Ep. 28 Mara Smith, the founder of Inspiro Tequila, shares her journey from being a lawyer, to being a stay-at-home mom for 16 years and then starting her own tequila brand. She discusses the challenges of entering a highly regulated industry and the importance of staying true to her vision. Mara also highlights the lack of representation of women in the tequila industry and how she is working to change that by creating a brand that appeals to female consumers. The episode explores the process of tequila production, the significance of being a B Corp, and the Purple Bicycle Project, which supports female founders.

Title Sponsor: Salena’s Mexican Restaurant

Episode sponsors: Salena’s, Marshall Street, Union Tavern

 Focus + Fortify BOSSY Summit in Irondequoit March 11,12 + 18, 19

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

Produced by JazzCast Pros

Chapters:

0:00:00 Introduction with Kelly Metras and Kelly Bush

0:03:19 Welcome Mara Smith

0:04:12 Mara's background as a lawyer and the challenge of balancing big law firm life with having a family

0:06:06 Mara's focus on job security, which led to her transition to corporate strategy

0:07:57 Career pause due to pregnancy and bedrest

0:09:37 Learning flexibility and adaptability from parenting and its connection to running a startup

0:11:01 Choosing tequila as a consumer product and addressing the market opportunity for women

0:13:35 Overcoming challenges as women in male-dominated industries

0:16:36 Navigating the strict regulations and requirements of tequila production

0:18:41 Building an all-female team, including a master distiller, to bring the vision to life

0:20:01 Finding the master distiller, Anna Maria Romero, through research and a shared vision

0:21:06 The importance of the aroma wheel in tequila production and taste profiles

0:22:45 Issues with production and first batch

0:25:02 Tequila production process and the importance of fermentation

0:27:23 Aging tequila in rosé wine barrels and the unique taste profile of reposado from wine barrel aging

0:29:37 Possibility of a limited release añejo

0:30:48 Time-intensive process and aging requirements for different tequila types

0:32:20 Discussion on inspiring entrepreneurship in a highly regulated industry

0:44:20 B Corp certification requires transparency and extensive documentation

0:45:49 The importance of supporting women business owners

0:47:48 Discussion on being called "bossy" as a woman business owner and Mara's expertise in contracts and high-level strategy

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Ep. 27 Explore the intersection between cannabis and alcohol in American social circles as Shelby Poole shares her journey from the restaurant industry to founding Betty Bloom, a mobile social club focused on empowering women about the marijuana plant. The conversation dives into the future of cannabis consumption lounges, the rise of non-alcoholic cocktails, and the need for destigmatization and education.

About the Guest

Shelby Poole is a multi-faceted entrepreneur and thought leader in the burgeoning cannabis industry. As the owner of Betty Bloom Social Club, she brings her background as a restaurateur to develop educational and socially-driven cannabis experiences. With a family history in the hospitality sector and having managed two family restaurants, Shelby stands at the crossroads of cannabis advocacy and community building. Her efforts are directed toward de-stigmatization, education, and shaping a responsible and fun cannabis culture.

Instagram @bettybloomsocialclub

Join the Betty Bloom Social Club

Event March 8th (International Women’s Day) in NYC: Mainstream Mary

Title Sponsor: Salena’s Mexican Restaurant

Episode sponsors: Salena’s, Marshall Street, Union Tavern

 Focus + Fortify BOSSY Summit in Irondequoit March 11,12 + 18, 19

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

Produced by JazzCast Pros

0:00:00 Introduction to Shelby Poole and her work in the cannabis industry

0:03:29 Introduction to the concept of free spirited cocktails

0:06:05 Start of conversation with Shelby Poole

0:08:11 Historical context of the stigma surrounding cannabis

0:09:54 Impact of the war on drugs and the need for cannabis legalization

0:10:40 The changing perception and acceptance of cannabis

0:13:23 Growing up in the hospitality industry

0:16:05 Transitioning from restaurants to working for Anheuser Busch

0:19:20 Creating a successful 420 festival

0:20:58 The intersection of alcohol and cannabis in hospitality

0:21:45 Coming back together after COVID-19 as authentic individuals

0:22:54 Exploring different uses and benefits of cannabis

0:26:07 Dreaming of a different lifestyle

0:26:33 Questioning the definition of success

0:27:49 Launching Betty Bloom

0:30:28 Using Tupperware parties as a model to empower women

0:32:03 Hosting infused dinner and movie events

0:32:22 Planning Mainstream Mary event to destigmatize cannabis

0:36:21 The future of alcohol and cannabis: Allowing liquor license holders to sell cannabis beverages

0:41:00 Dark side of the cannabis industry: Rise of the black market

0:44:48 The correlation between cannabis legalization and violence in Rochester

0:47:36 Shift in societal acceptance of moms smoking cannabis

0:51:59 Efforts of brands to make cannabis more accessible and less intimidating

0:52:47 Shoutouts to Eaton Botanicals and Her Highness as brands doing well in the space

0:54:48 Teaching teens about responsible cannabis use

0:57:10 Comparing the perception of alcohol and cannabis in households

0:58:34 The shift in understanding cannabis as a medicinal alternative

1:00:26 Future plans for Betty Bloom

1:03:07 Tease next podcast guest, Hope

1:04:19 Focus and Fortify event coming in March

1:04:50 Sign-off and contact information

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Erika delves into her recent experiences, including the quest for a new building for her salon, the challenges of navigating the ever-evolving beauty industry, and the joy she derives from her side venture into selling vintage items. Moreover, the episode explores the profound concept of manifestation, touching on how adopting this practice can alter one's personal and professional trajectory.

Title Sponsor: Salena’s Mexican Restaurant

Episode Sponsors: Marshall Street Bar + Grill, The Union Tavern

To sponsor the podcast email [email protected]

Join BOSSY at www.BossyROC.com

Produced by JazzCast Pros

Chapters:

0:00:00 Introduction and discussion about the importance of a good night's sleep

0:02:04 Reflecting on the growth of the business and the connection with Erica

0:04:05 Revisiting Erica's first interview and the progress since then

0:05:22 Erica's recent major pivot and plans for the future

0:06:43 Creating a safe space for the "freaks, geeks, weirdos, and underdogs"

0:08:39 The power of manifestation and self-respect in business success

0:10:09 Erika reflects on the challenges of being in her mid-40s

0:11:03 Erika discusses how parenting has made her a better person

0:11:19 Erika expresses her desire to invent a new tampon

0:13:32 Erika talks about the changes in the salon industry

0:15:36 Erika discusses the importance of pivoting and finding joy in her business

0:17:18 Erika emphasizes the importance of setting goals and saying them out loud

0:19:09 Erika talks about the changing dynamics of customer service

0:20:09 Kelly and Erika discuss the impact of online reviews on businesses

0:30:22 Kelly Bush discusses her struggle with negative thinking and her desire to start manifesting

0:31:31 Kelly Metras explains her belief in the scientific aspect of manifestation and positive thinking

0:33:51 Conclusion: "Be bold, be brave, be the boss"

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Ep. 25 Kelly Bush and Kelly Metras reflect on the challenges and lessons learned in 2023. They discuss the impact of the pandemic on small businesses and the need for continued support and understanding. They also highlight the importance of authenticity, diversity, and sustainability in business practices. The Bossy ROC founders emphasize the need for healing and finding balance in the new year, as well as the power of social media and technology in reaching and connecting with customers. They share their upcoming events and encourage listeners to join their community of supportive small business owners. Be bold, be brave, and be the boss in 2024.

Key Takeaways:

Upcoming Appearances:

January 5th - Leadership Rochester: the Kellys will be speaking on "Leading with Integrity."

March 11,12 + 18, 18 Focus + Fortify BOSSY Summit in Irondequoit

Spring 2024 - The Kellys first Keynote Speech !

Title Sponsor: Salena’s Mexican Restaurant

Episode Sponsors: Marshall Street Bar + Grill, The Union Tavern

To sponsor the podcast email [email protected]

Join BOSSY at www.BossyROC.com

Join BOSSing on Facebook

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

Produced by JazzCast Pros

CHAPTERS:

0:00:00 - Introduction and discussion about the challenges of the year

0:02:35 - Impact of the pandemic on small businesses and the economy

0:03:56 - Personal challenges faced by the speakers and their families

0:05:43 - Navigating business closures and changes

0:06:49 - Dealing with personal loss and unexpected events

0:09:19 - The ongoing impact of a head injury

0:10:08 - Adjusting work methods and asking for understanding

0:11:46 - Need for grace and understanding in the hospitality industry

0:11:49 - Conclusion and reflection on the year's challenges

0:12:17 - The challenge of balancing work and personal life.

0:13:31 - Setting goals for 2024.

0:14:05 - Kelly mentions the importance of reevaluating and redefining her business.

0:15:45 - Kelly and Kelly discuss the challenge of prioritizing tasks.

0:19:25 - Kelly Bush predicts trends in the restaurant industry, including authenticity and diversity.

0:21:35 - Importance of personal connection and sustainability.

0:22:42 - The human touch in business.

0:23:29 - Finding supportive groups and relationships.

0:23:29 - Finding supportive groups and the importance of healing

0:25:06 - Importance of finding a therapist for support

0:26:10 - Letting go of the past and finding balance

0:27:23 - Focus on healing and understanding social media

0:29:06 - Upcoming events and opportunities with Bossy

0:30:13 - Gender inclusivity and support for small businesses

0:32:38 - Contact information and hiring Bossy

0:33:18 - Keeping it real and staying connected in 2024

0:33:37 - Happy New Year and looking forward to the year ahead

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Ep. 24 Happy Holidays! Welcome to a candid conversation with the founders of BOSSY and BOSSING Kelly Bush and Kelly Metras live from Denver! The Kellys attend their first Podcast Movement Conference and reveal what they've learned as well as their excitement and hesitation about using Artificial Intelligence. They also discuss the concept of buying back time by implementing management teams for their food and beverage businesses. Kelly Metras talks about trying out meditation and Kelly Bush discusses handling grief after the loss of her father.

If you've ever wanted to be a fly on the wall during one of Kelly and Kelly's off-the-cuff conversations, this is the episode for you!

To sponsor the podcast email [email protected]

Join BOSSY at www.BossyROC.com

Listen to the episode with the BOSSY Husbands: Elvis + The Pope

GLOSSORY:

KPI: Key performance indicators

SEO: Search engine optimization

CPM: Cost per Milli (thousand)

CHAPT GPT PROMPT (for funsies)

"Three fires in the den"

Title Sponsor: Salena’s Mexican Restaurant

Episode Sponsors: Marshall Street Bar + Grill, The Union Tavern

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

Produced by JazzCast Pros

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 23 Have you heard these common myths about life after High School? Myth #1: You have to go to college to be successful. Myth #2: Your career determines your worth. Myth #3: You have to follow a linear path in life.

In this episode, our guest, Leah Leverich, will debunk these myths and empower you to break free from societal expectations, pursuing personal fulfillment instead.

As she stood amongst her peers, questioning her own future, Leah embarked on a journey that would not only redefine her life but also inspire countless others. But little did she know, the path she would ultimately choose would lead her to a destination she never anticipated.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Meet Our Guest:

Leah Leverich is a young entrepreneur and the host of the Decision Day podcast. Graduating high school in 2022, Leah made the bold decision to veer away from the traditional college path and instead focus on creating her own success. Recognizing the need for resources and support for others in similar situations, she started the Decision Day podcast as a platform to showcase alternative paths to success. Through her interviews with a wide range of individuals, Leah aims to empower young adults by highlighting that there is no linear path to achievement. With her fresh perspective and determination, Leah is inspiring her generation to break free from societal expectations and pursue their own unique paths to fulfillment. 

Instagram @decisiondaypodcast

Listen to BOSSY's interview on the Decision Day Podcast on Spotify

Leahleverich.com

Title Sponsor: Salena’s Mexican Restaurant

Episode Sponsors: Marshall Street Bar + Grill, The Union Tavern

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

Produced by JazzCast Pros

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:01 - Introduction

00:03:32 - The Importance of Generational Perspectives

00:04:47 - Leah's Journey with Decision Day

00:06:26 - Questioning the Traditional Path

00:08:51 - Overcoming Initial Resistance

00:12:28 - Choosing a Career Path

00:14:20 - Entrepreneurship vs. High-Paying Jobs

00:16:30 - Learning Through Experience

00:17:29 - Networking as a Young Entrepreneur

00:20:40 - Confidence and Growth

00:24:01 - Starting the Portfolio and Podcast

00:25:08 - Lack of Support in High School

00:25:58 - Uncertainty in Choosing a Career

00:26:46 - Generation Gap and Changing Careers

00:30:04 - Influence of Parents and College Experience

00:36:10 - The Privilege of College

00:37:00 - Finding One's Path

00:38:04 - Helping Women and Finding Passion

00:38:38 - Advice for Parents

00:40:23 - Leah's Future Plans 

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Ep. 22 What is it really like to be married to your business partner? What are the pros and cons of working with a BOSSY woman who is also your wife? We’ve invited our husbands Aaron Metras and Don Bush to find out. 

We’ll explore the intricate dynamics of working side by side with your life partner, where the advantages of seamless communication and constant accessibility are weighed against the challenges of separating work from personal life—a common struggle for couples in business together.

This special episode also delves into the issues of perceptions and burnout in the entrepreneurial world, dispelling common misconceptions about the realities of running a business. Gain valuable insights on how to combat burnout while keeping the momentum of your business intact, a topic that resonates with countless entrepreneurs.

We also unravel our partner’s childhood dreams, which surprisingly involved aspirations of becoming Elvis and the Pope, injecting a delightful touch of humor into the conversation. 

To round out this episode, co-founders Kelly Bush and Kelly Metras, seasoned business owners in male-dominated industries, share their own origin story and the birth of BOSSY, a thriving networking and support group for over 500 women business owners and what both husbands initially thought about the

This podcast offers a personal and informative peek into the lives of these business-savvy couples, underlining their unwavering commitment to supporting and empowering women entrepreneurs. Join us for an episode that celebrates the unique challenges and rewards of being both life and business partners.

RESOURCES 

Thank you to our Sponsors:

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

Marshall Street Bar 81 Marshall St, Rochester, NY 14607

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Ep. 20 Have you ever listened to someone on the radio and thought "that's a really cool job"? But what happens when that DJ has an entrepreneurial spirit and a deep desire to uplift other people's voices?

Join us as we delve into the world of podcasting and broadcasting with our podcast producer Jazzy T (you may recognize her from WBLK, WDKX, WJLB, WQHH etc).

From her journey as a radio host to the creation of her podcast production network, JAZZCAST PROS, you won't want to miss the shocking car accident revelation and the unexpected challenges she faced as BIPOC woman in media.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Thank you to our Sponsors:

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

Marshall Street Bar 81 Marshall St, Rochester, NY 14607

Chapters:

00:00:00-Introduction,

00:00:17-Entrepreneurial Mindset,

00:00:49-Podcasting vs Broadcasting,

00:05:11-Working with Jazzy T,

00:12:56-FM98 WJLB Detroit

00:14:09-A Bold Move to Buffalo,

00:15:11-America's Next Weatherman Audition,

00:19:31-Getting Let Go and Finding Success,

00:22:28-Transition to Podcast Production,

00:26:05-Jazzy T's Journey into Podcasting,

00:27:01-Beauty Boss Millionaire Podcast,

00:29:18-JR Galactic Casting,

00:31:59-Traffic Reporting on News10NBC Rochester, HY

00:36:49-Seeking Full-Time Compensation,

00:39:42-Terrifying Car Accident,

00:40:17-Nonstop Work Schedule,

00:41:05-Becoming an Entrepreneur,

00:43:19-Goal for JAZZCAST Pros,

00:48:24-Future of Podcasting,

00:54:29-Comparison of Podcasts,

00:55:18-Personal Connections and First Businesses,

00:56:21-Lack of Guidance and Figuring Things Out,

01:00:12-Communication Challenges in the Media Industry,

01:01:47-Hustle for Health Programs,

01:07:51-The Electric Slide vs. the Cupid Shuffle,

01:08:14-Line Dance Party and Soul Train Line,

01:09:04-Sharing a Video on Facebook,

01:09:32-Promoting Businesses and Finding Videos,

01:14:27-BONUS Content

Meet Jazzy T, a passionate broadcaster-turned-podcast producer who has been working in the entertainment industry since she was 16. She has a fascinating journey that starts from her hometown Detroit, takes her to the glamorous Hollywood, then eventually lands her in Western New York. Jazzy T’s love for the mic is rooted deeply back in her days at Michigan State University when she ran a successful hip-hop show. Over the years, she has learned to shape the power of spoken words, transforming ideas and thoughts into compelling audio content that educates, inspires and empowers women and people of color. Her unique knowledge of both broadcast and podcast media works to her advantage, giving her a deeper understanding of how to captivate an audience regardless of the medium.

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Ep. 21 Bossy ROC welcomes you to connect with a dynamic HR professional and business coach whose journey started in Albania and led her to the heart of the American dream.

Born in Albania and raised in Greece (the Country), Elina moved to Rochester, NY, USA in search of opportunities for growth and development. Here, she found a thriving HR community dedicated to improving workplaces and the lives of employees.

In this episode, Elina shares insights and strategies to support overwhelmed HR professionals and small business owners, helping them focus on self-leadership and enhancing employee experiences. Her story will inspire anyone seeking empowerment and success.

In the Worx

Elina's coaching and consulting business helps overwhelmed business owners and HR Pros become intentional and present leaders, find focus through self-leadership, and successfully improve their employees’ experience and their day-to-day work. By leveraging In the Worx's services and solutions, you can build a culture that keeps your best talent, boosts productivity, and drives organizational excellence.

Connect with Elina Kokorotsis , Strategist & HRofHR Coach | Owner & Founder In The Worx, Coaching and Consulting https://www.intheworx.org/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ekatro

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeisintheworx/RESOURCES 

• 2023 BOSSY SMALL BUSINESS CONFERENCE OCT 17 -19, BUFFALO, NY 12+ seminars, 6 hours of directed co-work, lunches and dinners for networking and inspiration. 

Thank you to our Sponsors: Salena's Mexican Restaurant at Village Gate 302 N Goodman St, Rochester, NY 14607  Marshall Street Bar 81 Marshall St, Rochester, NY 14607

Other episodes you'll enjoy:

Building a Brand in Broadcasting and Podcasting with Jazzy T 

Startup Business Checklist Part One: Beauty Boss Millionaire Podcast

Finding Your Joy Amidst Fear with Junielle Rosher, Creator of the Joy Calendar

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Ep. 19 Unleashing the power of holistic business coaching, Raeanne Lacatena tackles the paradox of female entrepreneurs' resistance to guidance, aiming to shift their limiting beliefs and empower them to pursue greatness.

In a world where fate often unfolds in mysterious ways, Raeanne Lacatina's story is a testament to the unexpected turns life can take. She started as a social worker, dedicating herself to helping those in need, but little did she know that her path would veer towards an entirely different realm. Through a chance encounter with a perceptive mentor, Raeanne discovered her true calling as a business coach.

Now, the question remains: What hidden talents and untapped potential might you uncover on your own journey?

In this episode, you will be able to:

ABOUT THE GUEST COACH RAEANNE LACATENA

I am a Holistic Certified Professional Business Coach, Licensed Registered Mental Health Practitioner and Reiki Master with well over a decade of experience in the Holistic Business Coaching field and beyond. I help experienced entrepreneurs and small business owners achieve their wildest dreams in their business while living their happiest, healthiest, and wealthiest lives possible. The businesses that I serve are all across the board - from restaurateurs, best-selling authors, artists, service professionals like coaches, therapists, physicians, as well as brick and mortar businesses and online/digital businesses. I'm also a mother of 3 small children under 5 - who are my why - and help me understand and live the principles that I teach more deeply everyday! 

Raeanne Lacatena, LCSW-R, CPC 585-485-2830 https://raeannelacatena.com/Connect on LinkedInConnect on InstagramConnect on Facebook 

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Thank you to our Sponsors: Salena's Mexican Restaurant at Village Gate 302 N Goodman St, Rochester, NY 14607  Marshall Street Bar 81 Marshall St, Rochester, NY 14607

Other episodes you'll enjoy:

Embracing Transition: How Iris the Olympian Found Her Purpose After Retirement | Getting Real with Bossy

Operating in Your Zone of Genius: How Can I Create More of This? | High Vibe Table Talks: Empowering your Self-Growth Journey

Capital for Women, Minorites and Veteran-Owned Businesses | Beauty Boss Millionaire

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