Stacked Keys Podcast

What does it truly mean to stomp to your own drum as a woman entrepreneur? In this heartfelt celebration of Small Business Month, we sit down with two extraordinary women who've built businesses around their authentic passions.

Stella Williams Bailey brings three decades of wisdom as a motivational speaker and communications coach, sharing how she rebuilt her business after her husband's passing while caring for elderly parents. Her insight on community-building and maintaining professional relationships reveals the human connection at the core of entrepreneurial success.

Meanwhile, wildlife photographer Christy Ashby takes us on her journey of leaving a 24-year teaching career to pursue her true calling. Her adventures photographing wildlife across Brazil, Iceland, and Guatemala demonstrate how following your passion can open unexpected doors and build global connections.

Together, they tackle the real challenges of entrepreneurship—the moments they nearly quit, the struggle to balance responsibilities when you're doing it all yourself, and finding confidence when the path feels uncertain. Their candid conversation about self-care reveals how many women struggle to prioritize themselves, yet must learn to "love yourself before you can truly love others."

Both women share practical wisdom about celebrating small wins, finding support systems, and defining success beyond financial metrics. Their stories prove that business growth happens during the hard times, and that failure isn't just inevitable—it's essential for learning and evolution.

Whether you're running a business from your kitchen table or scaling to the next level, these women's journeys will remind you that authenticity and resilience are the real keys to entrepreneurial fulfillment. Ready to stomp to your own drum? These inspiring stories might just give you the courage to take that next bold step.

What small business dream have you been hesitating to pursue? Listen, get inspired, and share your thoughts with us!

Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

The heartbeat of America pulses through its small businesses. In this special Small Business Month episode, Amy Stackhouse brings together an incredible panel of women entrepreneurs who are making waves in diverse industries while strengthening their communities.

Meet Heather Jo Clark, former UFC fighter who boldly stepped out to become the first woman in a system of 200 worldwide martial arts gyms to open her own facility without a male counterpart. Listen as Mena Teijeiro shares how she transformed 153 acres of woodland into a retreat center where people reconnect with nature and their authentic selves. Discover how Diane Castro and store manager Catherine Shipp created more than just a bookstore—they built a community gathering place where strangers become friends. And learn from Sarah Bradley, a marriage and family therapist whose rural practice is healing families in ways that ripple throughout her small town.

These women candidly discuss pivotal moments in their entrepreneurial journeys, from packing up a car and trailer to start fresh in Florida, to standing alone at city hall fighting for permits, to realizing that the impact of their work extends far beyond financial success. They share practical wisdom about overcoming obstacles, building confidence as women leaders, and preventing the burnout that threatens many passionate business owners.

What makes this conversation so powerful is how these diverse entrepreneurs reveal common threads in their experiences—the challenge of navigating regulations and permits, the struggle to set boundaries without sacrificing service, and the deep satisfaction of creating spaces that transform lives. Their strategies range from cold plunges and sunshine dancing to delegating tasks and learning to celebrate small victories.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or dreaming of starting your own venture, this episode offers genuine insights from women who've discovered that the path to success isn't about following someone else's roadmap—it's about stomping to the beat of your own drum while staying connected to the communities you serve. Join us for this inspiring conversation about resilience, purpose, and the extraordinary impact of small businesses led by passionate women.

Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Mary Zimmerman's extraordinary 29-year journey with Mary Kay Cosmetics reveals the beautiful intersection of faith, family, and entrepreneurial spirit that has defined her remarkable career. What began with winning a gift basket at a bridal fair transformed into a life-changing business opportunity when Mary, then a government social worker and military spouse with three young children, took a $100 leap of faith that would forever alter her family's trajectory.

The path wasn't always smooth. Mary vividly recalls the emotional toll of her previous career – crying before work, stomach pains, and the desperate desire to be home with her children. When a Mary Kay consultant asked three simple questions: "Do you like people? Do you like the product? Are you willing to learn?" Mary found her answer. Within six months, she was earning enough to resign from her government position, beginning a business journey that would see her through raising four sons while building one of Mary Kay's top 1% of sales units nationwide.

Throughout our conversation, Mary's commitment to her core values shines through. "God first, family second, career third" isn't just a catchphrase – it's her lived reality. This philosophy guided her through the challenges of military relocations, community skepticism, and the constant evolution of her business from paper planners to virtual consultations during COVID (which surprisingly became her unit's highest-earning year). Through it all, Mary has earned an impressive thirteen Mary Kay career cars, a tangible symbol of her consistent excellence and relationship-building skills.

What makes Mary's story truly compelling is her approach to business as ministry. She views each skincare session as an opportunity to connect deeply with women, creating safe spaces where vulnerability and authentic conversation flourish. "When you sit with a woman face to face and she takes off her makeup... she's going to tell me so many things that she doesn't even realize she's telling me," Mary shares. These "paychecks of the heart" – witnessing transformations in confidence and spirit – sustain her through cancellations and disappointments.

Ready to discover how faith, perseverance, and a passion for uplifting others can create both professional success and personal fulfillment? Listen in as Mary reminds us all to find joy in every day and shares wisdom only decades of balancing ambition with authentic relationships can provide.

Subscribe now for more inspiring conversations with women who are changing their worlds through passion, purpose, and unwavering determination!

Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

There's something powerful about watching women carve their own paths in the business world—especially when they're doing it completely on their own terms. In this heartfelt discussion celebrating Small Business Month, we're peeling back the curtain on what happens when women decide to turn their passion into purpose and build companies that authentically reflect who they are.

Laura Flowers and Becca Morson join me to share the catalysts that pushed them to create their businesses. Laura reveals how feeling boxed-in as a school psychologist led her to launch her life coaching practice infused with Reiki and energy healing, while Becca explains how her desire for work-life balance and meaningful impact drove her to create Stacked Intent, helping people build healthier relationships with themselves. Both women articulate that beautiful moment when you realize you can create something that combines all your talents, interests, and values—with no rules about what pieces of yourself you're allowed to bring to the table.

We dive deep into the realities of entrepreneurship that nobody warns you about—managing your relationship with money (including Becca's fascinating "Waffle Theory" approach to budgeting), setting boundaries when work and home life blur together, and finding your community of fellow entrepreneurs who become your lifeline of support and accountability. The conversation explores how business ownership shapes not just your professional life but transforms your relationship with yourself, requiring intentionality in ways you might never have experienced before.

Whether you're already running your own business, dreaming about taking that leap, or simply appreciate stories of women creating their own destinies, this episode offers both practical wisdom and profound inspiration. As Laura beautifully puts it, "If you have a dream within you, a nudge that just won't go away, it is 100% there for a reason." Ready to explore what might be possible when you fully trust yourself? This conversation will light the way.

Connect with Laura Flowers at LauraFlowersLLC.com and Becca Morson at StackedIntent.com to explore how they might support your journey toward authenticity and purpose.

Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Have you ever wondered what truly separates successful entrepreneurs from those who struggle? It's not just hustle or brilliant ideas—it's often about finding the sweet spot between ambition and contentment.

In this captivating conversation with Jennifer Dietrick and Tori Applegate, we dive deep into the realities of female entrepreneurship. Jennifer, a personal trainer and author of "Shape Your Mind, Shape Your Body," shares how she transitioned from high school teaching to building a thriving business serving busy professionals. Tori, co-owner of Welcome and Wanted salon and an Airbnb host, reveals the challenges of growing businesses while building and leading a team.

Both women offer refreshingly honest perspectives on what it takes to succeed in business today. They discuss the art of setting boundaries that protect your time without alienating clients, and how proper policies can "train people to treat you how you want to be treated." Their insights on handling difficult clients and creating systems that prevent burnout are pure gold for any service-based business owner.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn when they explore the balance between ambition and contentment. Jennifer uses a powerful analogy: "If you're constantly sending out ships non-stop, then nothing could come into the dock." This metaphor perfectly captures the entrepreneurial paradox—sometimes slowing down and creating space leads to greater opportunities. Tori shares how keeping a "victory log" helps her celebrate small wins and attract more positive energy to her business.

Whether you're just starting your entrepreneurial journey or looking to refine your approach after years in business, this episode offers practical wisdom from women who've learned through experience. Their final advice? Learn as much as you can but don't wait too long to take action. Take care of yourself, but don't be lazy. And above all, trust your gut—it might just be your greatest business asset.

Connect with Jennifer at jenniferdietrick.com and Tori at welcomeandwantedco.com or follow her @2honesttori to continue learning from these inspiring entrepreneurs.

Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Step into the world of small business ownership with host Amy Stackhouse and guest Katrina Paraskevopoulos (Kat), founder of EYIA Retreats, as they peel back the layers of entrepreneurship during National Small Business Month. 

Kat shares her transformative journey from corporate life to creating a boutique retreat and travel company specializing in meaningful Greek experiences. The pivotal moment came during a pandemic-era trip to Greece in 2020, when clarity struck and she decided to leave her corporate position by January 2021. That decision point highlights one of the conversation's key themes: creating space for clarity and establishing accountability for our dreams.

What began as a focused retreat business organically expanded when clients requested extended stays and custom itineraries. This natural evolution demonstrates how listening and remaining flexible can reveal unexpected opportunities. As Kat notes, "I definitely didn't set out to do travel design, yet this has become a significant part of my business."

Both women candidly discuss the challenges small business owners face: perfectionism, boundary-setting, and avoiding the urgency trap that leads to burnout. Kat shares her strategy of building a one-year financial runway before quitting her corporate job, allowing her to invest in her business with confidence. Amy emphasizes the dangers of isolation, stressing the importance of community support while being selective about commitments.

For those contemplating entrepreneurship, Kat offers this powerful motivation: "Your worst case scenario is exactly where you are now, so it's time to go." Amy adds, "Stop dreaming about what could be and find out what can be. Time flies, and there's no time like right now."

Whether you're running a business or dreaming of starting one, this conversation offers practical wisdom from women who've walked the path. Ready to bet on yourself? Listen now and take that first step toward clarity and purpose.

Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

What does it truly mean to "get stuff done" while balancing executive leadership, family life, and personal growth? Jana Adams, Executive Director of Touchstone Energy Cooperative, masterfully answers this question through her lived experience overseeing nearly 700 electric cooperatives nationwide.

Throughout our conversation, Jana reveals the power of the cooperative business model to transform communities through relationship-building. "It is much more than that," she explains. "It is a community. It is giving back to the people that the cooperative serves, and that really is just like a family." This philosophy extends beyond business strategy into a life approach that values authentic connection over transactional relationships.

As we explore leadership styles, Jana's refreshing commitment to authenticity stands out. "If you had to give one word, that would be it," she says when describing effective leadership. "I am always the same person if I'm on stage in front of seven thousand people or if I'm on a podcast." This consistency creates trust—which Jana offers freely, believing most people deserve it until proven otherwise.

The discussion takes a practical turn when Jana shares her evolution in work-life balance. From completely blending her professional and family responsibilities to establishing clearer boundaries as her children grew older, her journey reflects the natural evolution many working parents experience. Her advice? "Never miss the game, never miss the swim meet. That email will be there tomorrow." Simple wisdom that recognizes the irreplaceable value of being present for life's important moments.

Perhaps most compelling is Jana's approach to challenges and goals. Rather than becoming overwhelmed by obstacles, she evaluates what she can control or influence, then focuses exclusively on those elements. This extends to her goal-setting, where she creates "multiple paths for success" instead of pinning satisfaction on a single outcome. This method builds resilience and satisfaction across both personal and professional domains.

Whether you're navigating leadership challenges, seeking better work-life harmony, or simply looking for practical wisdom on authentic living, this episode delivers valuable insights from someone who truly embodiments getting stuff done with purpose and intention. Listen now, and discover how small shifts in perspective might transform your own approach to life's competing demands.

Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

What happens when you finally find the courage to walk away from a decade of "familiar chaos" and reclaim your authentic self? Maggie Boillot story will stop you in your tracks and make you question what comfortable prisons you might be living in right now.

Maggie joins us to share her remarkable transformation from successful hairstylist and fitness studio owner to becoming a powerful voice for women seeking to rewrite their stories. With magnetic energy and hard-earned wisdom, she reveals how leaving behind a toxic relationship that had held her hostage for ten years became the catalyst for discovering her true calling as a mentor, speaker, and podcaster.

At the heart of our conversation is Maggie's revolutionary "AWARE" technique—a practical framework anyone can use to navigate life's challenging crossroads. Acknowledge what's happening, become Willing to change, check for Alignment with your true feelings, Release what doesn't serve you, and Experience something new. This simple but profound approach strips away the confusion that keeps us stuck in situations long past their expiration date.

What makes this episode essential listening is how Maggie dismantles our conditioned fear of failure. "You can't get it wrong," she insists. "You're just going to get the feedback you needed to make the shifts." This perspective transforms paralyzing perfectionism into liberating experimentation, giving us permission to pursue dreams without the crushing weight of potential disappointment.

The distinction Maggie draws between passion and purpose offers clarity for anyone feeling successful yet unfulfilled. Purpose, she explains, is your calling—the impact you're meant to have—while passion relates to how your daily life feels. Understanding this difference helps explain why external achievements often fail to deliver the satisfaction we expect.

Ready to stop comparing your day one to someone else's year ten? Want to recognize when you're choosing familiar discomfort over unknown possibilities? Join us for this transformative conversation that might just be the permission slip you need to start stomping to your own drum. As Maggie reminds us: "Your uniqueness is your superpower." It's time to embrace it.

Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Lauren Youmans never imagined her childhood dream of owning a flower shop would materialize after building a successful career as a pediatric nurse practitioner. Yet when life delivered a series of profound challenges—including family trauma and personal struggle—flowers became her unexpected sanctuary.

"Working with flowers was the one space where I felt most myself and felt God's presence in a very powerful way," Lauren shares. What began as arranging Trader Joe's bouquets for personal healing evolved organically into a thriving business. After neighbors noticed her talent, Lauren started selling arrangements through a neighborhood group. The turning point came after creating 18 stunning arrangements for her sister-in-law's bridal shower, when multiple guests independently suggested she teach others her craft.

From hosting monthly workshops at her neighborhood clubhouse to renting space at a downtown business incubator, Lauren's journey accelerated despite her initial reluctance. "The day I interviewed, I told them I had zero interest in opening a brick and mortar," she laughs. Yet by November 2023, she had opened Gather and Bloom, a flower shop that now showcases 17 women-owned businesses while supporting local flower farmers.

Lauren's approach to business reflects her philosophy of life: finding beauty from ashes and creating community through connection. Her store has become more than a retail space—it's a haven where customers feel seen and valued. She recounts touching a widowed customer during Valentine's rush by simply taking time to listen about her late husband, resulting in a friendship and handmade quilt that now adorns Lauren's home.

For anyone with buried dreams, Lauren offers this wisdom: "Focus on the next step, not the whole staircase." She distinguishes between merely wishing for something and taking concrete action toward making it real. "You may need people alongside you because when you forget, they can help with reframing when things get hard."

Visit Gather and Bloom in downtown Woodstock to experience the magic yourself, or follow Lauren's journey on Instagram at @bloomingwithlauren and @gatherandbloom. Whether you're seeking a beautiful arrangement or inspiration to pursue your own dream, Lauren's story reminds us that sometimes life's hardest moments can lead to our most beautiful transformations.

Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

At just eight years old, Claire McManus knew exactly what she wanted to be when she grew up. Sitting in her father's truck at a construction site, she asked how he knew what to build. When she drew a building project on her notebook paper, he turned her sketch into architectural plans and her lifelong passion was born. Today, Claire has transformed that childhood dream into Alabaster Home Design Studio, her own architecture firm where she creates custom residential designs with purpose and intention.

The road from that truck seat to entrepreneurship wasn't straight and smooth. Claire shares the pivotal moment when her first architecture school project was destroyed by wind minutes before presentation day, resulting in a zero grade that threatened her entire academic future. Rather than abandoning her dreams, she pivoted—adding a business degree alongside her architecture studies, a combination that would later prove invaluable.

What makes Claire's story particularly compelling is her willingness to embrace calculated risks. While establishing her architecture firm, she simultaneously pursued real estate licensure, recognizing how these fields could complement each other. "I think that the two would really overlap and complement each other," she explains, describing late nights studying after full workdays while also building her own home.

Claire speaks with refreshing honesty about the challenges of entrepreneurship—the financial uncertainty, the need to handle everything from design to marketing, and the struggle to charge appropriately for her expertise. "I'm very much 'I just want everybody to be happy,'" she admits, "but you know, really learning your worth... it's not a side gig anymore, it's my job."

Throughout our conversation, faith emerges as the foundation of Claire's professional journey. The name "Alabaster Home" references the biblical story of a woman breaking her most precious possession to anoint Jesus—symbolizing Claire's commitment to giving her best in service to others. This spiritual grounding provides perspective during difficult moments: "Every time these thoughts of doubt enter my mind, God just takes it away."

For anyone contemplating their own entrepreneurial leap or simply navigating career uncertainties, Claire's story offers wisdom beyond her years and the gentle reminder that sometimes our biggest setbacks lead to our most authentic path forward.

Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff