Startups in Stilettos

Sam Rudolph is the CEO and Co-Founder of Babyation - a venture-backed startup with a mission of “creating game-changing products and judgment-free conversations to build a community that supports, elevates, and unites women through all the roles they juggle - including being a mom”. Sam graduated from The Wharton School with a Bachelor of Economics before starting her career where virtually “every job [she] had didn’t exist before she had it”. It was this entrepreneurial spirit that guided her into starting her own business.On this episode, we talk to Sam about the inspiration behind Babyation, how she was able to turn an idea into a business, and what valuable lessons she’s learned on her entrepreneurial journey.   “I don't let the ‘no’ define me. I know what I'm doing. I know that not everybody's gonna like me. I know that not everybody's gonna like my business. I'm 100% okay with that. You have to know that you're going to be told no, but you have to prepare for how you're going to handle the no.” - Samantha RudolphThis week on Startups in Stilettos:What inspired Sam to start Babyation (1:16)What Sam’s career looked like before starting Babyation (3:41)Sam’s foray into entrepreneurship (5:01)How Sam was able to juggle work and starting a business (6:18)The steps that Sam took when starting to build her business (7:36)Sam’s grant application process (8:58)How moving in with her parents helped drive the success of her business (10:11)The approach Sam took towards her first investors’ pitch (11:19)Why Sam’s Kickstarter Campaign experience was the most stressful 30 days of her life (13:16)Sam’s advice on crowdfunding (16:35)Why Sam loves fundraising (19:40)Our advice for Sam on how to build a social media strategy (24:33)Our non-traditional PR advice for Sam (26:46)Sam’s advice for fellow entrepreneurs (28:17)Resources Mentioned:KickstarterOur Favorite Quotes:“Every job I had didn't exist before I had it. And I loved that. And I quickly realized that at some point, I wanted to start my own company.” - Sam Rudolph“I get so many people saying I want to start my own business, because I can control my schedule. Newsflash, it's the other way, right, when you're not working on your business, your business doesn't get worked on.” - Sam Rudolph“If someone is not telling you, no, you're not asking enough people, like it's just it's that simple. “ - Sam RudolphConnect with Diana Arango:BabyationBabyation on InstagramBabyation on FacebookSam Rudolph on LinkedInSam Rudolph websiteConnect with your Startups in Stilettos hosts:Stephanie Cartin on InstagramStephanie Cartin on LinkedInJessica Abo on InstagramJessica Abo on LinkedInLearn more about Jessica Abo hereGet Featured on Startups in StilettosWant a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE!Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey!

Diana Arango is a law graduate and self-proclaimed serial entrepreneur. She graduated from the University of The Andes with a Bachelor in Law before attending Fordham University School of Law where she completed her Masters of Laws in International Business and Trade Law. Diana then spent some time working in a variety of impressive roles, mostly within the real estate sector, before eventually starting her business, Chefpost. On this episode, Diana walks us through her experience in starting Chefpost. She shares a bit about the inspiration behind the business, what challenges she faced, and how she was able to overcome them. “I think it's very important as a founder and a CEO, you do not need to know everything very well. But you need to understand different aspects of the business because that way you can outsource and delegate, knowing a little bit about what you're delegating.” - Diana Arango This week on Startups in Stilettos:What it was that inspired Diana to start Chefpost (1:12)How Diana turned her dream of Chefpost into a reality (2:08)How Diana was able to balance her personal life with starting a new business (3:30)The ways in which Diana chose to finance Chefpost (6:23)Diana’s tips on fundraising for business (8:45)The biggest lesson Diana learned in starting Chefpost (13:47)How to build your PR strategy based on your type of business (15:54)What the Entreprenista League has meant to Diana and the ways in which she’s benefited from it (22:22)Resources Mentioned:Dream VenturesThe Entreprenista LeagueOur Favorite Quotes:“I like business, I'm entrepreneur-minded. And I am always business analyzing everything. So where there is a problem, I always try to find the business solution to it.” - Diana Arango“I think that happens to all entrepreneurs, that you're so passionate about [your business] that you still work extra hours and it doesn't feel that hard.” - Diana Arango“A lot of sacrifices, all of our savings, went into the business but we just believed so much that this was gonna work that it was the only option.” - Diana ArangoConnect with Diana Arango:ChefpostChefpost on InstagramChefpost on FacebookDiana Arango on LinkedInDiana Arango on InstagramConnect with your Startups in Stilettos hosts:Stephanie Cartin on InstagramStephanie Cartin on LinkedInJessica Abo on InstagramJessica Abo on LinkedInLearn more about Jessica Abo hereGet Featured on Startups in StilettosWant a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE!Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey!Grow Your Startup with Startups in StilettosThanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Startups in Stilettos, powered by the Entreprenista PodcastNetwork. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your p...

Brittney Jean Atakpo is a Brand Photographer and Strategist at Brittney Jean Photography & Company. She is an entrepreneurial businesswoman dedicated to the advancement of women. She holds a Bachelor's in Communication from California State University San Marcos and has over 5 years of experience in human resources in the technology industry. After working in the Recruitment and Sales industry's fast-paced, cut-throat environment, Brittney decided to build her brand and transform her hobby as a photographer into a successful business. Today, Brittney shares her story of going from a position in the Recruitment and Sales industry to turning her photography into a full-time business. She reveals the steps that went into creating the course she now offers for entrepreneurs to develop their brands and the channels she used to launch the course. She shares her favorite platforms for testing email and marketing funnels, who her course is for, and what you can expect to learn. We discuss pitching to publications and the importance of having a good media kit. We also explore how you can create better experiences for existing clients as you build a new offering and how to find the best marketing professionals to help you create your business marketing strategy.“It creates so much value well beyond just photography; it’s really helping instill confidence in women so they can market their business confidently.” - Brittney Jean AtakpoIf you’re looking to take your business to the next level, join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey!This week on Startups in Stilettos:How Brittney Jean Photography helps entrepreneurs build their brand on social mediaWhat Brittney was doing before she built her business What went into the course creation that Brittney offers entrepreneursThe channels Brittney is using to launch her courseBrittney’s favorite platforms for testing email funnels Who the course is for and what you can expect to learnCreating a process and who to work with when pitching to publicationsThe importance of having a media kit and what to include in itHow to create better experiences for existing clientsFinding the best marketing person to help you build your strategyResources Mentioned:CanvaZoomKajabiFlodeskShowItYouTubeOur Favorite Quotes:“Being confident that you can address client's pain points and that you are the solution to their problems.” - Brittney Jean Atakpo“The stereotype is photographers don’t make a lot of money which is not true, especially if you have a background of being able to sell yourself ” - Brittney Jean Atakpo“Our Mastermind first gave us this opportunity and experience to learn how to create outlines for our courses.” - Brittney Jean Atakpo Connect with Brittney Jean Atakpo:Brittney Jean Photography & CompanyBrittney Jean Photography & Company on LinkedInBrittney Jean Photography & Company on InstagramBrittney Jean Photography & Company on FacebookBrittney Jean Atakpo on LinkedInBrittney Jean Atakpo on InstagramConnect with your Startups in Stilettos hosts!Stephanie Cartin on InstagramStephanie Cartin on LinkedInJessica Abo on InstagramJessica Abo on LinkedInLearn more about Jessica Abo hereGet Featured on Startups in StilettosWant a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely sta...

Monica Fullerton is the Founder and CEO of Spouse-ly, a central hub for driving support for entrepreneurs in the military and first responders community. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Multi-Media Journalism and a Master of Business Administration and Marketing from Lynn University. As an Air Force spouse, twin mom, and entrepreneur, Monica wanted to strive for a greater purpose with her business idea. She has been named a trailblazer in Tech by Military Spouse Magazine, Forbes Next 1000 List, and one of the MIGHTY 25 most influential leaders supporting the military community.Today, Monica shares what inspired the idea behind Spouse-ly and how it helps members of the military and their families. She reveals how she found creators for her platform and critical learnings from initially testing her idea in a Facebook group. She highlights some of the big wins Spouse-ly has celebrated along the way and how networking and community has helped her business grow. We also explore how you can find the balance between raising brand awareness and sharing your mission and how to expand your team when bootstrapping your business.“Just taking that first step of getting out there and getting in front of people that are your possible customers or vendors, whatever it might be, is the first step of pushing forward.”- Monica FullertonIf you’re looking to take your business to the next level, join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey!This week on Startups in Stilettos:What Spouse-ly is and what inspired the ideaHow Monica built the foundation of her business and found creatorsKey lessons Monica learned from testing her business idea in a Facebook groupThe key thing Monica didn’t know about launching a businessSome of the big wins that Monica has celebrated along the wayHow Monica invested in PR and outreach for her businessHow networking and community helped Monica to share her story and missionFinding the balance of sharing your core mission and raising brand awarenessHow to scale your team when bootstrapping your businessWhere Spouse-ly is headed and what Monica is excited about for her companyOur Favorite Quotes:“When you get people that are more entry-level, it also gives them an opportunity to truly grow and be a part of what you’re building from the ground up.” - Monica Fullerton“It has to be something that you’re passionate about, something that you want to have part of your everyday life.” - Monica Fullerton“Don’t be afraid to ask for help; we can’t all afford certain things at the different stages.” - Monica FullertonConnect with Monica Fullerton:Spouse-lySpouse-ly on LinkedInSpouse-ly on InstagramSpouse-ly on FacebookSpouse-ly on TwitterPodcast: I’MpossibleMonica Fullerton on LinkedInConnect with your Startups in Stilettos hosts!Stephanie Cartin on InstagramStephanie Cartin on LinkedInJessica Abo on InstagramJessica Abo on LinkedInLearn more about Jessica Abo hereGet Featured on Startups in StilettosWant a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show!Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website,

Yobe Qiu is an author, educator, and serial entrepreneur. She holds a bachelor's degree in Education from The New School and a Master of Science (MS) in Early Childhood Education and Teaching. After identifying a need for more multicultural books, Yobe created her own children's books featuring Asian characters and cultures. Yobe helps female entrepreneurs to launch and grow their educational businesses.Today, Yobe shares her journey from educator to entrepreneur and how she helps women bring their children’s book ideas to fruition. She shares the channels she uses to publish and sell her books and some of the early lessons she had to learn. She reveals how her business structure has evolved and the services she offers her clients. We also share some tips on pitching to media outlets and how delegating is an essential skill for growing any business.“It’s like putting any products out. This is no different to any other product, it’s just different platforms we have to learn.” - Yobe QiuIf you’re looking to take your business to the next level, join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join.We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey!This week on Startups in Stilettos:How Yobe helps women bring their ideas for a children's book to marketThe channels Yobe uses to publish, market, and sell her booksThe challenges Yobe faced early on in her businessImportant lessons Yobe had to learn when building her businessesHow the structure of Yobe’s business has evolvedThe services Yobe currently offers to her clientsTips on pitching to media outlets to promote your booksWhy becoming a good delegator is essential for growing any businessHow being part of the Entreprenista League has impacted Yobe’s businessResources Mentioned:Amazon KDPKickstarterOur Favorite Quotes:“I would never think I would go this far a year and a half ago when I just decided to do it.” - Yobe Qui“Folks love multicultural books, and folks love to learn about other cultures and stories. They just don’t know what books are good.” - Yobe Qiu“Make as many headlines as possible, then marry those headlines to different outlets.” - Jessica AboConnect with Yobe Qiu:By Yobe QiuBook: Our Moon Festival: Celebrating the Moon Festival in Asian CommunitiesBy Yobe Qiu on InstagramBy Yobe Qiu on FacebookYobe Qiu on LinkedInConnect with your Startups in Stilettos hosts!Stephanie Cartin on InstagramStephanie Cartin on LinkedInJessica Abo on InstagramJessica Abo on LinkedInLearn more about Jessica Abo hereGet Featured on Startups in StilettosWant a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE!Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey!Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos

We love what we do, and we love helping people. Our aim is that this podcast is something that helps you on a daily basis. We want to be that voice telling you, “You can do it!”. So we have come together to give you more information on what we do and how this podcast can help you and your business.Today's episode is all about the inspiration behind Startups in Stilletos and how it differs from the Entreprenista podcast. We discuss why Jess was chosen as the co-host and explore some of the challenges of being an Entreprenista. Jess shares her background in media training and how she uses it to help entrepreneurs and business owners. We explain why reflection moments are an essential thing to do as an entrepreneur and how networking communities are vital for any startup. We also share how the Entreprenista League can help your business and how you can be a guest on the Startup in Stilletos podcast.“Being able to help everyone make an impact, give everyone these tools and resources, it’s just the best thing ever.” - Stephanie CartinIf you’re looking to take your business to the next level, join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey!This week on Startups in Stilettos:Why the Startup in Stilettos podcast is different from the Entreprenista podcastWhat made Stephanie choose Jess to be her co-hostThe challenges of being an EntreprenistaJess’s background in media training and how she helps business ownersHow Jess amplifies entrepreneurial business through her column for Entrepreneur.comHow reflection moments are essential as an entrepreneurWhy networking communities are essential for any startupHow the Entreprenista League and Startup in Stilletos podcast can help your businessResources Mentioned:Book: Unfiltered: How to Be as Happy as You Look on Social MediaOur Favorite Quotes:“Every day there is just so many high highs, and so many low lows as an entrepreneur that you have to be able to do is keep an even keel and just keep going ” - Stephanie Cartin“Just being in a community where we can support each other - that’s what this is all about.” - Jessica Abo“Community and connection and support is absolutely everything.” - Stephanie CartinConnect with your Startups in Stilettos hosts!Stephanie Cartin on InstagramStephanie Cartin on LinkedInJessica Abo on InstagramJessica Abo on LinkedInLearn more about Jessica Abo hereGet Featured on Startups in StilettosWant a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show!Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website, social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE!Join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey!

Abbe Feder is a Fertility Coach and the Owner of InCircle Fertility LLC. She has a Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts for Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts. Following her struggles with infertility and pregnancy loss, Abbe wanted to use her experiences to help others. She started InCircle Fertility to support families through their fertility journeys using a combination of professional expertise, industry know-how, and empathy and compassion.Today, Abbe joins us to share her journey from acting to starting her business in Fertility Coaching. She reveals how she uses her own experience and passion for helping others and the process of going through the business startup phase. She shares some of the lessons she learned early on and how the skills she learned from her previous roles have continued to serve her in her new role. She also shares what you need to consider before starting a business partnership, the questions you need to ask a potential business partner, and what’s next for her company.“Like any relationship, it takes so much work. If you don’t share the same long-term vision or values, it’s not going to work.” - Abbe FederIf you’re looking to take your business to the next level, join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey!This week on Startups in Stilettos:What inspired Abbe to start InCircle FertilityHow Abbe used her passion for helping others to build her businessThe process of going through the startup phaseWhat Abbe was doing before she started her businessHow skills from previous jobs help Abbe in businessLessons Abbe has learned from the early stages of starting the businessWhy the same values and visions are essential in your business partnershipFundamental questions you need to ask a potential business partner What Abbe needed to do to become a Fertility CoachThe next steps for InCircle FertilityResources Mentioned:(In)Fertility Cards of AffirmationEntreprenista's Guide to Business PartnershipsOur Favorite Quotes:“So many times when we go through something hard, we want to be able to help other people.” - Abbe Feder“If you have challenges having uncomfortable conversations at the beginning, that’s a sign that you’re likely going to have a lot of problems later on.” - Stephanie Cartin“If you’re in a business partnership, it is like a marriage.” - Abbe FederConnect with Abbe Feder:InCircle Fertility WebsitePodcast: Maculate ConceptionInCircle Fertility on LinkedInInCircle Fertility on InstagramInCircle Fertility on FacebookInCircle Fertility on TwitterAbbe Feder on LinkedInAbbe Feder on InstagramConnect with your Startups in Stilettos hosts!Stephanie Cartin on InstagramStephanie Cartin on LinkedInJessica Abo on InstagramJessica Abo on LinkedInLearn more about Jessica Abo hereSay “Hello!” To DigiCards™Are you ready to take your virtual team meetings to the next level? Are you tired of yelling “You’re on mute!” at your computer screen and letting the important points you were trying to make get lost?If you’re tired of leading unproductive, distraction-filled team meetings, then it’s time for you to say “Hello!” to DigiCards. Each pack of virtual meeting cards include 20 color-coded professional cards designed to streamline your meeting communications while allowing e...

Brea Fullerton is the Founder & CEO of Shinery, a luxury jewelry care brand that is good for you and your jewelry. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce from the University of Virginia and lives in Georgia Atlanta. After her engagement and being unable to find a jewelry cleaner without harsh chemicals or damaging effects on her skin, Brea launched Shinery. The company has a range of plant-based products that easily fit your daily beauty routine. Today, Brea shares the inspiration behind her business, Shinery, and how her previous work experience helped her navigate building a business. She shares the lessons she learned during the startup phase and how it felt when the company started gaining traction. She shares tips on launching a new product, creating a new product category, and what you need to bear in mind when working with a publicist. Brea shares why she decided to self-fund her business and the first retail stores to sell her products. She also shares how you can find the right person to get your products into retail stores and a method to approach them to build a successful partnership.“When launching a new category, there’s no roadmap, so you have to wake up every day knowing that you’re going into uncharted territories, but the reward is worth the risk.”- Brea FullertonIf you’re looking to take your business to the next level, join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey!This week on Startups in Stilettos:The inspiration that led to Brea starting her businessHow Brea’s career experience helped her when launching her businessThe lessons she had to learn along the way in the startup phaseHow it felt when Shinery started gaining traction in the marketTips on launching a product in a new product categoryWhat you need to consider when working with a publicistThe strategies Brea used for sending out samples to the pressWhy Brea decided to bootstrap the business rather than use other funding sources What made Brea choose to work with wholesalersThe first retail stores Shinery got into and how it felt to get those ordersFinding the right person to get your product into retail stores and how to reach out to themHow to prepare for press interviewsWhat is next for ShineryOur Favorite Quotes:“It’s OK that you don’t have the answers; you just have to put one foot in front of the other.” - Brea Fullerton“Never underestimate the power of educating the consumer base and building that community.” - Brea Fullerton“Don’t be afraid to email people when it’s their personal time, even though that’s like an invasion of privacy. That’s when you are probably going to get responded to.” - Brea FullertonConnect with Brea Fullerton:Shinery WebsiteShinery on InstagramBrea Fullerton on LinkedInBrea Fullerton on InstagramConnect with your Startups in Stilettos hosts!Stephanie Cartin on InstagramStephanie Cartin on LinkedInJessica Abo on InstagramJessica Abo on LinkedInLearn more about Jessica Abo hereThis episode is sponsored by… Hershey’s Her For She SororityIs there a business woman in your network that deserves to be celebrated? Nominate a woman that inspires you to be featured on Entreprenista’s social media using the hashtag: #HerForShe and tag us @Entreprenistas and @HersheysGet Featured on Startups in StilettosWant a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos?

Leeanna Gantt is the inventor and CEO of TookTake, a patented medication reminder system that is revolutionizing the way people take their medications. TookTake offers a variety of medication reminder labels designed to help consumers avoid accidental medication overdose and remember which medications they’ve taken, and when. As a breast cancer survivor, Leeanna knows how difficult it can be to remember if you’ve taken your medication - and have taken it on time. Prior to launching TookTake, Leeanna served in executive and leadership roles at a variety of organizations, including Start With, Rainbow Pack, and Tinker - Community Art Studio.Leeanna joins us today to share how she turned a personal challenge into a fulfilling and rewarding startup business. She shares the inspiration behind launching TookTake, the first steps she took to transition her company from the ‘business idea stage’ to successfully launching a startup, and how she leaned on friends and family to test her products. We discuss the importance of managing your expectations as a new entrepreneur and why Leeanna chose a DIY approach for her PR strategy. Leeanna shares her experience with researching and applying for a Utility Patent for her products and the costs associated with obtaining a Utility Patent. We also discuss the best ways to pitch your products to journalists and share tips for honing your messaging and sharing your brand story in a concise, yet powerful way.“What didn’t work was just doing nothing.” - Leeanna GanttIf you’re looking to take your business to the next level, join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey!This week on Startups in Stilettos:What inspired Leeanna to start the TookTake businessThe first steps Leeanna took to transition TookTake from a business idea to a business startupGetting comfortable with being uncomfortable and pushing yourself out of your comfort zoneManaging your expectations and how Leeanna prepared to launch her companyUsing grassroots marketing strategies to promote your new businessCreating a brand story that is relatable to your customersWhy Leeanna chose a DIY approach to marketing and PRPivoting from selling wholesale products to direct-to-consumer salesThe strategy Leeanna used to approach wholesale buyersHow Leeanna’s products and packaging have evolved since launching her companyProtecting your intellectual property and applying for a patentThe best ways to to pitch your story and product ideas to journalistsTips for honing your story and messageWhat’s next for TookTakeResources Mentioned:Google AlertsOur Favorite Quotes:“Don’t invest a lot in your first packaging because you’ll probably have to change it.” - Leeanna Gantt“Be persistent. If you believe in your product, keep trying to find the right people.” - Leeanna GanttConnect with Leeanna Gantt:TookTakeTookTake on LinkedInTookTake on InstagramTookTake on FacebookLeeanna Gantt on LinkedInConnect with your Startups in Stilettos hosts!Stephanie Cartin on InstagramStephanie Cartin on LinkedInJessica Abo on InstagramJessica Abo on LinkedInLearn more about Jessica Abo hereThis episode is sponsored by… Hershey’s Her For She SororityIs there a business woman in your network that deserves to be celebrated? Nominate a woman that inspires you to be featured on Entreprenista’s social media using the...

Jamie Banks is the Co-Founder and Creative Director of Change of Scenery, a women’s luxury swim and resort wear startup launching in March 2022. Change of Scenery is an accessible luxury women’s apparel brand focused on classic, sophisticated, and effortless styles for the modern 30-55 year old woman. Jamie holds a Bachelor’s degree in Apparel Design from Cornell University and a Master’s of Fine Arts from the Academy of Art University. Jamie is also the co-founder of Fashion for a Cause - Port Washington, an initiative created out of the desire to give back to the Port Washington community during the world’s most unprecedented times – the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to co-developing Change of Scenery, Jamie served as the Design Director of multiple brands, including Kate Spade New York, Milly, and Shoshanna.Jamie joins us today to share her experience of being laid off during the COVID-19 pandemic and what inspired her to take a leap of faith to launch a luxury women’s apparel brand. We discuss the steps she took to bring her business idea to fruition and the lessons she learned along the way. She highlights the benefits of writing a business plan and researching your target market. We discuss the challenges she faced when creating a company name and why it’s crucial to check the trademark database before launching your startup. We also discuss the value of taking time to gather your thoughts before responding to PR questions and practicing your response to the most frequently asked questions you receive.“The biggest thing I’ve learned this year is that I have these amazing, amazing women in my life that are so much smarter and so much more successful than I ever knew they were.” - Jamie BanksIf you’re looking to take your business to the next level, join the Entreprenista League today at entreprenista.com/join. We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey!This week on Startups in Stilettos:The inspiration behind the Change of Scenery brandHow Jamie identified her target audience and the problem she wanted her company to solveLearning how to write a business planHow Jamie found a business partnerThe steps Jamie took to breathe life into her product ideaThe challenges associated with trademarking your companyWhat a business naming contest is and how Jamie finally decided on a business nameThe benefits of hiring a Go-To Market SpecialistJamie’s biggest win since starting her companyThe value of taking time to gather your thoughts before responding to PR questionsWhat’s next for Change of SceneryResources Mentioned:Book: Building a Story Brand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen by Donald MillerCreative Market -- Business Plan TemplatesOur Favorite Quotes:“The business plan really helped me to understand all of the facets of the business. It helped me really put down, in words, the problem that I saw and how we were going to solve it.” - Jamie Banks“Tell anyone that will listen what you’re going through in your business because somebody might hear you and have a suggestion that you never would have asked for help on.” - Jamie Banks“I just kept finding that everything that would come up, I had a woman in my life who was an expert in it and was willing to take their time to hold my hand and walk me through it.” - Jamie BanksConnect with Jamie Banks:Change of SceneryChange of Scenery on LinkedInChange of Scenery on InstagramJamie Banks on LinkedInConnect with your Startups in Stilettos hosts!