SheShines

#SheShines with Libby Levinson

“I started my career in real estate because it gave me the opportunity to be my own boss from day one.” Meet this month’s #SheShines feature, Libby Levinson, Broker Associate with Kentwood Real Estate & Blogger/Owner of Lifestyle Denver. From a young age, Libby always had a passion for real estate and loved seeing how people live. This childhood dream soon became a reality. Through her career in real estate, Libby has been able to expand upon her goals, taking on the title of blogger and entrepreneur. Read how Libby was able to take control of her career, turning a dream into a reality.

Name

Libby Levinson

Age

Location

Denver, Colorado

Current Title

Broker Associate with Kentwood Real Estate & Blogger/Owner of Lifestyle Denver

Education

BA in Communications with a minor in Business Administration, University of Colorado – Boulder

Let’s start from the beginning. What prompted you to start a career in real estate? What is it about the industry that still lights your fire?

I started my career in real estate because it gave me the opportunity to be my own boss from day one. As a child I loved to see how people live and have always been a student of design, so the ability to show properties speaks to one of my earliest interest. I also have a large network of friends, so it’s been a dream being able to work with my friends which helps make every day enriching. I’ve been able to grow at my own pace in time helping my client’s friends and family move into their next homes.

I’m continually growing and learning every day which continues to light my fire. I have taken on new roles such as a blogger for Lifestyle Denver and have become more involved in the Realtor community via the Denver Metro Association of Realtors and National Association of Realtors. Each additional role has challenged me and has taken me in new and exciting directions I never thought I would go.

What business or career moves lead you to create your own real estate venture?

I am thankful that I found real estate very quickly upon graduation from college. I briefly worked for a small business planning events, which showed me the freedom and joy of owning your own business. I didn’t love giving up my weekends at that time, but now I embrace it because it’s my business and I’m able to set my schedule. I then worked in the non-profit sector which helped me understand what I need in a work environment to feel successful at work. While this wasn’t the right fit for me, it did help me understand that I wanted to work for myself and have the flexibility during the day to give back to my community.

How did you know you were ready to branch out and start your own blog and company?

I was invited to join Lifestyle Denver four years ago as a co-contributor because I was becoming more and more involved in social media marketing making me a great new addition. I’ve since taken over Lifestyle Denver and am working on growing it and expanding the readership. Writing doesn’t come naturally to me, but over time I’ve found my voice and have really enjoyed engaging with the community and writing about new and different topics. In the process, I’ve learned how to write for SEO and web traffic, become more comfortable and savvy with social media marketing and now act as a Denver tour guide by highlighting different events and insights for our readers.

What is your favorite or most rewarding thing about running Lifetyle Denver?

While I’m a Denver native, I’m constantly learning about Denver and all of the events happening around town. It makes me proud to call Denver home, especially watching all the changes and growth we’ve experienced over the years. I also did a redesign of the site two years ago and absolutely love the creativity of revamping the design and coming up with fresh topics to address to grow the readership.

What has been the biggest learning curve you’ve faced as a business owner and Lifestyle Denver blogger?

The biggest learning curve has been finding what topics get traction for the readership and really speaking to what the audience finds interesting. The other is finding the time to stay consistent with posts.

Do you have any advice or secret sauce for other future lady bosses considering making their side hustle dream or passion projects their full-time reality and career?

I would recommend staying consistent and to keep working at it. I find that there’s generally a tipping point when you feel like it’s not working and consider quitting, that’s usually just about the time when things really take off. Throughout my career, I have stayed professional, consistent and honest. Those three pillars have helped my business grow immensely. It was slow at first, but it really does start building on top of itself slowly but surely.

How do you stay inspired and motivated in your career?

I like to attend classes because I know there’s always more to learn and room to grow. I find myself continually reenergized after every learning opportunity because it inspires me and reminds me to focus on my systems to help streamline my productivity.

We absolutely love the way you styled your Body Bark piece. How would you describe your overall look/style?

I have a very classic style that I continually play with. I absolutely adore dresses and skirts and am so thankful the weather is warm and can start dusting off some of my favorite pieces.

We know you’re a (rare) Denver native – what is your favorite thing about Denver? Any hidden spots you love? Tell us what your ideal Denver day would look like…

I’m thankful to live and work in my favorite part of Denver – Cherry Creek. My favorite day would to grab brunch with friends and then head out to one of our reservoirs for a little kayaking wrapped up with dinner at one of the new restaurant around town.

FUN FACTS

My dream vacation is…

Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. This has been on my bucket list for years!

When I’m not working you’re most likely to find me…

Meeting friends around town checking out new restaurants and coffee shops, traveling whenever I can or walking my 14-year-old dog around the neighborhood.

My all-time favorite lady boss mentor is…

My Mom and my grandmother. My grandmother graduated from the University of Denver and made having an education and career a priority before settling down with my grandfather. My Mom worked as a VP of a bank, went back to get her master’s degree while I was in college and then transitioned into the non-profit sector working in fundraising. She taught me an incredible work ethic, how important relationships are and how to conduct yourself on a day to day basis. These two women paved the way for me to get where I am today.

Outside of my family, the best mentor I could have asked for is Gretchen Rosenberg who is the CEO of Kentwood Real Estate. She brought me into the Lifestyle Denver world four years ago, of which I have since taken over as she has moved out of sales. She exemplifies the epitome of professionalism and has taught me the importance of getting involved in the community. With her help, I have continued to take on new roles and challenges that have helped me grow and learn every step of the way.

Thank you to Libby for chatting with us about her journey and giving all of us future #SheShines women out there an extra push toward our passions. It is important to love what you do and Libby is a perfect example of someone who took control of her career and her life, making the jump into the unknown. She is a big inspiration to future women dreamers, doers and entrepreneurs. Join us next month for another #SheShines feature!

June 7, 2018 0 comment

SheShines

#SheShines with Charlene Meriwether

Charlene Meriwether, a former educator, is the CEO of Wild Woman Wine. Having accomplished her goals in her previous career, Charlene and her husband were looking for a business opportunity, wanting a change of pace. It was on a trip to Texas that the pair was inspired, and so Wild Woman Wine was born. Keep reading to uncover Charlene’s journey to business ownership.

Name

Charlene Meriwether

Age

Location

Denver, Colorado

Current Title

CEO and Chief Wild Woman

Education

Master’s Degree in Education Management

Let’s start from the beginning. What prompted you to start Wild Women Wine?

My husband and I were looking for a business opportunity and saw this concept in Texas. We had accomplished what we were happy with in our previous careers and wanted a new challenge

What did you do before owning your own business? What did you like or dislike about your prior career?

I was a teacher, then school administrator, then education consultant. I felt that I had accomplished everything I wanted to in that career and wanted a different kind of challenge.

What steps did you take to prepare for your business launch? How did you know you were ready?

Researching the business in general, setting up a Responsibility Matrix to determine who was in charge of each facet of the business, visited wineries and looked for ways to set ourselves apart Are you ever really ready to jump down a rabbit hole? We just jumped!

What is the most rewarding part of running your own company?

I enjoy the challenges and the creativity in changing the business as it grows

What has been the biggest learning curve or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

Finding enough time to do everything I want and need to do AND have a personal life away from the business

Do you have any advice for other future lady bosses considering making their side hustle or passion projects their full-time reality and career?

Every day there will be a challenge or a problem. Be prepared to deal with those without getting overwhelmed or frustrated or afraid. It comes with the territory.

We absolutely love the way you styled your Body Bark piece. How would you describe your overall look/style?

I appreciate comfort, comfort, comfort!

FUN FACTS

One thing about me that may surprise people is…

I love to write and someday will write a book

My dream vacation is…

Any beach, anywhere

My all-time favorite lady boss mentor is…

Right now I LOVE Elizabeth Gilbert. Reading her book, The Big Magic about leading a creative life

Thank you to Charlene for chatting with us about her journey and giving all of us future #SheShines women out there an extra push toward our passions. It can be scary to make the jump and dive into the unknown that is entrepreneurship, but in the end, it’s worth it. Check back in next month for another #SheShines feature!

April 18, 2018 0 comment

SheShines

#SheShines With Romy Taormina

English author Thomas Fuller once said that “health is not valued till sickness comes.” This is what inspired nausea relief mama and entrepreneur, Romy Taormina who is dedicating her life to Psi Bands, stylish, fun bands that help relieve nausea. Her crippling morning sickness during her pregnancies left her feeling like there had to be a better option to nausea, leading her to found Psi Bands. Read on to check out Romy’s inspirational story!

PROFILE

Name

Romy Taormina

Age

Location

Pacific Grove, CA

Current Title

CEO/Founder

Education

Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. Business major. Marketing concentration.

Let’s start from the beginning. What prompted you to start Psi Health Solutions, Inc?

Puking was what inspired me to take the leap of faith into the entrepreneurial stratosphere. I suffered from debilitating morning sickness during both of my pregnancies and was sick for more than a year. I found nausea relief through acupressure wristbands but was dissatisfied with existing products on the market so I set out to create a superior product, both in form and function, to help those who suffer. And Psi Bands were born.

What did you do before owning your own business? What did you like or dislike about your prior career?

I was a grant writer (as a consultant). Prior to that, I worked at an advertising agency. I love creating and strategizing.

What steps did you take to prepare for your business launch? How did you know you were ready?

I did a lot of research on market potential. I strongly believed that the product concept had enough necessary “legs” to move it forward. And, I was passionate about the concept because I knew what it felt like to suffer from a debilitating medical condition.

What is the most rewarding part of running your own company?

Providing nausea relief to close to 1M people.

What has been the biggest learning curve you’ve faced as a business owner?

Constant change. However, that change keeps things exciting. Never a dull moment. It’s a journey. Embrace it.

Do you have any advice for other future lady bosses considering making their side hustle dream or passion projects their full-time reality and career?

You are going to be constantly challenged. You will be uncomfortable – a lot. Get used to it. Why? Because running a business is like raising a child. Just when you think you know what that child is up to, they change. Just when you think you have the business wired, things change. Be fluid and be willing to adapt. Never get cozy.

FUN FACTS

We love how you styled your Body Bark piece! How would you describe your sense of personal style?

My Body Bark shirt is timeless, breathes easily, looks stylish, is super soft, and matches everything. Love it!

My dream vacation is…

Paris. I’ve never been and would love to go.

My all-time favorite lady boss mentor is…

My college summer internship boss at Mattel Toys. Yes, I am dating myself (that was decades ago). She was a great mentor. Confident, educated, appreciative, and provided clear direction and expectations while giving me the autonomy to make decisions.

Big thank you to Romy for her time. She was dealing with nausea, recognized that others were struggling too, and took the initiative to create her own option, even despite constant challenges. She is a big inspiration to future women dreamers, doers and entrepreneurs. Join us next month for another #SheShines feature!

March 26, 2018 0 comment

SheShines

#SheShines With Kyle Dyer

“Kyle is a great journalist…but the thing is, she’s probably an even better human being.” – Gary Shapiro, 9News Anchor.

Kyle Dyer, a former television news anchor, is the founder and CEO of Kyle Dyer Storytelling. With 25 years of news anchor experience, Kyle has always been a wonderful communicator, but it wasn’t until a tragic accident that she learned how to be a good listener. Kyle Dyer Storytelling is dedicated to listening to people’s stories and effectively sharing those stories with the community.

Name

Kyle Dyer

Location

Denver

Current Title

Owner of Kyle Dyer storytelling

Education

B.S. in Journalism, University of Maryland

Let’s start from the beginning. What was your first job after school? Did you know that entrepreneurship would be your calling?

My first job out of the University of Maryland was at the ABC station in Washington, D.C. I was chosen for a reporter training program in which I helped the reporters, producers and graphic artists with whatever they needed to get stories on the air. That led to a job on the assignment desk where I had a more active role in the news gathering by following up on leads and designating reporters to certain stories. Ultimately, I realized I wanted to be the person going out in the community, finding and sharing stories. Being in a newsroom is such a team-focused environment. I would never have imagined back then that I would venture out on my own as a small business owner. I actually still have a team, a much smaller yet hugely creative team, that helps me produce compelling stories. The entrepreneur spirit is alive in me in my desire to be proactive in finding and sharing stories that need to be heard.

What prompted you to start Kyle Dyer Storytelling? Have you always been a people person with a passion to help others tell their stories and find their callings? How did this passion start?

I have always been a people person, involved in the community, a great communicator, etc. But, I guess you could say the spark that led to Kyle Dyer Storytelling occurred out of something that happened in February 2012 (although I was not aware of it at the time). On a Wednesday morning, I got too close to a dog during a live interview segment and he bit my face. I needed a skin graft to repair my lip so my mouth was sewn shut with 70-something stitches for 10 days. For someone who is used to talking for a living as a news anchor, I had no choice but to only listen. People who had faced similar injuries reached out to me… they shared their stories. I listened. I listened to a lot of people who reached out to me from within my community and from all over the world. When the stitches came out and I could talk again, people wanted to hear my story. People listened to me. That was such a profound feeling… to be understood. I knew I was always a good communicator… but had I been a good listener? From there on out, I was able to hear people a lot more clearly and therefore, share their stories in a way that resonated with others. I discovered my passion and drive to connect with people, deeply listen to them and share their stories so that they are heard. My last two years at 9News in Denver, I focused a lot of my energy on telling stories that would engage people and make them a bit more connected to this community. I also found people were looking for those stories on the internet and my pieces were getting a lot of traction. Now as the owner of Kyle Dyer Storytelling, I refer to myself as a generative journalist. I generate news to build community.

What is your biggest piece of advice when it comes to communicating, marketing, and storytelling?

I think one of the most important aspects of communication with one another in storytelling, marketing and in life is listening, deeply listening to one another. We are all so busy these days that often we don’t stop and truly listen to someone.. and that is what makes it possible to connect with someone. Aren’t we all trying to engage, resonate and connect with others? Listen … deeply listen.. and it will happen. Everyone has a story. Everyone deserves to be heard.

What steps did you take to make the transition from taking this thing that was a passion and huge part of your life, and turning it into a business?

I left my corporate tv job on a Wednesday and formed my LLC the very next day. I had no overlap. I didn’t start building my business until after I left my news job. I wanted a clean slate so that I could devote 100% of my energy to my new venture. A friend recommended I hire Executive Suite Communication which helped me with my transition, branding, logo and website. That was a smart move for me and a huge boost that allowed me to really hit the ground running.

Tell us more about Kyle Dyer Storytelling. What’s your favorite part about your company and how do you think that it positively impacts your clients? What about it brings you the greatest sense of joy and fulfillment?

I love meeting the smart, innovative, problem-solving and passionate (the list could go on) people who are behind programs and organizations that are making a profound and positive impact on our community. It’s a joy to partner with them, work with their staff, engage with their clients to help them ‘find the why’ of the business and then capture that in a story that resonates with people who see it. When we see/hear a good story, we tell our friends.. and they may tell friends and then, it may get posted on social media… the more we spread the positive and strong stories in our community, the more engaged and connected we become. Well told stories are powerful. They have the power to unite us and make positive change.

As a business owner, what is the most challenging part of running your own company? Any secret sauce you want to share with future lady bosses considering making their side hustle dream their full-time reality?

I am a creative and content-driven business owner. Running a business was a bit of an unknown but it didn’t intimidate me. I have surrounded myself with people who share with me how to’s and insight. Connecting with women entrepreneurs through Denver’s The Commons on Champa has been incredibly beneficial for me and very inspirational. We have so much to share and learn from one another. If you’re thinking about jumping into the startup world, connect with as many entrepreneurs as you can, have lots of coffee dates, attend networking events.. people are happy to share their stories! If you listen, you will learn so much.

We absolutely love the way you styled your Body Bark piece. How would you describe your overall look/style?

My style has changed a lot since I left TV news. I have donated a lot of my “tv anchor dresses” to charity. I wear a lot of separates so I’m always looking for great, nice fitting and stylish pieces like the Body Bark line. When I’m out on a shoot, I need to look professional yet approachable… and be comfortable

Fun Facts:

One thing about me that may surprise people is…

This is a tough one because I think that since I was just myself on the air for so long that people really do know me and who I am. However, I have always loved to sing and when I was little I wanted to either star on Broadway or sing commercial jingles for a living.

My dream vacation destination is…

On a beach! Anywhere.. but I’m happiest along the Atlantic in Bethany Beach, Delaware where my family gathers every summer.

My all-time favorite lady boss and why is…

I’d have to say, my mom. She is super creative – an artist. The artistic side in me shows up in my writing and creativity. She really pushed me to be independent but also appreciate friends, family and a love for the community. Look at me now… I’d say she steered me in the absolute best direction! Love you, mom!

Thank you to Kyle for chatting with us about her journey and giving all of us future #SheShines women out there an extra push toward our passions. I personally agree that the easiest business to start is one you passionately believe in. If you’re passionate about your dream, others will be, too.

February 9, 2018 1 comment

SheShines

#SheShines With January Olds

Finding your passion and walking down the path of self-employment requires the right timing and the right person. Nolan Bushnell said, “The true entrepreneur is a doer, not a dreamer,” but I said why not be both? Take that dream and run with it. That’s what January Olds did.

January, 39 years old living in Los Angeles, is the founder and CEO of January Labs. Even as a child, January had a passion for creating her own skincare products and slowly turned that into her livelihood. It may not have always been obvious that this passion could turn into something profitable, but her drive and mission to provide women with clean, effective products won her over. January Labs is an all-inclusive skincare line designed to simplify your daily routine and treat your skin right.

Name

January Olds

Age

Location

Los Angeles

Current Title

Founder and CEO of January Labs

Education

Licensed Esthetician

Let’s start from the beginning. What was your first job after school? Did you know that entrepreneurship would be your calling?

I was a hostess at a restaurant. I loved it, actually. Connecting with people was my favorite part. My least favorite was not being able to take a vacation whenever I wanted to. I learned after my first few jobs, there was a freedom I desired. To be honest, I really learned working for people wasn’t going to work out, because I operate best in control. I like to control my schedule, my work, etc.

What prompted you to start January Labs? Have you always had a passion for skin care? How did this passion start?

Since I was very young, I’d make facial products at home. That was literally my idea of a really good time! I also loved fashion magazines and the whole idea of beauty and making people feel beautiful. I’ve always had an affinity towards self-care. It started at a young age and as I got older, I learned there was value. It was an enlightening thing to have a hobby turn into a valued career. It’s hard at times to think about who could care about something that felt so “easy” and “fun” for me. But here I am, living a life centered around my passion. It’s a good feeling.

What is your biggest piece of advice when it comes to beauty and skincare?

Eat healthy. And simply, if you don’t feel good about yourself you won’t achieve your goal. There’s this saying, “The happiest girls are the prettiest” and I really believe that. I also believe, the simpler the better. The idea of having 20 products overwhelms me. I believe the more you can get in one product that is multi-purposeful, the better. My line definitely represents that model (for example, the night cream solves three problems if not more). You shouldn’t have more than 4-5 products in your daily regimen! I’m also not big on diet fads or skin care fads. I’m more into traditional products — and making it easy. Overall, don’t complicate it.

What steps did you take to make the transition from taking this thing that was a passion and huge part of your life, and turning it into a business?

I’ve had my seasons of discouragement in running my own business. For some time, I didn’t have the emotional bandwidth to entertain ever starting anything. It was scary because I lived at home with my parents at the time. So as I started the process, I knew I needed funding. When I got my first offer, I actually turned down funding and wanted to be purposeful and to feel “right.” Thankfully, soon after I got investors who saw my vision and believed in me. And liked me! But receiving a generous investment reminded me to always try and be the biggest steward of what’s been given, especially when people put blind faith in you. That was a huge turning point. It felt like a personal investment since my business is personal.

Tell us more about January Labs. What’s your favorite part about your company and how do you think that it positively impacts your clients? What about it brings you the greatest sense of joy and fulfillment?

Seeing a customer on my website or going into a store and ordering (and reordering) my product is the best feeling ever. It is so crazy there are fans of our product. When I hear people say the product has changed their skin, that is everything to me. Feedback and seeing the company grow is encouraging for me. I also love the idea of creating jobs for people presently and in the future too. I just like the idea of reaching more people and creating a community around this mission that instills beauty. Also, taking on a business partner recently has been amazing and a game changer. Our skill sets complement each other and it truly feels like someone has your back. It’s a joy.

As a business owner, what is the most challenging part of running your own company? Any secret sauce you want to share with future lady bosses considering making their side hustle dream their full-time reality?

I think the hardest part is the chance of inconsistency. You’ll have one good month and then you’ll stress every other month over whether you will meet your projections for the year. I do have to say though, I like that type of energy–I like fire under my tail. But I think there’s a weird little voice we all have, “Who are you fooling?” and doubt can creep in. Negative talk is the worst. You have to ignore them if they get in the way of your goals. Speaking of, a secret but not-so-original idea I’ve personally benefited from is writing lists on everything! It really helps me be productive. It’s an ongoing list like in an email. I’ll even voice dictate (both of which my biz partner yelled at me about till it finally clicked). Getting your thoughts on one page is the way to go. Lastly, surrounding your life with like-minded people like entrepreneurial centered groups. That kind of support is invaluable. It’s a huge amount of support that has helped me feel less lonely, too. Simply, create your own nucleus of supporters. These are my not-so-secret secrets.

We absolutely love the way you styled your Body Bark piece. How would you describe your overall look/style?

I’d say classic black and chic. Simple Is better. Also, I can totally attest to the fact that Body Bark is the perfect travel top! I bought it with me on my Vacation in Mexico and absolutely loved the fact that it was perfect to throw on after a day at the beach.

One thing about me that may surprise people is…

I’m over six-feet. And I’m like a huge dork. Health and fitness and living by the beach, being fabulous is what it might all look like, but sometimes I just want to listen to the Beauty and The Beast soundtrack on repeat and sing at the top of my lungs (then I would have to apologize to anyone who had the unpleasant experience of hearing it).

My dream vacation destination is…

African Safari. It’s just magical. The vastness of the lands and how magical it feels is the dream. It’s like, how is this coexisting on the same planet I live on? I like feeling small too. Plus, the look, style, and lifestyle seems very rad and chic too.

My all-time favorite lady boss is…

I’d say Emily Weiss (Glossier). I love the way she disrupted the whole market and I think how her company is run is smart and innovative–coming up with things that haven’t been done before, especially in the specific market. Plus she is just so cool. I’ll have to say, in general though, Michelle Obama is my ultimate lady boss.

Thank you to January for chatting with us about her journey and giving all of us future #SheShines women out there an extra push toward our passions. I personally agree that the easiest business to start is one you believe in with a passion-driven mission. If you’re obsessed with your dream, others will be, too.

January 17, 2018 0 comment

Features SheShines

#SheShines With Channing Hesse

“Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow.” This powerful quote by Anita Desai could not be more poignant for today’s #sheShines spotlight. It’s so true that travel often inspires far deeper experiences than a fleeting vacation high. Travel can completely redirect you down a new path, open up doors you never thought you’d walk through, and if you’re lucky, travel can sometimes lend a hand in helping you to become the person you were always meant to be.

Channing Hesse, 48, was working as a commercial lawyer in the suburbs of Chicago when she took a trip to the Philippines with her sister. A graduate of Northern Illinois University with a J.D. from Chicago Kent College of Law, she always thought that she would simply remain a lawyer. Little did she know, this trip would change her life and transform her career in ways she could have never imagined. With no running water, no electricity and many stricken with illness, she saw how desperately the people of this little island called Illing needed her help. Having already been bored with her law career, she turned her passion to help into a purpose, starting Farmacologie, both a business and a non-profit that helps provide a substance called Moringa (a plant-based powder that is rich in protein and nutrients) to those who are malnourished. Discover her journey:

Let’s start from the beginning. What prompted you to start Farmacologie?

I was on a trip to the Philippines where my sister and I felt so compelled to do something for the people on this tiny island in the South China Sea called Illing. They had nothing, no running water, no electricity and lived in mud huts. Some of the people living there were starving, as they never got off of this island. We inquired about the natural resources and learned that “Malunggay” grew on the island. We quickly learned that this was the Moringa Oleifera Tree that had amazing superfood properties, and had been studied in other countries for its ability to reduce cholesterol, blood pressure, give natural energy and help all kinds of diseases caused by inflammation. We then developed formulations with moringa for energy, inflammation, lactation and for general well being.

What businesses or career moves helped shape Farmacologie or led you to it?

It was bored with my law career and this ultimately led me to the Philippines and to the moringa tree. I offered to give free legal help to a friend, Nancy Economou, who had a dream to bring solar lights to third world countries. I helped her get her dream established with the formation of Watts of Love (a not-for-profit) and obtain its IRS 501(c)(3) certification. We traveled back to the Philippines and Haiti to deliver solar lights. I bought packs of moringa to breastfeeding women in Haiti to help nourish them and their infant children and did a feeding program for kids in Manila.

What steps did you take to prepare for your business launch? How did you know you were ready?

I was quite bored with my job. As a commercial business lawyer, all I was doing was helping companies sue other companies for money. It was always about money. I wanted to do something that had more human substance to it. Once I saw the plight of the people on Illing, I knew I wanted to do something to help. My sister and I did a lot of research into moringa and consulted with other experts in the field. We then consulted with marketing experts to help launch the business.

Can you tell us about the philanthropic arm of your business? What is it like to run both a business and non-profit?

The non-profit is way more fun and rewarding. The heartfelt thank-you’s and hugs I’ve received from mothers of the children we were feeding was worth everything. There is always people in the world to help, so we never run out of people to help feed or educate about the benefits of eating moringa.

What has been the biggest learning curve you’ve faced as a business owner?

That I’m no marketer. I think I can do it all, but I’ve quickly realized that I need the help and expertise of others.

Do you have any advice for other future lady bosses considering making their side hustle dream or passion projects their full-time reality and career?

If you died tomorrow, what will you regret in life? If you have that passion, then you will always regret not taking the chance to make it happen.

We absolutely love the way you styled your Body Bark piece. How would you describe your overall look/style?

Flirty casual?

One thing about me that may surprise people is…

I’m a classical pianist.

When I’m not working you’re most likely to find me…

Swimming, watching Breaking Bad, or having a cocktail with a friend (or all 3)!

My all-time favorite lady boss mentor is

My mom

Thanks so much to Channing for sharing her passion and career insight with the Body Bark community! Hopefully, you’ve found a bit of inspiration in her story. Tell us about the boss lady risks you’ve been taking, and join us next month for a chat with another #SheShines entrepreneur!

December 13, 2017 0 comment

SheShines

#SheShines With Mor Zucker

Sometimes, seeing a need — and realizing that you can fill that need — is exactly what it takes to kickstart a new business.

Mor Zucker, 35, was working as a realtor when she heard there was a dearth of content published by realtors. Because of her job, she already knew the pulse and rhythms of the neighborhoods where she was selling property. So why not provide that information to the community?

Zucker wasted no time and decided to fill the gap, founding TheDenverEar.com to provide locals and visitors with information about what to do in Denver. While running that site, she also still works as a realtor with Kentwood Real Estate, raises her two girls with her husband, and can almost definitely beat you at poker.

Let’s start from the beginning. What was your first job after school?

My first job was a waitress at a local cafe.

What prompted you to start The Denver Ear? Have you always had an interest in the publishing world?

I moved to Denver 10 years ago, and after we had two children, I never knew what was happening around town. Neither did any of my friends, for that matter. During my first year of real estate, I attended booj’s real estate tech conference. A speaker named Wil Reynolds had a session about how there is a lack of good and interesting community content online that comes directly from realtors, who are the ones that know the community and neighborhoods better than most. That moment, I realized how much I needed that information just as much as anyone else. The very next day, The Denver Ear was officially founded.

What steps did you take to prepare for your business launch, and how did you know you were ready?

In the first couple of months, it really was just a fun side project. I purchased the domain, I asked two close friends of mine to help me build the website, and my brother and his fiancée to help me design it. From there, I took it day by day. I don’t think anyone is ever really prepared for trying their hand at business. I learned everything on my own: by reading blogs, by asking my peers, and, of course, by making mistakes along the way. Ultimately, I believe if you want to succeed in something, you simply need to really love what you are doing. When you love something and you are passionate about it, you will do everything you can to make it a success.

You’ve had so much success as both a realtor and as an editor for The Denver Ear. Which hat do you like wearing the most?

That’s a tricky question! I love both of my businesses very much, and I am fortunate that they both are very much connected to each other. I know a lot about the neighborhoods that I am selling and buying real estate in due to The Denver Ear, and I know every neighborhood in Denver to write about due to my real estate business. Nowadays, one depends on the other.

You’re clearly a master at multitasking. As a successful realtor, managing editor, and mom of two beautiful girls, how do you manage running your own businesses while also attempting to find balance with family?

First of all, thank you; I do have beautiful girls, and they are also extremely smart and caring human beings, which really is my biggest satisfaction in life. To be honest, it feels like there are never enough hours in the day to accomplish everything I still would like to do. I try my best to prioritize, every day, the most pressing items first. At times, that also means that I have to feel comfortable with taking the day off and spending time with my kids. At times that means that I can’t do that as much as other mothers. I don’t think any woman ever feels like she gets it 100 percent “right.” Even when I was a stay-at-home mom, I often felt like I could do better. The key is to try your best and not let guilt take over. Nobody is perfect, after all.

Has being married to a successful entrepreneur helped shaped the way you do business?

My husband has a lot of influence on my decisions and career. I value his opinion very much, and we share our daily struggles with each other. Sometimes people want to come home and not talk about work, in order to be able to “zone out” from work related issues. I think, though, that deciding to push through those moments and still bring up work at home ensures that you can understand each other better and what you both are going through on a daily basis. We aren’t perfect, but he’s my best friend, and I would never be where I am today without him.

Any secret sauce you want to share with future lady bosses considering making their side-hustle dream their full-time reality?

My firmest belief in business is that you need to have passion and grit, and you need to work hard for your success. I didn’t wake up one morning and have things magically happen for me. I work hard, I put in the hours, I research and learn more everyday. If you want to succeed, push past that moment when you think things aren’t going as well as you would like. When you push past that moment of giving up and don’t give up, magic happens right around the corner.

We absolutely love the way you styled your Body Bark piece. How would you describe your overall style?

My overall style is 100 percent consistent with Body Bark. My favorite look is a black top, usually tucked into skinny jeans, with a belt and heels. If you look through my photos, you might think I keep wearing the same clothes. The truth is, I am the female version of Simon Cowell. I have dozens of tops and jeans that are exactly the same. I like simple clothes that are of quality. That makes me feel both comfortable and sexy.

One thing about you that may surprise people is…

I used to be a professional poker player, and I was hired at a casino to play at their location and paid per hour to play there over other casinos. That’s because I love to chat while I play, so often I get players to stay longer and enjoy their time. The money that I won and lost, though, was my own.

Favorite way to spend the day in Denver…

This one is probably the hardest question to ask me! I have so many perfect ways to spend my days in Denver. If I had to choose, though, I would say a pool or water park day with my family, followed by an outdoor BBQ, dinner with friends, and a really good concert, preferably at Red Rocks!

You all-time favorite lady boss mentor is…

My grandmother, Ruth. I went over to her and my grandfather’s house every day after school nearly my entire life. She is one of the kindest and wisest people I know. We still talk a few times a week and even gossip. She recently celebrated her 90th birthday, and her influence on my life is profound.

Thanks so much to Mor Zucker for sharing her passion and career insight with the Body Bark community! Hopefully you’ve found a bit of inspiration in her story. Tell us about the boss lady risks you’ve been taking, and join us next month for a chat with another #SheShines entrepreneur!

September 20, 2017 0 comment

Features SheShines

#sheShines With Jenn Jett

Sometimes the people who are most supportive of your dreams are the ones who dream biggest themselves.

They just get it.

That’s true for Jenn Jett, the Dallas-based owner of Jenn Jett Creative and The Well Studio , and this month’s #sheShines female entrepreneur feature. As a branding expert, she works with business owners to visually represent their dreams. As a conference mastermind, she facilitates space for women to encourage and connect deeply with one another.

We caught up with Jenn to hear about how she got started with her businesses, what she loves about conferences, and how she uses her knowledge of her Enneagram type in her work life.

Let’s start from the beginning. What was your first job after school? Or did you immediately dive into business ownership?

Right before I graduated college, I began freelancing as a textile designer for JC Penney. My first “real” job after school was as a Children’s Textile Designer at Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., in Arkansas. It was actually the best first job. Our team was small, so we had to wear a lot of hats. I only worked there a year but learned a ton in a short amount of time.

How did you get started with that initial freelance position?

While I was finishing my design degree in college, a friend was already working at JC Penney and needed freelance help. She was designing children’s clothes at the time. I remember her saying, “You can totally do this.” And to my surprise, the job required me to draw hearts and flowers all day. I kept thinking, “This is really a job.” I was hooked!

What prompted you to start Jenn Jett Creative? Have you always had an interest in branding?

I think, as a creative, when you work for a corporation or even a small-size company, you realize you have a skill that, with the right amount of confidence, you could go out and build a business from. I just eventually got tired of helping someone else build their business and decided I wanted to use my gifts and time to build my own. You do have to assess the cost of going out on your own, but for me, the freedom and flexibility I gained were worth it. I think the thing I love about branding is that I am a builder and a starter. I love helping people build their vision and dreams. Branding is the visual representation of that.

Tell us about Camp Well. What inspired this, and how did you prepare to launch this new arm of your business?

Camp Well is a four-day, faith-focused, deep-rooted retreat for dreamers and doers. I saw a need for this group to have face-to-face, authentic community. Women thrive in environments where they are understood and cheered on. I wanted to create a space where they could reflect, refocus and reset the dreams being stirred in them. I am a conference junkie, so after spending a lot of time attending retreats and conferences and then speaking at them, I did a lot of research on how to actually produce one. Then I just got the courage to say, “I can do this,” and I recruited the best friends a girl could ask for to join me on this crazy ride!

You’ve had so much success with Camp Well. Have you been surprised by the response?

I have been. I cry every start of a retreat and the last few minutes before everyone leaves.

Why do you think it’s resonating with so many women?

I think women just want to be understood. They want to know they are not alone in their overwhelm or the fact that they don’t feel “enough” as they pursue a dream or launch something they are passionate about.

As a business owner, what has been the most challenging part of running your own company? Any secret sauce you want to share to future lady bosses considering making their side hustle dream their full-time reality?

Discipline has been my biggest challenge. If you are familiar with the Enneagram (basically a personality test), I am a SEVEN. I love adventure, and structure is my kryptonite. Sitting still is hard for me, but my job requires hours at my computer at times. One thing that has helped is block time. For instance, I try to only schedule meetings on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This leaves Monday for easing into work and getting organized. Wednesdays are “zone days” where I try to work straight through the day. And then when Friday comes, if I can just work half a day, I do that and start the weekend early!

What have you found has been the greatest medium for you in terms of promoting your business, getting new clients and campers, etc.?

Instagram and Mailchimp. We connect on Instagram and reach back out through newsletters.

We absolutely love the way you styled your Body Bark piece. How would you describe your overall look and style?

Basic with a flair. My wardrobe is pretty simple, but I love pairing random items, wearing pieces in a unique way or adding some fun accessories.

One thing that may surprise people about you is…

I am an outgoing introvert.

Your favorite way to spend the day in Dallas is…

With friends over happy hour on a porch in 70-degree weather…which is so hard to come by!

Your all-time favorite lady boss mentor is…

Jo Saxton. She has been an amazing coach in my life!

Thanks so much to Jenn for sharing her story with us! We hope her story encourages and inspires you to dream big and take the risks you’ve been wanting to take. Join us again next month for another #sheShines!

July 19, 2017 0 comment

Beauty Fashion Features SheShines

#SHESHINES WITH ANIMAL ACTIVIST, PAMELA HART

Pamela Hart, the director of the Animal Law Program at the Animal Legal Defense Fund, never stops finding ways to help others advocate for animals.

For example: She co-founded Sheltering Animals of Abuse Victims (SAAV) with her law school classmate Megan Senatori, whom she calls one of the most inspirational women she knows. She was the first to teach Animal Law courses at both the University of Chicago Law School and her alma mater, University of Wisconsin-Madison.

And she didn’t stop there.

Always looking to expand the field of animal law and equip people to defend animals and treat them humanely in the first place, this Wisconsin-based lawyer is launching three new educational programs this year alone.

Body Bark caught up with Hart to hear a bit more about how she got into animal law and what inspires her to keep going.

Let’s start from the beginning. What was your first job after school?

My first job after law school was working with my dad at his law firm. This was a great experience as I got to work with an excellent attorney, mentor, and, most importantly, my dad!

Did you always know you wanted to go into law and animal advocacy?

I did not always know I wanted to go to law school. In fact, I took 10 years off between Business School (undergrad) and law school. When I did return to school, I was ready! By the time I went to law school, I had already adopted Max. He was a German Shepherd mix from the ASCPA in NYC. Unfortunately, Max had seen abuse and neglect in his young life. He opened my eyes to the link between domestic violence and animal cruelty. This started me down my path of animal advocacy.

What prompted you to start teaching? Have you always had an interest in education?

When I was in law school, there weren’t any animal law courses or student animal law chapters available. After graduation, I and my classmate, Megan Senatori, approached the UW Law School administration about adding the first-ever animal law course. Thankfully, they were receptive, and we were able to develop the course curriculum and introduce UW law students to animal law. A few years later, I taught the first animal law course at the University of Chicago Law School.

You’ve had so much success in the industry. When did you realize this was the direction you wanted to take your career?

I am incredibly fortunate to be able to marry my passion with my profession. I have been involved in animal protection for almost 20 years. I have my dream job!

In 2001, you co-founded SAAV. What made you feel the need for this organization?

Max inspired me to recognize and care about the link between domestic violence and animal cruelty. When Megan and I first met, we’d frequently talk about how we wanted to use our law degrees to help animals. We quickly realized there wasn’t a safe haven program for animals in our community, as a result, SAAV was born. We are so fortunate to have incredible partners collaborating on this program — Dane County Humane Society (DCHS) and Domestic Abuse Intervention Service (DAIS).

You’re clearly a master at multitasking and confidently wear a variety of hats. Is there any secret sauce you want to share to future lady bosses considering making their passion their full-time reality?

I don’t think there’s a secret sauce necessarily. I think following your passion, believing in your purpose, embracing the unknown, and surrounding yourself with amazing, supportive, inspirational female leaders along the way will make things happen.

I take it back, surrounding yourself with inspiring women IS the secret sauce.

We absolutely love the way you styled your Body Bark piece. How would you describe your overall look and style?

I’m a busy mom and attorney who leans toward professional casual. I love Body Bark because you can dress it up or down, plus it’s unbelievably comfortable. Also, every time I wear Body Bark, I think of my incredible and inspiring friend, Catherine Poirier. Not only is she the founder of Body Bark, she is one of my dearest friends and favorite people on the planet.

One thing about you that may surprise people is…

I play a mean game of H-0-R-S-E with my kids. I’m in it to win.

Favorite way to spend the day in Madison, Wisconsin…

Summertime in Madison is the best! Whether it’s enjoying Wisconsin’s beautiful lakes, strolling around the world-class farmers market, or taking in the view at the Union, there’s nowhere else I’d rather be!

Your all-time favorite lady boss mentor is…

Joyce Tischler, founder of the Animal Legal Defense Fund.

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Body Bark is so grateful to Pamela for filling us in on her career and how she helps make the world a better place for animals and humans alike! Want to know more about her story? Check out this article, and shop her Body Bark look here. We’ll be back soon with more from another inspiring boss woman!

June 21, 2017 0 comment