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Are you a visionary woman founder looking to build a high-impact, high-growth company? This episode of #WisdomOfWomen is a must-listen! Join Coco Sellman as she sits down with Fran Maier, the powerhouse CEO of BabyQuip and a serial entrepreneur with a track record of launching and scaling transformative ventures like Match.com and TrustE. Fran's journey is nothing short of inspiring, and in this episode, she shares invaluable insights that every woman entrepreneur needs to hear.
Discover the secrets behind Fran's success, from her strategic approach in making Match.com a household name to her innovative leadership at BabyQuip. How did Fran navigate the early challenges of the internet era? What pivotal moments shaped her career, and what lessons did she learn along the way? How can women founders embrace ambition and wealth creation to bridge the funding gap? Fran candidly discusses these questions and more, offering practical advice on building confidence, seeking support, and avoiding burnout.
Tune in to learn from Fran's experiences and gain the wisdom you need to elevate your entrepreneurial journey. This episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories that will empower you to take your business to the next level.
Chapters & Topics
1.Introduction and Personal Updates
Coco and Fran catch up on recent life events and set the stage for their conversation. Key Points: Challenges and successes in building high-growth ventures, the importance of confidence and support for women founders.
2.Influential Books and Entrepreneurial Journey
Discussion on books that have shaped their lives and Fran's career path, including her time at Match.com and TrustE. Key Points: Resilience of characters, impact of women's rights, lessons from Match.com and TrustE.
3.Fran Maier's Career Journey
Fran shares her journey from Santa Fe to Stanford, her marketing career, and the pivotal moments that led her to BabyQuip. Key Points: Career transitions, brand management, early experiences with the internet.
4.The Founding of Match.com
Insights into the early days of Match.com, the strategy to attract women users, and the challenges faced. Key Points: Early internet challenges, focus on safety and anonymity, membership business model.
5.Overcoming Challenges and Seeking Support
Personal stories of missed opportunities and the importance of seeking help. Key Points: Gender differences in seeking support, the impact of confidence and support systems.
6.Fran Maier's Journey to BabyQuip
The transition from Airbnb host to BabyQuip CEO and the impact on women entrepreneurs. Key Points: Gig economy opportunities, empowering women entrepreneurs, positive impact on families.
7.Embracing Ambition and Creating Prosperity
Conversation on the struggles of entrepreneurship, the need for ambition, and wealth creation. Key Points: Addressing funding challenges, the concept of prosperity, creating opportunities for women in business.
8.BabyQuip Business Model and Community
Overview of BabyQuip's provider demographics and community support.
Key Points: Empowering providers with business skills, community support, substantial earnings potential.
9.Business Strategies and Success Stories
Discussion on customer acquisition, business growth strategies, and success stories. Key Points: Strategies for customer acquisition, impact of Shark Tank, pandemic pivots.
10.Insights and Experiences as a Female Founder
Fran shares advice for women founders and the importance of confidence and support in building successful companies. Key Points: Establishing qualifications early, finding a support system, prioritizing self-care.
Contact Information
Fran Maier: CEO of BabyQuip
Website: BabyQuip
LinkedIn: Fran Maier
Twitter: @FranMaier
Coco Sellman: Host of #WisdomOfWomen and founder of @A Force for Good
LinkedIn: Coco Sellman
Twitter: @CocoSellman
Welcome to the Wisdom of Women Show, where we amplify the voices of trailblazing women in business. In this episode, Coco Sellman sits down with Anne T. Griffin, a seasoned product leader and fractional product coach, to delve into the transformative power of AI, product development, and the unique challenges and opportunities for visionary women founders. Get ready to be inspired and equipped to scale your high-impact, high-growth company!
Highlights:
Closing Thoughts and Contact Information:
Key Takeaways:
Call to Action:
Contact Information:
Follow the #WisdomOfWomen show for more inspiring stories and insights from trailblazing women founders, investors, and experts in growth and prosperity.
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/yja3w7nh
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/4tak8ajk
Amazon Prime: https://tinyurl.com/366syddj
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/bdhananz
RSS Feed: https://feeds.captivate.fm/womengetfunded/
Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Wisdom of Women show, where we amplify the voices and wisdom of trailblazing women in business.
This week, Coco Sellman sits down with Dr. D. Sangeeta, the dynamic founder and CEO of Gotara!
Dr. Sangeeta shares her incredible journey from scientist to corporate leader and now a visionary entrepreneur. Gotara is revolutionizing the way we close the talent gap in technical fields, especially for women in STEM.
Tune in to discover how intentional actions and innovative programs can drive massive growth and impact for your enterprise.
Key Topics Discussed:
1.Amplifying Women's Voices in Business:
2.Dr. D Sangeeta's Career Journey:
3.Gender Gap and Talent Retention:
4.Nano Learning and Addressing Microaggressions:
5.Business Model and Growth Strategy:
6.Business Pivots and Product Flexibility:
7.Sales Strategy and Future Vision:
8.Advice for Women Founders:
Resources Mentioned:
"Girl Boss" by Sophie Amoroso
Gotara website: Gotara.com
Connect with Dr. D. Sangeeta:
LinkedIn: Dr. D. Sangeeta
Gotara: Gotara.com
Follow the #WisdomOfWomen show for more inspiring stories and insights from trailblazing women founders, investors, and experts in growth and prosperity.
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/yja3w7nh
Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/4tak8ajk
Amazon Prime: https://tinyurl.com/366syddj
Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/bdhananz
RSS Feed: https://feeds.captivate.fm/womengetfunded/
In this electrifying episode, Coco Sellman sits down with the dynamic Liz Owens to unpack the essence of building a high-growth, high-impact company while staying true to one's authenticity.
They explore Liz's revolutionary brand philosophy, Worthy AF Apparel, her exclusive promotional offers for listeners, and the raw challenges of social media management.
The conversation dives deep into the power of living unapologetically and embracing femininity in the workplace, core values that drive Liz's brand.
Liz shares her compelling journey from childhood dreams of fashion design, through the world of acting, to her current influential role in the fitness industry.
The discussion highlights the relentless pursuit of personal growth, time management, and overcoming imposter syndrome, emphasizing the continuous learning and self-improvement that fuels entrepreneurial success. Liz reveals her strategy for organic brand-building and her passion for fostering a supportive community of visionary women founders.
Chapters & Topics:
Wisdom of Women Show Introduction and Guest Introduction
Book Recommendations and Empowering Women
Liz Owens' Journey to Worthy AF
Liz Owens' Wedding Experience
Discussion on Entrepreneurial Journey and Challenges
Empowerment and Branding
Enclosed Cognition and Building a Brand
Celebrating IVF Moms and Unconventional Apparel
Future Plans and Expansion
Discussion on Building a Community for Women Entrepreneurs
Promotional Offer:
Blending Business with Family & Sustainability
Welcome back to another inspiring episode of the #WisdomOfWomen Show, where we amplify the voices of visionary women founders building high-impact, high-growth companies. In this episode, Coco Sellman introduces Pallavi Pande, the dynamic founder of DTOCS, a sustainable palm leaf tableware brand inspired by her Indian heritage. Pallavi’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and authenticity in entrepreneurship.
FINAL WISDOM
Pallavi leaves us with a powerful message: Persistence is crucial. Don’t be afraid to adapt and lean into your community for support. Your network can be a valuable asset for long-term growth.
Tune in to hear Pallavi’s full story and be inspired by her journey of blending family, culture, and sustainability into a successful business. Cheers to making the world a better place, one palm leaf at a time! 🌿
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Ready to dive into the full episode? Hit play and let Pallavi’s journey inspire you to blend your passions with purpose. Follow us for more stories of visionary women founders leading the way!
Meet Pallavi Pande:
Pallavi is not just an award-winning entrepreneur; she's a passionate mompreneur who has seamlessly blended her personal and professional life. From rescuing naturally shed palm leaves to creating eco-friendly tableware, Pallavi’s mission is to provide sustainable alternatives for homes and events, all while honoring her cultural heritage.
THE HEART OF DTOCS:
Pallavi shares the heartfelt story behind DTOCS, a brand born out of her nostalgic memories of eating on banana leaves in India. Her commitment to sustainability goes beyond just creating products; it’s about making a meaningful impact on the environment and empowering women artisans in India.
BLENDING FAMILY AND BUSINESS
One of the most touching aspects of Pallavi’s journey is how she involves her daughters in the business. From being brand ambassadors to contributing creative ideas, her daughters are an integral part of DTOCS. This family-business bond not only motivates them but also fosters a creative and dynamic team.
SUSTAINABILITY MEETS PROFITABILITY
Pallavi delves into the challenges she faced in balancing sustainability with profitability. She emphasizes the importance of understanding consumer behavior, adapting strategies, and staying true to core values. Her dedication has led to DTOCS eliminating single-use plastics equivalent to the height of 30 Eiffel Towers! Talk about impact!
COMMUNITY AND IMPACT
Pallavi’s commitment to community involvement is truly inspiring. From awarding education scholarships to children in the U.S. and India to donating sewing machines to women for vocational training, DTOCS is making a significant impact. Pallavi’s personal stories of these initiatives highlight the profound difference a small brand can make.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
WHERE TO FIND DTOCS
Support this incredible brand by visiting [DTOCS.com](https://www.DTOCS.com) for their beautiful, eco-friendly tableware. Use the code DTOCS10 for 10% off plus free shipping on their website.
(You can also find DTOCS products on Amazon, Walmart, Wayfair, and Etsy. But when you buy direct from DTOCS.com, more of the profits go to the founder, which we like!)
Website: www.dtocs.com (Use the code DTOCS10 for 10% off plus free shipping)
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pallavi-pande-bb5abb1b/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dtocsplates/
**Meet Carla Small**
Carla Small, a dynamic leader with a profound passion for literacy and education, joins us on this episode of #WisdomOfWomen.
Carla is CEO and co-founder of EarlyBird Education, a tech platform using cutting edge brain science, AI and gamification to prevent dyslexia. Carla led the Digital Health Accelerator at Boston Children’s while EarlyBird was in incubation, and left her role to launch EarlyBird. As Executive Director of Innovation at Boston Children’s, Carla designed and oversaw the accelerator responsible for startup and new technology incubation – spinning out five companies with portfolio venture funding totaling over $200 million. Prior to this, Carla was a health care strategy consultant, and Dir. of Product Development and Strategy at startup Work/Family Directions. Carla has served on the School Board of the Codman Academy Public Charter School, and on the advisory boards of Edwards Life Sciences and Medtronic Diabetes. She received her MBA from Harvard Business School and her Bachelor’s degree from Dartmouth College.
**Key Takeaways:**
1. Books That Shape Us:
Carla shares the influence of Composing a Life by Mary Catherine Bateson, a book that redefined her perspective on career progression. Discover how this book can challenge your own views and reassure you about the many pathways life can take.
2. Intentional Career Pivots:
Learn from Carla's “intentional career pivots” and “opportunistic leaps.” Her journey from Boston Children's Hospital to Early Bird provides valuable lessons on navigating and thriving in the health and ed tech industries.
3. Breaking into School Districts:
Gain insights into the complexities of entering the school district market in the ed tech sector. Carla discusses the critical importance of having an evidence-based product, leveraging reputation, and utilizing word of mouth to succeed, especially in the post-COVID landscape.
4. Early Intervention for Dyslexia:
Understand the vital role of early intervention for children with dyslexia and other learning challenges. Carla and Coco emphasize the potential mental health implications and the need for equitable access to support, sharing personal stories that highlight the importance of early and effective instruction.
5. Funding Journey and Vision:
Carla opens up about the funding challenges and successes for Early Bird, stressing the significance of vision and perseverance. Learn about the diverse range of funders, including health tech and social impact investors, and Carla's gratitude for their support.
6. Women-Led Enterprises and Purpose:
Explore the importance of purpose in driving profit for women-led businesses. Carla and Coco discuss promoting the wisdom of women in business, aiming for a cultural shift with more women in leadership roles. This conversation is a must-listen for any woman founder looking to align her business with a greater purpose.
7. Do you know a child with reading challenges?
Go to www.earlybirdeducation.com and learn more. You can sign your child up for a simple and fund game-based assessment. Highly recommended you check it out. It is backed by evidence-based learning and can help your child overcome reading challenges, including dyslexia, while having fun. No neuropsychology assessment required. It will give you answers and a plan right away.
Tune in to this episode of #WisdomOfWomen to gain valuable insights from Carla Small's incredible journey and to discover how you can apply these lessons to your own entrepreneurial path. This episode promises to inspire, educate, and empower women founders to thrive and make a meaningful impact.
Carla’s RECOMMENDED READ:
GET IN TOUCH LINKS:
In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Kelley O’Keeffe, founder of Empowered Engagement Consulting and creator of Scale School. With an impressive track record of selling over $100 million before age 35, Kelley’s 20-year career in sales spans global technology sales, lead generation, account expansion, and renewals. From making 100 phone calls per day during the 2007 recession to leading a 300-person global sales team during the world's largest acquisition and COVID pandemic, Kelley has seen it all.
Kelley founded The Scale School®, a platform designed to support CEOs in B2B sales through comprehensive training, coaching, and community. In Scale School, Kelley’s unique approach helps CEOs accelerate sales growth that would typically take 18 months to achieve in just 6 months by focusing on:
Tune in to discover how Kelley’s methods can help you:
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:
Kelley’s Recommended Read:
GET IN TOUCH LINKS:
FREE OFFER:
Welcome to a special mini episode of our podcast. I’m excited to share an important update with you. We've decided to change our podcast name from #WomenGetFunded to #WisdomOfWomen.
This change reflects a broader mission. While securing funding is crucial, we believe amplifying the voices and wisdom of women in business is even more essential.
At A Force for Good, "Be Wise" is our first core values. Our new name, #WisdomOfWomen, authentically expresses this value and our commitment to showcasing the knowledge and insights of women leaders.
On the #WisdomOfWomen Show, we continue to feature trailblazing women founders, investors, and experts who are leading and growing visionary businesses. We are dedicated to amplifying their voices, highlighting a new model of leadership that is emerging—one that is inclusive, innovative, and impactful.
We hope you resonate with this pivot and will continue to be a faithful listener.
Join us as we illuminate the path to unlocking opportunities and prosperity for women-led enterprises by amplifying the voice and wisdom of women. Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and valuable insights on the #WisdomOfWomen Show. Go make the world a better place!
Visit the #WisdomOfWomen Show:
https://aforceforgood.biz/podcast-wow/
Are you ready to grow? Find your Growth Readiness Score here:
https://aforceforgood.biz/quiz/
The #WisdomOfWomen Show is dedicated to amplifying the voice of women in business. With women leaders at the helm, businesses can achieve both impact and profit. Women's unique strengths and experiences make them adept at navigating the changing business world. A new model of leadership is emerging, and we are here to amplify the voices of women leading the way. Our goal is to celebrate and support women, helping female founders overcome barriers and achieve growth.
Each episode features trailblazing women founders, investors, and growth experts.
We are here to amplify #HerVoice and unlock opportunities for women-led enterprises.
As a pre-selected trailblazer, we invite you to be a guest on our show.
You will discover:
• The unique voice of women in business
• How visionary women lead (and how we are unique)
• How to Build a Scalable Business
• How to Create Exponential Growth
• How to Build Freedom and Prosperity for You and Your Team
• How to Fund A Business (Through Investors, Lenders, Grants, or Crowd-Funding)
• How to Navigate the Funding Ecosystem
• How to Pitch Investors
Join us as we illuminate the path to unlock opportunities and prosperity for women-led enterprises. The future of business is women. Are you ready?
Welcome the #WomenGetFunded Show! We are dedicated to empowering women founders to shatter barriers of growth and funding for their businesses. Thank you for joining us today as we illuminate the path to unlocking opportunities and prosperity for women-led enterprises.
Tune in to hear Laura Rippy, Managing Partner and Board Member at Alumni Ventures, as she shares her journey and insights in venture capital. Laura leads the Women's Fund, the Dartmouth-focused Green D Ventures, and the Harvard-focused Yard Ventures at Alumni Ventures, America's largest venture firm for individuals.
GET IN TOUCH LINKS:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurarippy/
Alumni Ventures Website: https://www.av.vc/
Alumni Ventures Women’s Fund: https://www.av.vc/funds/womens
Pitch Link: https://www.av.vc/entrepreneurs
Business Insider ranked Laura in the Best Seed Investors of 2024-5: https://www.businessinsider.com/seed-40-best-women-early-stage-vc-investors-2024-5
Press Release of The Women’s Fund:
https://www.av.vc/blog/alumni-ventures-boosts-female-led-startups-with-new-venture-fund
A Force for Good: http://www.aforceforgood.biz
From the publisher's feed