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Hot Smart Rich with Maggie Sellers Reum

Hot Smart Rich with Maggie Sellers Reum

75 episodes — Page 2 of 2

S1 Ep 24Maggie Sellers on Why It’s Time to Get the Prenup, Call Out Your Copycats, and Stop Doing Work for Free (ft. Katie Sellers)

Weddings. Wealth. Women doing free work. This week, Hot Smart Rich is back with sisters Maggie and Katie Sellers—talking candidly about navigating money in relationships, the pressure of influencer wedding culture, and what happens when someone starts copying your brand move for move. (Hint: you trademark or die.) From a quick catch-up post Maggie's Euro trip to a 400% raise for the DCC, this episode covers personal stories, hard-earned lessons, and straight-up tactical advice on everything from prenups to trademarking to finding a partner who gets your ambition. If you’re navigating wedding pressure, financial conversations in your relationship, or trying to protect your brand from copycats—this one’s for you. ⸻ Key Takeaways Mixed finances doesn’t mean mixed values.Maggie and Katie break down how to approach money in relationships, what to consider before combining finances, and why a prenup is self-respect—not pessimism. Wedding culture is spiraling.From Sophia Richie Grainge to the Bezos/Sanchez media circus, we dissect the current state of influencer weddings—and how to stay grounded in your own vision. You’re not crazy—they’re copying you.Maggie opens up about the reality of being copied and why protecting your intellectual property is not optional. Trademark early, trademark everything. The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders effect.The power of reality TV is underestimated—especially when building in public. We explore how narrative-driven platforms shape culture and why founders should pay attention. Women need to stop doing free work.Katie shares the moment that led to a 409% raise—and why advocating for yourself is the most HSR move you can make. AI is not optional.We break down why creators must start experimenting with AI tools (yes, even if you’re not “technical”) and how to think bigger than ChatGPT. Supportive partners are a strategic advantage.Maggie shares the top questions to ask when dating to find someone who supports—not competes with—your ambition. ⸻ Links Use ⁠⁠⁠⁠Opus Clip⁠⁠⁠⁠ to turn long videos into shorts. ⸻ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you like what you hear, rate, review, and subscribe to Hot Smart Rich, the podcast supporting women who own their worth — in business, wealth, and life. ⁠Subscribe on Youtube⁠ ⸻ 💌Own your worth — and build the life you want. Subscribe to the Hot Smart Rich newsletter, the no-BS guide to startup life, consumer brands, and becoming your hottest, smartest, richest self, written by Maggie Sellers. Join 250,000+ women building wealth, confidence, and community on their own terms. ⁠Subscribe here!⁠ ⸻ Follow Maggie here: Instagram: ⁠@maggiesellers⁠ TikTok: ⁠@maggiesellers_ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠Maggie Sellers⁠ ShopMy: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 25, 202548 min

Bryony Basse (Deery), Dior Global Wellness Expert & Founder of Pilates By Bryony, On Going From Broke and Heartbroken To Building A Million-Dollar Pilates Empire

What does it take to rebuild your life, your body, and your business from scratch? In this episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie sits down with Bryony Basse (née Deery), founder of Pilates by Bryony and Dior Global Wellness Expert, to talk about the moment everything changed. After a life-altering car accident in her early 20s left her in chronic pain, Bryony turned to Pilates as a form of healing. What started as recovery became her purpose and ultimately a multi-million dollar global brand. She built a multi-million dollar digital fitness business from her living room floor with a tripod and an iPhone, found strength through solitude, and learned that the real flex is owning your identity, your IP, and your income. But the story doesn’t stop at success. Bryony opens up about walking away from a relationship marked by the emotional toll of financial imbalance and power dynamics, and how meeting the love of her life helped her rewrite her story. Financial independence, she shares, gave her the ability to love fully without resentment, performance, or transaction. This is a conversation about power—reclaiming it, building it, and learning how to hold it. If you’ve ever questioned your worth, your voice, or your path, Bryony’s story is proof that everything can change when you stop waiting for permission and start choosing yourself. ⸻ Key Takeaways Your power starts with ownership. Bryony owns her name, her content, and her business. She breaks down why holding the rights to your brand and IP isn’t just smart—it’s essential for building something no one can take away. Learning is a superpower. Through her role as Dior’s Global Wellness Expert, Bryony had a front-row seat to how world-class brands operate. She shares how adopting a learner’s mindset helped her bring luxury strategy to her business—without losing authenticity. She built a multimillion-dollar brand from her living room. After a car accident left her in chronic pain, Pilates became her way back. With nothing but a tripod and an iPhone, she turned that recovery journey into Pilates by Bryony—and never looked back. Financial freedom changed how she loves. Bryony reflects on how financial imbalance shaped a past relationship—and how building her own income allowed her to step into partnership from a place of clarity, not dependence. You can rewrite your story at any time. From heartbreak and injuries to global success, Bryony proves that reinvention is possible when you choose yourself—and stay rooted in your purpose. ⸻ Chapters 00:00 – 09:10: From hospital bed to Pilates—how it all began 09:11 – 18:43: Building Pilates by Bryony with no budget, no help 18:44 – 27:25: Learning from Dior, and the power of a learner's mindset 27:26 – 36:12: Navigating power dynamics and love after success 36:13 – 48:30: The business of wellness, brand-building, and going global ⸻ Links Use ⁠⁠⁠Opus Clip⁠⁠⁠ to turn long videos into shorts. ⸻ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you like what you hear, rate, review, and subscribe to Hot Smart Rich, the podcast supporting women who own their worth — in business, wealth, and life. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe on YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⸻ 💌 Own your worth — and build the life you want. Subscribe to the Hot Smart Rich newsletter, the no-BS guide to startup life, consumer brands, and becoming your hottest, smartest, richest self, written by Maggie Sellers. Join 250,000+ women building wealth, confidence, and community on... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 18, 202550 min

S1 Ep 22Allison McNamara, Founder of Mara Beauty, On How Getting Divorced, & Losing 40 Pounds Totally Changed Her Life and Supercharged Her Business

Allison McNamara, Founder of Mara Beauty, On How Getting Divorced, & Losing 40 Pounds Totally Changed Her Life and Supercharged Her Business What happens when you stop hiding, start healing, and finally show up for yourself—and your brand? In this episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie sits down with Allison McNamara, founder of MARA Beauty, to unpack the full spectrum of personal and professional transformation—from coming out and getting divorced to finally stepping into her power as both a founder and a face. For the first time, Allison publicly shares what it meant to come out, and how embracing her identity brought her closer to her community and more aligned with her creative voice. She also opens up about the decision to end her marriage, lose 40 pounds, and finally claim her space in front of the camera—not just behind the brand. This conversation goes deep into how these shifts impacted MARA’s success, including three Sephora sellouts, a commitment to owning her formulas, and how leading with clarity and confidence became her greatest business strategy. Whether you're navigating identity, rebuilding after a pivot, or just wondering how to stop playing small—this one’s for you. ⸻ 🔑 Key Takeaways Coming out helped her come into her power. For the first time, Allison publicly shares what it meant to come out—and how embracing her identity brought her closer to her community and more aligned with her creative voice. Choosing yourself is the first pivot. Ending her marriage wasn’t just a personal decision—it was the catalyst for a full-scale transformation. Allison shares how reclaiming her life also supercharged her business. Wellness isn’t vanity—it’s velocity. Losing 40 pounds helped her feel mentally sharp and physically strong. That internal shift translated into leadership clarity and outward momentum for MARA. You can be both the founder and the face. Stepping into visibility changed everything. Once Allison began showing up for the brand—not just behind it—MARA hit a new growth curve. Owning your formulas is a power move. Allison breaks down why MARA has always developed and owned its formulas—no white labeling, no shortcuts. It’s the long-term play that builds real brand equity and IP value. 3x Sephora sellouts are no accident. MARA’s viral moments didn’t happen by luck. Allison shares the behind-the-scenes decisions—from reformulations to community storytelling—that helped the brand sell out three times at Sephora. Your business grows when you stop playing small. From sharper campaigns to higher ad spend, Allison’s mindset shift led to bold bets—and the returns followed. Quiet confidence can be a competitive edge. MARA’s success is rooted in product integrity, founder honesty, and long-game thinking. Allison shows that you don’t have to be the loudest voice to build one of the most respected brands in beauty. ⸻ Links Use ⁠⁠Opus Clip⁠⁠ to turn long videos into shorts. ⸻ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you like what you hear, rate, review, and subscribe to Hot Smart Rich, the podcast supporting women who own their worth — in business, wealth, and life. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe on YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⸻ 💌 Own your worth — and build the life you want. Subscribe to the Hot Smart Rich newsletter, the no-BS guide to startup life, consumer brands, and becoming your hottest, smartest, richest self, written by Maggie Sellers. Join 250,000+ women building wealth, c... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 11, 202546 min

Susan Yara on How She Sold Naturium To e.l.f For $355 Million, Her FTC Investigation, and Building Through Backlash

What happens when the internet turns on you, your marriage falls apart behind the scenes—and you still scale Naturium (your startup) into a $355M acquisition from e.l.f.? Susan Yara is telling her side of the story. In this episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie sits down with Susan Yara, the founder of Naturium, for one of the most honest and tactical conversations we’ve had on the show. Known for her credibility and candor in the beauty space, Susan opens up about the backlash over her undisclosed involvement in Naturium, being cleared by the FTC, and scaling a brand that became a case study in profitability, performance, and modern brand-building. But this isn’t just a founder story—it’s a personal one. Susan shares what it was like navigating a divorce while in the public eye, raising two kids as a single mom, and redefining her relationship with identity, ambition, and authenticity. From moments that nearly broke her to the business strategies that built her, this episode is a blueprint for long-game thinking in beauty and beyond. Naturium became one of the first creator-founded skincare brands to exit at scale—paving the way for brands like Rhode by Hailey Bieber to follow. As a pioneer in the masstige skincare category, Susan didn’t just ride the wave—she helped define it. Her story proves that credibility, community, and clarity still win in the age of algorithms and outrage. For anyone building in public, recovering from criticism, or wondering if you can be both honest and successful—this one’s for you. ⸻ Key Takeaways Controversy doesn’t cancel you—lack of clarity does. Susan opens up about the Naturium backlash, her FTC clearance, and how transparency helped rebuild trust with her audience and consumers. You can build while breaking down. She reflects on navigating a divorce during the brand’s biggest growth phase—and how personal transformation shaped her leadership. Masstige is the new frontier. Naturium’s success helped define the mid-tier, high-efficacy skincare category, making room for other creator brands like Rhode to follow. Retail still matters. Scaling with Target wasn’t just a channel strategy—it was a credibility builder. Susan breaks down how shelf space drove awareness and repeat sales. Quiet founders can lead loud growth. Susan never sought the CEO spotlight. But leaning into her strength as an operator—not just an influencer—helped Naturium stand out in a crowded space. Partnerships over Perfection. She unpacks her working relationship with Ben Bennett and how mutual trust helped them navigate mistakes, milestones, and media storms. Margins over vibes. Susan made Naturium profitable from day one—and explains why obsessing over contribution margin (not Instagram likes) is what scaled the business. ⸻ Use ⁠Opus Clip⁠ to turn long videos into shorts. ⸻ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you like what you hear, rate, review, and subscribe to Hot Smart Rich, the podcast supporting women who own their worth — in business, wealth, and life. ⁠⁠⁠Subscribe on YouTube⁠⁠⁠ ⸻ 💌 Own your worth — and build the life you want. Subscribe to the Hot Smart Rich newsletter, the no-BS guide to startup life, consumer brands, and becoming your hottest, smartest, richest self, written by Maggie Sellers. Join 250,000+ women building wealth, confidence, and community on their own terms. ⁠⁠⁠Subscr... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 4, 20251h 0m

Sima Sistani, Former WeightWatchers CEO, on Embracing GLP-1s, Leading Through Controversy, and Facing Uncertainty with Conviction

What happens when your salary becomes a headline, Oprah steps back, and your bet on the future of health divides the internet (and the markets)? In this episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie sits down with Sima Sistani, former CEO of WeightWatchers as she reflects on the boldest pivot in WW’s history—integrating GLP-1 medications like Ozempic—and what it was like to be at the center of a cultural storm. From media backlash to public salary scrutiny, she shares what the press missed, what she’d do differently, and how she found peace in stepping away. This is a masterclass in how modern CEOs manage perception and pressure. Sima and Maggie talk about ambition, identity, criticism, and the discomfort of no longer being the one everyone’s watching. This episode isn’t just about reinventing a brand—it’s about reinventing yourself. For founders and operators, it’s a blueprint for leading with conviction—even when the room isn’t ready. ⸻ Key Takeaways GLP-1s changed the game—if you were paying attention. Sima didn’t wait for consensus. She led a bet-the-company pivot based on science. She acted fast, with one eye on cultural shifts and one on long-term impact. Strategy requires stamina. Pivoting WW came with skepticism and scrutiny. Sima stayed the course, proving that real reinvention requires endurance—not just vision. The most powerful rebrands come from within. Sima joined WW to shift diet culture from the inside. Real change comes from systems, not slogans. Public perception doesn’t always match private reality. From Oprah’s exit to WW’s bankruptcy headlines, Sima shares what the media missed—and what she stands by. In public leadership, clarity is not spin. It’s survival. Visibility is vulnerability—especially for women. Sima reflects on being a public CEO, mother, and Iranian-American woman in a system built for polish. She proves you don’t have to sand yourself down to be taken seriously. Apology is not weakness—it’s real leadership. When called out by body positivity advocate Katie Sturino, Sima didn’t hide. She apologized, then turned it into a platform for change. Money and meaning aren’t always aligned. Sima shares how it felt to see her comp become a headline—and how she stayed centered through the noise. Leaving can be leadership, too. Stepping down was a full-circle decision. Sometimes your greatest impact is knowing when to walk away. What do you do when the noise dies down? Sima speaks honestly about no longer being in the spotlight—and how letting go helped her reconnect with purpose. ⸻ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you like what you hear, rate, review, and subscribe to Hot Smart Rich, the podcast supporting women who own their worth — in business, wealth, and life. ⁠Subscribe on YouTube⁠ ⸻ 💌 Own your worth — and build the life you want. Subscribe to the Hot Smart Rich newsletter, the no-BS guide to startup life, consumer brands, and becoming your hottest, smartest, richest self, written by Maggie Sellers. Join 250,000+ women building wealth, confidence, and community on their own terms. ⁠Subscribe here⁠ ⸻ Follow Maggie here: Instagram: ⁠@maggiesellers ⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠@maggiesellers_ ⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 28, 20251h 18m

S1 Ep 19DWTS Lindsay Arnold on the Pivot That Changed Everything—Money, Marriage, and The Movement Club

What happens after 10 seasons on national TV? You build something of your own. In this episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie sits down with professional dancer and entrepreneur Lindsay Arnold to talk about life after Dancing with the Stars — from launching The Movement Club to growing a brand rooted in purpose. Lindsay shares how motherhood motivated her to build something real, how she overcame doubt to launch, and what it’s like to go from talent to founder. They cover brand trips that convert, building in public, and navigating money, marriage, and motherhood with clarity. For anyone making a pivot, balancing life and ambition, or building with intention — this one’s for you. ⸻ Key Takeaways ​You just have to start. Lindsay launched The Movement Club during her first pregnancy, not because it was the perfect time but because she knew the need was real. Action beats perfection. ​Authenticity scaled her business. The Movement Club didn’t go viral overnight. It grew because Lindsay integrated it into her real life. Her audience didn’t just watch her promote it—they watched her live it. ​She’s part of the new wave of founder-led brands. With over 2.5 million followers across Instagram and TikTok, Lindsay is building trust and brand equity in public and showing creators how to do it with intention. ​Brand trips work when they’re intentional. The Movement Club’s Hawaii trip wasn’t just about content. It delivered a 200 percent ROI on subscriptions and sparked community-led growth. ​Motherhood is a multiplier, not a limitation. Becoming a mom gave Lindsay the clarity and conviction to build with purpose. It didn’t slow her down. It gave her a deeper reason to speed up. ​Being the breadwinner comes with its own dynamics. Lindsay shared what it’s like to navigate ambition, marriage, and money as the primary earner, and how she and her husband Sam stay grounded in true partnership. ​Softness and strength can coexist. From postpartum to pivoting in public, Lindsay proves you can be transparent without oversharing and still lead with power and clarity. ⸻ Try The Movement Club With a 7 Day Free Trial ⸻ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you like what you hear, rate, review, and subscribe to Hot Smart Rich, the podcast supporting women who own their worth — in business, wealth, and life. Subscribe on YouTube ⸻ 💌 Own your worth — and build the life you want. Subscribe to the Hot Smart Rich newsletter, the no-BS guide to startup life, consumer brands, and becoming your hottest, smartest, richest self, written by Maggie Sellers. Join 250,000+ women building wealth, confidence, and community on their own terms. Subscribe here ⸻ Follow Maggie here: Instagram: @maggiesellers ⁠ TikTok: @maggiesellers_ ⁠⁠ LinkedIn: Maggie Sellers ⁠ ShopMy Amazon Storefront ⸻ Follow Lindsay here:<... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 21, 202558 min

S1 Ep 17Maggie Sellers On Why Work-Life Balance Is a Lie, Building Ambition, Boundaries, and The Power of Moms (Ft. Katie Sellers)

Why Work-Life Balance Is a Lie (and What Ambition Really Costs) In this episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie Sellers sits down with her sister and co-founder Katie Sellers to talk about the myth of balance, the reality of modern ambition, and what women really give up to build businesses, families, and brands at the same time. From the truth behind “having it all” to what social media doesn’t show about life after kids, Maggie and Katie get into the trade-offs no one warns you about — including how ambition evolves through different seasons of life. They also break down the power of being offline, the limits of personal brand transparency, and why it’s okay to not want to monetize every part of your identity. Whether you’re single and building, deep in your mom era, or trying to find the line between ambition and burnout, this one’s for you. – Key Takeaways Work-life balance is a myth. The idea that you can give 100% to work and 100% to your personal life at the same time is a lie. Balance comes in seasons — not spreadsheets. Ambition changes shape. Your twenties might be all grind. Your thirties might demand more flexibility. Neither season is less valid than the other. The thicker the skin, the more you convert. If you’re building a brand in public, you’re going to get feedback. The women winning online know how to separate critique from identity. You don’t have to share everything to be real. You can build a successful personal brand without posting your finances, your kids, or your relationship. Boundaries are power. Moms are the most powerful marketing engine on earth. The Stanley Cup didn’t go viral because of paid ads — it went viral in a group chat. Consumer power is cultural power. From brands like Cakes offering $36K in child support benefits to founder-led companies that lead with values, today’s consumers are voting with their wallets. Creatorship isn’t a personality — it’s a job. Just because you’re online doesn’t mean your life is up for consumption. Creators get to have private lives too. – Items and Brands Mentioned In This Episode Sir the Label dress Stanley Cup – The viral 40oz Quencher cup that moms made famous. Frida Mom – The snot sucker (from Frida Baby) Cakes – Highlighted for offering $36K/year in child support benefits and building brand loyalty through values. Locker – An HSR portfolio company working to democratize affiliate tools for creators. – Other Podcasts Referenced Diary of a CEO – Emma Grede’s episode sparked the deeper discussion around ambition, motherhood, and the myth of work-life balance. – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐If you like what you hear, rate, review, and subscribe to Hot Smart Rich, the podcast supporting women who own their worth — in business, wealth, and life. Subscribe on Youtube – 💌Own your worth — and build the life you want. Subscribe to the Hot Smart Rich newsletter, the ... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 14, 202545 min

S1 Ep 5Celebrity Social Media Experts On How To Build a Creative Agency For The Stars And How To Go Viral

In this episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie Sellers sits down with Chloe Sappern and Lydia Berry, the powerhouse duo behind Darlington, the social-first agency trusted by Sofia Richie Grainge, Miranda Kerr, Megan Roup, Serena Kerrigan, Kate Love, Emily DiDonato, Cameron Rogers, Liv Perez, and more. Darlington isn’t just another digital agency—it’s the industry’s best-kept secret, crafting the social presence of some of the most recognizable faces in fashion, beauty, and pop culture. Founded less than a year ago, they’ve grown entirely through inbound demand and referrals. Their work has led to over 1,000% increases in views, 2,000% growth in likes and shares, and double-digit follower growth for A-list clients in just a few months. Key Takeaways: Social is a non-negotiable. If you’re not on Instagram or TikTok, you’re missing the moment. Whether you’re building a personal brand or a business, consistent content — not perfection — is what drives growth and visibility. White space is an invitation. Chloe and Lydia saw a gap in how celebrities and creators were being supported online and built a talent business that met the moment. The biggest brands often start where no one else is looking. Start scrappy, not silent. Your first TikTok might flop. Your second might go viral. But you won’t know unless you post. Trial reels, cross-platform testing, and messy momentum are how personal brands gain traction. Your strategy should reflect your life — not just the algorithm. Instagram Stories, TikTok trends, and behind-the-scenes content can all work if they align with your energy and goals. There’s more than one way to win online. “Date” your co-founder before you commit. Starting a business together is a bigger deal than signing a lease. Chloe and Lydia tested their dynamic first — and found out their complementary strengths made them stronger. Complementary skill sets matter more than matching aesthetics. The best co-founder relationships (especially in fast-moving industries like social and creator marketing) are built on different perspectives, not just shared vibes. The future of talent is hybrid: part agency, part social strategist. Chloe and Lydia aren’t just managing creators — they’re helping talent show up strategically on TikTok, Instagram, and beyond. -- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you like what you hear, rate, review, and subscribe to Hot Smart Rich, the podcast supporting women who own their worth — in business, wealth, and life. -- 💌 Own your worth — and build the life you want. Subscribe to the ⁠Hot Smart Rich newsletter,⁠ the no-BS guide to startup life, consumer brands, and becoming your hottest, smartest, richest self, written by Maggie Sellers. Join 250,000+ women building wealth, confidence, and community on their own terms. Subscribe here: https://hotsmartrich.com/subscribe -- Follow Maggie here: Instagram: @maggiesellers TikTok: @maggiesellers_https://www.tiktok.com/@maggiesellers_ LinkedIn: Maggie Sellers ShopMy: Maggie Sellers Amazon Storefront: maggiesellers -- Follow Darlington, Lydia, and Chloe here: Instagram: @atdarlington Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 7, 202548 min

S1 Ep 16Sheena Zadeh, Founder of Kosas, On The Truth About Money, Divorce, Success, & What She Learned After Losing Everything

On this week's episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie sits down with Sheena Zadeh, founder of Kosas, for a real conversation about what it actually takes to build an iconic brand — and survive everything life throws at you at the same time. Sheena talks openly about losing her house in the LA fires, going through a divorce while scaling a consumer startup, and rebuilding not just her business, but her life. She shares what no one tells you about success, money, grief, and balance — and why real female empowerment looks different than the internet makes it seem. Whether you’re building your own thing, thinking about early-stage investing, or just figuring out how to make sense of your ambition, relationships, and sanity, Sheena’s story is proof you can lose everything and still come back stronger. -- Key Takeaways Resilience isn’t glamorous, it’s survival. Sheena rebuilt her life and brand after losing her house and going through divorce — and talks openly about how grief and success can coexist. Consumer startups aren’t built off a single viral moment. Kosas’ growth came from slow, steady, unsexy consistency — not one “big break.” Money provides safety, not happiness. Wealth-building matters, but fulfillment comes from your relationships, your rituals, and the life you’re actually living — not your bank account. Founders sacrifice more than anyone sees. From missing out on memories to navigating single motherhood while scaling a brand, the personal cost is real (and rarely talked about). Brand loyalty matters more than brand heat. Kosas wasn’t chasing headlines — it was building real consumer love, which lasts longer than any viral moment. Your personal brand should feel like an extension of your real life. You don’t have to fake high energy or become someone else to be visible — you can build it authentically, even as an introvert. There’s no “balance” when you’re building — and that’s okay. The idea of balance looks different at different stages, and sometimes survival is the balance. Your real legacy isn’t your resume — it’s the life you lived. What you create, who you love, and what you experience matter more than your LinkedIn title. -- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you like what you hear, rate, review, and subscribe to Hot Smart Rich, the podcast supporting women who own their worth — in business, wealth, and life. -- 💌 Own your worth — and build the life you want. Subscribe to the Hot Smart Rich newsletter, the no-BS guide to startup life, consumer brands, and becoming your hottest, smartest, richest self, written by Maggie Sellers. Join 250,000+ women building wealth, confidence, and community on their own terms. -- Follow Maggie here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maggiesellers/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@maggiesellers_ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sellersmaggie/ ShopMy: https://shopmy.us/maggiesellers Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/maggiesellers -- Follow Sheena here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheena/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sheenazadeh -- More from Hot Smart Rich: The Hot Smart Rich Money Mindset: https://hotsmartrich.shop/collections/shop-all/products/hsr-50-20-20-10-method Merch: https://hotsmartrich.shop/ -- This episode is produced by HSR Media, a division of Creative MES LLC, with support from Coldea Productions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 30, 202548 min

S1 Ep 15Maggie Sellers On $50M Lawsuits, Fake Birkins, And The Future Of Beauty (Ft. Katie Sellers)

In this episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie Sellers and Katie Sellers break down the five biggest stories shaping beauty, retail, and the startup lifestyle—$50M lawsuits, fake Birkins, rebrand flops, and the future of K-beauty. We get into: The truth about K-beauty medical tourism (and what went wrong for one woman who lost her vision) Why Olive Young might eat Sephora’s lunch—and what beauty from the inside out really looks like How Boy Smells lost the plot with their rebrand (and their core customer) How TikTok creators in China are exposing luxury markups—and what that means for the future of fashion houses and consumer trust What the Revolve lawsuit reveals about influencer marketing, taxes, and the fine print no one talks about 📌 Like what you hear? Rate + review the pod to support women who are redefining what it means to build power—through culture, capital, and consumer. Brands, Products & Things Mentioned in This Episode Olive Young Sephora Revolve Boy Smells 4AM Skin Phlur by Chriselle Lim Freja New York Polène DHGate Amore Vintage Tokyo CONNECT WITH MAGGIE: INSTAGRAM: ⁠⁠⁠@maggiesellers ⁠⁠⁠ TIKTOK: ⁠⁠⁠@maggiesellers_ ⁠⁠⁠ LINKEDIN: ⁠⁠⁠Maggie Sellers ⁠⁠⁠ CONNECT WITH KATIE: INSTAGRAM: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@katiesellers_ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ LINKEDIN: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Katie Sellers⁠⁠ ⁠ READ THE NEWSLETTER: ⁠⁠⁠HSR ICYMI ⁠⁠⁠ SHOP HSR: ⁠⁠⁠HSR MERCH⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠SHOP MY⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠AMAZON⁠⁠⁠ This episode is produced by HSR Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 23, 202542 min

Maggie Sellers On A Week In My Life In Japan — Cherry Blossoms, Market Meltdowns & K-Beauty Breakouts

In this week’s solo episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie Sellers takes you behind the scenes of her trip to Tokyo and Kyoto with the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), where business, beauty, burnout, and inspiration collide. This isn’t your typical travel vlog. It’s a raw, unfiltered look at what it means to build a business while living out of a suitcase, navigate elite global networks, and stay grounded when your skin’s breaking out and your schedule is maxed. Maggie opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of stepping into high-pressure rooms while not feeling her best physically, how changing your environment can shift your self-image, and what it’s really like to network with billion-dollar business leaders over sushi in Japan. This first-of-its-kind episode blends travel diary, business insights, beauty commentary, and personal reflection. If you’ve ever felt like you’re “not doing enough” while on the road or wondered what really goes on at invite-only global business trips, this one’s for you. Join the HSR Global Angels Community 💌 Link to join: ⁠Click here to join⁠ This is a community by you, for you. It’s peer-led, community-driven, and built for ambitious, like-minded women. Whether you’re looking to connect with business besties, discover the best Pilates class in your city, or find new friends—this is where it happens. CONNECT WITH MAGGIE SELLERS Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@maggiesellers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@maggiesellers_⁠⁠⁠ YouTube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@hotsmartrich⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Maggie Sellers⁠⁠⁠⁠ READ THE NEWSLETTER ⁠⁠⁠HSR ICYMI⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – Stay ahead with consumer startup trends, business news, and investing insights. SHOP HOT SMART RICH ⁠⁠⁠HSR Merch⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Shop My⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ABOUT MAGGIE SELLERS Maggie Sellers is the founder of Hot Smart Rich, an investment and media company designed to empower women in business and entrepreneurship. A multi-hyphenate creator, investor, and entrepreneur, she’s redefined female empowerment with her sharp, candid insights into business, wealth-building, and startup investing. As a leading voice on TikTok and LinkedIn, Maggie’s content reaches over 180,000 ambitious women looking to elevate their careers, finances, and businesses. Maggie is also an angel investor in brands like Allara Health, Mixlab, and De Soi and a venture partner in HSR Ventures, where she backs the next generation of consumer startups. Forget outdated notions of female empowerment—Maggie is reshaping what it means to be a modern power player in business and investing. 📢 This episode is produced by HSR Media, a division of Creative MES LLC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 16, 202528 min

S1 Ep 13Maggie Sellers On Why She Got a Breast Augmentation—And What No One Tells Ambitious Women About Surgery, Recovery & Self-Confidence

In this raw and unfiltered episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie opens up about something she’s never talked about publicly before—her recent natural breast augmentation, also known as an NFTBA (Natural Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation). From the real cost of the procedure to the unexpected emotional rollercoaster of recovery, this is the tell-all she wishes had existed when she was making her decision. She breaks down exactly what the experience was like—both physically and professionally. From downtime as a founder and managing brand campaigns while recovering, to the mental load of plastic surgery as a high-achieving woman, Maggie shares the part no one talks about. If you’ve ever typed “fat transfer breast augmentation reviews” into Reddit, wondered whether fat transfer actually lasts, or debated between implants vs natural enhancement—this is your go-to guide. She also reveals why Dr. Steven Teitelbaum was her surgeon of choice, what no one tells you about post-op depression, and how this surgery intersected with her identity, body image, and ambition. What This Episode Covers: Why Maggie chose fat transfer over implants (and what she’d do differently) What to expect with plastic surgery downtime while running a business What Maggie wore during recovery, what helped her heal, and what no one warned her about The actual cost and why it was over $17K The business of beauty and how investors and VCs are capitalizing on medical aesthetics and plastic surgery How to approach elective surgery as a working woman in the corporate world This is for the woman who’s ambitious, informed, and unapologetic about wanting to feel confident in her body—and still wants the full breakdown before making a decision. Whether you’re in your “research era” or just here for the tea, Maggie’s story will leave you feeling informed, empowered, and maybe a little less alone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 9, 202553 min

S1 Ep 12Dianna Cohen, Founder Of Crown Affair, On Why She Fired Herself as CEO After Raising $15M—And What It Taught Her About Money, Power & Letting Go

In this episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie Sellers sits down with Dianna Cohen—the founder of Crown Affair, the premium beauty brand redefining clean luxury in haircare. Dianna’s journey started long before building her own brand—she launched her career working alongside Emily Weiss at Into The Gloss, then went on to shape the stories of modern DTC icons like Away. That background gave her a masterclass in brand building. By 2024, she had scaled Crown Affair to $20M in sales and raised $15M in venture funding. Then she did something few founders would dare to do: she fired herself as CEO. This episode isn’t about quitting—it’s about redefining. Dianna opens up about what it means to build a premium, emotionally resonant brand in the age of hustle culture, and how stepping into a more creative, intuitive role has become her most powerful chapter yet. What You'll Hear In This Episode: From working with Emily Weiss to building her own brand—Dianna’s evolution from beauty insider to beauty founder The early days of Crown Affair and how her time at Away shaped her approach to brand strategy and storytelling Why Dianna stepped down as CEO—and how it unlocked a new creative chapter The clean luxury playbook: how she built Crown Affair into a category-defining brand Raising $15M and scaling to $20M in revenue—without compromising brand integrity Maggie’s take on the identity shifts every founder faces—and the freedom of letting go Dianna’s blueprint for building brands that feel personal, purposeful, and powerful CONNECT WITH MAGGIE: INSTAGRAM: ⁠⁠⁠@maggiesellers ⁠⁠⁠ TIKTOK: ⁠⁠⁠@maggiesellers_ ⁠⁠⁠ YOUTUBE: ⁠⁠⁠@hotsmartrich ⁠⁠⁠ LINKEDIN: ⁠⁠⁠Maggie Sellers ⁠⁠⁠ NEWSLETTER: HSR ICYMI ⁠⁠⁠⁠ CONNECT WITH DIANNA: INSTAGRAM: ⁠⁠Dianna Cohen⁠⁠ TIKTOK: ⁠⁠Dianna Cohen⁠⁠ SUBSTACK: Take Your Time SHOP CROWN AFFAIR: WEBSITE SEPHORA SHOP HSR: ⁠⁠⁠HSR MERCH⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠SHOP MY⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠AMAZON⁠⁠⁠ This episode is produced by HSR Media, a division of Creative MES LLC, with support from Coldea Productions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 2, 202556 min

S1 Ep 11Maggie Sellers On Her Hot Smart Rich Money Mindset—Women Are Being Lied to About Money and It’s Making Men Rich

On this episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie Sellers sits down with her sister and former CFO of billion-dollar DTC brands, Katie Sellers, to talk about the Hot Smart Rich Money Mindset. The truth? Women are being lied to about money—and it’s making our boyfriends, husbands, brothers, and the men in our lives richer by default. They’re not smarter. They’re just in the room when financial decisions are being made. Meanwhile, women control 85% of consumer spending—we decide what to buy, where to shop, and which brands blow up. We are the market. But we’re still being left out of wealth-building conversations, especially when it comes to things like angel investing, equity, and financial freedom. This week, Maggie and Katie go deep on the real money rules that changed their lives—from the 50-20-20-10 budgeting framework to the mental blocks women face when managing money. It’s not just about spreadsheets and savings—this is about power, access, and confidence. In this episode, you’ll hear: How the wrong money mindset is keeping women from getting rich How women are unintentionally transferring wealth to men—and how to stop doing it Why 50-20-20-10 is the budgeting method for ambitious women who want to save, invest, and still live well Why “being good with money” isn’t about coupons or coffee—it’s about knowing your numbers and owning your worth What Maggie and Katie wish more women knew about cash flow, investing, and building wealth on your own terms This isn’t financial advice—it’s a financial awakening. If you’ve ever felt behind, ashamed, or confused when it comes to money, this episode will change the way you think about your bank account, your habits, and your power. Listen now and start acting like the investor you are. CONNECT WITH MAGGIE: INSTAGRAM: ⁠⁠@maggiesellers ⁠⁠ TIKTOK: ⁠⁠@maggiesellers_ ⁠⁠ YOUTUBE: ⁠⁠@hotsmartrich ⁠⁠ LINKEDIN: ⁠⁠Maggie Sellers ⁠⁠ CONNECT WITH KATIE: INSTAGRAM: ⁠⁠⁠@katiesellers_ ⁠⁠⁠ TIKTOK: ⁠⁠⁠@katiesellers_ ⁠⁠⁠ YOUTUBE: ⁠⁠⁠@hotsmartrich ⁠⁠⁠ LINKEDIN: ⁠⁠⁠Katie Sellers⁠ ⁠ READ THE NEWSLETTER: ⁠⁠HSR ICYMI ⁠⁠ SHOP HSR: ⁠⁠HSR MERCH⁠⁠ ⁠⁠SHOP MY⁠⁠ ⁠⁠AMAZON⁠⁠ This episode is produced by HSR Media, a division of Creative MES LLC, with support f... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 26, 202552 min

S1 Ep 10Natalie Holloway, Founder of Bala, On How She Built Bala to $20M, Survived Nearly Going Bankrupt & Balanced Motherhood

On this episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie Sellers sits down with Natalie Holloway, co-founder of Bala, the brand that made fitness hot. Natalie built Bala into a $20M business with a Shark Tank deal from Mark Cuban, faced near bankruptcy, and navigated the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship—all while raising three kids under four. The conversation gets real as Natalie shares the hardest moments of scaling Bala, from the chaos of explosive growth during COVID to nearly losing the company. She breaks down what saved the business, why she prioritizes profit overgrowth, and how she made the tough call to lay off nearly her entire team while pregnant. Maggie and Natalie also dive into motherhood, ambition, and the reality of balancing it all—plus, Natalie shares what really happened with Bala’s Drunk Elephant drama, how she deals with copycats, and why she believes affiliate marketing is the future for brands. Key Takeaways You can build a $20M brand without raising big VC money. Bala’s success proves that profitability is more important than endless fundraising. Natalie and her husband bootstrapped their way to the top—then nearly lost it all. Scaling fast can break you. Bala blew up overnight after Shark Tank and COVID, but hypergrowth almost killed the business. Natalie shares the hard truth about layoffs, cash flow, and surviving the free fall. Motherhood and entrepreneurship? There’s no perfect balance. Natalie had to make brutal business decisions while pregnant. The real talk: founders don’t get maternity leave, and work-life balance is a myth. Copycats and competition will come—so stay ahead. Drunk Elephant launched a Bala-inspired product. Knockoffs are everywhere. The only way to win is to innovate faster than they can copy. The smartest founders are shifting from influencers to affiliates. Natalie shares why paying influencers big bucks is outdated and why affiliate marketing is the new power move for brands. Negotiate like a man. Women are still underpricing themselves in business. Natalie learned to ask for more, own her worth, and not settle for the first offer. Bala is just getting started. NYC fitness studio? More retail expansion? Natalie spills what’s next and why she’s betting big on IRL experiences and digital fitness. Items Mentioned in This Episode Bala — the original workout bangles. Shop here. Form x Bala — the set. Shop here. Connect with Maggie Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@maggiesellers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@maggiesellers_⁠⁠⁠ YouTube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@hotsmartrich⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Maggie Sellers⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect with Natalie Instagram: @natalieholloway, @bala & Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 19, 202554 min

S1 Ep 9Maggie Sellers On The BTS of Neko Health’s 100,000-Person Waitlist, What to Do in London, and HSR’s Global Angel WhatsApp Community

In this episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie takes you behind the scenes of her latest trip to London—where business, wellness, and exclusivity collide. From securing high-level meetings with potential LPs and Unilever Ventures to stepping inside the ultra-exclusive Neko Health body scan (with a 100,000-person waitlist), this episode pulls back the curtain on what it looks like to build a global empire while living life in the fast lane. Maggie also takes you inside one of London’s most talked-about events with her boyfriend, Courtney Reum—Bryony Deery’s wedding, a Vogue-worthy affair celebrating the Pilates entrepreneur and Dior’s Global Wellness Expert. Plus, she’s launching something major: the HSR Global Angels WhatsApp community, a new way for ambitious women to connect, network, and build their own power circles. This episode is a first-of-its-kind vlog-style format—so if you want to see the full experience, make sure to watch on Spotify or YouTube. Episode Highlights This episode isn’t just about business—it’s about building a life that blends ambition, wellness, and connection. Maggie shares an inside look at her week in London, including: Neko Health Body Scan: Maggie experiences one of the most high-tech, data-driven wellness scans available today, founded by Daniel Ek (CEO of Spotify). Bryony Deery’s Wedding: A behind-the-scenes look at the stunning wedding of fitness entrepreneur Bryony Deery, founder of Pilates by Bryony and Dior Global Wellness Expert, to Kaspar Basse, Founder of Joe & The Juice. HSR Angels Meet-Up: 30 HSR community members gathered at Joe & The Juice for an impromptu event—proving the power of real-life connections. Doing Business on the Go: Maggie shares how she maximizes travel time for work, from taking investor meetings between events to leveraging her global network. Working the Network: Meetings with potential LPs and Unilever Ventures—how Maggie is making strategic connections for future investments. Join the HSR Global Angels Community 💌 Link to join: Click here to join This is a community by you, for you. It’s peer-led, community-driven, and built for ambitious, like-minded women. Whether you’re looking to connect with business besties, discover the best Pilates class in your city, or find new friends—this is where it happens. Places & Items Mentioned in This Episode Neko Health Body Scan – The future of personalized healthcare. Get on the waitlist. Pants from Revolve (The Everywhere Pant) – Maggie’s go-to travel pants. Shop here. Milk Makeup – Hydro Grip Primer. Shop here. FlyKitt – Jet lag relief kit. Shop here. Arrae – Siff & Nish's brand. HSR15 for 15% off. Shop here. Pilates By Bryony – Bryony's pilates method. Join here. ✨CONNECT WITH MAGGIE SELLERS✨ Instagram: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 12, 202527 min

S1 Ep 8The Woman Investing $60M Into Creators On Finding The Next Mr. Beast, The Future of Influencers, and Venture Capital

Investing $60M to Find the Next Mr. Beast—The Future of Influencers, Creators, and Venture Capital with Megan Lightcap In this episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie sits down with Megan Lightcap, Partner at Slow Ventures, one of the leading venture capital firms backing content creators and digital-first businesses. With a $60M seed-stage fund, Megan and Sam Lessin are betting big on the creator economy, where social media platforms, personal brands, and original content are shaping the future of digital entrepreneurship. From investing in early-stage startups to finding the next Mr. Beast, Megan breaks down how venture capital is shifting toward creators and why influencers are the new entrepreneurs to bet on. Episode Highlights The creator economy is booming, and Slow Ventures is proving that content creators are the next generation of entrepreneurs. Megan unpacks Goldman Sachs’ $500 billion projection for the creator economy, what it means for venture capital firms, and where social media platforms are heading in a post-Instagram world. She also dives into how creators are turning personal brands into multi-million dollar businesses and why Mr. Beast is the blueprint for the next wave of content entrepreneurs. Megan shares an inside look at raising a creator-led fund and how she and Sam Lessin structured Slow Ventures’ $60M fund to back the next era of digital-first founders. Key Takeaways Creators Are the New Entrepreneurs – Investors are treating influencers like startups, changing the entire business model of social media. How to Secure VC Funding as a Creator – What venture firms like Slow Ventures look for when backing creator-led businesses. The Future of Monetization – Why brand deals aren’t enough and how creators can build scalable revenue streams. Social Media’s Next Evolution – Where new platforms will drive the next wave of digital entrepreneurship. The Mr. Beast Playbook – The business model behind the world’s biggest creator—and how others can apply his strategy. Resources & Items Mentioned in This Episode Apply for the Slow Ventures Creator Fund Associate Role – Interested in venture capital and the creator economy? Apply for the Slow Ventures Associate role and let them know HSR sent you: Apply Here Megan’s Go-To Skincare for Hydrated Skin – She swears by Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid for its affordability and effectiveness. Shop Here Must-Listen Podcast on the Future of Social & AI – Check out the Telepathy Tapes Podcast, where Sam Lessin and Slow Ventures break down the evolving landscape of AI, social media, and the internet. Listen Here 90% of Young People Want To Be an Influencer - Read Here Listen now for an inside look at how venture capital is evolving, why creators are building billion-dollar businesses, and how Slow Ventures is shaping the future of content, social platforms, and digital entrepreneurship. ✨CONNECT WITH MAGGIE SELLERS✨ Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠@maggiesellers⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 5, 20251h 6m

S1 Ep 7Gab Waller On Celebrity Luxury Fashion Sourcing, The Coat That Changed Her Life, And Building Fashion's Next Big AI App

Gab Waller On Celebrity Luxury Fashion Sourcing, The Coat That Changed Her Life, And Building Fashion's Next Big AI App In this episode of Hot Smart Rich, Maggie sits down with Gab Waller—the fashion sourcer-turned-tech founder—who built a global empire from a single Instagram DM. Known for finding the most coveted luxury pieces for celebrities like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Hailey Bieber, and Khloé Kardashian, Gab has pioneered fashion sourcing and is now reshaping the future of luxury shopping with her tech platform, Sourced By. ✨ Episode Highlights: Gab’s journey from a small town in Australia to becoming one of the most sought-after fashion sourcers is nothing short of remarkable. Starting her career in the Australian government, she took a leap into fashion, driven by a passion for luxury items and an eye for hard-to-find pieces. What began as a personal mission quickly turned global as she tapped into the high-demand market for sold-out luxury fashion. Her big break came through an Instagram DM when she sourced an iconic Old Celine coat for Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. That single moment changed her career trajectory, positioning her as the go-to for celebrity clients seeking rare fashion. With names like Hailey Bieber, Sofia Richie Grainge, and Chiara Ferragni on her roster, Gab became the fashion world’s best-kept secret. As demand skyrocketed, Gab saw an opportunity to scale beyond 1:1 sourcing. Enter Sourced By—the ultimate platform shaping the future of luxury shopping. Using AI to connect shoppers to rare items worldwide, the platform is the backbone of the fashion sourcing industry—a proof of concept that’s creating an entirely new space in fashion tech. Key Takeaways: Passion to Personal Brand: Gab shows how focusing on a niche—like fashion sourcing—can build a global personal brand. Scaling a Brand into a Business: She transformed her personal success into Sourced By, proving personal brands can evolve into scalable businesses. Spotting Market Gaps: Identifying the unmet demand for sold-out luxury pieces was key to her entrepreneurial success. Scaling Without Losing Authenticity: Even as she moves into tech, Gab maintains the personalized touch that made her stand out. Building in Public: Her transparency—sharing wins and challenges—offers a blueprint for founders growing personal brands into global empires. ✨CONNECT WITH MAGGIE SELLERS✨ Instagram:⁠⁠⁠@maggiesellers⁠⁠⁠ TikTok:⁠⁠⁠@maggiesellers_⁠ YouTube:⁠⁠⁠@hotsmartrich⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠Maggie Sellers⁠⁠ ✨CONNECT WITH GAB WALLER✨ Instagram: ⁠@gabwaller⁠, ⁠@gabwallerdotcom⁠, ⁠@sourcedby⁠ TikTok:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@gabwaller⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 26, 202547 min

S1 Ep 3Kristine Locker, Founder of Locker, On Building a Multimillion Dollar Fashion Tech And Betting Everything On What's Next

In this episode of Hot Smart Rich, I sit down with Kristine Locker—founder & CEO of Locker, the social shopping platform that’s redefining how we shop, save, and discover products online. From starting her career in real estate finance at Goldman Sachs to self-funding her startup for two years with $225,000 before landing a game-changing $1M angel investment, Kristine’s journey is proof that big risks lead to even bigger rewards. But building a multi-million dollar consumer startup isn’t just about great ideas—it’s about navigating investor rejection, learning from bad decisions (like an $8K influencer campaign gone wrong), and understanding what today’s consumers actually want. We also dive into the new wave of creator-led brands—like Parke, Dairy Boy, and Set Active—and the backlash some are facing for bootstrapping their businesses through supplier terms, the drop model, and negative cash conversion cycles. Kristine shares her perspective as a founder on how these strategies impact growth, customer loyalty, and whether this is the future of consumer brands. If you’ve ever had 100 open tabs while debating a purchase, returned a wish list item you finally bought, or wondered why brands keep pushing affiliate links instead of listening to consumers, this episode is for you. Kristine and I get into the real talk about startup life, from fundraising challenges to the mental toll of being a founder, and why she’s betting everything on what’s next for Locker and social commerce. WHAT WE COVER: The Wishlist Struggle Is Real – Why we overthink purchases and how Locker is changing that From Open Tabs to Millions – Kristine’s path from bootstrapping to landing a $1M angel investment The Influencer vs. Community Debate – Why Locker is built for real shoppers, not influencers How Locker Grew to 200K Users With Zero Paid Ads – Kristine’s strategy for scaling without big marketing budgets Creator-Led Brands Under Fire – The backlash against brands like Parke, Dairy Boy, and Set Active for their drop model and supplier-backed scaling strategies Running a Startup and Having a Life? – How Kristine balances marriage, career, and the pressure of building a billion-dollar business Lessons for Founders – The best (and worst) $8K Kristine ever spent on marketing, and why brand loyalty matters more than ever ✨CONNECT WITH MAGGIE SELLERS✨ Instagram:⁠⁠@maggiesellers⁠⁠ TikTok:⁠⁠@maggiesellers_ YouTube:⁠⁠@hotsmartrich⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠Maggie Sellers⁠⁠ ✨CONNECT WITH KRISTINE LOCKER✨ Instagram: ⁠⁠@kristinelocker Shop With Kristine on Locker ✨READ THE NEWSLETTER✨ HSR ICYMI⁠⁠ – Stay ahead with consumer startup trends, business news, and investing insights. ✨SHOP HOT SMART RICH✨ HSR Merch⁠⁠ Shop My⁠⁠<... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 19, 202542 min

S1 Ep 5Maggie Sellers & Courtney Reum, Maggie's Boyfriend, On How To Heal From Your Breakup And Not Let Everything Else Fall Apart

Maggie Sellers & Courtney Reum, Maggie's Boyfriend, On How To Heal From Your Breakup And Not Let Everything Else Fall Apart In this episode of Hot Smart Rich, I sit down with Courtney Reum—serial entrepreneur, co-founder of M13, investor, and best-selling author—who also happens to be my boyfriend. We’re diving deep into heartbreak, breakups, and healing, sharing our personal experiences and hard-earned lessons on love, self-growth, and moving forward. If you’ve ever felt lost after a relationship breakup, struggled to rebuild your confidence, or wondered how to navigate the healing process while balancing a demanding career, this episode is for you. What We Cover: 💔 How to move on from heartbreak—without losing yourself or your momentum. 🧠 The psychology of heartbreak—why it feels like physical pain and how to rewire your brain. 💡 Breakup mistakes to avoid—the habits that keep you stuck and how to break free. 👀 Rebuilding confidence after a breakup—how to focus on yourself, not your ex. ⚡ The truth about manifesting your next relationship—and what actually works. ❤️ Maggie’s perspective on navigating heartbreak, rebuilding confidence, and the mindset shifts that led to a healthy, fulfilling relationship as Courtney’s girlfriend. ❤️ Courtney’s perspective on what makes a healthy relationship and how men process heartbreak differently. If you’re going through heartbreak, feeling stuck in past relationships, or wondering when you’ll be ready for a new relationship, this episode is packed with real talk, emotional support, and actionable steps to help you move forward. 🎧 Tune in to Hot Smart Rich now! ✨CONNECT WITH MAGGIE SELLERS✨ 📲 Instagram:⁠@maggiesellers⁠ 🎥 TikTok:⁠@maggiesellers_⁠ – Where Maggie Sellers’ TikTok content is breaking down business, investing, and modern female empowerment. 📺 YouTube:⁠@hotsmartrich⁠ – Get insights on entrepreneurship, investing, and startup strategy. 💼 LinkedIn:⁠Maggie Sellers⁠ – See what’s trending in venture capital and startup investing. ✨CONNECT WITH COURTNEY REUM✨ 📲 Instagram:⁠@courtneyreum⁠ 💼 LinkedIn:⁠Courtney Reum⁠ – Follow his latest insights on startup investing and venture capital. ✨READ THE NEWSLETTER✨ 📰⁠HSR ICYMI⁠ – Stay ahead with consumer startup trends, business news, and investing insights. ✨SHOP HOT SMART RICH✨ 🛍⁠HSR Merch⁠ – Wear your ambition. 🛍⁠Shop My⁠ – Discover Maggie Sellers’ top startup-backed finds. 🛍⁠Amazon⁠ – Find must-have startup products curated by Maggie. ✨ABOUT MAGGIE SELLERS✨ Maggie Sellers is the founder of Hot Smart Rich, an investment and media company designed to empower women in business and entrepreneurship. A multi-hyphenate creator, in... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 12, 202553 min

S1 Ep 4Maggie Sellers On How To Start Angel Investing (Her Secrets Exposed)

Angel Investing 101 With Maggie Sellers: How to Start, Find Deals & Build Wealth Curious about angel investing but don’t know where to start? In this episode, Maggie Sellers breaks down how to invest in startups, even if it’s your first time and you don’t have a finance background. She covers the real risks and rewards, how to find great startups, and why owning equity is key to long-term wealth. ✔ What is angel investing & how does it work ✔ The biggest myths & mistakes first-time investors make ✔ Due diligence tips before investing your own money ✔ How to use personal funds wisely in early-stage investments ✔ Angel investing vs. venture capital: Key differences ✔ Why most startups fail – and how to pick the winners ✔ How to get started, even if you don’t have millions by using the HSR 50/20/20/10 framework ✔ Join a syndicate like HSR Ventures Investing in women-led startups & consumer brands ⚠️ IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or investment advice of any kind. Investing in startups involves significant risk, and you may lose your entire investment. If you’re in the United States, seek legal advice and determine whether you qualify as an accredited investor under SEC guidelines:🔗 SEC Accredited Investor Guidelines CONNECT WITH MAGGIE Instagram: @maggiesellersTikTok: @maggiesellers_LinkedIn: Maggie SellersYouTube: Hot Smart Rich READ THE NEWSLETTER HSR ICYMI SHOP HSR HSR MerchAmazon StorefrontShopMy Profile KEY TAKEAWAYS ✔ Angel investing isn’t just for the ultra-wealthy – Anyone with a smart strategy can get started. ✔ Due diligence is essential – Always research the founders, market, and risks. ✔ It’s not about quick returns – Angel investments take years to mature. ✔ Venture capital vs. angel investing – VCs invest others’ money, while angels invest their own money. ✔ Invest in people, not just ideas – A great idea means nothing without a strong team to execute it. ABOUT MAGGIE SELLERS Maggie Sellers is revolutionizing modern female empowerment, leading the charge as a Los Angeles-based multi-hyphenate content creator, media entrepreneur, and angel investor, unapologetically blazing new trails.As the founder of Hot Smart Rich, a digital media company and investment platform, Maggie is on a mission to help women embrace their hottest, smartest, richest selves and know and build their worth. She is reshaping how early-stage consumer startups scale and how modern power p... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 5, 202537 min

S1 Ep 3Courtney Reum On The Truth about Becoming a $1.5B Venture Capitalist and 45-Year-Old Professional Athlete

Courtney Reum on Reinvention, Wealth, and Finding “The One” with girlfriend Maggie Sellers | Hot Smart Rich Podcast In this episode of Hot Smart Rich, I sit down with Courtney Reum—serial entrepreneur, co-founder of M13, the $1.5B venture capital powerhouse, best-selling author, philanthropist, and Harvard guest lecturer—who also happens to be my boyfriend. If you’ve searched for Courtney Reum’s net worth, his girlfriend, M13 investments, or his journey as a professional soccer player, you’re in the right place. From starting at Goldman Sachs, launching successful businesses to competing as a professional athlete in Europe, Courtney is one of the most intriguing entrepreneurs who has mastered the art of reinvention—a key trait for entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders looking to stay ahead. What We Cover: 💡 How Courtney Reum knew he found “the one” (yes, it’s personal!) and insights into our relationship. 💰 His mindset on money, success, and wealth building—how he approaches venture capital, investing, and entrepreneurship. 🔄 Reinvention in business and life—why adaptability is key for founders and investors. ⏰ Time management for entrepreneurs—his practical playbook for how he balances being a startup founder, investor, and athlete. 🗳 Politics, leadership, and values—and how they shape the future of business and venture capital. 🌍 Lessons from competing as a professional soccer player in Europe—and what it taught him about resilience and personal growth. If you’re curious about Courtney Reum and Maggie Sellers’ relationship, how venture capitalists build wealth, or looking for entrepreneurial mindset strategies, this episode is packed with actionable insights and real talk. ✨CONNECT WITH MAGGIE SELLERS✨ 📲 Instagram: @maggiesellers 🎥 TikTok: @maggiesellers_ – Where Maggie Sellers’ TikTok content is breaking down business, investing, and modern female empowerment. 📺 YouTube: @hotsmartrich – Get insights on entrepreneurship, investing, and startup strategy. 💼 LinkedIn: Maggie Sellers – See what’s trending in venture capital and startup investing. ✨CONNECT WITH COURTNEY REUM✨ 📲 Instagram: @courtneyreum 💼 LinkedIn: Courtney Reum – Follow his latest insights on startup investing and venture capital. ✨READ THE NEWSLETTER✨ 📰 HSR ICYMI – Stay ahead with consumer startup trends, business news, and investing insights. ✨SHOP HOT SMART RICH✨ 🛍 HSR Merch – Wear your ambition. 🛍 Shop My – Discover Maggie Sellers’ top startup-backed finds. 🛍 Amazon – Find must-have startup products curated by Maggie. ✨ABOUT MAGGIE SELLERS✨ Maggie Sellers is the founder of Hot Smart Rich, an investment and media company designed to empower women in business and entrepre... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 29, 202550 min

S1 Ep 2From Sibling Rivalry to Startup Success: How to Build a Successful Business with Family with Maggie Sellers & Katie Sellers

Ever wondered what it's like to work with your sister or how HSR runs as a business operation? In the second episode of Hot Smart Rich, you'll intimately meet Maggie's sister and co-founder, Katie Sellers, who joins for an unfiltered conversation. Together, they unpack the evolution of their sibling bond into their business partnership, from their early creative clashes to building a bold, bi-coastal media and investment platform. With candid stories about taking career risks, redefining traditional roles, and balancing creativity with execution, this episode dives deep into what it takes to grow a business, foster resilience, and work with family. As a bonus, they break down the business of Sabrina Carpenter, Celebrity Perfume Lines and more cultural moments shaping the last year of pop-culture. ✨CONNECT WITH HER✨: INSTAGRAM: ⁠@maggiesellers ⁠ TIKTOK: ⁠@maggiesellers_ ⁠ YOUTUBE: ⁠@hotsmartrich ⁠ LINKEDIN: ⁠Maggie Sellers ⁠ ✨CONNECT WITH KATIE✨: INSTAGRAM: ⁠⁠@katiesellers_ ⁠⁠ TIKTOK: ⁠⁠@katiesellers_ ⁠⁠ YOUTUBE: ⁠⁠@hotsmartrich ⁠⁠ LINKEDIN: ⁠⁠Katie Sellers ⁠ ✨READ THE NEWSLETTER✨: ⁠HSR ICYMI ⁠ ✨SHOP HSR✨: ⁠HSR MERCH⁠ ⁠SHOP MY⁠ ⁠AMAZON⁠ ✨ ABOUT MAGGIE✨: Maggie Sellers is revolutionizing modern female empowerment, leading the charge as the Canadian-born, Los Angeles based multi-hyphenate creative entrepreneur and investor, unapologetically blazing new trails. The founder of Hot Smart Rich, a media and investment platform, Maggie is on a mission to help women embrace their hottest, smartest, richest selves. Known for shaping iconic consumer brands and global superstars, she seamlessly blends the worlds of entertainment, branding, and venture capital, and was the first to carve out a space where influence and investment collide. Maggie’s meteoric rise began on TikTok, where her candid, sharp-witted content struck a chord with over 180,000 ambitious Gen-Z and millennial women, rapidly expanding her influence as the blueprint for the future of influence. But Maggie’s vision extends beyond content. Hot Smart Rich is reshaping how modern power players connect and collaborate while her investment arm, HSR Ventures, backs some of the fastest growing consumer brands like Allara Health, De Soi, Mixlab with equity stakes in 18+ brands across the consumer ecosystem. Maggie’s influence goes far beyond the brands she builds and invests in. Forget outdated notions of female empowerment, she’s redefining what it means to be an empowered woman in today’s world. Maggie Sellers is setting a new standard—unapologetic and impossible to ignore. This episode is produced by HSR Media, a d... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 22, 202536 min

S1 Ep 1Becoming Hot Smart Rich With Maggie Sellers

Join Maggie Sellers for the long awaited debut episode of Hot Smart Rich as she shares her journey of launching this podcast after years of hesitation, anxiety, and growth. With her sister by her side, Maggie dives into personal challenges, her bold transition to entrepreneurship, and building a thriving community of 200,000 women. From personal holding companies to finding purpose, this episode is your entry into the world of Hot Smart Rich and will help you navigate overcoming your own fears, embrace your own vulnerability and take risks to change your life. ✨CONNECT WITH HER✨: INSTAGRAM: @maggiesellers TIKTOK: @maggiesellers_ YOUTUBE: @hotsmartrich LINKEDIN: Maggie Sellers ✨READ THE NEWSLETTER✨: HSR ICYMI ✨SHOP HSR✨: HSR MERCH SHOP MY AMAZON ✨ ABOUT MAGGIE✨: Maggie Sellers is revolutionizing modern female empowerment, leading the charge as the Canadian-born, Los Angeles based multi-hyphenate creative entrepreneur and investor, unapologetically blazing new trails. The founder of Hot Smart Rich, a media and investment platform, Maggie is on a mission to help women embrace their hottest, smartest, richest selves. Known for shaping iconic consumer brands and global superstars, she seamlessly blends the worlds of entertainment, branding, and venture capital, and was the first to carve out a space where influence and investment collide. Maggie’s meteoric rise began on TikTok, where her candid, sharp-witted content struck a chord with over 180,000 ambitious Gen-Z and millennial women, rapidly expanding her influence as the blueprint for the future of influence. But Maggie’s vision extends beyond content. Hot Smart Rich is reshaping how modern power players connect and collaborate while her investment arm, HSR Ventures, backs some of the fastest growing consumer brands like Allara Health, De Soi, Mixlab with equity stakes in 18+ brands across the consumer ecosystem. Maggie’s influence goes far beyond the brands she builds and invests in. Forget outdated notions of female empowerment, she’s redefining what it means to be an empowered woman in today’s world. Maggie Sellers is setting a new standard—unapologetic and impossible to ignore. This episode is produced by HSR Media, a division of Creative MES LLC, with support from Megan Coyle and Connor McGlynn. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 9, 202517 min

Hot Smart Rich Trailer

Hot Smart Rich is your place to hear unfiltered conversations with the people shaping the future of culture, creators, startups and community. Hosted by Maggie Sellers, investor and media powerhouse, and guests breaking the mold, you’ll get the real deal as it relates to navigating the startup fast lane, leveling up your life or becoming your hottest, smartest, richest self. New episodes weekly on Wednesdays. ✨CONNECT WITH HER✨: INSTAGRAM: @maggiesellers TIKTOK: @maggiesellers_ YOUTUBE: @hotsmartrich LINKEDIN: Maggie Sellers ✨READ THE NEWSLETTER✨: HSR ICYMI ✨SHOP HSR✨: HSR MERCH SHOP MY AMAZON: ✨ ABOUT MAGGIE✨: Maggie Sellers is revolutionizing modern female empowerment, leading the charge as the Canadian-born, Los Angeles based multi-hyphenate creative entrepreneur and investor, unapologetically blazing new trails. The founder of Hot Smart Rich, a media and investment platform, Maggie is on a mission to help women embrace their hottest, smartest, richest selves. Known for shaping iconic consumer brands and global superstars, she seamlessly blends the worlds of entertainment, branding, and venture capital, and was the first to carve out a space where influence and investment collide. Maggie’s meteoric rise began on TikTok, where her candid, sharp-witted content struck a chord with over 180,000 ambitious Gen-Z and millennial women, rapidly expanding her influence as the blueprint for the future of influence. But Maggie’s vision extends beyond content. Hot Smart Rich is reshaping how modern power players connect and collaborate while her investment arm, HSR Ventures, backs some of the fastest growing consumer brands like Allara Health, De Soi, Mixlab with equity stakes in 18+ brands across the consumer ecosystem. Maggie’s influence goes far beyond the brands she builds and invests in. Forget outdated notions of female empowerment, she’s redefining what it means to be an empowered woman in today’s world. Maggie Sellers is setting a new standard—unapologetic and impossible to ignore. This episode is produced by HSR Media, a division of Creative MES LLC, with support from Megan Coyle and Connor McGlynn. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 7, 20250 min