In this raw and unfiltered conversation, Maggie sits down with Ellie to unpack the deal that didn’t close-one she flew across the world for, fought for, and genuinely believed would reshape her business. The wound is fresh, the emotions are real, and nothing is sugar-coated.

Together, they walk through the highs of early hope, the red flags they tried to ignore, and the moment everything unraveled. Ellie shares what it’s like to pour your heart, time, and money into an international acquisition that ultimately slips away-and how she’s navigating the disappointment, self-doubt, and unexpected clarity that followed.

This isn’t a victory-lap episode. It’s a candid look at the deals that don’t make the highlight reel-and why the stories we wish we could hide often teach us the most. Whether you’re a founder, leader, or deal junkie, this is a conversation you won’t forget.

In this episode of Renegade Ventures, we sit down with Ronyale Smith, owner of Blak Koffee in Louisville, Kentucky, to talk about what it really takes to build a values-driven business from the ground up. Ronyale shares her journey into entrepreneurship, the vision behind Blak Koffee, and how she’s created more than just a coffee shop—it’s a space rooted in culture, community, and intentional impact. We explore the challenges of ownership, the importance of representation, and what it means to lead with purpose while growing a brand in today’s world. This conversation is honest, inspiring, and a must-listen for anyone dreaming of building something that truly matters.

In this inspiring episode of the Renegade Ventures Podcast, intuitive communications coach and topic expert Tina Bakehouse explores the transformative power of effective communication in both business and personal growth. Invited onto the show for her deep expertise, Tina reveals how shifting our self-perception—especially through intentional and empowering “I am” statements—can help us step into our true potential. Tune in as she shares actionable insights designed to help you communicate with greater clarity, confidence, and authenticity.

In this conversation, entrepreneur Monica Wolfe takes us inside her unexpected journey from corporate consulting to becoming one of the most innovative forces in the bourbon industry. Monica shares how learning the business alongside her father opened the door to a deeper understanding of bourbon, ultimately inspiring her to help reshape how modern whiskey brands are built. She walks us through the vision and grit behind creating a 108-acre campus complete with seven cutting-edge rickhouses and a full blending and bottling operation. Listeners interested in the intersection of bourbon and business will learn from Monica's entrepreneurial journey and gain valuable insights into how she navigated fundraising, staffing, and growth. Her ethos?  "If they can do it, I can definitely do it."

Join Ellie and Maggie for a special solo episode of Renegade Ventures! This week, it’s just the two of them catching up, reflecting on recent adventures, and sharing honest insights from the frontlines of entrepreneurship.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Tiffany Nugent, founder of Salt Wellness, as she shares her remarkable journey from C-suite executive to wellness entrepreneur. In this episode, Tiffany opens up about the bold decision to acquire an established business while launching her own, the challenges of blending family and business, and the importance of authenticity in leadership. We dive into the world of alternative healing, discuss the realities of running a wellness business, and explore how community, risk-taking, and personal growth all play a role in entrepreneurial success. Whether you’re a business owner, wellness enthusiast, or just love a good story of reinvention, this episode is for you!

Dee Dee Taylor turned a personal health challenge into a thriving cannabis business. From discovering the healing power of CBD to building 502 & 812 Hemp, her journey is full of courage, innovation, and perseverance. She shares the highs, lows, and lessons learned along the way. Tune in to hear how she’s changing the hemp and cannabis industry one product at a time.

Step into the world of Phoebe Wood, a trailblazing Louisville executive whose career spans leadership roles on major corporate boards, strategic investments in startups, and advisory work through her firm, KirtleyWood LLC. In this episode of Renegade Ventures, Phoebe shares insights from her path in psychology and finance, her decades of board experience with companies like Invesco and PPL Corporation, and how she approaches complex challenges with clarity, collaboration, and strategic foresight. Tune in for a smart, engaging conversation on leadership, governance, and the mindset required to thrive at the highest levels of business.

Sisters Colleen and Maggie Clines are the renegade founders of Anchal Project, a Louisville-based social enterprise transforming lives from Kentucky to Kolkata. What started with a trip to India has grown into a platform empowering 500+ women through design, dignity, and independence. In this episode, the Clines share the real story behind building a mission-driven brand—raw challenges, global impact, and the power of purpose in every stitch.

In this episode, the founders of Martin and Muir, Lauren Muir and Renesha Martin, discuss their journey from high school aspirations to becoming successful entrepreneurs in the mental health field. They delve into their personal challenges, professional experiences, and the pivotal moments that led them to start their own counseling practice. They also share how their practice grew exponentially due to their unique approach during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Breonna Taylor protests. Additionally, they talk about their expansion into consulting and other entrepreneurial ventures. Lastly, they provide insights into their current operations, which include various therapeutic services and community involvement.

00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Guests
00:59 High School Reflections: Lauren's Journey
03:04 High School Reflections: Ranisha's Journey
05:58 College Years and Early Career: Lauren's Path
10:50 College Years and Early Career: Ranisha's Path
17:06 The Birth of Martin and Muir Counseling
22:11 The Birth of a New Business
22:43 Community Outreach and Growth
23:42 Official Launch and Expansion
25:38 Challenges During the Pandemic
26:43 Supporting Protestors and Community
28:14 Rising to the Occasion
32:40 Becoming Community Leaders
39:28 Current State and Future Plans
44:08 Entrepreneurial Ventures
47:30 Additional Business Ventures
50:21 Conclusion and Contact Information