Cleveland Mompreneur Guide Podcast

Everybody has an opinion about chartreuse. Try this: mention the color to the next person you talk to -- we bet they'll tell you precisely how they feel about it and give you a detailed backstory why they feel that way. Somehow everybody has a chartreuse story.

“Great branding and design strategy makes someone want to do something. It makes movement." That's how Charity D'Amato-Crawford described her creative philosophy to us when she stopped by the Mompreneur Co Studio this week. Her design studio, Studio Chartreuse, is proof of that philosophy in action. She's been keeping people in Cleveland talking about chartreuse for 20 years.

Charity sat down with us for an hour to chat about those 20 years she’s spent running her design studio and refining her principles for her creative services. She talked to us about the behind-the-scenes for making some of the most creative brands and designs in Cleveland, the crazy coincidence the happened the day she told the team she was pregnant, and — of course — the chartreuse story.

SHOW NOTES

Learn more about Charity & Studio Chartreuse:

• Studio Chartreuse Website


• Start sparking more conversations about your business -- work with Charity!


• Follow Studio Chartreuse on IG: @studio_chartreuse

SUBSCRIBE + REVIEW SO YOU DON’T MISS A THING

• Apple


• Spotify

Follow us on Instagram: @mompreneur_co

Check out our Podcast Studio for Mompreneurs

Book a Studio Tour

Learn about our Mom Podcasting Retreats

Join the Mompreneur Directory

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tuningin.substack.com/subscribe

I'm SO pumped to share this episode with you! I had the pleasure of hosting the brilliant Kaitie Nickel in studio (a.k.a. the creative mind behind Cleveland Vibes.)

We had an engaging conversation about our shared love for Cleveland, the power of local businesses and the unique bond we share as mom entrepreneurs.

Here are some highlights from our conversation:

Cleveland: A Love Story

Kaitie, originally not from Cleveland, moved to the city seven years ago and fell head over heels for it. Her husband, a Cleveland native, had always spoken raved about it, but it wasn't until she experienced it herself that she truly understood what we're all about.

Kaitie saw the untapped potential and the disconnect between the national perception and the reality of Cleveland. This inspired her to create Cleveland Vibes, a platform highlighting local businesses and all that makes Cleveland so special.

The Entrepreneurial Rollercoaster:

Kaitie and I chatted about our journey into entrepreneurship and motherhood... and what a pivot that is. We candidly shared how we're transitioning from focusing on our own needs to prioritizing our family and business. It's a constant balancing act, but Kaitie has found that having her husband, Kyle, join the team has been a huge help.

Widening Your Businesses Lens:

Kaitie had a mic drop moment when she shared how she always knew this platform needed more voices. That she could never "share the full picture of Cleveland on her own." She believes in the importance of having multiple perspectives to truly represent our city. That's why she's grown Cleveland Vibes into a diverse team, not just including her husband and brother, but other fresh voices to help grow the business too.

Instagram Magic:

Kaitie shared some valuable BTS insights on how she's created content that goes viral. My biggest takeaway: the power of storytelling to create truly engaging Reels.

BTS: Future Plans:

Kaitie even shared a sneak peek on the newest arm of their business... a way to help local business and content creators grow with ease.

This conversation is filled with passion, inspiration, and a shared love for our city- you're going to love it!

Learn more about Cleveland Vibes:

• Cleveland Vibes Website


• Contact them about Vibe House


• Follow them on IG: @clevelandvibes

SUBSCRIBE + REVIEW SO YOU DON’T MISS A THING

• Apple


• Spotify

Follow us on Instagram: @mompreneur_co

Check out our Podcast Studio for Mompreneurs

Book a Studio Tour

Learn about our Mom Podcasting Retreats

Join the Mompreneur Directory

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tuningin.substack.com/subscribe

Today's episode is an inspiring conversation with two extraordinary women, Andria Loczi and Anne Hartnett. They are the founders of Harness Collective (a commercial real estate and business consulting firm for brick and mortar businesses), the Vitrolite Building (an 18,000 sqft neighborhood space for local makers, professionals and families in the heart of Hingetown) and Harness Cycle.

These ladies have breathed new life into the historic Vitrolite Building- a space formerly closed to the public that was breaking up a newly vibrant section of Ohio City. However now it's nothing short of lively. They've transformed it into a wellness-focused space that not only supports other local businesses (like Patron Saint- an all day Italian Inspired Cafe, the Momprenuer owned Soul Yoga Studio, and the brand that started it all- Harness Cycle) but does it with moms and families in mind.

I had the privilege of hearing Andria and Anne's rollercoaster journey in bringing this building to life. It's not only one we can all relate to (filled with synchronicities, growth and a deep conviction in their vision) but it's also one we can learn a lot from too.

Specifically we chatted through:

• Expanding a business amidst the pandemic


• Finding strength in partnership


• and, of course, striking a flow between biz + mom life

If you haven't visited the Vitrolite yet... you need to get yourself there ASAP! And if you have- then you know just how special this conversation is.

A true testament to the incredible things that happen when we, as women and mothers, harness our potential and work towards our goals.

TIMESTAMPS TO TUNE INTO:

Introduction to Andria's Entrepreneurial Journey [00:03:23]

Andria shares her story of becoming an entrepreneur, her involvement in an online magazine business and after being a long time Harness Cycle rider and then instructor- eventually partnering with Anne.

Introduction to Anne's Entrepreneurial Journey [00:07:08]

Anne shares her journey as an entrepreneur, starting with the creation of Harness Cycle and the birth of her children.

The importance of vision and values [00:10:55]

Discussion on the significance of having a clear vision and shared values in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship and balancing personal and professional life.

Trusting the process and following intuition [00:14:28]

Exploration of the role of trusting the process and making decisions based on gut feelings, even in the face of uncertainty and chaos.

Finding a CEO and partnership [00:18:11]

Golden Nugget Spot- Anne shares a story of how her mentor suggested finding a COO for Harness Cycle business, leading to the realization that the perfect candidate was already within her community- "you already know your next COO."

The "Unique Moment in Time" [00:19:11]

The ladies discuss the unique moment when they realized they wanted to work together and pursue a bigger vision for their business.

The Pause and Structure [00:20:19]

The pandemic caused a pause in their plans, giving them time to put more structure behind their aspirations before moving forward.

The Vision and Conviction

[00:23:19]

Anne + Andria talk about their vision for the Vitrolite, an historic building in the Ohio City neighborhood, and how their conviction and belief in the vision propelled them forward.

The vision for Harness Cycle [00:29:32]

Anne shared the vision for Harness Cycle and the process of acquiring a building for their business.

Revisiting the guiding compass [00:32:13]

We shared our joint agreement in the importance of revisiting your guiding compass and defining your purpose, vision, values, and beliefs.

The role of vision in entrepreneurship [00:35:29]

The significance of revisiting and staying true to their vision, and how it affects their work and life as entrepreneurs and mothers.

The Vitrolight and its tenants [00:37:08]

Anne describes the Vitrolite building and its current operational status, including tenants such as Harness Cycle, Patron Saint, and Soul Yoga.

Community development and the vision of Harness Collective [00:38:32]

Anne discusses the mission of Harness Collective to support emerging brick and mortar entrepreneurs and create paths to equity in commercial real estate ownership.

Taking a pause and focusing on the big vision [00:40:37]

The ladies share the importance of taking a break, reflecting, and being intentional in order to stay true to their vision and make strategic decisions.

Clarity and Core Desired Feelings [00:46:15]

I discussed the concept of core desired feelings and the struggle to find clarity in their life and work.

Opportunities and Expansion [00:47:12]

Andria talks about the opportunities for growth and impact in their neighborhood and beyond, expressing excitement for the future.

Learn more about The Vitrolite and Harness Collective:

• Vitrolite Website


• Harness Cycle


• Follow them on IG: @the.vitrolite

Show Notes


SUBSCRIBE + REVIEW SO YOU DON’T MISS A THING

• Apple


• Spotify

Follow us on Instagram: @mompreneur_co

Check out our Podcast Studio for Mompreneurs

Book a Studio Tour

Learn about our Mom Podcasting Retreats

Join the Mompreneur Directory

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tuningin.substack.com/subscribe

In this inspiring episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Shari Hunter of Two & Company, a family-run, mission-driven company based right here in Chagrin Falls, OH. Let me tell you…. her story is truly inspiring.

Shari's journey as a mom and entrepreneur started with a love for her son, Derek, and a mission to make sure his medical diagnosis of Downs Syndrome never defined who he is. In supporting Derek, Shari realized there are so many other amazing men and women in our community who are looking for the same encouragement, support, inclusion and equity that she offered her son.

Enter, Two & Company, where Shari and her team (including her 3 kids: Derek, Tiffany and Christian) not only run a cafe and boutique but use those spaces as job training grounds for those they serve. Through job readiness programs, Two & Company helps their graduates learn new skills, uncover their passions and then, through their partnerships with over 80 companies here in Cleveland, finds them a job they’ll love- kickstarting their independence journey.

During our conversation, we specifically dove into:

• the power of inclusivity,


• the significance of hands-on learning


• and the results they’ve seen when pairing these together.

Shari believes that everyone deserves to be seen for who they truly are, beyond any labels or limitations. Her vision for The Two is all about building a community that embraces diversity and celebrates the unique strengths of each individual.

Let's support The Two and help build a community where everyone is valued and empowered.

Learn more about Two & Company:

• Two & Company Website


• Donate to their Capital Campaign


• Follow them on IG: @2andcompany

SUBSCRIBE + REVIEW SO YOU DON’T MISS A THING

• Apple


• Spotify

Follow us on Instagram: @mompreneur_co

Check out our Podcast Studio for Mompreneurs

Book a Studio Tour

Learn about our Mom Podcasting Retreats

Join the Mompreneur Directory

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tuningin.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, I had the chance to sit down with Ellen Velez and Sarah Filipovitz from Flipfort in our FIRST in-studio interview- kicking off our Cleveland Mompreneurs Season. These amazing ladies are not only Cleveland moms but also insanely creative entrepreneurs.

I loved chatting about:

• the wild ride of launching a business during a pandemic


• what it's like finding the right business partner


• and, of course, the struggles of finding that "perfect" balance between motherhood and entrepreneurship

My favorite thing about Ellen and Sarah is: how they leverage the power of support and community to grow their business in such unique ways. From reaching out to others for guidance to cultivating their own tribe through relationship building to leaning on local Cleveland Business Incubators like MAGNET- they shared that: "It's all about having that network of people who have your back and can cheer you on through the ups and downs."

If you're a mompreneur who's looking to connect with women who just GET you and what you're going through- then this chat we had is for YOU!

TIMESTAMPS

Introductions and Backgrounds [00:02:01]

Introduction of Ellen Velez and Sarah Filipovitz, their roles as moms and entrepreneurs, and their experiences with launching businesses during the pandemic.

The journey of becoming partners [00:08:54]

Sarah + Ellen discuss how they became partners, their journey so far, and the importance of seeking advice from others.

The importance of finding support [00:10:10]

Sarah, Ellen and Megan talk about the need for support in both mom life and entrepreneur life, and the challenge of finding a supportive community.

Starting a business during a pandemic [00:13:48]

Sarah + Ellen share their decision to start a business together, the challenges they faced during the pandemic, and their desire to make a positive impact in their community.

The idea and conviction [00:17:55]

Megan discusses the importance of having conviction and vision in your business and how it drives you forward.

Trusting your gut and adapting [00:21:44]

Collectively, Megan, Sarah + Ellen talk about the importance of trusting your instincts, being open to change, and not letting ego get in the way of making necessary adjustments.

Challenges and timeline [00:23:26]

Sarah + Ellen dive into the timeline of their business idea, the challenges of surviving and managing their businesses and personal lives during the pandemic and the impact the pandemic had on their manufacturing.

Working with Magnet [00:29:07]

Sarah + Ellen talk about their collaboration with Magnet, a nonprofit organization that provides support and resources to encourage more manufacturing startups and entrepreneurs here in Cleveland.

The next steps for FlipFort [00:31:50]

Sarah + Ellen discuss their plans to expand their business, including social media marketing, approaching shops for wholesale, and getting their products on Amazon.

SHOW NOTES

Learn more about FlipFort:

• FlipFort Website


• Use Code: mompreneurco15 for 15% off


• Follow them on IG: @theflipfort

SUBSCRIBE + REVIEW SO YOU DON’T MISS A THING

• Apple


• Spotify

Follow us on Instagram: @mompreneur_co

Check out our Podcast Studio for Mompreneurs

Learn about our Mom Podcasting Retreats

Join the Mompreneur Directory

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tuningin.substack.com/subscribe

🎉 Kicking Off Season 5 in Style… Cleveland style that is!

I can’t believe that we're already launching our fifth season! 🤯 It's been an incredible two-year journey of growth, inspiration, and celebration of the mompreneur journey, and I'm so grateful to have you along for the ride.🥰

This season we’re switching things up and going local! 📍 We're focusing on the amazing Cleveland-based mompreneurs who are making waves in our community. Their stories, insights, and practical tips have left me with so many golden nuggets so get your pens and notebooks ready!

But that's not all! This season will also give you a chance to experience our brand new Mompreneur Co. Podcast Studio first hand.😍

🥳 Hear the mics, see the difference in conversation, feel the magic of the spaces we’re in and all that we’re creating… and know that when you’re ready to get consistent and batch your content in a space that allows your ideas to flow with the support of a creative team that’s got your back- we’re here for you!👍🏻

Because we’re SO MUCH STRONGER when we link arms together 💪

Here's a sneak peek of our next couple of episodes:

✨The Pandemic Pivot with @flipfort

✨ Leaving a Legacy with @twocompany

✨ Creating with Conviction with @the.vitrolite

….. and many more to come!

Ready to dive into this new season with me?

Make sure to subscribe to the Mompreneur Guide podcast and let's make Season 5 the best one yet!

SUBSCRIBE + REVIEW SO YOU DON’T MISS A THING

• Apple


• Spotify

Follow us on Instagram: @mompreneur_co

Check out our Podcast Studio for Mompreneurs

Learn about our Mom Podcasting Retreats

Join the Mompreneur Directory

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tuningin.substack.com/subscribe

Book on your heart but no clue where to start? That's what Nena Madonia Oshman from @thenominategroup is here for 🎉

As a literary agent and mom of 3, Nena sees firsthand how important publishing is...

Which is why she joined us today to share:

• What it really takes to publish a book (as a mom)


• Why she believes everyone should write one


• And her secret sauce for closing 300 book deals to major publishing houses and earning over $7 million dollars in advances per year for her authors, most of which have become bestsellers around the world and several box office blockbusters

If you're a mompreneur who's had "write a book" on her vision board for far too long- then this chat we had is for YOU!

Learn more about Nena:

• Nena's Website


• Follow her on IG: @thenominategroup @nenamoshman

SHOW NOTES

SUBSCRIBE + REVIEW SO YOU DON’T MISS A THING

• Apple


• Spotify

Follow us on Instagram: @mompreneur_co

Check out our Podcast Studio for Mompreneurs

Learn about our Mom Podcasting Retreats

Join the Mompreneur Directory

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tuningin.substack.com/subscribe

Memberships are not a new topic of conversation... however, I'm guessing when you hear that word a specific business model (that you're not interested in comes to mind.)

The low ticket, high effort, never-ending content kind...

@presentprofitablemom Tabitha has good news for you- Membership models are changing for the better which is why she joined us today to share:

• How memberships in 2023 are different (+ now completely unique to you- the mompreneur)


• The 3 basic pillars that successful and profitable memberships these days have


• And how the offer you're currently selling might be membership material with one little tweak (that saves you hours of time + makes you so much more money)

If you're a mompreneur who's craving consistent, sustainable, scalable profit doing work you love 10 hours a week- then this chat we had is for YOU!

SHOW NOTES

Learn more about Tabitha:

• Tune into the Present Profitable Mom Podcast


• Snag her FREE Design Your Membership Trello Board using code: MEGAN


• Check out her FREE Membership Success Roadmap


• Tune into her FREE Membership Masterclass: 3 Secrets to Multiplying Your Income, but NOT Your Work Hours!


• Tabitha's Website


• The TikTok Tabitha Shared About

Follow her on:

• IG: @presentprofitablemom


• TikTok: @presentprofitablemom


• Facebook: @tabitha.crocker2

SUBSCRIBE + REVIEW SO YOU DON’T MISS A THING

• Apple


• Spotify

Follow us on Instagram: @mompreneur_co

Check out our Podcast Studio for Mompreneurs

Learn about our Mom Podcasting Retreats

Join the Mompreneur Directory

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tuningin.substack.com/subscribe

In just a few days we're getting the keys to the studio😍

We're beyond excited and also felt it was about time to share the behind the scenes scoop not just on how we've made this happen but how we executed so quickly.

So in this episode I share:

• How to go from filling up your notes doc with shiny idea syndrome to getting them done


• How to enjoy the messy middle when the initial excitement wears off


• And where we're at now as we pivot from trusting in our idea to sharing it so amazing women like you believe in it too

PART TWO is also on the horizon as we go from vision to visible to actually converting that idea into the clients and sales we're looking for.

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS + Q'S ON THIS INSTAGRAM POST

SHOW NOTES

SUBSCRIBE + REVIEW SO YOU DON’T MISS A THING

• Apple


• Spotify

Follow us on Instagram: @mompreneur_co

Check out our Podcast Studio for Mompreneurs

Join the Mompreneur Directory

Contribute to our Upcoming Book

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tuningin.substack.com/subscribe

My friend @sarah_marie_bilger of the @entering_motherhood and I were recently chatting about mom life when she shared a powerful statement with me. 👇🏻

"My mom passed when I was 9. So when my first child, my daughter, was born 20 years later so much disconnect came up for me. I went into motherhood thinking: What does being a Mom look like? Who am I? Who should I be? What do I want to be? I have memories of me and my mom, but it's not those long lasting ones. And it left me thinking: How can I ensure that she's going to remember me? What parts of me do I want to pass down to her?"

Her story stopped me in my tracks because this is SUCH a big, important conversation, intentional mompreneurs like us like to and need to have.💕

So in this part Business Chat + part Mom Chat and we got really honest...

Sarah shared:

• What being a mom looks like to her


• What she wants to pass down to her kids


• And how navigating generational relationships can make the next generation that much stronger

If you're a mompreneur who's craving more connection with herself (+ the mom she wants to be) then this chat we had is for YOU!

Learn more about Sarah:

• Tune into the Entering Motherhood Podcast


• Snag her FREE Postpartum Guides


• Follow her on IG: @entering_motherhood

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS AND Q'S ON THIS INSTAGRAM POST

SHOW NOTES

SUBSCRIBE + REVIEW SO YOU DON’T MISS A THING

• Apple


• Spotify

Follow us on Instagram: @mompreneur_co

Check out our Podcast Studio for Mompreneurs

Join the Mompreneur Directory

Contribute to our Upcoming Book

Apply for our TV Show

Get in on the Mompreneur Conversation by Becoming a Sponsor

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tuningin.substack.com/subscribe