselling, and re-engagement campaigns, to enhance the customer experience.

This episode goes beyond just theoretical knowledge; it's a practical guide to revolutionizing your presence in the bustling arenas of fashion and beauty. Whether you're initiating your marketing voyage or aiming to refine your current methods, these insights are tailored to spark innovation and deepen your engagement with your audience.Gear up, grab your notebook, and join us on this journey into the nuances of Segmentation and Personalization. Let's embark on a mission to redefine your marketing strategies and establish a more meaningful connection with your customers!

Stay Engaged with Sam McGregor:
* Your host, Sam McGregor, is your guide to the pulsating heart of fashion and digital marketing. Join the 'Business Before Fashion' community for more insights: * Connect on LinkedIn * Follow on Instagram

Exclusive Newsletter:
* Craving exclusivity in your inbox? Head over to Business Before Fashion and sign up for our newsletter.

Support Our Show:
* Love what you're hearing? Support us by subscribing, liking, or giving us a rating on your favourite podcast platform to support our mission of bringing you cutting-edge insights from industry experts.

Business Before Fashion is produced by Story Studio Network. www.storystudionetwork.com/

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Today, we're taking a deep dive into the evolving world of affiliate marketing, moving beyond the traditional approaches and into innovative strategies that are revolutionizing the e-commerce landscape.

Joining us is Noah Tucker, CEO of Social Snowball. Noah's journey from high school graduate to eCommerce maven and digital marketing expert culminates in his groundbreaking venture, Social Snowball. This episode is not just a conversation but an exploration of how Noah's unique insights and experiences led him to reshape affiliate marketing for the digital age.

Noah will shed light on how Social Snowball is helping brands turn their customers into affiliates, thereby opening new channels for customer acquisition and significantly lowering acquisition costs. This episode promises to be an eye-opener for businesses looking to innovate their affiliate strategies and leverage the full potential of their customer base. Key takeaways:
* Noah Tucker's entrepreneurial journey from working on a fishing boat to creating a new wave in affiliate marketing. * The genesis of Social Snowball - Filling the gaps in traditional affiliate marketing platforms and focusing on the 'modern affiliate.' * The transformation from old-school affiliate marketing strategies to innovative approaches involving influencers, creators, and even a brand's own customers. * The role of automation in removing friction and making the process of turning customers into affiliates seamless and efficient. * Strategies and case studies demonstrating the success of Social Snowball's approach in real-world scenarios. * Noah's insights into the future of affiliate marketing and how brands can adapt their strategies to stay ahead in the e-commerce game.

Noah Tucker @noatuck
https://socialsnowball.io/

Stay Engaged with Sam McGregor:
* Your host, Sam McGregor, is your guide to the pulsating heart of fashion and digital marketing. Join the 'Business Before Fashion' community for more insights: * Connect on LinkedIn * Follow on Instagram

Exclusive Newsletter:
* Craving exclusivity in your inbox? Head over to Business Before Fashion and sign up for our newsletter.

Support Our Show:
* Love what you're hearing? Support us by subscribing, liking, or giving us a rating on your favourite podcast platform to support our mission of bringing you cutting-edge insights from industry experts.

Business Before Fashion is produced by Story Studio Network. www.storystudionetwork.com/

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Welcome to another exciting episode of 'Business Before Fashion,' where we unravel the magic of in-person events in the fashion and beauty industry. This episode is a special treat, as we're joined by Palak Dave, a seasoned corporate marketer with over a decade of experience orchestrating over 250 workshops and in-person events for high-profile brands like Nespresso, Bumble, and Google.

Join us as Palak shares her insights on what makes an event truly memorable and successful. She emphasizes the importance of engaging all human senses to create lasting impressions. Palak walks us through her meticulous planning process and the art of determining the "why" behind each event, which is crucial for making a meaningful impact.

Key takeaways:* Understanding the essence of event success: Engaging senses and creating memorable experiences. * The art of planning: Palak's approach to determining the ultimate outcome and intention of an event. * Strategies for attracting the right audience and leveraging the correct channels for event promotion. * Insights into the post-event follow-up: How to maintain engagement and build lasting relationships with attendees. * The evolution of Palak's brand, Imperia, and her journey from corporate marketing to creating a community-centric brand.

This episode is a goldmine for anyone looking to leverage in-person events to elevate their brand and create deeper connections with their audience. Whether you're planning your first event or looking to enhance your existing event strategy, Palak's experiences and insights will guide you toward creating impactful and memorable events.

So, tune in and join us on this journey as we explore the world of in-person events with Palak Dave. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share your thoughts on this episode. Let's dive in and discover the power of events in transforming fashion and beauty brands!

Connect with Palak Dave:* Find her on Instagram: @embiria

Discover Embiria:
* Ready to discover how to live beautifully, every day? Visit Embiria. Palak’s passion for creating meaningful connections and experiences is sure to inspire and guide you in your event planning endeavours.

Exclusive Newsletter:* Craving exclusivity in your inbox? Head over to Business Before Fashion and sign up for our newsletter.

Business Before Fashion is produced by Story Studio Network. www.storystudionetwork.com/

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Welcome to another solo episode of 'Business Before Fashion,' where your host, Sam McGregor, takes you on a deep dive into the world of customer journey mapping. If you're curious about what sets apart the best email strategists and how they harness this powerful tool to elevate brands, you're in the right place!

Here's a sneak peek at what this episode covers:
* The essence of customer journey mapping and its pivotal role in understanding customer-brand interactions. * A breakdown of the key touchpoints in a customer journey: awareness, consideration, conversion, post-purchase, retention, advocacy, loyalty, and re-engagement. * How to utilize email, SMS, and digital ads as effective interventions at different stages of the customer journey. * Pro tips for optimizing your customer journey map, including how to use exit-intent pop-ups effectively. * Insights into behavioural intervention strategies, like cross-selling, upselling, and re-engagement campaigns, to enhance the customer experience.

Sam walks you through each stage of the customer journey, offering actionable advice and strategies that you can implement in your brand's marketing efforts. Whether you're a startup or an established brand, understanding and optimizing your customer journey is crucial in creating lasting loyalty and outshining competition.

So, if you're ready to dive into the fascinating world of customer journey mapping and transform how you connect with your audience, this episode is a must-listen. Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share your thoughts on this episode, and stay tuned for more insightful discussions on 'Business Before Fashion.'

Remember, it's not just about selling a product; it's about crafting a story with your customer at its heart. Tune in, and let's map out the path to success together!

Exclusive Newsletter:* Craving exclusivity in your inbox? Head over to Business Before Fashion and sign up for our newsletter.

Business Before Fashion is produced by Story Studio Network. www.storystudionetwork.com/

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Get ready to dive into another fabulous episode of 'Business Before Fashion' where we blend the glitz of fashion with the grit of data-driven marketing. This time, we're thrilled to welcome Oren Charnoff, co-founder of Fondue, now a part of Postscript, who's revolutionizing the world of digital coupons. It's not every day we get to explore innovations shaking up the digital native brands, and Oren is here to share just that.

Picture this: a world where the dreaded coupon leakage is a thing of the past, and where discounts meet savvy technology. That's the realm Oren and his team are crafting. With Fondue's unique approach to coupon codes, they're turning the tables on traditional discount strategies, ensuring they work for your brand, not against it.

In this episode, we're peeling back the layers of customer behaviour, dissecting how brands have brought upon the discount dilemma themselves, and exploring how cashback can redefine the way we think about customer loyalty and retention.

Here's a sneak peek of the wisdom Oren brings to the table:
* How Fondue is challenging the status quo of coupon codes and transforming them into profitable strategies. * Insights into consumer behaviour shifts and the evolving dynamics of discounts in the digital marketplace. * The strategic role of cashback in enhancing customer loyalty and increasing Average Order Value (AOV). * Best practices for integrating cashback into your marketing strategies, from the welcome series to beyond. * Real-world success stories and case studies of brands revolutionizing their approach to discounts with Fondue.

Whether you're a beauty brand entrepreneur, marketing executive or strategist looking to refine your digital approach, this episode is your go-to resource. Join us as we unravel how smart discounting can be your secret weapon in this fashion-forward, digitally-driven world.

Connect with Oren Charnoff:
* Find him on X/Twitter: OCharnoff * Connect on LinkedIn: Oren Charnoff

Discover Fondue:
* To learn how ecommerce brands are getting smart with discounting, visit Fondue.

Stay Engaged with Sam McGregor:
* Your host, Sam McGregor, is your guide to the pulsating heart of fashion and digital marketing. Join the 'Business Before Fashion' community for more insights: * Connect on LinkedIn * Follow on Instagram

Exclusive Newsletter:
* Craving exclusivity in your inbox? Head over to Business Before Fashion and sign up for our newsletter.

Support Our Show:
* Love what you're hearing? Support us by subscribing, liking, or giving us a rating on your favourite podcast platform to support our mission of bringing you cutting-edge insights from industry experts.

Business Before Fashion is produced by Story Studio Network. www.storystudionetwork.com/

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Hey there, fellow marketing mavens and enthusiasts!

Buckle up because you're in for a treat with our latest podcast episode—it's all about making your marketing tech stack as sleek and mighty as a panther in the digital jungle. We're thrilled to have Jimmy Kim, the mastermind CEO of Sendlane, join us to demystify the art of streamlining your marketing tools.

Imagine your tech stack not as a cluttered drawer of mismatched utensils but as a well-organized chef's knife set, each piece with a purpose. That's the transformation we're diving into today. With Jimmy's guidance, who's a bit like the Marie Kondo of marketing technology, you'll learn to spark joy in your metrics and conversions.

We're unpacking why a lean tech stack isn't just nice to have—it's essential for making sense of data and creating customer experiences as comforting as your go-to indulgence. Plus, we'll discover why fresh insights trump stale data and why genuine connections with your brand community are now the gold standard in marketing.

Ready for some wisdom that’s as actionable as it is insightful? Here’s what we’re covering:
* The strategic value of a consolidated marketing tech stack and how it can transform your business. * Integration magic that smooths out your marketing operations for peak performance. * The tangible impact of a cluttered vs. a curated tech stack on your bottom line. * The latest shifts in consumer behaviour and the art of authenticity in brand engagement. * Practical tips for optimizing your marketing tech stack to truly shine.

This conversation is a goldmine for anyone from ambitious small business owners to savvy digital marketers. So tune in, share your thoughts, and let's make marketing tech as easy as pie.
Connect with Jimmy Kim:* Find him on X/Twitter: @yojimmykim * Connect on LinkedIn: Jimmy Kim

Discover Sendlane:* Ready to streamline your marketing tech stack? Visit Sendlane for the new standard.

Exclusive Newsletter:* Craving exclusivity in your inbox? Head over to Business Before Fashion and sign up for our newsletter.

Business Before Fashion is produced by Story Studio Network. www.storystudionetwork.com/

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On Business Before Fashion, we stitch together the sparkle of the fashion and beauty worlds with threads of data-driven digital marketing insights. If you're poised to revolutionize your brand with creative zeal and analytic precision, you've just found your newest obsession.
Each episode is a catwalk that showcases the behind-the-scenes mechanics and strategies driving the success of fashion and beauty brands. We're not just about the glitz; we're here to empower you with the tangible tools and data-informed strategies that spark engagement, drive profitability, and sustain growth. Business Before Fashion elevates the conversation beyond aesthetics to the pillars that matter most: fashion, beauty, and solid, actionable data.
My firsthand experiences have revealed the untapped potential of effective email and SMS marketing, and I'm on a mission to unlock these channels for your brand. Tune in and discover how to harness the power of data to weave stronger customer connections, ensuring your marketing efforts are impactful. Forget settling for fleeting social media impressions—let's build enduring brand engagement and revenue streams together.
So, for a front-row seat to transforming your fashion and beauty marketing in the digital age, subscribe to Business Before Fashion. Expect a runway of actionable insights, creative inspiration, and the data-driven finesse your brand needs to thrive.
**Sign up at businessbeforefashion.com for our newsletter—your backstage pass to the latest episodes, industry insights, and much more. It's time to roll up those chic sleeves and dive into the business of fashion, where style meets substance, right here with me, Sam McGregor. Let's turn your brand into a showstopper!

Visit us at www.businessbeforefashion.com**

Follow along on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/businessbeforefashion/

Follow along on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthamcgregor/

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On today's episode of Born to Be, Sam takes a look back at the first season of Born to Be, and the amazing conversations and women she's had the pleasure of chatting with. The experiences these entrepreneurs have had have been powerful and transformative, as they've shared their unique story struggles, triumphs and everything in between. Each of these women has had to overcome obstacles and persevere through challenges to achieve success.

During the episode, Sam reflects on some of the key highlights of the season and what's coming up for season two.

She discusses how easy it is to look at successful entrepreneurs and think that everything was a smooth ride, and that success came super easy to them. However, the truth is there are often challenges and setbacks along the way, most of which we don't get to see from the outside looking in.

Sam looks at her very frist conversation back in episode one with Suzie Yorke of Love Good Fats, and a conversation she had with her mother when she was very young, saying that she one day would have her own business.

She describes her conversation with serial entrepreneur and CEO Dionna Dorsey Calloway, who has been a role model for many women. They discussed her journey to founding The Creative Ladder with David Griner and Ryan Reynolds, how she balances running multiple businesses and the importance of diversity and inclusion in the creative industry.

Join Sam for this fascinating look back on season one!

Enjoy.

What You Will Learn in this Show:

Why the Born to Be Podcast is here.
How to find angel investors for your first startup.
How do you explain to people the time and effort that goes into building a business.
Why Mary Young’s story shows that if you have a passion and a drive to succeed, you can achieve anything.
And so much more...

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On today's episode of Born to Be, Sam talks with Amanda Baker, chief operating officer and Herbalist at Tease Tea, a wellness tea blend company, and chief operating officer of The Founders Fund, a virtual community hub for diverse women founders seeking barrier-free funding, education and mentorship. Amanda's career working on social impact began when, during culinary school, she was introduced to food security and the role that business played. She joined the Founders Fund team in November of 2019, and from there built a 6-month digital accelerator for women in business that included over 100 hours of mentorship and workshops, $20,000 in barrier free funding, and partnerships with BDC and HubSpot. Since 2019, Founders Fund has contributed over $200,000 in funding and resources to our community of women all across the globe.

Not long after joining Founders Fund, Amanda was asked to join the Tease team as their chief operating officer. Being part of Tease allowed her to rediscover her love of tea and develop a deep love and understanding of brand management, managing complex supply chains and digital marketing. Under Amanda's leadership, Tease was proudly certified as a B Corp in April 2021.

During the episode, Amanda shares a little of her background and what brought her to the area of social impact.

She discusses the concept of B Corp certification and her appearance on Dragon's Den with Tease Tea founder Sheena Brady.

Amanda explains some of the ways the company has changed since the Dragon's Den episode, such as relaunching the company with a full biodegradable line.

She reveals the fundamental differences between her work with Founders Fund and Tease, where she has a yin/yang relationship with founder Sheena Brady.

Join Sam and Amanda for this fascinating discussion.

Enjoy.

What You Will Learn in this Show:

How Amanda entered the world of social impact and how she became an expert in B Corp certification.
Her emotional experience appearing on Dragon's Den, and the lessons that came from it.
Why the best thing to happen is for your ego to be completely obliterated in order to build something that you really want, without worrying about what others think.
How Tease has found its 'sweet spot' with a revised product line and a renewed focus on making an impact.
And so much more...

Resources:

Founders Fund

Tease Teas

Amanda's LinkedIn

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On today's episode of Born to Be, Sam talks with Jessica Mowforth, an intimacy and relationship coach. Through private coaching, Jessica helps women to step into their magnetic radiance and bring them back into alignment with their authentic self, so they can create the boundaries needed to feel safe and supported in their full self-expression (whether single or in a relationship). She believes that it is every woman’s birthright to have their life feel like the ultimate climax: vibrant, sexy and alive. She dives into the things we don't talk about - the taboo topics, the tough topics, and everything in between.

During the episode, Jessica shares the first things she discusses with a new client, just coming into the new year, trying to get past last year, setting new goals, and looking for a new direction in life.

She discusses how a woman's menstrual cycle (and the seasons found within that cycle) impacts what we do when we do and how we do it.

Jessica explains the taboo around discussing menstrual cycles, and why communicating about your cycle with your partner is a powerful tool for creating a solid relationship.

She reveals why one-size-fits-all business templates and courses often don't work for women, because they aren't designed to align with their unique rhythms.

Join Sam and Jessica for this fascinating discussion.

Enjoy!

What You Will Learn in this Show:

Why Jessica believes that women have different seasons within their cycle, and why it's important to understand their differences.
The importance of hormonal birth control, tracking your menstrual cycle and understanding your body's rhythms.
Why women process emotions differently than men, and why women are natural receivers.
Why she’s chosen to use hormonal birth control instead of more traditional methods.
And so much more...

Resources:

Jessica's website

Jessica's Instagram

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On today's episode of Born to Be, Sam talks with Jessica Handelman, owner, and founder of Jessica Jewellry, an online boutique of feminine and classic fine jewellery with a modern twist based in Toronto, Canada. Jessica grew up as the daughter of one of Canada's leading wholesalers in the gold and diamond industry. With an eye for trends and an insider connection to the global supply chain for gold and diamonds, she saw an opportunity to disrupt the industry by offering excellent pricing on beautiful merchandise directly to the consumer.

During the episode, Jessica shares how her family's support allowed her to enter the jewellry industry at a very low risk.

She discusses transitioning from private clients to an online store, as well as how she builds trust and credibility as an online business.

Jessica will explain why she spends very little money on marketing, and why her sales increased significantly during the pandemic.

She will also reveal her brand's exciting future plans.

Join Sam and Jessica for this fascinating discussion about trust and credibility in business and learning from mistakes.

Enjoy.

What You Will Learn in this Show:

A look into Jessica Jewellry, including its founding principles.
Why Jessica's transition to an online store was a natural progression.
How Instagram brought her new customers.
The lengths she's willing to go in order to stay relevant and appealing to today's clients
The impact of the pandemic on online shopping.
And so much more...

Resources:

Jessica Jewellry website

Instagram

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In today's episode of Born to Be, Sam chats with Opal Rowe, the founder of Stush Foods Inc., a Toronto-based food company making wholesome Jamaican patties. Opal was born and raised in Jamaica and lived in two other countries before finally settling in Toronto. Her love and passion for food and cooking is inspired by a wide range of food from different cultures. Despite her love for many different foods, patties remains one of her favorite foods.

Her journey to entrepreneurship began 10 years ago, when she created Living Assistance Services GTA North, a homecare company that takes care of the needs of seniors.

In 2020, Opal found herself craving patties and despite the abundance of patties in Toronto, she was unable to find a wholesome tasty patty - not a greasy snack, a patty that she could enjoy as a meal with a glass of wine. After an exhaustive search, she concluded that there was clearly a gap in the market which she was determined to fill. Opal’s goal is to make patties accessible to every Canadian whether they know or like Jamaican food, in the same way that pizza has transcended its Italian heritage.

During the episode, they discuss her entrepreneurial path, from the Director, owner and operator of a homecare company to her shift in direction to the food industry, and the surprising connections and synergies that exist between them.

You'll learn the importance of not relying on perfection when launching your product or service. Every business has a learning curve no matter the industry, and the process of learning and improving is ongoing and never ending.

They also discuss Opal's strategy behind packaging her patties in smaller 4-patty boxes instead of the more common 12-patty format found in the supermarket.

Opal also offers some insights and lessons she learned when moving into the retail space and presenting her products in stores for the first time.

Join Sam and Opal for this inspiring discussion around entrepreneurship and the power of making the leap to starting a business.

Enjoy!

What You'll Learn in this Show:

Why the best time to start a business is when you believe you have a sellable product of service.
How one event often leads to a multiplier effect, and how to make use of it.
Why perfection is not necessary when you're starting your business.
The learning curve that comes with a foray into the food industry.
And so much more...

Resources:

Stush Foods Inc. website

Opal's LinkedIn

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In today's episode of Born to Be, Sam chats with Mary Young, founder, designer and CEO of MARY YOUNG. This brand celebrates natural shapes and body confidence.

During the episode, they discuss the business plan Mary created for MARY YOUNG and why she opted to focus on her online store rather than the wholesale channel. Mary also shares several strategies you can use to expand your own online store.

You'll learn about Futurpreneur, a non-profit organization that supports budding entrepreneurs with funding, mentoring and support resources.

They also discuss the MARY YOUNG Self-Love Club and how you can become a member.

Mary will also explain why she believes she was born to be an entrepreneur.

Join Sam and Mary for this fascinating discussion about fashion and sustainability, self-love and entrepreneurship.

Enjoy!

What You'll Learn in this Show:

The background and inspiration behind MARY YOUNG and what it offers.
The learning experience that taught Mary how to deal with rejection in sales.
The importance of self-love and self-care.
How MARY YOUNG is committed to sustainability.
The various charities they've partnered with over the years.
And so much more...

Resources:

MARY YOUNG

Futurpreneur Canada

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In today's episode of Born to Be, Sam sits down with Laura St. John, celebrity mindset coach and master manifester. Laura is most widely known for teaching people how to flip their struggles, and use them as fuel towards manifesting their goals. As a child, her parents taught her the importance of seeing life without labels or limits. She's appeared on NETFLIX, Access Hollywood, ABC, FOX, and in the pages of SHAPE and Women's Health.

During the episode, Sam and Laura discuss the power of manifesting and the three powerful steps she teaches to help people move from where they are today, to the places and goals they want to reach.

They explore one of the fastest methods for manifesting: training yourself to shift into the future version of you - one that feels little to no resistance to what you want to manifest - and then bringing that version of you into the present.

They look at ways to use the people around you - those who are already succeeding - as an inspiration for your own efforts, as well as the importance of understanding and acknowledging the things you're not good at.

Laura also reveals a fact many people miss in the manifestation process: that intent is merely the first step, action must follow to have a successful outcome.

Join Sam and Laura for this insightful discussion!

Enjoy!

What You'll Learn in this Show:

How to get where you're going, from the place you are today.
Why training yourself to jump into the future is the fastest way to manifest.
Why now is the most important time for women to take charge.
And so much more...

Resources:

Strong Confident Living website

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In today's episode of Born to Be, Sam talks to Margaret Wishingrad, CEO and co-founder of Three Wishes Cereal. Since the invention of the first cereal in 1863, Three Wishes Cereal, launched in 2019, is the first cereal company founded by a woman.

Margaret and Sam discuss the inspiration behind Three Wishes Cereal and how her professional background helped her develop it. Margaret also shares the reasons why she chose consumer packaged goods (CPGs) over direct-to-consumer (D2C).

You'll learn more about Margaret and her husband's great business partnership, how they got their first 100 customers, and how they established genuine touch points with those customers.

Margaret will also share what she believes she was born to be.

Join Sam and Margaret for this fascinating conversation about being a woman in the cereal industry, hiring experts and retail.

Enjoy!

What You’ll Learn in this Show:

The identity of the first person to invent breakfast cereal.
The inspiration and background that led to Three Wishes Cereal.
Why you need to learn and master every part of your business.
The importance of genuine endorsement.
And so much more...

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On today's episode of Born to Be, Sam chats with Lindsay King, CEO and Creative Director at Add to Cart Commerce, a boutique Toronto-based creative studio specializing in e-commerce solutions and brand identity for brands and businesses with heart, passion and purpose. Lindsay's mission is to help brands and businesses get their products into the shopping carts of their ideal customers.

During the episode, Sam and Lindsay discuss her background and the path that led her into this line of work, as well as some of the trends Lindsay has noticed in the e-commerce space. Lindsay also shares some of her favorite apps designed for e-commerce websites.

You'll discover the most common mistakes people make with their Shopify store, along with Lindsay's top three tips for preparing your website for the holiday rush.

Sam and Linsday discuss tips and tactics for optimizing your product catalog to ensure your customers have the smoothest, most painless experience doing business with you.

Lindsay offers some insights into the origin of the name 'Add to Cart Commerce,' as well a preview of a fantastic project she has coming up in the new year.

Join Sam and Lindsay for this fascinating discussion about holiday planning for your online store, website audits, and A/B testing.

Enjoy!

What You'll Learn in this Show:

A little about Lindsay's company, Add to Cart Commerce
How to ramp up your online store for the holiday season.
Strategies for increasing the speed of your website.
How to best set up your product catalog.
Why Lindsay hates the term "girlboss."
And so much more...

Resources:

Addtocartcommerce website

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On today's episode of Born to Be, Sam chats with Rebecca Mazzara, founder and CEO of Calita Intimates. After four years at Shopify, she was laid off, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise as she finally decided to start her own business.

Rebecca shares the inspiration behind her intimates business and how she built it from the ground up.

She discusses how her time at Shopify influenced her decision to become an entrepreneur.

You'll learn about Rebecca’s experience starting an intimates line for women who have no prior experience in fashion.

She also offers advice for people who want to start their own e-commerce business, and why she believes she was born to be a storyteller.

Join Sam and Rebecca for this fascinating discussion about cold calling, starting an e-commerce business, and email marketing.

Enjoy!

What You Will Learn in this Show:

Why the Texworld USA conference was a valuable learning experience for Rebecca.
How long it took her to launch her business
How important it is to build a community before launching your brand.
Why she only works with clients for her photoshoots
How to get your website ready for the holiday season.
The importance of email marketing.
And so much more...

Resources:

Calita Intimates

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In today's episode of Born to Be, Sam explains the process behind the unfortunate reality of firing a client. She talks about the trade-off that arises when you want to work for yourself because you want to do the work you enjoy, but then work with clients you do not really enjoy working with. You’ll learn how Sam made her way onto the consultancy path, specifically how she left the corporate world after the last company she worked for was acquired. You’ll discover how she got her first consulting client and why she’s grateful to her former CEO. Sam also discusses her work ethic, her client's backhanded apology, and the only positive outcome of firing her client.

Join her on this insightful discussion!

Enjoy!

What You'll Learn in this Show: Why Sam's spouse urged her to pursue a career in consulting. The importance of following your gut. Why Sam appreciates customer success managers And so much more...

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In today's episode of Born to Be, Sam sits down with Dionna Dorsey Calloway, co-founder and CEO of The Creative Ladder, a nonprofit she co-founded with actor Ryan Reynolds to connect, inspire and elevate an inclusive new generation of creative industry leaders. She is also the owner of District of Clothing, a black- and woman-owned lifestyle brand encouraging progression, inspiring action and self-love, as well as Dionna Dorsey Design, a branding and creative strategy firm that uses simplicity, consistency and creative critical thinking to develop, enrich and transform innovative brands and organizations. During their discussion, they explore the path Dionna took to become the entrepreneur she is now. They discuss her early career as a fashion designer in New York, then losing her job as a result of the Great Recession of 2008 and moving back to Washington D.C. to find she was unable to find work, despite her experience. It was at that time that she decided to "hire herself."

Sam and Dionna discuss the struggles of being a female entrepreneur, particularly now in this time of economic turmoil. Dionna reveals how she was able to dig deep to find the tenacity to work for herself. She also reveals the thinking and vision behind Creative Ladder and how it's really the result of her own journey.

Join Sam and Dionna for this eye-opening discussion!

Enjoy!

What You'll Learn in this Show:

Dionna's path from fashion designer in New York just before the Great Recession to an entrepreneur running three seperate businesses. The struggles and rewards of being a female entrepreneur and the need for multiple income streams, particularly in these tumultuous economic times. How Creative Ladder came about and why it represents the culmination of Dionna's entrepreneurial journey (so far! And so much more...

Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dionnadorsey/ (Dionna's LinkedIn) https://www.dionnadorsey.com/ (Dionna Dorsey Design) https://www.creativeladder.org/ (Creative Ladder) https://districtofclothing.com/ (District of Clothing)

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In today's episode of Born to Be, Sam talks about the unglamorous side of business and the ups and downs that female founders experience. She hopes this episode will help you move forward and avoid negativity. She also shares a personal anecdote about the less-than-glamorous aspect of podcasting. She describes what happened to her and how she experienced feelings of frustration. You will learn how to deal with rejection: Build a bridge and get over it. Join Sam McGregor for this insightful and encouraging discussion! Enjoy! What You'll Learn in this Show: Sam's intentions for this podcast. The disappointments Sam has faced on her podcasting journey How to deal with rejection and overcome it. The challenges female founders face And so much more...

Resources: https://revupaccelerator.com/email-audit https://www.sammcgregor.com/podcast

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On today's episode of Born to Be, Sam talks with Victoria Marshman, co-founder of Mave & Chez, an ergonomic slipper brand for the stylish woman. Victoria is a passionate and driven entrepreneur, marketer, community leader, and dance educator who has run two six-figure businesses. Victoria will talk about how she met her business partner and how their shared passion for event planning led to the creation of their first company, Stratus Events, which has already achieved six-figures in its second year of operation. She will also talk about launching City MOGULS, a community for ambitious entrepreneurs that gave birth to their signature event, The MOGUL Awards. You will learn why and how they transitioned from a service-based business to a physical product, namely slippers. You will also learn how they developed a step-by-step process of creating ergonomic slippers for women that can be worn all day. This involved conducting a SWOT analysis of about 20 slipper manufacturers, conducting surveys, and getting feedback from nearly 500 people on their slippers' pain points. As she reveals how you can pre-order slippers and save 30% off retail prices, Victoria will share the three problems with current slippers on the market and the solutions they hope to offer with their brand. You will also learn about their partnership with the charity Soles4Souls. Join Sam and Victoria for this fascinating discussion about mentorship, authenticity and crowdfunding Enjoy! What You Will Learn in This Show: A look into Mave & Chez, including its mission. How to find a great mentor. The effort they put into creating their product from the ground up. How their slippers are designed to be sustainable. Why a Kickstarter campaign is an effective way to raise funds and gain support for your product. The work they are doing with Soles4Souls How to save money on your purchase of Mave & Chez ergonomic slippers And so much more...

Resources: https://maveandchez.com/ (Mave & Chez) (maveandchez.com) https://www.amazon.com/CROWDFUNDED-Crowdfunding-Launching-Indiegogo-Kickstarter/dp/B0875XNRRR (CROWDFUNDED: Mark Pecota) https://revupaccelerator.com/email-audit https://www.sammcgregor.com/podcast

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In today's episode of Born to Be, Sam talks to Suzie Yorke, CEO of The Better Chocolate and founder of award-winning Love Good Fats. Suzie is a first-time entrepreneur who has made it her mission to spread the word that fat is back in and sugar is out! She has worked as a marketing executive for various companies including Procter & Gamble, PepsiCo, Heinz and Weight Watchers. Suzie will discuss her entrepreneurial journey, including launching her first brand at the age of 50, its explosive growth and why she stepped down as CEO of Love Good Fats. She will also talk about her second brand, The Better Chocolate, which makes chocolate bars infused with MCT oil. She launched this brand at the age of 55. She will talk about the book The Big Fat Surprise by Nina Teicholz and its influence on her life. The book delves into the misconceptions of the public and scientists about saturated fats: good fats are called essential fatty acids for a reason. Consuming good fats improved her health because she no longer had sugar cravings. You will learn how to find angel investors for your first startup. To do this, you need to find someone who believes you have the four P's: good positioning, a great product, the right price value, and a good P&L. She will also reveal you to The Better Chocolate's crowdfunding plans. Join Sam and Suzie for this fascinating discussion about the importance of good fats, finding angel investors, and following your instincts. Enjoy! What You Will Learn in this Show: A look into Suzie's brands, Love Good Fats, and The Better Chocolate. Suzie's key takeaways from her experience as a hyper-growth brand founder. The importance of having strong unit economics for your brand. Details about Suzie's founder's group, Founders Helping Founders. How to find people to invest in your startup. And so much more...

Resources: https://thebetterchocolates.com/ (thebetterchocolate: FourX Better Chocolate) ( thebetterchocolates.com) https://ca.linkedin.com/in/suzie-yorke-a5574712 (Suzie Yorke LinkedIn) Book: https://www.amazon.com/Big-Fat-Surprise-Butter-Healthy/dp/1451624425 (The Big Fat Surprise by Nina Teicholz) https://revupaccelerator.com/email-audit https://www.sammcgregor.com/podcast

The Big Fat Surprise: Why Butter, Meat and Cheese Belong in a Healthy Diet

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Welcome to the Born To Be Podcast In this episode, the host Sam McGregor talks about why she decided to start this podcast. She talks about her initial podcast launch failures and how she can bring you great value with this podcast. You will learn about her professional background. She will explain why she is interested in highlighting the less glamorous aspects of running a business. Sam will reveal some interesting details about an upcoming episode. Join us for this insightful discussion! Enjoy! What You'll Learn in this Show: Why did Sam change her name? Data on women-led startups. What Sam wants this podcast to achieve for her listeners. And so much more...

Resources: https://revupaccelerator.com/email-audit https://www.sammcgregor.com/podcast

Born To Be: Recent Episodes

Sam McGregor