Serious Lady Business

In this inspiring interview, DJ Nicole Myint shares her journey from passion for music to becoming a successful DJ and producer. She discusses overcoming industry challenges, the importance of authenticity, and her roots in Detroit's rich musical legacy.About Our GuestNicole Myint, Detroit-based DJ and ProducerFollow DJ Myint on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTokDJ Myint's websiteListen to Nicole on your favorite music platforms! Search MYINT. Key TopicsDJ Myint's career journey and industry challengesThe influence of Detroit's musical legacyThe importance of authenticity and staying true to oneselfSocial media's role in building a music careerAdvice for women entering male-dominated fieldsDJ Myint, music industry, women in music, Detroit music scene, DJ career, music production, social media marketing, female entrepreneurs, leadership, creative careers

Leslie Youngblood interviews Heidi Yarger, Founder and Creative Director of Spitfiregirl about the importance of visibility, authentic self-promotion, and building a personal brand for women entrepreneurs. They discuss overcoming the fear of bragging, leveraging AI, and making bold moves to elevate women's voices and opportunities.About Our GuestHeidi Yarger, Founder and Creative Director of Spitfiregirl DesignSpitfiregirl Design websiteConnect with Heidi on LinkedInFollow on InstagramKey TakeawaysThe common fear women have about talking about themselvesThe difference between bragging and strategic authorityHow visibility is leverage in business and lifeThe role of vulnerability in personal brandingAI's impact on women's careers and personal brandingBuilding a consistent narrative across online and offline presenceOvercoming imposter syndrome and fear of judgmentPractical steps to start showing up more authenticallywomen entrepreneurs, personal branding, visibility, authenticity, AI, self-promotion, women in business, leadership, storytelling, confidence

This episode features Christina Ware, a Detroit-based workforce innovation expert, discussing her journey, the importance of community engagement, and the exciting resurgence of Detroit. Learn how to leverage local opportunities, support underrepresented entrepreneurs, and build a thriving city from within.About Our GuestChristina WareConnect with Chris on LinkedInEmail Chris at [email protected] TakeawaysDetroit's economic resurgence and community impactThe role of women leaders in city developmentStrategies for workforce development and talent pipelineCommunity engagement and support for entrepreneursDetroit, workforce development, community engagement, entrepreneurship, women leaders, city revival, talent pipeline, local business, economic growth, leadership

Host Leslie Youngblood chats with Lynn Harris about the power of comedy as a cultural force, the importance of representation, and how women can embrace their humor and confidence at any age. They explore how comedy shapes societal norms, the barriers women face, and the opportunities for diverse voices in the industry.About Our GuestLynn Harris, Founder and CEO of Gold ComedyConnect with Lynn on LinkedInGold Comedy WebsiteFollow Gold Comedy on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTokLink to start 2-week free trial with GOLD! Link to start 2-week free trial with STANDUP BOOT CAMP Link to Build and Pitch Any Idea with Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning Broad City producer Ryan Elizabeth Cunningham. Extended interest-free payment plans available. Just ask. Starts MONDAY, MARCH 16 and just a couple spots left.Key TakeawaysThe importance of not labeling women as 'female comedians'Comedy as a cultural force for social changeBarriers women face in the comedy industryThe impact of diversity on audience perceptionHow comedy can normalize women in powerWomen in comedy, representation, cultural power, diversity, confidence, imposter syndrome, comedy industry, storytelling, online courses, life experience

In this inspiring interview, Detroit Voltage founder Deana Neely shares her journey from government support to building a successful woman-owned electrical contracting business in Detroit. Discover her strategies for overcoming industry challenges, the importance of community impact, and her vision for expanding globally.About Our GuestDeana Neely, Founder and CEO of Detroit VoltageConnect with Deana on LinkedInDetroit Voltage websiteKey TopicsBuilding as a woman in a male-dominated industryCommunity impact and workforce development in DetroitStrategies for business growth and pivotingOvercoming self-doubt and industry challengesKeywordsWomen entrepreneurs, Detroit business, trades, electrical contracting, community impact, business pivot, leadership, diversity, growth strategies

In this episode, Leslie Youngblood interviews Kate Assaraf, Founder of Dip haircare, about the trust recession, ethical marketing, and building authentic brands through small businesses and community engagement. They explore how trust is eroding in digital commerce and how brands can rebuild it by prioritizing human connection and transparency.About Our GuestKate Assaraf, CEO of DIP HaircareConnect with Kate on LinkedInExplore DIP HaircareExplore DIP Bar Shampoo and ConditionersFollow DIP on Instagram and TikTokKey TakeawaysTrust recession and its impact on consumer behaviorThe importance of authenticity and transparency in brandingHow small businesses and local stores build trust and communityThe role of customer service and human connection in brand loyaltyChallenges and opportunities of marketing in the age of AI and digital deceptionKeywordstrust recession, authentic branding, small business, ethical marketing, consumer trust, community engagement, sustainability, AI in marketing, customer service, brand building

In this episode, Lydia Michael, a marketing and brand strategist, discusses the importance of emotion in branding, building trust, and loyalty. She shares insights on how brands can connect authentically with their audiences, the stages of brand love, and the significance of consistency and evolution in business growth.About Our GuestLydia Michael, Owner of Blended Collective and Author of Brand Love Blended Collective WebsiteLydia's WebsiteConnect with Lydia on LinkedInKey TakeawaysThe role of emotion in strategy and brandingSignals that build or erode trustThe 8 stages of brand love and loyaltyHow culture influences emotional brandingWhen and how to evolve your brandKeywordsBrand Strategy, Emotion in Branding, Trust and Loyalty, Brand Building, Small Business Growth, Brand Evolution, Cultural Differences in Marketing

In this episode of Serious Lady Business, host Leslie Youngblood speaks with Marta Spirk, a speaking coach and author, about the journey of female entrepreneurship. They discuss the importance of longevity in business, the difference between relevance and resonance, and the challenges of chasing visibility versus authentic expression. Marta shares her insights on sustainable ambition, the significance of delegation, and the evolution of her voice throughout her entrepreneurial journey. They also touch on the impact of societal expectations on women in business, the 996 work culture, and how to reclaim one's voice after burnout. Marta's book, 'The Empowered Woman,' serves as a roadmap for women seeking to find their unique path to success.About Our GuestMarta Spirk, Singer & Speaking Coach at Marta Spirk CoachingFollow Marta on LinkedIn, Instagram, and FacebookMarta's websiteListen to Marta's podcast, The Empowered WomanMarta's music on Spotify and AppleTakeawaysLongevity in business is about persistence and not giving up.Chasing visibility can disconnect you from your authentic voice.Quality connections are more important than quantity in business.Sustainable ambition means knowing when to say no to opportunities.Delegation is essential for growth and avoiding burnout.Success is not just about financial milestones but personal fulfillment.It's important to have a support network that understands your journey.Women have unique paths that should be celebrated, not compared.Reclaiming your voice after burnout involves grounding yourself in supportive relationships.Understanding your unique gifts is key to finding your purpose.Keywords: female entrepreneurship, speaking coach, business success, personal growth, visibility, authenticity, sustainable ambition, delegation, burnout recovery, empowered woman

In this episode of Serious Lady Business, host Leslie Youngblood speaks with Dayna Davis, a talented singer, songwriter, and producer from Detroit. They explore the rich musical legacy of Detroit, the importance of authenticity in artistry, and the challenges faced by women in the music industry. Dayna shares her journey of self-discovery, the significance of community collaboration, and the power of saying no to opportunities that don't align with one's values. The conversation emphasizes the need for balance between personal and professional life, the beauty of imperfection in art, and the freedom that comes from creating one's own path while honoring the past.About Our GuestDayna Davis, Music Artist & Entertainment ConsultantDayna's WebsiteFollow Dayna on InstagramFollow Dayna on FacebookKey TakeawaysDayna's artistry is deeply influenced by Detroit's Motown legacy.She emphasizes the importance of authenticity in music and life.Success is self-defined and varies for each individual.Community collaboration is vital in the Detroit music scene.Women in music face unique challenges but can find their voice.Saying no to opportunities that don't align with values is crucial.Releasing control and delegating tasks can lead to growth.Art is imperfect and should be embraced as such.Freedom for creatives means doing what they love with those they love.Honoring the past while creating one's own path is essential. KeywordsDayna Davis, Detroit music, Motown legacy, female artists, creative authenticity, music industry, personal growth, community collaboration, artistic purpose, resilience

In this episode of Serious Lady Business, host Leslie Youngblood speaks with Shelley Hancock, a trailblazer in the aesthetic industry. They discuss the importance of connection in business, Shelley's journey into aesthetics, and the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. Shelley shares her insights on building a business through presence, the power of positive energy, and the significance of letting go of fear. The conversation also touches on navigating product choices in aesthetics, learning from mistakes, and the shift back to basics in the industry. Listeners are encouraged to find their unique approach to business and embrace their journey.About Our GuestShelley Hancock, Founder of Esthetic SuccessConnect with Shelley on LinkedInShelley Hancock's personal websiteShelley's booksEsthetic Success websiteKey TakeawaysConnection is key in any business.Building a business requires presence and accessibility.Positive energy attracts clients.It's important to tell your story authentically.Letting go of fear can lead to success.You don't have to be loud to be successful.Mistakes are part of the learning process.Find what works for you in marketing.The aesthetic industry is evolving back to basics.Helping others is a true measure of success.Keywordsbusiness, aesthetics, entrepreneurship, connection, marketing, women in business, coaching, success, positivity, skincare

Host Leslie Youngblood speaks with Rasheda Williams, an award-winning speaker and communication strategist, about the importance of visibility and storytelling for women and youth entrepreneurs. They discuss how to gain visibility without a budget, the misconceptions surrounding PR, and the power of personal narratives. Rasheda shares her journey of founding Empowered Flower Girl and emphasizes the need for positive youth stories in media. The conversation also touches on the significance of community, networking, and the unique culture of Detroit.About Out GuestRasheda Williams, Founder of Inspired Life Professionals and Empowered Flower GirlConnect with Rasheda on LinkedInEmpowered Flower Girl WebsiteInspired Life Professionals WebsiteKey TakeawaysVisibility is achievable without a large budget.Everyone has a story worth sharing.Networking should focus on giving value.Imposter syndrome affects many, especially women.Your expertise can impact others, regardless of experience.Telling your story can be done through various media.PR is accessible to everyone, not just those with money.Community support is vital for entrepreneurs.Detroit has a rich culture of resilience and innovation.Positive narratives can change perceptions of youth.KeywordsPR, storytelling, visibility, women entrepreneurs, youth empowerment, Detroit, marketing, community, networking, imposter syndrome

Host Leslie Youngblood engages with Shanea Dangerfield, founder of Fieldwise Consulting, to discuss the challenges faced by founders and leaders in navigating growth, decision-making, and the importance of mindset. They explore the common feeling of overwhelm when everything seems important, the significance of understanding inflection points in business, and the myth of making the 'right' decision. Shanea emphasizes the value of reframing decisions as 90-day tests, the costs of indecision, and the need for healthy delegation. The conversation also touches on gender dynamics in decision-making, the importance of cultivating a positive company culture, and the necessity of seeking advisory support. Ultimately, the episode encourages listeners to embrace their unique journeys and focus on their personal growth.About Our GuestShanea Dangerfield, Founder of Fieldwise ConsultingConnect with Shanea on LinkedInFollow Fieldwise Consulting on LinkedInFieldwise Consulting websiteKey TakeawaysWhen everything feels important, it often leads to paralysis.Founders should focus on trade-offs rather than right or wrong decisions.Indecision can breed uncertainty within teams.Healthy delegation involves clear outcomes and decision ownership.Women often face more scrutiny in decision-making than men.Mindset and self-talk are crucial for success.Advisory support can help navigate complex decisions.Company culture starts with the founder's values and actions.Recognizing when to seek help is vital for growth.Every experience, good or bad, contributes to personal growth.Keywordsentrepreneurship, leadership, decision making, women in business, company culture, advisory support, mindset, inflection points, delegation, growth strategies

In this engaging conversation, Leslie Youngblood speaks with Angela Wisniewski-Cobbina, founder of Coup d'Etat, about the significance of independent retail as a form of rebellion against the dominance of big corporations. They explore the importance of physical spaces in fostering community and connection, the role of clothing in self-expression, and the journey of opening a boutique in Detroit. Angela shares her insights on navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, the impact of social media, and the importance of authenticity in business. The discussion also highlights the unique culture of Detroit and the need for community support for small businesses, culminating in a powerful message about empowering women and challenging societal norms.About Our GuestAngela Wisniewski-Cobbina - Founder, Coup D’état Connect with Angela on LinkedInFollow Angela on InstagramCoup D’état websiteFollow Coup D’état on InstagramKey TakeawaysIndependent retail serves as a form of rebellion against corporate dominance.Physical spaces foster community and meaningful conversations.Clothing is a powerful tool for self-expression and identity.The journey to entrepreneurship is often long and challenging.Detroit's unique culture and style deserve recognition.Community support is essential for the survival of small businesses.Authenticity in branding is crucial for success.Social media can create illusions of community and success.Success is not just about financial gain but also about personal fulfillment.Empowering women is vital for societal change.Keywordsretail, rebellion, community, Detroit, fashion, entrepreneurship, self-expression, social media, women empowerment, small business

Host Leslie Youngblood engages in a deep conversation with Anja Skodda, a bioengineer and entrepreneur, about the importance of women's health, the role of microbiomes, biological age, and epigenetics in understanding health. They discuss the need for proactive health measures, the connection between hormones and gut health, and the significance of home testing for better health management. Anja shares her journey in science and entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of self-care and preventative health for women.This episode is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The views shared are not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or care. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any health-related questions or decisions.About Our GuestAnja Skodda, Founder of HAPPYBOND, Director Product Development at LivLivBio websiteLivPet WebsiteHAPPYBOND websiteKey TakeawaysWomen often rely on annual check-ups, missing out on crucial health insights.The microbiome plays a significant role in overall health and disease prevention.Biological age can differ from chronological age, influenced by lifestyle choices.Epigenetics shows how lifestyle affects aging and health risks.Preventative care is essential for maintaining health and well-being.Home testing can empower women to take charge of their health.Understanding hormonal shifts is crucial for women's health during different life stages.Self-care is not selfish; it's necessary for being present for others.Women need to advocate for their health and not dismiss symptoms as normal.Investing in health can lead to better quality of life and longevity.women's health, microbiome, biological age, epigenetics, preventative care, home testing, hormonal health, aging, health entrepreneurship, wellness

About Our GuestKiara Williams, Founder of Digital Movement Media + Treuse CinemaConnect with Kiara on LinkedInConnect with Kiara on InstagramDigital Movement Media Websitedetroit, entrepreneurship, social impact, organizing, nonprofit, new york, advocacy

Host Leslie Youngblood speaks with Soula Chronopoulos, president of Aqua Action, about the critical importance of water security as both an environmental and economic issue. They discuss the impact of AI on water technologies, Soula's journey from neuroscience to water advocacy, and the importance of empowering women in the water tech sector. The conversation also touches on leadership lessons, the significance of community in entrepreneurship, and the challenges faced by innovators in the water space. Soula emphasizes the need for collaboration and the potential for innovation to address the looming water crisis.About Our GuestSoula Chronopoulos, President of AquaActionAquaAction WebsiteAquaHacking ProgramAquaNation CommunityConnect with Soula on LinkedInFollow AquaAction on LinkedInKey TakeawaysWater is a national security issue, not just environmental.AI can help connect entrepreneurs to opportunities in water tech.Soula's journey from neuroscience to water advocacy shows the value of diverse experiences.Women in water technology are crucial for innovation and solutions.Community support is vital for entrepreneurs facing challenges.The 'Death Valley' of entrepreneurship is a common struggle that can be overcome with support.Innovations in water technology can transform industries and economies.Water scarcity is projected to be a major global crisis by 2030.Leadership in business often requires resilience and confidence, especially for women.Collaboration across borders can lead to significant advancements in water security.water security, AI, entrepreneurship, women in business, water technology, community, leadership, innovation, sustainability, economic resilience

Host Leslie Youngblood speaks with Nikki Sapiro-Vinckier, a reproductive healthcare activist and OB-GYN physician assistant. They discuss Nikki's journey into advocacy, the gaps in the healthcare system, and the importance of empowering patients to advocate for themselves. The conversation also touches on the historical context of reproductive health, the need for more clinical advocates, and the role of men in reproductive health discussions. Nikki shares insights from her upcoming book, 'We Deserve More,' which aims to provide patients with the tools they need to navigate the healthcare system effectively. The episode emphasizes the importance of community, trust, and the ongoing fight for reproductive rights, particularly in a swing state like Michigan.About Our GuestNikkie Sapiro Vinckier, reproductive healthcare activist, content creator and OBGYN Physician AssistantFollow Nikki on InstagramFollow Nikki on TikTokConnect with Nikki on LinkedInNikki's WebsiteTake Back Trust WebsitePre-Order We Deserve MoreKey TakeawaysNikki's advocacy stems from her frontline experience in reproductive healthcare.There is a significant gap between patient needs and healthcare delivery.Empowering patients to advocate for themselves is crucial in healthcare.Historical injustices in gynecology impact current healthcare experiences.Trust in healthcare is fragile, especially for marginalized communities.Communication is key to effective healthcare advocacy.Men should be included in conversations about reproductive health.Patients should ask for pain management in advance of procedures.Digital platforms can help combat misinformation in healthcare.Community engagement is essential for effective advocacy.reproductive health, advocacy, healthcare access, women's rights, Michigan, Take Back Trust, self-advocacy, healthcare equity, women's health, community engagement

Host Leslie Youngblood interviews Elina Panteleyeva, founder of DoodWoof, a thriving e-commerce brand for doodle dogs. Elina shares her journey from being laid off to launching her business, emphasizing the importance of community building, influencer marketing, and the challenges of entrepreneurship. She discusses the significance of choosing the right audience, the power of being the face of your brand, and the lessons learned in her first year of business. Elina also offers valuable advice for those facing layoffs and highlights the future plans for DudeWoof.About Our GuestElina Panteleyeva, founder of DoodWoofDoodWoof websiteConnect with Elina on InstagramDudeWoof on TikTok, and Instagram12 Months to $1 Million BookKey TakeawaysElina turned a personal setback into a launch pad for her business.Choosing the right audience is crucial for product development.Building community and trust is essential for brand growth.Being the face of your brand increases customer trust.Creating a product from scratch requires research and persistence.Launching on Amazon requires a strategic approach and community support.Influencer marketing can de-risk your business and expand reach.Building an audience takes time and consistency.Starting to build an audience while employed can ease the transition to entrepreneurship.Calculated risks, like taking on debt, can be beneficial for business growth.entrepreneurship, community building, influencer marketing, e-commerce, women in business, brand growth, product launch, audience engagement, small business, marketing strategies