An ambitious and independent spirit, Deidre Mathis defied convention when she became the first black woman to own a hostel in the United States. Hear how she opened a brick-and-mortar business with less than $20,000, raised enough capital in pitch competitions to fund the difference, and followed her own north star in the process.

HOST: Kelly Lewis | @gokellylewis

GUEST: Deidre Mathis |  @wanderstayhouston

Visit Wanderstay Hostel | www.wanderstayhotels.com

For more inspiring stories of women around the globe, check out our book, Tell Her She Can’t.  https://tellhershecant.com/

NOTES: 

(0:56) As a girl growing up in Jacksonville Florida, Deidre was constantly compared to her brother and reminded of all that she was not allowed to do, simply because she was a girl. She defiantly realized that everything her brother could do, she should be able to do, too.

(2:06) Despite pressure from her family to study medicine, Deidre decided to pursue a degree in journalism. During her sophomore year, she won a study abroad scholarship that would change the course of her life forever.

(4:37) Enchanted by the excitement of travel, she gathered information on the road and honed her preferences, noting improvements at each hostel she visited. Hear how she decided to take the leap to open a brick-and-mortar business.

(6:37) Deidre’s early estimates to open a hostel were close to $1M. She had less than $20,000 to her name, but that did not slow her dream down. Hear how Deidre raised the funds to start her business.

(8:58) New business ventures can riddle any entrepreneur with self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Diedre explains how she manages and overcomes these challenges. She offers sound advice for anyone looking to begin a business.

(13:06) Taking risks early on, like moving to Costa Rica, set the tone for Deidre’s career. She explains the importance of following your own north star.

The tell Her She Can’t Podcast is produced by Elise Fitzsimmons | [email protected]