Ep. 51 Hey Bossys! We’re kicking off 2025 with a vulnerable and unfiltered recap of the rollercoaster that was 2024. From the financial chaos of an election year to the pressures of the holiday season, we’re laying it all out—no sugarcoating, just the real, messy truth of being small business owners.

Kelly Bush shares how the unpredictable economy hit her businesses, Marshall Street and The Union Tavern, while Kelly Metras opens up about navigating huge financial risks of buying I-Square and the constant juggling act of work and family. We’re also diving into how AI is reshaping small businesses (spoiler alert: it’s here to stay!) and how we’re balancing efficiency with the all-important human touch.

Our top three wins of 2024? We’re not bankrupt, we’re not divorced, and our kids are healthy—sometimes, that’s what success looks like. 💪

If you’re ready for honest talk about the challenges, lessons, and little victories of the past year—and how we’re gearing up to crush it in 2025—this episode is for you. 💥

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Thank you to our Sponsors:

Salena's Mexican Restaurant at Village Gate 302 N Goodman St, Rochester, NY 14607 

Tune in to this revealing episode of "Getting Real with Bossy" to explore the real stories behind small business success and the personal growth journeys of our hosts. Join us for more engaging and enlightening discussions throughout 2025!

#GettingRealWithBossy #SmallBusinessLife #Entrepreneurship #WomenInBusiness #2024Recap #BusinessGrowth #AIInBusiness #WorkLifeBalance

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Ep. 50 Is it possible to run a successful bar without serving alcohol? Meg Hartman of Alt Bar thinks so, and she’s changing the game in Rochester, NY. Find out how Meg's innovative non-alcoholic bottle shop and bar is creating a welcoming space for everyone.

Whether you’re a business owner, an advocate for inclusivity, or simply curious about the growing non-alcoholic space, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

Meg takes us on her inspiring journey from starting as a pop-up shop to launching a full-fledged brick-and-mortar space that’s redefining the social drinking experience.

We dive into:

Links and Resources:

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Thank you to our Sponsors:

Salena's Mexican Restaurant at Village Gate 302 N Goodman St, Rochester, NY 14607 

Union Tavern 4565 Culver Rd, Rochester, NY 14622

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Ep. 49 Ever felt like you were at your breaking point? That moment when everything feels like it’s falling apart—but then, the people you’ve touched rally around you in ways you never imagined?

In this heartfelt and raw episode of Getting Real with Bossy, Rosa Marie, entrepreneur and childcare activist, returns to the podcast with a story of resilience, vulnerability, and triumph. Recently, Rosa sent out a public “cry for help” on social media as her business, Marvelous Mind Academy, faced a financial crisis. But instead of defeat, what followed was a powerful outpouring of community support that reinforced her mission to make childcare accessible to all.

With over a decade of experience in child development, Rosa shares how her vision for non-traditional childcare solutions has evolved, especially during the most trying times. From navigating post-pandemic economic shifts to redefining what success looks like, Rosa’s journey is a testament to perseverance and the strength of community.

🎧 How Rosa’s transparency about her struggles ignited a wave of community support

🎧 The innovative ways Marvelous Mind Academy is reshaping childcare with pop-up daycare services

🎧 The personal growth that comes with leading a mission-driven business

🎧 Insights into systemic challenges in childcare—and why change is long overdue

✨ This episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the power of showing up, speaking out, and rallying for a cause.

Loved this episode? Check out Part One:

Ep. 4 The Marvelous Mind of Rosa Marie: Creating Modern Childcare Solutions

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Thank you to our Sponsors:

Salena's Mexican Restaurant at Village Gate 302 N Goodman St, Rochester, NY 14607 

Union Tavern 4565 Culver Rd, Rochester, NY 14622

Resources:

Call Marvelous Minds Academy 585-210-8554

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.marvelousminds.com

Facebook:Marvelous Mind Academy

Find these and more small businesses to shop in the Bossy Directory

Connect with Kelly + Kelly www.BossyRoc.com @BossyRoc

#ChildcareActivism #Entrepreneurship #CommunitySupport #MarvelousMindAcademy #GettingRealWithBossy

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Ep. 48 Explore the heart of Small Business Saturday with Kelly Metras and Kelly Bush as they spotlight Bossy ROC members and their exciting offers. Hear from Tanvi of Shop Peppermint, Lindsey of Laughing All Chocolates, Erika Sorbello of Gallery Salon, Raeanne Lacatera, holistic business coach, Jackie McGriff, photographer and co-producer, Jill Rizzo Budd from Awaken Wellness and Beauty, Kathy from Joe Bean Coffee, and Nicole from Screen Printing by Bowers.

If you're looking to support local, women-owned businesses and want to give unique gifts this Holiday Season, this episode is your go-to resource.

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Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcast, Spotify or Podchaser 

Thank you to our Sponsors:

Salena's Mexican Restaurant at Village Gate 302 N Goodman St, Rochester, NY 14607 

Union Tavern 4565 Culver Rd, Rochester, NY 14622

Resources:

Find these and more small businesses to shop in the Bossy Directory

Connect with Kelly + Kelly www.BossyRoc.com @BossyRoc

#BlackFriday #Sale #ShopSmall #EntrepreneurshipWeek #WomenOwned #SmallBusiness #ShopLocal

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Ep. 47 What does it truly mean to honor Native American heritage? In this eye-opening episode of Getting Real with Bossy, hosts Kelly Bush and Kelly Metras catch up with Angelina Hilton, founder of Native Made and a passionate advocate for Indigenous representation. A proud member of the Sac and Fox Nation, Angelina is on a mission to amplify Indigenous voices in business, art, and beyond. Her story, rooted in cultural pride and entrepreneurial spirit, reveals the impact of visibility and the importance of spaces where Indigenous narratives can thrive.

"I recognized that there was a significant need for representation and services for Indigenous entrepreneurs."

Just in time for Native American Heritage Day, Angelina shares how initiatives like the Native Made Market and the "On Native Land" exhibit in Rochester foster allyship, cultural education, and community empowerment. She discusses the challenges of balancing traditional values with contemporary business and invites us all to think deeper about authentic representation and respect. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to broaden their understanding of Indigenous resilience and discover meaningful ways to engage.

Resources:

Episode 9 Wonder Woman + Her Husband: The Story of Angelina Hilton (2022)

Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, the highest-ranking Indigenous woman serving in a statewide elected office (Minnestoa) and the first to lead the Democratic Lieutenant Governors Association.

Contact Native Made: [email protected]

About the Guest:

Angelina Hilton, an enrolled member of the Sac and Fox Nation of Missouri in Kansas and Nebraska, is the founder of Native Made, an organization dedicated to increasing Indigenous visibility. Angelina is actively involved in various community-focused efforts, including the Indigenous Peoples Day Committee in Rochester, NY, the Indigenous Health Coalition, and Target's Native American and Indigenous Business Council. She also volunteers with the White Corn Project, working towards cultural preservation and food sovereignty. Her passions include advocacy, entrepreneurship, and building community connections. Angelina enjoys photography, writing, travel, spending time in nature, and learning with her family.

Loved this episode?

Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcast, Spotify or Podchaser 

Thank you to our Sponsors:

Salena's Mexican Restaurant at Village Gate 302 N Goodman St, Rochester, NY 14607 

Union Tavern 4565 Culver Rd, Rochester, NY 14622

Connect with Kelly + Kelly www.BossyRoc.com @BossyRoc

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction with Kelly + Kelly

5:48 From PopRoc to Native Made Markets

10:41 Increasing Indigenous Visibility and Inclusivity in Retail Spaces

13:01 Technology and Education

16:28 Curating Native American Art Takes Time and Consideration

17:23 Personal Growth, Resilience, and Authenticity in Challenging Times

20:02 Celebrating Indigenous Voices Through an Immersive Art Exhibit

23:40 Community Events and Growth

27:18 Vision for Native Made Market

28:23 Conclusion

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Ep. 46 In honor of #AmerianBeerDay we are celebrating a woman who saw a need to blend the flavors of Buffalo and Rochester, NY and crafted a community that continues to spart innovation.

Marina Nothnagle’s story is one of passion, challenge, and resilience. Over the years, her relentless dedication has turned Nine Spot Brewing into a hub for beer enthusiasts while fostering a sense of community and collaboration among local businesses. This episode provides valuable insights into the importance of building a supportive network and adapting to changes in the industry.

Marina discusses her partnership with Geva Theater, highlighting the uniqueness of such collaborations, and reiterating the need for continual growth and community engagement. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical lessons on resilience and adaptation in business.

In this episode, you will be able to:

About the Guest:

Marina Nothnagle, the co-founder and visionary behind Nine Spot Brewing, is a dynamic force in the craft brewery industry. Her commitment to sustainability, community, and crafting delicious beers embodies the spirit of upstate New York. As the president of the Monroe Avenue Merchants Association, Marina is dedicated to supporting and enhancing the local business community.

Discover the full story of resilience and creativity by tuning into this episode and stay up-to-date with future conversations from "Getting Real with Bossy" for more inspiring entrepreneurial insights.

In Honor of: American Beer Day , Women in Beer, Workplace Politics Awareness Month , Women's Small Business Month, Speak Up for Service Day

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction Rochester's Craft Beer Scene

2:54 The Journey of Starting Nine Spot Brewing

6:49 From Restaurant Woes to Craft Beer Dreams Amidst Adversity

10:04 Creative Collaborations Boost Brewery's Market Presence

12:53 Struggles and Community Support in the Brewing Industry

17:44 Rochester's Brewing Heritage and Unique Brewery Experiences

19:34 Brewing Creativity: A Theater and Brewery Partnership in Rochester

26:29 Intimate Theater Experiences and Pre-Show Dining Options

28:39 Building Community Bridges Through Business and Personal Resilience

31:00 Creating Community Through New York's Regional Cuisines and Culture

33:45 Crafting Unique Beers and Expanding Nine Spot Brewing's Reach

36:08 The Power of Community and Resilience in Business

39:00 Kelly's recap

41:00 Bossy Co-working 

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Ep. 45 Kelly Bush and Kelly Metras delve into the personal and professional challenges of managing stress and maintaining wellness as business owners. This candid discussion reflects on the real and raw experiences of entrepreneurship, offering listeners honest insights into the journey.

Incorporating key wellness insights, the Kellys share personal anecdotes about how they cope with the overwhelming demands of running businesses in the hospitality sector. Phrases like "stress management," "wellness strategies," "coping mechanisms," and "mental health" are central to the conversation, highlighting common struggles and providing actionable insights.

From laying on the floor to baking as a form of stress relief, they explore various ways to handle stress, including the challenge of managing personal health issues and navigating the loss of loved ones. This episode not only sheds light on personal stories but also emphasizes the resilience needed to thrive in the world of business.

Related Episodes:

2024: A Year of Healing with Kelly Bush + Kelly Metras

Kelly Bush: Working through Trauma

Inside Out Sales: Talking Down Your Inner Critic to Boost Sales

Title Sponsor: Salena’s Mexican Restaurant

Episode sponsors: Marshall Street, Union Tavern

Hosted by Kelly Bush + Kelly Metras

Music: Do it by Infraction, Mellow Bop by Prigida & You are the best by Cutesy Chamber Ensemble 

Produced by JazzCast Pros

Resources:

Bossy ROC Website: bossyroc.com

#womensmallbusinessmonth #businesswomensweek #FoodServiceWorkersWeek #MentalIllnessAwarenessWeek #BossDay #workandfamilymonth

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction 

2:12 Coping Mechanisms and Stress Management in the Hospitality Industry

7:30 Facing Personal Challenges

14:43 Grief, Legacy, and Immortality Through Storytelling

16:38 Entrepreneurship, Mental Health, and Coping with Chaos

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Ep. 44 Running a small business is no easy endeavor, especially when it's an iconic beachfront bar facing a myriad of challenges. In this episode of "Getting Real with Bossy," Kelly Metras and Kelly Bush, have a heartfelt conversation with Francine Beth, the resilient owner of Marge's Lakeside Inn—a historic Rochester institution renowned for its beautiful beachside setting and lively atmosphere.

From navigating through severe flooding, handling the repercussions of the pandemic, to managing daily operational hurdles, Francine's journey is a testament to determination and adaptability.

Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the struggles and triumphs of maintaining a small business in a unique yet demanding environment.

About the Guest

Francine Beth is the dedicated owner of Marge’s Lakeside Inn, a beloved beachside bar on the shores of Lake Ontario in Rochester, NY. As the daughter of Fran Beth, who helped turn Marge’s into a local institution, Francine continues the family legacy, keeping the bar’s iconic charm alive. Known for its stunning views, laid-back vibe, and rich history, Marge’s is one of the few bars situated right on the lake, offering a unique experience for locals and visitors alike. Under Francine’s leadership, Marge’s has weathered challenges like seasonal flooding and the pandemic, remaining a cherished staple in the Rochester community.

Subscribe to Getting Real with Bossy Podcast and join Kelly Bush and Kelly Metras every other Monday as they uncover the inspiring stories behind small business owners in Rochester, NY and beyond.

Title Sponsor: Salena’s Mexican Restaurant

Episode sponsors: Marshall Street, Union Tavern

Hosted by Kelly Bush + Kelly Metras

Music: Do it by Infraction, Mellow Bop by Prigida & You are the best by Cutesy Chamber Ensemble 

Produced by JazzCast Pros

Resources:

Bossy ROC Website: bossyroc.com

Chapters:

0:00 Kelly + Kelly Introduction

5:47 A Family Legacy: Running Marges Bar Through Generations

12:36 Struggles and Resilience in the Hospitality Industry

18:56 Challenges and Triumphs of Running a Beachfront Bar

25:31 Travel Adventures and Music Trips with Francine Beth

32:04 Challenges and Triumphs of Running a Family Business

38:33 Celebrating Marges Lakeside Inn and Rochester's Hidden Gems

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Ep. 43 Kelly Bush and Kelly Metras dive deep into the essence of their podcast, "Getting Real with Bossy." Starting with a nostalgic nod to MTV's groundbreaking reality show "The Real World," the hosts emphasize the importance of presenting a raw, unfiltered view of business life. They discuss their mission to reveal the raw truth of small business ownership, contrasting the glossy facades often portrayed on social media. Hear them dissect the balance between authenticity and oversharing, the impact of social media on entrepreneurs, and how to authentically connect with your audience.

Whether you’re a seasoned business owner or aspiring entrepreneur, this candid episode offers valuable insights and genuine experiences from the frontline of entrepreneurship.

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Ep. 42 ✨Ever wonder what it takes to pivot from a corporate career to owning and operating an experiential retail business? Meet Christina Julian, the visionary behind Rochester’s unique fragrance bar, Scents by Design. 🚀 From navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship during a global pandemic to hosting Taylor Swift album release parties, Christina’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.

Tune in to hear how she turned her passion into a thriving business, embracing creativity, community, and collaboration along the way. 🎧 #GettingRealWithBossy #ScentsByDesign #EntrepreneurLife #BossMoves

Subscribe to Getting Real with Bossy Podcast and join Kelly Bush and Kelly Metras every other Monday as they uncover the inspiring stories behind small business owners in Rochester, NY and beyond.

Title Sponsor: Salena’s Mexican Restaurant

Episode sponsors: Marshall Street, Union Tavern

Hosted by Kelly Bush + Kelly Metras founders of www.BossyRoc.com

Music: Do it by Infraction, Mellow Bop by Prigida & You are the best by Cutesy Chamber Ensemble 

Produced by JazzCast Pros

About the Guest:

Christina Julian, the owner and founder of Scents by Design, was born and raised in Rochester, New York. Christina earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication Management and Design at Ithaca College before beginning a career in Commercial Banking. In 2019, Christina left the corporate world to pursue entrepreneurship. She opened Scents by Design, a pour-your-own candle and custom fragrance bar, in the Neighborhood of the Arts in November of 2020. 

Chapters:

0:00 Welcome from Kelly Metras + Kelly Bush

3:56 Introducing Christina Julian

4:49 From Banking to Custom Candles: A Pandemic Pivot

7:37 Creating Custom Candles and Fragrances for Unique Experiences

11:42 Navigating Business Trends and Consumer Behavior in a Unique Market

14:27 Creating Custom Scents for Emotional and Branding Purposes

18:25 Balancing Ambition and Personal Fulfillment in Business Expansion

21:39 Creative Events and Taylor Swift Album Release Parties

26:43 Balancing Creative Passion and Administrative Tasks in Business

30:40 A Journey of Transformation

35:32 Business Expansion Challenges

41:23 The Importance of Community and Collaboration in Small Business

44:56 Manifesting a Taylor Swift Collaboration with Scents by Design

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