EP61  In this episode of the Trailblazers Experience Podcast, Mo Carrier, co-founder of My Bliss, shares her journey of creating a sexual wellness brand focused on women's health and pleasure. Mo Carrier's journey into the realm of sexual wellness started with a personal crisis. After enduring severe side effects from hormonal contraception, Mo co-founded my Bliss to offer better alternatives for women. This episode explores her inspiring mission to empower women in their sexual health, addressing the hurdles they face and the crucial role of male allyship. Learn how my Bliss is tackling the gap with products that cater specifically to women's bodies, and what it means to redefine sexual wellness from a female perspective. Don’t miss out on this compelling story of resilience, innovation, and empowerment.


Chapters
00:15 Introduction to My Bliss and the Mission
03:12 Starting My Bliss: From Personal Experience to Business
07:30 Repositioning Condoms as a Women's Health Essential
13:16 Challenges and Milestones in Starting a Condom Company
23:44 Networking and Finding a Supportive Tribe
29:36 Lessons Learned and Trailblazer Takeaways
32:11 Outro

Find Mo Carrier and Mybliss  https://my-bliss.co.uk/
Instagram ‪@myblissofficial
Linkedin :  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mo-carrier/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-bliss/
Watch Youtube  https://youtu.be/uMH_YcsbYfE

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EP60 Our guest is , Lara Solomon, founder of Hoopsy, shares her inspiring journey from personal challenges with IVF to creating an eco-friendly pregnancy test.

What if you could revolutionize both women's health and the environment with a single innovative product? Listen to Lara Solomon, the visionary founder of Hoopsy, as she discusses her ground-breaking eco-friendly pregnancy test made from 99% paper. Inspired by her own IVF journey, Lara's entrepreneurial spirit shines through as she talks about turning a significant environmental concern into a transformative business opportunity. Her story is one of passion and necessity, aiming to make a lasting impact on health and sustainability.
Lara's journey is a testament to the power of consistency, discipline, and a strong support network. She reflects on how her childhood experiences shaped her work ethic and shares her vision for Hoopsy's future and her aspirations to support other women-led ventures. From emphasizing the necessity of proof of concept before seeking funding to highlighting the disparity in funding for female entrepreneurs, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge on innovation, community, and the relentless pursuit of success. Don’t miss out on these valuable lessons that could inspire your own entrepreneurial journey.

Chapters
00:15 Introduction to Hoopsy and Lara Solomon
03:30 The Inspiration Behind Hoopsy and the Mission to Eliminate Plastic Waste
06:25 Lara's Journey as a Serial Entrepreneur
07:18 Challenges of Launching a Startup and Funding
15:00 Navigating Regulatory Approvals and Global Expansion
18:32 The Importance of Networking and Asking for Help
20:22 The Resilience and Sacrifices of an Entrepreneur
22:29 Milestones and Celebratory Moments in the Entrepreneurial Journey
27:47 Qualities Instilled in Lara's Upbringing that Contribute to Her Success
28:59 Consistency and Discipline
31:16 Innovation in Overlooked Industries
33:31 Supporting Startups
39:58 Networking and Finding Your Tribe
46:03 Addressing the Funding Gap
53:02 Outro

Find Lara Solomon and Hoopsy products
Hoopsy.com
Instagram  @hoopsyco   hoopsyco
Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/in/larasolomon/

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EP59 , Our Guest is  Kathryn Bricken, the founder and CEO of Doughlicious, shares her journey from baking in her Miami kitchen to creating a beloved gluten-free cookie brand in London. Kathryn's story is one of organic growth, from bake sales at her children’s school to seeing her products in major retailers and celebrated on social media. Listen as she recounts her path from crafting decorative cakes in the U.S. to finding her entrepreneurial spirit in the UK, and how her love for baking became the cornerstone of Doughlicious.

Building a business from the ground up is no easy feat, and Kathryn takes us through the financial strains and emotional resilience required to succeed. She reveals the challenges she faced in transitioning from a career in politics to entrepreneurship and her mission to innovate the snacking industry while maintaining ethical values. Learn about the relentless drive behind Doughlicious, the effort to reduce food waste, and the dedication to creating products that bring both joy and sustainability to consumers.
This episode is a heartfelt celebration of resilience, passion, and the human side of success. Join us for an inspiring conversation with a trailblazing entrepreneur.

Chapters
00:15 Introduction and Background
03:54 The Journey of Doughlicious: From Idea to Success
08:14 Creating Healthier and Innovative Snacking Options
11:48 Funding Challenges and Growth of Doughlicious
15:49 Empowering Women and Reducing Food Waste
18:56 Challenges and Empowerment as a Female Founder
22:06 The Power of Networking and Collaboration
28:43 Supporting Women and Overcoming Challenges
36:00 Finding Balance and Self-Care for Personal and Professional Success
37:58 Trailblazer Takeaway Tips

Watch on YouTube : https://youtu.be/BYvXsELyb2A

Find us 
Shop  www.doughlicious.c.uk
Instagram @doughlicious_dough
Linkedin : Kathryn 
 https://www.linkedin.com/company/doughlicious-dough/

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EP58 Our next guest is Paula Raubenheimer , Co-Founder of @Drinksmartys Spiced Tomatoes Juice 
 What happens when you leave the corporate grind behind to chase a passion for food? Join us as Paula, the spirited co-founder of Marty's Drinks Juice, recounts her remarkable career shift from digital media and marketing in South Africa to launching a successful food and beverage brand amidst a global pandemic. Paula's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, strategic partnerships, and the joy of hands-on entrepreneurship. Her story is not only inspiring but also packed with actionable insights for anyone considering a similar leap.
Dive into the nuts and bolts of Marty's, a nostalgic yet health-conscious non-alcoholic cocktail with a savoury, umami twist. Paula opens up about the meticulous product development process that ensures Marty's stands out in a crowded market with its clean ingredients and low sugar content. From navigating the timing of market entry to overcoming the hurdles of retail acceptance, learn how Paula and her brother transformed a family-inspired idea into a beloved brand.
 This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone eager to blend business success with personal fulfilment.

Chapters
00:15 Introduction and Background
04:53 The Journey of Marty's Juice
09:15 Obstacles and How They Were Tackled
12:08 Key Retail Partnerships
14:18 The Unique Qualities of Marty's Juice
18:38 Product Development and Testing
21:10 Bootstrapping and Funding the Business
26:44 The Power of Networking and Collaboration
30:08 Key Partnerships and Collaborations
32:53 Building a Strong Team
40:43 Finding Balance: Self-Care and Personal Life
51:27 Active Thinking and Reflection
55:52 The versatility of Tomato Juice
57:50 Collaboration and Support Among Female-Led Businesses
58:48 Trailblazer Takeaway Tips
01:01:40 Seeking Advice and Support Outside of Your Business
01:03:31 Outro
Watch online on Youtube : https://youtu.be/wMHIQPG--Rg
Find us 
Shop @checkers_sa amazon.co.uk 
Instagram @drinkmartys 
Linkedin : Paula  https://www.linkedin.com/in/paularaubenheimer/ 
Trade Fairs  https://www.specialityandfinefoodfairs.co.uk/

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Imagine transforming the traditional diaper industry from mundane to modern and eco-friendly! In this episode of the Trailblazers Experience podcast, we're thrilled to host the dynamic duo behind Peachies, Rima and Morgan. They share the captivating story of how they went from sceptical classmates at Imperial College London to successful co-founders of a premium diaper subscription service. Discover how their childhood dreams, from becoming an astronaut to growing up in entrepreneurial households, set the stage for their innovative business journey

We also explore the grueling yet rewarding aspects of entrepreneurship, from fundraising hurdles to the personal sacrifices of blending professional and personal lives. Rina and Morgan share their insights on the importance of resilience, collaboration, and community support, particularly among women entrepreneurs. Their tips for aspiring business owners, including the value of starting now and finding the right co-founder, are invaluable. Tune in for an inspiring episode packed with real stories, practical advice, and the triumphant spirit of women-led ventures.
Chapters
00:15 Introduction and Background
10:08 The Inspiration Behind Peachies
17:04 The Green Mission: Implementing Eco-Friendly Practices
24:47 Challenges in Starting and Growing the Business
41:55 The Power of Networking and Partnerships
46:14 The Story Behind the Name 'Peachies’
50:12 Partnerships and Trademarks
53:13 Taking Risks and Figuring Out Logistics
56:36 Lessons from Female Founders
01:07:16 The Importance of Self-Care
01:13:00  Trailblazer Takeaway Tips
01:14:39 Talking About Your Ideas and Getting Started
01:18:02 The Value of a Supportive Co-Founder

Watch Episode on Youtube : https://youtu.be/1b2mP6mGswM
Find us 
Shop Wearepeachies.com
Instagram @wearepeachies 
Linkedin : Morgan Mixon https://www.linkedin.com/in/morganmixon/
Linkedin :Rima Suppan https://www.linkedin.com/in/rimasuppan/
Forbes Article :https://www.forbes.com/sites/mattsymonds/2023/03/08/10-inspiring-founders-of-startups-focused-on-women/

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EP56 Nadine Maggi , Managing Director of Sweet Freedom
What if your unconventional career path could lead you to an unexpected yet fulfilling destination? Join us as we sit down with Nadine Maggi, the inspiring Managing Director of Sweet Freedom, who opens up about her incredible journey from aspiring forensic scientist to military service, and eventually to HR leadership. Nadine reveals how her background in the armed forces equipped her with invaluable skills like discipline, teamwork, and resilience, which she later applied to manage a loss-making business successfully. This episode is a treasure trove of insights on how initial plans can evolve and lead to greater, unforeseen achievements.

As we chat with Nadine, she shares her personal and professional adversities, from growing up in a working-class family and navigating a male-dominated workplace to raising an autistic daughter and managing a struggling business. Her story is a powerful testament to resilience and empathy. Nadine also discusses her passion for supporting motor neurone disease research and the charitable initiatives of Sweet Freedom, offering a glimpse into her commitment to making a difference in both her personal and professional life. Her journey is an inspiring reminder of the strength found in perseverance and empathy.

Balancing career and personal life is no easy feat, and Nadine shares her practical self-care practices as well as the concept of a "balance wheel" to help evaluate different life areas. We also touch on leadership development, continuous learning, and mentoring. Nadine reflects on her career achievements, emphasizing the importance of resilience, networking, and having fun despite challenges. Tune in for an episode filled with valuable insights on achieving a fulfilling and balanced life, and hear Nadine's remarkable journey that is sure to inspire you.

Follow Nadine Maggi
Linkedin : Nadine Maggi | LinkedIn
IG @Noddylm
Sweet Freedom IG @sweetfreedomuk
https://sweetfreedom.co.uk/

Charities important to Nadine 
Motor Neurone Disease Association @mndassoc
National Autism UK
https://www.autism.org.uk/
Youtube
:https://youtu.be/6P5KVq2PkN8 

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Listen : to the audio version Apple Spotify .Amazon Music Google Podcasts
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My next guest is Sara Russell, Marketing Director at 5874 Commerce & Founder of The Women Domain 
Learn about the inspiring journey of the Women's Domain, a community founded by Sarah to integrate more women into the e-commerce community 
Join us as we celebrate empowerment through networking and continuous learning. Sarah introduces the Women's Accelerator Program, dedicated to supporting female-led businesses through mentorship and virtual get-togethers. Reflecting on the growth of the Trailblazers Experience podcast, we take a moment to appreciate the authentic, heartfelt conversations that have inspired many. Don't miss this episode filled with stories of perseverance, authenticity, and the power of uplifting one another in our professional journeys.

Find Sara :
Linkedin :https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-russell/
The Women Domain https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-womens-domain-podcast/id1623588011
5874 Commerce http://www.5874commerce.com/

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Ever wondered how marketing principles can be the secret sauce to building high-performing cultures? Join us as we sit down with Lisa Sharapata, the dynamic Chief Marketing Officer of the Arbinger Institute, who shares her fascinating career journey from a graphic designer to a strategic leader and now a CMO. Lisa dives into how her passion for understanding audiences and strategy led her to pivot across various roles and industries, ultimately finding her calling in resolving people problems within organizations. Discover how these marketing insights can transform leadership and culture in your workplace.

Lisa opens up about the personal and professional hurdles she's faced, We discuss the importance of adaptability, resilience, and knowing when to push forward or step back within a team. Highlighting her commitment to giving back, Lisa shares her experiences , emphasizing the value of community involvement and vulnerability in fostering personal and professional growth.

We also explore the vital topic of women's empowerment in the industry, reflecting on the importance of creating inclusive environments that promote psychological safety. Lisa delves into her experiences and the need for women to support each other rather than compete, drawing from Arbinger's concepts to advocate for understanding individual motivations. Through her inspiring journey, Lisa emphasizes the continuous growth, open communication, and knowledge sharing essential for a successful career. Don't miss out on the empowering insights and practical takeaways from this candid and thought-provoking conversation.

Follow Lisa

Lisa Sharapata Linkedin
 https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisasharapata/
Arbinger Institute Mentions https://arbinger.com/

4th Edition of Leadership and Self-deception:https://arbinger.com/leadership-and-self-deception-book/?utm_medium=pr&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=the-trailblazers-experience&utm_content=

State of Workplace Culture Report:
https://arbinger.com/workplace-culture-report/?utm_medium=pr&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=the-trailblazers-experience&utm_content=

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Ep53 My next guest is Founder and CEO Barekind Socks , the business she started with £1000
Lucy Jeffrey, the founder of Barekind Socks , joins us on Trailblazers Experience to share her incredible journey from HSBC banker to bamboo sock entrepreneur dedicated to saving animals. Inspired by a heart-breaking video of a turtle with a straw in its nose, Lucy left her corporate job during the COVID-19 pandemic to pursue her passion for conservation. Listen to her story of how stainless steel straws turned into a mission-driven brand with impressive revenue milestones and partnerships with over 30 animal conservation charities.

Lucy dives deep into her entrepreneurial journey, recounting her childhood efforts to support WWF and her recent venture, Candid Founders, aimed at helping other brands grow. We explore cultural attitudes towards failure in the UK and US, and the mixed reactions Lucy faced when she left her stable job. She highlights the real-world skills learned outside traditional education that have been vital in her journey, and how she's managed to fund and grow her business with limited financial backing.

Building a community-focused brand isn't easy, but Lucy sheds light on the importance of authenticity, obtaining B Corp certification, and creating meaningful relationships with conservation charities. From managing cash flow and inventory challenges to the joy of team expansion and the value of mentorship, Lucy's story is both inspiring and educational. Tune in to learn about the impact of purpose-driven business and how you, too, can turn your passion into a meaningful venture.

Find Lucy
Linkedin : Lucy Jeffrey | LinkedIn
Instagram  @barekind @lucyjeffrey
Youtube :    Candid Founders Podcast  https://youtu.be/uJRCwqjZIEY?feature=shared

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EP52 My next guest  features Melanie Smallwood, the inspiring Group Chief Commercial and Brand Partnerships Officer at the Global Fashion Group

Ever wondered how resilience and determination can shape a stellar career in the fashion industry?
From her humble beginnings on the shop floor at Harrods to her strategic move to Harvey Nichols in Saudi Arabia, Melanie shares the remarkable journey that propelled her to the forefront of the e-commerce world with eBay. Gain insights into her unique career path, her innovative transition into the digital space, and the invaluable lessons she learned about balancing professional growth with family life.

Chapters
00:00  Career Journey of Melanie Smallwood
11:57 Building High-Energy, Productive Teams
22:23  Empowering Women in Leadership
33:30  Adapting Fashion Industry to Sustainability
43:11  Balancing Career and Family Priorities
56:56  Trailblazer Takeaway Tips for Success


Melanie also dives into the art of building high-energy, productive teams. She discusses the blend of academic intelligence and entrepreneurial spirit required to drive commercial excellence, emphasizing that traditional educational backgrounds are not the only path to success. With personal anecdotes, she highlights the importance of resilience, inclusivity, and leadership adaptability to cater to diverse cultural and individual needs. Discover her strategies for fostering an innovative environment where team members are encouraged to take risks and learn from failures.

Finally, explore the evolving landscape of the fashion industry with a focus on sustainability and ethical consumption. Melanie shares how the Global Fashion Group stays ahead with agile and customer-centric approaches, pioneering sustainable practices, and managing the delicate balance between a demanding career and personal life. Listen to her heartfelt reflections on setting boundaries and investing in family well-being. Melanie’s trailblazer takeaway tips for success – kindness, humility, and persistence – offer a treasure trove of wisdom for aspiring leaders and anyone looking to achieve fulfilment in both their professional and personal lives.

Find Melanie
 Linkedin        uk.linkedin.com/in/melaniesmallwood
Instagram    melaniesmallwood.co.uk

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