The Point is Progress

On this episode, I chat with Ashley Crosby of Illustrations by Ash. She started this business as her "pandemic baby." Ashley is a breath of fresh air, down to earth, humble, and way talented. We discussed her experience with anxiety - what helped and what didn't, how her parents created a loving home, the heartbreaking loss of her father, and what she is learning about herself as a newly married woman. Her insight as a young female is inspiring and she is proof that we really can learn from others - even people who are younger than us! Her art is creative, witty, and uplifting. She is only just beginning this journey of entrepreneurship and her determination will surely take her very far. Check out her IG or find her at a local vendor fair to buy her stuff!

Check her out - @illustrationsbyash_

On this episode, I chat with Liz Hamill of L Studio in Red Bank. Unexpectedly, about 7 years ago, she was offered an opportunity to buy the studio where she was working. Despite not feeling ready and handling a TON of other things at the time, she jumped in. She was just 27 years old. For anyone looking to start or buy a business, Liz's experience will surely make you feel like you can do it too. Liz shares openly about not really knowing what she was doing at first, her struggle with anxiety and depression, and navigating life as a pregnant soon-to-be mom for the first time right now. Her honesty about this experience is so valuable to other women going through similar challenges. I value her ability to be authentic with our listeners because I know her story will help many others. She shares what worked for her and how she continues to use strategies she learned many years ago with new situations. From life to business, she is an inspiration and I know you will love her story. She is a color specialist and prides herself on creating a culture where clients feel special and well taken care of at the studio. Check them out - you won't be disappointed!

lstudionj.com

On this episode, I chat with Ming, co-founder of A Shared Universe, a podcast recording studio. He, along with co-founder Mike Zapcic, are the men behind how I get this podcast out to you. It was a so fun getting to know Ming! If you don't know him, you're missing out. He's super funny, kind, and so easy to talk to. And, he know A LOT about a lot of things. I think we only scratched the surface on this one even though we chatted for over an hour. You'll learn about his experience moving constantly as a kid, working with THE Kevin Smith AND Ben Affleck, losing his brother suddenly, and how he still faces challenges explaining his career path to family. He's relatable, he's an open book, and he's just plain fun to be around - I laughed a lot and I think you will too. Theirs is the only podcast studio in Monmouth County. If you're interested in podcasting, I definitely recommend you reach out to them and book a session - with a friend, family member, whomever! You'll have a blast. There are 2 studios - one at Bell Works and a brand new one in Red Bank.  Check them out - https://www.ashareduniverse.com/

On this episode, I chat with Aleks and Maks, the twins behind 3BR Distillery in Keyport, NJ. If you grew up in a Russian home, you'll appreciate their candor in talking about their experiences with high expectations growing up. Being raised by immigrant parents who came to the US with nothing, they learned how to be disciplined - a quality that likely led to their perseverance today. You'll learn all about their struggles, an accident that spurred their dream, and Oleg - their grandfather who was distilling (illegally) and the age old pea vodka recipe that these guys are using today to take the industry by storm. It was a trip getting to know their story and hearing about their big dreams - which I'm pretty certain will come true!

Check them out - https://www.3brdistillery.com/

On this episode of The Point is Progress, I talk to Christina, of The Perfect Perk about how she connected with owner, John Grillo. She immediately went to work with him to build a brand that took this already well known shop to the next level. We discuss how the twists and turns of life prepared her for supporting the growth of the shop, and how her fearless nature  was cultivated by her upbringing. Fun fact - she was working for a shoe company before working for Perfect Perk! She, no doubt, inspires and motivates people with her energy and passion. 

You MUST check out their shop - their coffee and treats are second to none! https://perfectperknj.com/

On this episode, Brad and Lula talk openly about their life journeys and what brought them together. Lula's experience moving to the states from Peru and Brad's early struggles with changing family dynamics have impacted them and changed the way they live today. Second marriages, eating disorders, losing a parent early in life, and addiction are just some of the topics covered with these two. Their passion for health & fitness is what brought them together and fuels their work in the food industry. Together, they own and operate, Spring Lake Seafood which brings local seafood with a modern twist to this community.

Check them out - https://www.springlakeseafood.com/

On this episode, we talk about Brent's years in the Catholic school system, the one sentence that changed his college experience, and how his company started from a funny idea about a coffee table book. What I love about his story is that his 15 year old self wouldn't recognize him today. From not having much direction as a young adult to being hooked on self improvement and leaving a positive impact, you'll definitely find something to relate to. Look out Tommy Bahama, there's a new chair in town - order yours today on their site!

Low Tides Ocean Products - https://lowtidesop.com/

On this episode, we talk about Necole's experience growing up with a parent with an addiction, figuring out how to raise young adults as a single parent, and how her shop sprouted during some emotional times in the middle of a pandemic. Necole's shop is deeply tied to her family and a passion for the art she creates. She is vulnerable and genuine - and teaches us how to keep going even when it's hard. Check out her shop for some really unique gifts from Necole and other vendors!

On this episode, we talk about Angela's experience with bullying, post partum depression, and working with women in domestic violence situations. Her practice aims to empower women and support people experiencing fertility struggles, among many other services. My biggest takeaway: this beautiful practice makes getting help and support easy - you're in good hands with Angela and her team.

On this episode, we chat about Kayla's life growing up with 3 brothers and a single mom, dropping out of high school, and the path that led her to her passion - waxing! Her energy and her grit make it possible for her to face all the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. She has quickly made a name for herself in her industry and she is just getting started!