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On this episode of Badass Women in Business, we’re diving into a world of healing, transformation, and empowerment with Heather Lee, founder of Medicine Woman Retreats. Heather is a trailblazer in the field of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, one of Colorado’s first certified practitioners, and a seasoned mental health therapist with over 30 years of experience.

Heather shares how her retreats, designed exclusively for women in midlife and beyond, are redefining how we process life transitions, trauma, and personal growth. From hosting psilocybin journeys that allow participants to reconnect with their intuition to creating luxury retreats that balance safety with personal exploration, Heather’s work is all about helping women unpack their emotional baggage and move through life lighter and more joyfully.

Heather also opens up about her entrepreneurial journey, balancing the challenges of building a business as a single mom, and how she stays true to her mission. This conversation will leave you inspired to tap into your inner wisdom and reimagine what’s possible for yourself and your business.

Show Notes

Introduction

• Heather Lee, founder of Medicine Woman Retreats and certified psychedelic-assisted psychotherapist, specializes in psilocybin therapy for women 50+ navigating life transitions.

The Journey to Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy

• With a background in meditation, dreamwork, and shamanic practices, Heather became one of Colorado’s first certified psychedelic therapists.
• “We’re designed to access non-ordinary states of consciousness for emotional and psychological healing.”

What Makes Her Retreats Unique

• Weekend retreats with yoga, private psilocybin journeys, and group integration.
• Guests enjoy private spaces to journey deeply without distraction.

Who Attends These Retreats?

• Successful women in midlife (average age: 57) seeking healing and clarity, including an 81-year-old attendee who described it as life-changing.

Heather’s Entrepreneurial Journey

• From luxury resort consultant to retreat leader, balancing motherhood and financial uncertainty while staying true to her mission.

Key Insights from Heather

• Psilocybin rewires the brain for healing.
• Safe spaces and collaboration are essential for growth and empowerment.

What’s Next for Heather?

• Licensing as one of Colorado’s first psychedelic facilitators and expanding retreats to Europe.

Links to Connect with Heather

• Website: Medicine Woman Retreats
• Facebook: Heather Lee
• LinkedIn: Heather Lee
• TikTok: @heatherleewellness

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• LinkedIn: ProveHer - Badass Women in Business
• Website: Badasswomeninbusinesspodcast.com
• Athena: athenaac.com

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In this heartwarming episode of Badass Women in Business, we talk with Marti Wymer, founder and CEO of Spoonful of Comfort. What started as a personal response to grief has become a thriving business delivering handcrafted soup and care packages to nearly 3 million recipients nationwide. Marti shares her journey from a kitchen startup to leading a company known for its compassion, resilience, and impact. From navigating Shark Tank to scaling her business with love at its core, Marti’s story is a testament to the power of turning passion into purpose.

Show Notes:

• Introduction: Meet Marti Wymer, founder of Spoonful of Comfort, and learn how a personal tragedy inspired her to create a business that delivers care and connection.
• The Origin Story: Marti’s mother’s illness sparked the idea of sending soup as comfort, leading to the creation of Spoonful of Comfort as a tribute to her mom.
• Building a Culture of Care: Marti explains how her company fosters empathy and connection through every aspect of the business, including an 80% women and minority workforce.
• Overcoming Challenges: Marti recounts the highs and lows of running a food-based business, from supply chain issues during COVID to the challenges of scaling while staying true to her mission.
• The Shark Tank Experience: Despite facing tough feedback on Shark Tank, Marti reflects on how the experience ultimately boosted her business and taught her resilience.
• Living Core Values: Marti discusses the importance of actionable core values in guiding her team and maintaining the company’s culture of love and care.
• What’s Next: Marti teases her latest venture, Spoonful of Sugar, and shares her excitement about expanding into comforting desserts like ice cream.
• Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: Marti emphasizes the importance of asking for help, combating imposter syndrome, and staying true to your purpose.

Connect with Marti and Spoonful of Comfort:

• Website: www.spoonfulofcomfort.com
• Facebook: Spoonful of Comfort
• LinkedIn: Marti Wymer
• Instagram: @spoonfulofcomfort
• YouTube: Spoonful of Comfort

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• Instagram: @badass_women_in_business
• LinkedIn: ProveHer - Badass Women in Business
• Website: Badasswomeninbusinesspodcast.com
• Athena: athenaac.com

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In this episode of Badass Women in Business, Christine Watts, Chief of Staff at Ninety, shares her journey from being the first employee to helping scale a company to nearly 200 team members. Christine dives into how Ninety keeps its remote culture thriving through intentional rituals, core values, and leadership alignment. She discusses her personal growth, the challenges of wearing multiple hats, and the importance of creating clarity and connection within a fast-growing organization. Christine’s unique perspective offers insights on balancing work-life priorities, fostering team productivity, and empowering small businesses through effective planning tools.

Show Notes:

• Introduction to Christine Watts: Chief of Staff at Ninety and the company’s first employee.
• Remote Culture Success: Ninety’s commitment to core values through Slack shout-outs, bi-weekly meetings, and an annual in-person retreat.
• Scaling Challenges: Christine shares the importance of clarity in roles and the use of tools like Kolbe assessments to align team strengths.
• Personal Growth: From marketing to client success and now a leadership role, Christine emphasizes adaptability and the power of trusting your instincts.
• Planning for Success: How Ninety’s tools help small businesses achieve clarity and alignment, enabling them to work on the business, not just in it.
• Balancing Priorities: Christine discusses how field hockey and intentional self-care fuel her productivity.
• Advice for Listeners: Trust your perspective and value your unique contributions, especially in the face of new challenges.

Connect with Christine Watts:

• Ninety.io
• LinkedIn - Christine Watts

Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations on Badass Women in Business!

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If you loved this episode, drop us a review, share it with a badass woman in your life, and subscribe to Badass Women in Business wherever you get your podcasts.

Stay badass. Stay bold. Build it your way.

Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:

• Facebook: Empowered Women Leaders  
• Instagram: @badass_women_in_business
• LinkedIn: ProveHer - Badass Women in Business
• Website: Badasswomeninbusinesspodcast.com
• Athena: athenaac.com

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In this episode of Badass Women in Business, Jackie Keller, Founding Director of NutriFit LLC and a health and wellness expert, shares her inspiring journey of blending passion and purpose into a 37-year-long entrepreneurial career. Motivated by personal loss, Jackie has dedicated her life to helping others achieve better health and longevity through nutrition, wellness coaching, and sustainable practices. From running multiple businesses with her husband to emphasizing customer care and evolving her business model, Jackie offers invaluable insights into building a purpose-driven company while fostering genuine connections.

Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs? Follow your heart, evolve with your clients, and never stop looking for ways to make your passion a reality.

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Notes

• Background and Mission: Jackie’s father’s early death from heart disease inspired her to help others lead longer, healthier lives.
• Entrepreneurial Path: Starting NutriFit in 1987, she evolved from fitness and nutrition coaching to catering, culinary education, and board-certified health coaching.
• Customer-Centric Approach: Jackie's focus on personalized service and building authentic relationships has been key to NutriFit’s longevity and success.
• Sustainability and Growth: She incorporates sustainable practices and emphasizes the importance of evolving with market needs to stay relevant.
• Business Lessons: Jackie underscores the importance of resilience, adaptability, and creating a business that aligns with personal values.
• Wisdom for Listeners: "Follow your heart in business. If your heart isn’t in it, you’re in the wrong business."

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Contact Information

• Website: NutriFit LLC
• LinkedIn: Jackie Keller
• Instagram: @coachjackiekeller

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with Jackie Keller, and stay tuned for more empowering stories on Badass Women in Business!

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Subscribe and Review
If you loved this episode, drop us a review, share it with a badass woman in your life, and subscribe to Badass Women in Business wherever you get your podcasts.

Stay badass. Stay bold. Build it your way.

Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:

• Facebook: Empowered Women Leaders  
• Instagram: @badass_women_in_business
• LinkedIn: ProveHer - Badass Women in Business
• Website: Badasswomeninbusinesspodcast.com
• Athena: athenaac.com

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In this episode of Badass Women in Business, we sit down with Jen Vander Roest, an entrepreneur whose journey embodies sustainability, community preservation, and creative ambition. Jen shares how her background as a land-use planner and nonprofit professional shaped her transition into entrepreneurship, leading to the creation of two thriving ventures: The Flats at Front + Union, a boutique hotel celebrating Traverse City's rich history, and eelo, a sustainable textile brand committed to quality and intentionality.

Jen opens up about the lessons she learned restoring a 126-year-old building, balancing creativity with strategy, and growing businesses alongside her family. She also provides valuable insights into creating products that resonate with consumers, staying true to your values, and the importance of taking risks—no matter where you are in life.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, Jen's story is a testament to grit, perseverance, and the power of building businesses with purpose.

Show Notes

Introduction:

• Meet Jen Vander Roest, founder of The Flats at Front + Union and eelo, combining sustainability, community, and creativity.

Key Themes:

• Entrepreneurship at Any Age: Jen launched her first business in her 40s, proving it’s never too late to start.
• Sustainability Focus: eelo produces high-quality textiles with a commitment to eco-friendly practices.
• Community Roots: Restored a 126-year-old building to create a boutique hotel celebrating Traverse City's history.
• Family Collaboration: Running businesses with her husband and children, balancing roles for success.
• Advice: Take risks, embrace learning, and spend time in nature to spark creativity and maintain balance.

Where to Find Jen:

• The Flats at Front + Union: Website | Instagram
• eelo: Website | Instagram

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Badass Women in Business!

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Subscribe and Review
If you loved this episode, drop us a review, share it with a badass woman in your life, and subscribe to Badass Women in Business wherever you get your podcasts.

Stay badass. Stay bold. Build it your way.

Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:

• Facebook: Empowered Women Leaders  
• Instagram: @badass_women_in_business
• LinkedIn: ProveHer - Badass Women in Business
• Website: Badasswomeninbusinesspodcast.com
• Athena: athenaac.com

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On this episode of Badass Women in Business, hosts Aggie and Cristy sit down with Julie Castro Abrams, the CEO of How Women Lead and How Women Invest. Julie shares her journey of empowering women to break barriers in leadership and investment, the cultural biases that hold women back, and the tangible strategies to rewrite those narratives.

Julie discusses the "middle essence" life stage, a transformative period where women shift from climbing career ladders to seeking meaningful impact. With a network of over 25,000 women, Julie sheds light on the importance of collective action to increase women’s representation on corporate boards and in venture capital. From the power of diverse leadership to practical advice for navigating investments, Julie’s insights resonate deeply with entrepreneurs, executives, and changemakers alike.

Notes:

• Cultural Narratives and Self-Limiting Beliefs:
  • Many powerful women struggle with internalized narratives stemming from early life. Julie highlights the need to identify and rewrite these stories.
  • Confidence is a key element for breaking through these barriers.
• The "Middle Essence" Life Stage:
  • A period in life (mid-40s to 70s) when women focus on making an impact and building meaningful connections.
  • Women need peers who can inspire and support them at this stage.
• Women on Corporate Boards:
  • Julie’s work has helped drive initiatives to increase the number of women on corporate boards, leading to better financial performance and decision-making.
  • Companies with diverse boards disrupt groupthink and are better positioned for long-term success.
• Investment and Economic Power:
  • Women are underrepresented in venture capital, receiving just 1.8% of funding in 2023.
  • Julie advocates for women to invest in women-led companies and funds to shift this imbalance.
• Angel Investing vs. Venture Funds:
  • Angel investing involves direct investments into startups, often high-risk but with potential for personal connection.
  • Venture funds offer diversification and professional management, reducing individual risk.
• Julie’s Leadership Philosophy:
  • Empowering women requires collective action and accountability.
  • Her initiatives like #GetOnBoard and The New Table aim to create systemic change by mobilizing women in leadership and investment.

Connect with Julie Castro Abrams:

• Website: How Women Lead | How Women Invest
• LinkedIn: Julie Castro Abrams | How Women Lead
• Instagram: @HowWomenLead
• Facebook: How Women Lead

Tune in for actionable insights and strategies to fuel your leadership journey and expand your impact in business. Stay badass!

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Subscribe and Review
If you loved this episode, drop us a review, share it with a badass woman in your life, and subscribe to Badass Women in Business wherever you get your podcasts.

Stay badass. Stay bold. Build it your way.

Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:

• Facebook: Empowered Women Leaders  
• Instagram: @badass_women_in_business
• LinkedIn: ProveHer - Badass Women in Business
• Website: Badasswomeninbusinesspodcast.com
• Athena: athenaac.com

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In this episode of Badass Women in Business, Aggie and Cristy sit down with Ksenia Zaykova, Founder of Node Communications and Chief Communications Officer at AngelsDeck Global Ventures. Ksenia shares her journey in helping women entrepreneurs navigate communication challenges and the biases they face in male-dominated spaces. She offers actionable advice on refining communication skills, building relationships with investors, and staying authentic while pitching and leading.

Key Points:

1. Who Is Ksenia Zaykova?

• Founder of Node Communications and CCO at AngelsDeck Global Ventures.
• Partner at NVC Global Consulting, advising startups on communication strategies and pitching.
• 12+ years of experience helping female-led businesses achieve seven-figure success.

2. The Gender Lens in Communication:

• Women face stereotypes in how they communicate, often labeled “too soft” or “too assertive.”
• Ksenia shares tips for balancing strength and authenticity in verbal and nonverbal communication.
• Practical tools to navigate these biases and focus on building trust.

3. Mastering the Pitch:

• Research is key—know your audience and tailor your message to their values and focus.
• Replace “fake it till you make it” with “rehearse until you own it.”
• Use calm confidence and body language to make an impact.

4. Building Relationships in Business:

• Success is built on trust, not transactions.
• Ksenia emphasizes the importance of genuine storytelling to create meaningful connections with investors and clients.

5. Ksenia’s Journey:

• From corporate PR to building her own firm, Ksenia’s story is one of resilience and adaptation.
• Her biggest lesson: balancing strong opinions with client collaboration for better results.

Takeaway:

Whether you’re pitching investors or leading a team, being prepared, authentic, and focused on building real connections makes all the difference.

Connect with Ksenia:

• Website: Node Communications
• LinkedIn: Ksenia Zaykova
• Instagram: @heyimksenia

Discover more about Ksenia’s work in communication strategies, venture capital, and empowering women entrepreneurs.

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Tune in for practical strategies, personal stories, and advice to help you navigate the world of business with confidence. Don’t forget to rate and review Badass Women in Business!
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Subscribe and Review
If you loved this episode, drop us a review, share it with a badass woman in your life, and subscribe to Badass Women in Business wherever you get your podcasts.

Stay badass. Stay bold. Build it your way.

Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:

• Facebook: Empowered Women Leaders  
• Instagram: @badass_women_in_business
• LinkedIn: ProveHer - Badass Women in Business
• Website: Badasswomeninbusinesspodcast.com
• Athena: athenaac.com

Send us Fan Mail

In this inspiring episode of Badass Women in Business, we sit down with Miranda K. Hawkins, President and Owner of Hawkins Gordon, an all-female estate planning law firm, and founder of Miranda K. Hawkins Coaching LLC. Miranda shares how her experience as a top-rated attorney and community leader led her to become a certified professional coach, guiding women professionals through life’s biggest transitions.

Miranda opens up about overcoming fear, tackling imposter syndrome, and following “positive energy” to create clarity and growth in her life. From balancing her law practice, coaching business, and leadership roles to redefining prenuptial agreements as a tool for clarity—not conflict—Miranda offers actionable advice on building a life and career that align with your values.

Whether you’re navigating career changes, starting a business, or simply striving to find balance, this episode will inspire you to trust your intuition, ask for support, and embrace the journey with confidence.

Show Notes:

1. Meet Miranda K. Hawkins:

• President of Hawkins Gordon (estate planning) & Founder of Miranda K. Hawkins Coaching LLC.
• Recognitions: Best Lawyers in America, Colorado Super Lawyers, “AV” Martindale-Hubbell Rating.
• Past President, Colorado Women’s Bar Association.

2. Estate Planning Essentials:

• Not just for the wealthy—key during life transitions.
• Prenuptial agreements: proactive tools for clarity and protection.

3. Attorney to Transition Coach:

• Inspired by her leadership coach during a challenging personal chapter.
• Supports women through transitions: career, business growth, and leadership.

4. Overcoming Fear & Self-Doubt:

• Challenge assumptions: “What evidence do you have?”
• Follow positive energy: prioritize what lights you up.

5. Balancing it All:

• Prioritize, set boundaries, and ask for help.

6. Supporting Women:

• Foster confidence and clarity by surrounding yourself with peers and mentors.

7. Key Takeaways:

• Follow the positive energy: Trust your intuition and pursue what excites you.
• Ask for support: Whether through coaching, mentorship, or community, you don’t have to navigate transitions alone.
• Embrace imperfect growth: Life transitions can feel messy, but clarity comes from taking one step at a time.

Connect with Miranda Hawkins:

• Website: www.mirandakhawkins.com
• LinkedIn: Miranda K. Hawkins Coaching
• Law Practice: Hawkins Gordon

Final Thought:

Miranda Hawkins reminds us that life’s biggest transitions—whether personal or professional—are opportunities for growth. By following your intuition, trusting your energy, and seeking the right support, you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

🎧 Tune in, follow your positive energy, and—most importantly—stay badass.

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Subscribe and Review
If you loved this episode, drop us a review, share it with a badass woman in your life, and subscribe to Badass Women in Business wherever you get your podcasts.

Stay badass. Stay bold. Build it your way.

Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:

• Facebook: Empowered Women Leaders  
• Instagram: @badass_women_in_business
• LinkedIn: ProveHer - Badass Women in Business
• Website: Badasswomeninbusinesspodcast.com
• Athena: athenaac.com

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In this extraordinary episode of Badass Women in Business, Aggie and Cristy sit down with Melissa Gilbert and Nicole Haase, the visionary co-founders of Modern Prairie. What started as a business idea to support women in their "middle essence" has evolved into a thriving community focused on connection, empowerment, and meaningful storytelling. Melissa and Nicole share the journey of building Modern Prairie, the challenges of creating a community-first brand, and their commitment to serving women through authenticity, vulnerability, and collaboration. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a seasoned professional, or someone seeking inspiration, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered to embrace imperfection and lean into your passions.

Introduction

• Meet Melissa Gilbert, a multi-faceted entrepreneur, actor, and former Screen Actors Guild president, and Nicole Haase, a brand strategist and retail expert. Together, they co-founded Modern Prairie, a brand and community for women over 50.

Key Topics Discussed

• The Origin Story: How a shared passion for community and connections sparked Modern Prairie.
• Reimagining Aging: Breaking societal norms and empowering women to embrace their prime.
• Community-First Business Model: Insights into building a supportive, judgment-free space for women.
• Authenticity in Branding: Why listening and engaging with their audience is at the heart of Modern Prairie’s growth.
• The Importance of Vulnerability: Melissa and Nicole open up about navigating conflict and building trust in their partnership.
• Products with Purpose: From heirloom-quality items to events that inspire, Modern Prairie is redefining what it means to serve their audience.
• Navigating the Entrepreneurial Journey: Lessons learned about boundaries, balance, and staying true to their mission.

Quotes to Remember

• “Perfection is a disease. Embrace imperfection—it’s what makes things special.” – Melissa Gilbert
• “You have to ask yourself why you’re building a community and be ready to embrace both the good and the bad.” – Nicole Haase
• “Stay curious. That’s the key to staying vibrant and excited in life.” – Melissa Gilbert

Why You Should Listen

This episode isn’t just about building a business—it’s about creating a legacy, fostering meaningful relationships, and finding beauty in imperfection. Melissa and Nicole share practical advice, heartfelt stories, and powerful lessons that will resonate with anyone striving to make an impact.

Links to Connect

• Modern Prairie Website
• Modern Prairie on Instagram
• Modern Prairie on Facebook

Closing Thoughts
Whether you’re pivoting in your career or seeking deeper connections in your community, Melissa and Nicole’s journey will inspire you to embrace your true self and step boldly into the next chapter of life.

STAY BADASS!

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Subscribe and Review
If you loved this episode, drop us a review, share it with a badass woman in your life, and subscribe to Badass Women in Business wherever you get your podcasts.

Stay badass. Stay bold. Build it your way.

Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:

• Facebook: Empowered Women Leaders  
• Instagram: @badass_women_in_business
• LinkedIn: ProveHer - Badass Women in Business
• Website: Badasswomeninbusinesspodcast.com
• Athena: athenaac.com

Send us Fan Mail

In this inspiring episode of Badass Women in Business, we sit down with the powerhouse team at MYB Inc., a family-owned, woman-led business dedicated to empowering employers with informed hiring decisions. Christina Caruso, Shelby Caruso, and Molly Scott share the story of their company’s evolution, rooted in a legacy of trust and innovation started by their mother, Karen Caruso. They discuss the unique dynamics of running a family business, balancing personal and professional lives, and their mission to provide exceptional customer service in an increasingly automated world. From overcoming sexism in the workplace to embracing their roles as leaders and mothers, this episode is packed with laughter, insights, and actionable advice for entrepreneurs and leaders alike.

Show Notes:

• Introduction:
  Meet Christina Caruso (Director of Operations), Shelby Caruso (Director of Sales and Marketing), and Molly Scott (Director of Production) from MYB Inc., a leading background screening and EEO services company.
  
  
• The Legacy of MYB Inc.:
  • Founded by Karen Caruso in 1996, MYB started as a passion project to empower employers and protect families.
  • Karen’s journey from private investigator to trailblazing entrepreneur set the foundation for MYB’s values of trust, accuracy, and customer care.
• The Dynamics of a Family Business:
  • Honest communication and shared passion drive their success.
  • The pros and cons of working with family, including the inability to "turn it off."
• Empowering Women in Business:
  • Each leader shares how their personal experiences shape their leadership style.
  • Overcoming sexism and building confidence in a male-dominated industry.
• Customer Service as a Differentiator:
  • Why MYB’s hands-on, human-first approach sets them apart from competitors.
  • The importance of building trust with clients and applicants through personalized support.
• Building on Karen’s Vision:
  • Continuing the legacy of prioritizing employee well-being and flexibility.
  • Expanding MYB’s reach while staying true to its core values.
• Advice for Entrepreneurs and Leaders:
  • Christina: Focus on personal growth as a foundation for professional success.
  • Molly: Confidence is key—don’t let sexism or doubt derail your goals.
  • Shelby: Take the leap and don’t let self-doubt dictate your path.
• Closing Inspiration:
  • The MYB team shares their excitement for the future and their dedication to maintaining their mother’s legacy while carving their own path as leaders.

Links:

• MYB Inc. Website
• MYB Inc. on Facebook
• MYB Inc. on LinkedIn

Don’t miss this empowering episode about legacy, leadership, and family in business—stay badass!

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Subscribe and Review
If you loved this episode, drop us a review, share it with a badass woman in your life, and subscribe to Badass Women in Business wherever you get your podcasts.

Stay badass. Stay bold. Build it your way.

Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:

• Facebook: Empowered Women Leaders  
• Instagram: @badass_women_in_business
• LinkedIn: ProveHer - Badass Women in Business
• Website: Badasswomeninbusinesspodcast.com
• Athena: athenaac.com