In this inspiring episode of This Mother Means Business, Laura Sinclair sits down with Chris McMartin, the National Business Banking Lead at the Scotiabank Women Initiative. Together, they dive into what it really takes to support and uplift women in business—from access to funding and mentorship to building confidence and community.

Chris shares her own journey through the world of banking and opens up about the unique challenges women entrepreneurs face—especially when it comes to financial literacy, self-belief, and showing up authentically in often male-dominated industries.

If you’re a woman building your business and craving more connection, practical support, or a reminder that you’re not alone, this episode is for you.

Takeaways:

• Why access to capital, education, and mentorship matter for women entrepreneurs
• How authenticity can be your biggest advantage in professional settings
• The confidence gap that often holds women back—and how to bridge it
• How the Scotiabank Women Initiative is helping women thrive in business
• Why community and mentorship are game-changers for female founders
• A reminder that there’s no one-size-fits-all path to success (and that’s a good thing)

In this episode you will hear:

 00:00 – Meet Chris McMartin & Intro to Scotiabank Women Initiative

 02:54 – Real Tools & Resources for Women in Business

 05:42 – Confidence, Financial Literacy & the Power of Asking Questions

 08:38 – Why Authenticity Matters at Work

 11:26 – Thriving in Male-Dominated Spaces

 14:39 – Finding Your Voice in Leadership & Public Speaking

 17:45 – Bringing Authenticity to the Stage and Boardroom

 20:27 – Embracing What Makes You Unique

 24:03 – Why Community is a Key to Growth

 25:21 – Inside the Scotiabank Women Initiative

 28:43 – The Role of Mentorship in Business Success

 32:48 – Connection, Encouragement & Taking the Next Step

Chris's Links:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris_m_mcmartin/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-mcmartin

Scotiabank Women Initiative: https://www.scotiabank.com/women-initiative/ca/en.html

Join This Mother Means Business : www.thismothermeansbusiness.com

Laura's Links:
• Website
• Laura's Instagram
• LJSocial Instagram
• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Pinterest
• TikTok