ποΈ Weβre All Just Figuring It Out As We Go: Paula Haines on See Us Mob
In this episode of See Us Mob, Paula Haines, CEO of Freedom a la Cart, shares how she went from running a boutique marketing agency to leading a social enterprise that empowers survivors of human trafficking through workforce development and long-term support. Paula opens up about stepping into leadership without having all the answers and what it really takes to grow a mission-driven organization.
We talked about transitioning from for-profit to social enterprise, implementing systems like EOS to support growth, trauma-informed employment practices, balancing mission with business sustainability, and expanding into new markets to serve more survivors.
If youβre a small business owner, entrepreneur, or someone building something with purpose, this episode is packed with real insights from someone who is doing the work.
π Learn more about Freedom a la Cart
π Website: Freedomalacart.org
π Business Phone: 614-992-3252
π± Instagram: @freedomalacart
π±Facebook & Linkedin: Freedom Ala Cart
Chapters
00:00 Introduction To Paula Haines And Freedom A La Cart
02:44 Implementing EOS For Growth And Clarity
05:23 Partnerships And Community Integration
08:16 Leadership Lessons And Asking For Help
09:58 The Butterfly Program And Long-Term Support
10:47 Funding And Business Model
11:43 The Importance Of Community
14:31 Lessons From Trial And Error
16:18 Learning To Say No
19:11 Growth And Vision
19:57 Pivoting And Adapting
22:47 Trying New Approaches
23:41 Advice For Entrepreneurs
π About See Us MOB
See Us MOB highlights minority-owned businesses and entrepreneurs who are building, leading, and shaping their communities. Each episode shares the real stories behind entrepreneurship including the struggles, wins, and lessons learned along the way.