Support is Sexy

Carmen Jones learned very early about how painful stereotypes are. She and her family experienced racism as they moved into certain neighborhoods thanks to her father's corporate job with IBM, with children willing to play with her at school; but unwilling to have her visit their home. Her mom always encouraged she and her siblings to take the high road. When, at age 20, a terrible car accident caused Carmen to become a paraplegic, she went from a 5'10" student walking around the campus of Hampton University to being in a wheelchair and dependent on friends to, at times, carry her -- literally. This experience exposed Carmen to a whole new set of stereotypes to overcome: Disability. This time, she doesn't just take the high road, she has made it her business to educate others about people with disabilities, and to educate companies about the importance of marketing to and hiring individuals within the disability market. As CEO of Solutions Marketing Group, Carmen's agency works to "position her clients to understand, penetrate and retain the disability market." On this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast, Carmen shares why she sees it as her personal mission to normalize disability, to bust down stereotypes and to educate companies so they know that when they hire someone with a disability, they could completely change the trajectory of that person't life in the best way. She also shares how the accident that caused her disability ended up being one of her most transformational moments. On this episode you'll learn: Importance of market research.How to utilize speaking engagements to your advantage.Why building relationships is the fuel of your business.The power of the disability market.The difference between accessibility and accommodations.Lessons she learned from her chair.Top three misconceptions about people with disability.How companies should consider the disability market -- it's bigger than you thinkSubscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. [Music: "Easy" by SPCZ] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Carrie Sheffield is a "musician brat" who grew up between here and there and went to 17 different public schools while traveling with her family, who were all musicians. So she knows how to adapt in ever-changing environments -- including changes that she initiated herself contrary to popular opinion, such as leaving the Mormon church after attending a Mormon college, deciding to become a political journalist rather than a stay-at-home mom, choosing not to support the president-elect during the campaign season, and launching her own media company bold.global, which has a mission of shifting the conversation around politics to one that is bi-partisan although Carrie is a strict conservative. But one thing Carrie had to learn within the past year is that standing by your convictions isn't always convenient, especially for business. On this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast, Carrie speaks openly how she has evolved as the leader of her one-year-old startup, how she's shifting the vision for her business, how she is remaining committed to her principles and how self care and stoicism have changed her life. On this episode you'll learn: Why it's important to find your own voice.You have to know your audience.Your brand will evolve beyond your vision.The power of working with partners.How to approach potential partners.3 things she wishes she knew about startups.Don't be afraid to stand by your principles even when it's inconvenient.Don't sacrifice self-care.Be more adaptable, don't be attached to any particular partner or vision.What she learned about simplicity, patience and compassion.Why you have to be your number one supporter. Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com [Music: "Time Flux" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As we prepare to say good-bye to 2016 and head into the new year, I have two words for you: THANK YOU! You are the epitome of sexy support, and I so appreciate you! In this episode I take a moment to share my gratitude with you, and to encourage you to create something sexy in 2017! Again, thank you. Happy New Year! For more episodes of Support is Sexy, visit supportissexypodcast.com. [Music: "Birds" by Tyler Twombly] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While most people are focused on resolutions, we're going to do our own bit of reinvention over here for 2017. And I want YOU to be a part of it. Let's have some fun -- help me choose between two options for a new theme song for the Support is Sexy podcast, which we'll debut with our first episode in January. Listen to snippets of both songs on this episode, then head over to Twitter at @supportissexy and VOTE on the poll. (I just discovered the polls on Twitter and think they're adorable so, yeah, we're using that.) As I mention in this episode, a lot going on in the news these last few days of 2016, some of it overwhelming -- violence, nonstop political bickering, transitions of well-known and not-so-well-known folks before their time... I wanted to do an episode that was light, fun, and in some ways interactive. Sometimes a smile is just the support we all need during times like these. So thank you for listening and for smiling with me. Now, head over to @supportissexy on Twitter and pick your favorite theme song! :) Thanks for listening! Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void; "Time Flux" by Revolution Void, and "Easy" by SPCZ.] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Beverly Stewart has wanted to be a teacher since she was five years old, and she thought she'd be one forever once she started her career in education. But after six years in the classroom, she knew she needed a change -- she wanted a way to impact each student individually. So Beverly made the brave decision to leave her full-time teaching career in 1985, and started tutoring children one-on-one. With that, her business Back to Basics Learning Dynamics was born, providing a variety of one-on-one educational services to students of all ages. Since then, the company -- and Beverly -- have won a long list of awards and recognitions in the Philadelphia area and continue to expand; but for Beverly, her personal growth during this journey has been the greatest expansion in her life. On this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast, Beverly talks about how she bootstrapped to build and grow her business from her one-bedroom apartment to a multimillion dollar company, the power of being vulnerable and comfortable with uncertainty, and how learning to be less rigid has changed her life and her business. On this episode you'll learn: How to teach yourself to be uncomfortable and uncertain in order to grow.Be bold enough to ask people for advice.The value of pounding the pavement when you first launch your business.How having a coach can completely change your business and your life.How to be an open-hearted leader.The power of delegating.Her top 3 tips for turning your passion into profit.Strategies to grow your business.The importance of feedback from your customers.How to move beyond the personal blocks in your life that also affect your business.How to learn to delegate and let go.Why she can't stand the word "luck."How she created her fairytale life. Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Karmetria Burton has always been gregarious and loquacious, so much so that her family would offer to pay her to be quiet for five minutes. That didn't work -- because Karmetria loves to connect, and she always had plenty of questions. Karmetria grew up around a family of entrepreneurs and worked in her dad's business for about two years right after college (for room and board of course). After wowing a client on a sales call, she was recruited to work with their company -- and her professional career began with a move from Houston to Omaha Nebraska. After a layoff years later at another company, Karmetria moved into the supplier diversity field, and has since won several awards and recognition for her leadership and expertise in the space. Today she is Director of Supplier Diversity at Delta Airlines, and shares with us her top tips for what we need to know about supplier diversity as women entrepreneurs, why it's important to register your business a woman-owned business, how she plans to spend one billion dollars with women and minority's owned businesses, and how she's empowering women to paint their lips red! On this episode you'll learn: What is supplier diversity?How does supplier diversity work.How to get certified and what that means.The benefits of registering your business.How to think outside of the box when considering what your business may be able to offer.Why it's smart for women-owned businesses and solopreneurs to be aware of supplier diversity programs (and some important numbers you need to know).The importance of being a scalable business.How to know when your company is corporate-ready.3 top tips for companies interested in being part of a supplier diversity program.How to get over the low points in your career.How to rebrand yourself after a setback.Why you should never let your title define you.How Karmetria is empowering women with a great red lip.And how she learned how to give up "I got it!" Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Venettes Cultural Workshop founder, Mary Baird, was a great influence on her goddaughter, Dawn Shedrick, as Dawn grew up attending classes at the workshop and watched as her godmother created a space for many Black children in their Long Island, New York, neighborhood to know that they matter -- children who may otherwise have fallen through the proverbial cracks. Dawn later carried this same passion with her into her own work as a social worker -- keeping people out of the cracks, whether that was through community organizing or providing resources for those with HIV/AIDS. Today, as Founder and Chief Learning Officer of her own successful consulting business, JenTex Training & Consulting, Dawn now supports other social workers and health service providers with avoiding a major crack many of them slip into: Burnout. On this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast, Dawn talks about avoiding burnout and finding balance, how to set up a business that reflects your vision and your principles, how to ask for and accept support and how to be ok with exposing your messiness. On this episode you'll learn: How to take the path less traveled -- even when you're already down another road.The importance of figuring out a way to transition from your full-time job into entrepreneurship.Reasons to consider the possibility of partnerships.Why you should start with the low-hanging fruit when spreading the word about your business.How to get through those moments when the business brings you to your knees.The importance of being transparent about our experiences as entrepreneurs.How to be vulnerable and ask for AND accept support, even when it's uncomfortable.How to trust that the support will show up for you.How to be ok exposing your messiness.How to battle burnout.How to be empowered to say "no" and be prepared to face whatever comes after that "no."Why it's importance for us to "feel the feels" and not numb the pain.Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If things didn't manifest how you wanted or envisioned for 2016, do not be discouraged: You gotta keep going! A little holiday inspiration... Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you were to ask a five-year-old Amber Aziza what she wanted to be when she grew up, she would have told you two words: In charge. For Amber, this didn't just mean having money; it was about having control of her own destiny. As a child of foster care, who survived a tumultuous environment before being adopted, Amber's forever family cultivated this part of her – with a long list of after-school activities that she wanted to experience (and even some that she didn't). And this curious and adventurous spirit is still a part of who she is today as CEO of Asquared, her coaching company where she is devoted to helping millennial and millennial-minded entrepreneurs succeed in business and life. But it was Amber's first company -- which she built into a multi million enterprise at the expense of her health and sold before she was age 30 -- that taught her some of her most valuable lessons personally and professionally. On this episode, Amber talks about openly about lessons she learned about betting on yourself, building a multi million dollar business that's bigger than you, knowing when it's time to move on and taking necessary time to heal when life interrupts business. On this episode you'll learn: How to figure a way to make it work before saying no to opportunity.The benefit of taking the opportunity before you're ready.Sometimes you find your genius within the gap between what you know and what you don't know.How to evaluate the risk vss the reward.Why you shouldn't just quit your job.How to map out your plan based on what you want to do rather than what another business does.How to cultivate your network and reach out with an offer.Be ok with starting small.Always present what value you're offering to your clientsThe importance of realizing your zone of genius and delegating the rest.The dangers of building a company that centers all around you.What the process of selling your company is like.How to know when to let it go.Top 3 tips for millennial entrepreneurs.Why you gotta model what works.The importance of taking time to pause.Why it's not healthy to pretend that you're "fine."Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When having a conversation with Charreah K. Jackson -- ESSENCE magazine Lifestyle & Relationships Editor and Creator of BossBride -- you will be struck by her Southern charm as as much as you will be by her worldly self awareness. The Decatur, Georgia, native -- who considers herself "a little bit bossy" and "with a big personality" -- grew up surrounded by models of strong black women, with a great, great grandmother who had a rifle, knew how to shoot a straight shot and catch a squirrel with her bare hands. For Charreah, witnessing this strength normalized power and agency. Today, as Charreah balances a demanding full-time magazine job with coaching clients, her Bossbride community, her personal life and writing her soon-to-be-published book, she realizes that with all that strength she has inherited, she also needs support, and softness, in many areas of her life -- and that's a good thing. As she says, we need to normalize support, and not see it as a weakness. On this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast, Charreah talks openly about how support and her evolving self awareness allowed her to overcome cancer, shift her relationship with money, walk away from what's familiar and face her fears by standing up and catching the wave. On this episode you'll learn: Take inventory of your talent and your time.How to determine what your gift is and own it.How you can maximize your wealth and live a life of abundance.Be willing to make sacrifices for the hustle.Why, if you're moonlighting, you should view your job as your biggest client.Getting clear on the vision on your life and what you want that to look like.How to heal your relationship with money.Taking back your power and making a different choice.To up-level your bank account you have to up-level your circle.Being aware of the fact that we live in a culture that gets wealthy off keeping you distracted.The importance of asking yourself what's not working.Why vulnerability has gotten a bad wrap.Having the courage to walk away from something that has run its course.Why you shouldn't let the ending tell the story.The genius of standing up and catching the wave. Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Even as a little girl, Lisa Dadd always planned to be a doctor, but she always had an entrepreneurial itch. In university, she realized she was much more interested in knowing about the science of people rather than just science, so she changed her major. But when she didn't get into medical school, the Niagara Falls native felt somewhat lost. She decided to continue on to get her graduate degree in sports medicine, and later landing a job in the pharmaceutical industry, where she had a very successful career. But as Lisa continued to rise in her corporate sales and marketing position, she found herself unfulfilled with every new promotion during her 15 years in the industry. Eventually, she gave into her burning desire to become an entrepreneur, to "find her fabulous" and to teach her clients how to do the same. On this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast, Lisa talks about how to know when it's time to make that move, how to redesign your life and find your fabulous, and why it's important to play in the gray. On this episode you'll learn: Why you never really get over that feeling of being afraid -- and that's ok.How to know when it's time to move on.How to get over that "you should be happy" feeling.How to be grateful for the desire for change.How to gauge whether your longing to do something else is temporary.Why you deserve to find your fabulous.How to give yourself permission to live a fabulous life.Why you should have gratitude for the ambiguity in your life.Beware of whether you're using finances as a smokescreen.The benefits of playing in the gray.3 ways to redesign your your life.How to move beyond imposter syndrome.The power of masterminds.How to quiet your inner mean girl and tell her to "flick off." Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When Kelly Lynn Adams was a young girl growing up in New Jersey she was considered shy and was diagnosed with a speech impediment. But doing things that pushed her out of her comfort zone helped her get over that shyness and over other people's perceptions of her. Today, Kelly is a motivational speaker and life coach who considers herself a "loud, obnoxious Jersey girl." In other words, she is fully herself and she empowers her clients -- women making the transition from 9-to-5 life to their entrepreneurial life -- to do the same. But what's most important for Kelly is the lessons she learned along her journey, those breakthrough moments that allowed her to turn her "mess" into her message. On this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast, Kelly talks about launching her new business by offering 50 free consultations, the importance of practice, the dangers of comparison, why patience is paramount and why self-care is non-negotiable. On this episode you'll learn: Why it's important now more than ever to have a mentor.Why mentors don't have to be people you know.How to become a master of anything.How to hone in on your niche.How to overcome the noise on social media.How to realistically have it all.Why she has a nonnegotiable self love power hour.Importance of being not just doing.Ways the body will let you know that you're not taking care of yourself and why that dis ease can be a blessing.How to view you mess as your message.The first step to take to get out of that low point.Her top 3 tools to change your life and business. Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Who is the woman I have to become to become the woman I want to be? Yes, this is actually a question I have ask and continue to ask myself. It is my version of a check in and grounds men when I feel I am beginning to sway from the way of being that truly reflects who I am and who I want to become. Sound to woo woo for you? How about this: If you want to become the woman of your own dreams you have to dare to go there! And this episode -- which includes a roundup of inspirational words from women such as She Who Dares founder Kelli Coleman, Harlem's Fashion Row founder Brandice Daniel, inventor serial entrepreneur Jen Groover, New York Times bestselling author Michelle Burford, Collective Mobile founder Sian Morson, Intensati Creator Patricia Moreno and media personality and entrepreneur Tai Beauchamp – will send you into your weekend (or whenever you're listening) with advice to help carry you along the journey. And if you're in the Atlanta, Georgia, area on Friday, December 16, 2016, please come say hello and enjoy a free event with myself, Kelli Coleman, Tai Beauchamp and more at the She Who Dares event in Bloomingdales at Lenox Square mall, 5pm EST. Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void and "Candlepower" by Chris Sabriskie] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever since I heard author and podcaster Tim Ferriss say "What would this look like if it were easy?" when he was a guest on another show and speaking about his approach to launching his own podcast, I immediately incorporated that mindset into my toolbox. Whenever approaching a new project or adventure: What would it look like if this were easy. But you know what? Sometimes I forget. Like this week, as I was setting up interviews, recording episodes of the podcasts, preparing to travel, and flying through a long list of to-dos. There's nothing wrong with hustle, and moving with a sense of urgency; but you have to check in with yourself – at least I did – and ask: am I hustling or am I harried? Your answer will tell you whether you need to take a minute, shift and readjust. In the middle of the whirlwind, and honestly some unrealistic goals of what I was going to accomplish in 24 hours, I stopped. I mean, complete stop, and said: What would this look like if this were easy. On this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast, I dive into more reasons for why this is such an important question. Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kelli M. Coleman grew up in Detroit with her parents as a child surrounded by other successful African-American adults who, by all appearances, had it all. They were successful, had great careers and businesses and enjoyed loving, enduring personal relationships. This model of success became an important part of Kelli's evolution as she, at age 10, entered into the family business (her father, Don Coleman, founded Global Hue -- which is the largest independently owned multicultural advertising firm in the United states) and later as she became an entrepreneur on her own terms. What Kelly didn't expect was that her own personal development and independence -- outside of the shadow of her dad's successful business -- would require a different model. One that placed her in a position where she could either continue to meet expectations, or she could be a woman who dares. After much soul searching, and with some support, she decided to dare, and since then, Kelli has inspired other women around the world to do the same. Kelli, who is an award-winning marketer and advertising executive, is now founder and CEO of her own company, KM Coleman Group, which advises businesses led by or built for women. She is also the founder of the She Who Dares initiative, which tackles the importance of personal development and speaks to the extraordinary side in every woman through events and conversations. This Friday, December 16th, Kelli will host a free She Who Dares event in Atlanta at Lenox Square in Bloomingdales with a panel of moderated by yours truly and featuring powerhouse women including Tai Beauchamp, Valeisha Butterfield Jones, Dr. Karmetria Burton and Kelli! If you're in the area, please come by, enjoy and say hello! (Link below) On this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast, Kelli talks about the moment she knew it was time to make a move, how to be ignore the expectations, the importance of surrounding yourself with a village to support you and the power of becoming a woman who dares. On this episode you'll learn: How to step away from the family business.How to free yourself from the assertion of expectations.How she defines legacy (and how we can redefine it for ourselves).The importance of going through a phase of discomfort.How to know when it's time to move on.The importance of personal growth and discovery for every entrepreneur.Why avoiding uncertainty is crippling.Her master plan for shifting (and the resources that help her create a new life).The importance of knowing what you DON'T want.How to be a woman who dares. Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Comparison is death. And so is the numbers game. As we wrap of the year and look at where we were in our business, how we performed, where we can improve, it may be easy to get caught up in the numbers game -- meaning this self-destructive behavior of comparing our numbers to someone else's numbers within our industry or otherwise and allowing it to make us feel less than. Don't do it! No good can come of it! In the episode I talk about three areas of the numbers game that trip most of up: audience and influence; social media; money -- and I share strategies that you may use to steer clear. Yes, numbers matter; but comparison kills. So stay focused! Here's how. Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The new year is upon us and you've probably already seen articles, posts and news items about resolutions, the "new you" and other forms of pressure that urge you to blow off the rest of 2016 and start thinking ahead. Well, don't. You still have time left! And pushing those to-dos that you've left undone all year into next year is not the way to go when you realize you still have space and opportunity to get much accomplished. You don't want to go into next year with anything that feels like a loose end or a burden – you want to go into the year thinking about your blessings! So, I've got a challenge for you: The #finishstrongandsexy challenge. In this episode I give you three challenges that will support you in making it happen THIS YEAR! Don't put it off. You got this and you can do this! All of the things that you've been waiting to do are probably waiting for you to show up! Let me know what you're up to! Mention me @elaynefluker on social media or use the hashtags #supportissexy or #finishstrongandsexy and share what your commitment is for the #finishstrongandsexy challenge. Let's support each other! That's what it's all about, right? Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

You know what you're going to see a lot of in the post for this episode? SPACE. As entrepreneurs, we can get so caught up in the hustle, in filling every single empty space with a to-do. I get it -- you're busy, and you've got stuff to do! But I challenge you this weekend to put some space on it. With intention. Take a break -- whatever that looks like. Listen to this episode, a quickie, for a few ideas, then go out there, take a break and breathe! Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a recent interview for the Support is Sexy podcast (episode 109) with Jen Groover, a very successful serial entrepreneur and a mentor in my head, we spoke about this idea of not being limited by the limited beliefs of others who buy into this idea that you have to stay in one lane or have one job or be one thing when it comes to your business. Why can't you be, do, have more than one thing when it comes to what you want to create or experience in your business? Know what? You can! On this episode I talk about the beauty of "doing the most," tips on how you can figure out what the most looks like for you, and I include an excerpt from my conversation Jen about how she manages having multiple interests, passions, businesses and lanes. Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mistakes. If you're an entrepreneur, whether you admit it or not, you've seen plenty of them. Whether those mistakes were your "fault" or not, doesn't matter -- it's your responsibility. What matters most is that you know that at some point or another, mistakes happen, and you will encounter them at some point of your journey. And that you're clear that, no matter what, you get a second chance. As entrepreneurs -- especially solopreneurs -- it's easy for us to sometimes slip into beating ourselves up or even becoming stalled in creating when we encounter a mistake, big or small. If we're not clear that we deserve a second chance to get it right, we'll remain stuck in that self-pitying state, which is neither healthy or productive. On this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast I share a recent mistake I made that made me smack my forehead; but then made me show myself some much needed compassion. Listen to find out how you can approach those second chances, move forward, and allow yourself a bit of space and grace along your entrepreneurial journey. Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I made a mistake. In fact I made several! And in this episode I talk about how the mistakes we make -- or the imperfections we perceive we have -- don't make our projects or what we're putting out in to the world "wrong," they make them authentic!. What are you holding onto in hopes of it being perfect? What do you need to learn to let go of so you can get feedback that will help move you forward? Have a listen, and then let go! Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2017 is almost here -- let's not wait until the New Year to resolve to drop old baggage, to have the difficult conversations we may need to in order to move forward in our businesses or our lives. It's time to travel light! On this episode I share a recent personal experience where I had to have a difficult conversation and give you advice, based on my experience, about how you may do so with some tools that will help make them not so difficult, that will allow you to set healthy boundaries and to let go of anything (or anyone) that may be holding you back. Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I hate to use the word hate, but I hate push-ups. Love working out, can't stand push-ups. They are, indeed, my least favorite exercise, and I usually avoid doing them in any way possible. 10-mile runs? Yes! Push-ups? No thanks! Now that I've relocated from Brooklyn, New York, to Atlanta though, access to long runs has changed, and I've had to rework my routine a bit. In doing so, I added push-ups, of all things, to my routine. Why? Because I needed to challenge myself -- and what's more challenging than pushing yourself to do that thing that you don't like or that's uncomfortable or that you would put off forever if you could? That's when we need to PUSH, when we're avoiding things that will actually make us and our businesses stronger, like the push-ups -- that I'm getting better at doing now that I've committed to them! On this episode, I talk about the ways that pushing will make you stronger in your business and why you need to go there and face that resistance. You got this! Push! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Back in 1995, before entrepreneurship was cool, Pennsylvania native Jen Groover didn't know exactly what it was called, but she just knew that the thought of making someone else successful based on her hard work and efforts was a warped concept. And it was a box she refused to fit in. Nicknamed "Cyclone" when she was younger, Jen became committed to creating something of her own, and then something else, and then something else. Now, Jen is a successful serial entrepreneur, inventor of million dollar product, The Butler Bag, has partnered with brands like Verizon and Avon, has been featured on television and widely throughout the press, gives keynote speaking address around the country and is an advocate for women in business and startups. On this episode, Jen talks about getting past your limiting beliefs, getting clear on what really makes you happy, how to strengthen your emotional intelligence, why you shouldn't stay in one lane, and why you should fear regret more than failure. On this episode you'll learn: Why your circumstances do not determine your destiny.How limiting beliefs stop you from moving forward.Why modeling -- and asking questions -- is so important.How having "things" isn't what will fulfills you.Getting clear on what really makes me happy.Why intentional personal growth is crucial to being a successful entrepreneur.The power of strengthening your emotional intelligence.Why sugar DECREASES your emotional intelligence.The wisdom behind strategic partnerships and licensing. Why it's foolish to think that you have to "stay in your lane." Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The intrigue of entrepreneurship was always within Brandice Daniel when she was an adventurous child growing up in Memphis, and it was always around her thanks to her entrepreneurial parents. But when it was time to go to college, Brandice "played it safe" by selecting the major that her parents had in mind for her: pre-med. That is until she got real with herself and decided to take the first of many leaps that would punctuate her career for years to come: She was going to work in fashion. Many brave leaps and "cliff jumps" later, and Brandice is now the creator and CEO of one of the fashion industry's premier annual events -- Harlem's Fashion Row, which she began in 2007 to help shine the light on designers and boutique owners of color who were often left out of the mainstream spotlight. But the journey to down the runway to success was far from seamless and glamorous. On this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast, Brandice speaks candidly about lessons learned, how she survived the very deep valleys, how she renegotiated the "nos" along the way, and how she's now creating courses, expanding her brand and building a powerful community surrounded by great girlfriends and supporting fashion stars of the future. On this episode you will learn: How to know when you're "on the right floor."How to pay attention to the thing that you're dream to.Why proximity is power.A step back is different than a setback.How to make sure you stand out with your "ask."The importance of taking inspired action when that bright idea hits you.The importance of the "cliff jump."The biggest lesson she learned about sponsorships.Figuring out the times of day that you are most productive.Why you have to meet the universe halfway. Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For Annette Davison, CEO of Icon Food Marketing, the turning point when she realized that working for someone else who didn't appreciate her came in the late 1990s after she and her team were belittled by a popular fashion designer at a 7am meeting. In 2001, Annette finally parted ways amicably with the company and never looked back. She was an entrepreneur. But when she woke up that Monday morning, the reality hit her: She was going to have to make money on her own. She decided then that she would make it happen by any means necessary. On this episode of the Support as Sexy podcast, Annette -- who supports food companies from the Caribbean with breaking into the US market -- talks about how her cultural influences of being raised in Jamaica, West Indies, has influenced the entrepreneur she is today, how to refuse to accept "no" as the ultimate answer, and how you may have experiment with several difference businesses until you find your niche within a niche. On this episode, you'll learn: How to not take "no" for a final answer.Why you may have to experiment with different business ideas to discover your niche.The importance of discovering your niche.Why you have to do your research and find your point of differentiation.How to determine your ideal clients.The importance of "small bites" when it comes to distributing your product.Some of the big mistakes that food product makers make.Why you (and your clients) need to be clear on the brand "story."Why you have to hang in there because things come back around when you least expect it. Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com [Music:"Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This past weekend I spent time with family in Mississippi celebrating the 90th birthday of one of my cousins. And during the celebration, there was a memorable moment when she made her way to the dance floor and did her dance! At 90. She. Did. Her. Dance. As brief as it was, it was wonderful! The moment was so much fun and, for me, such a great reminder of the importance of -- in good times and bad, when business is going well or when it isn't -- to remember to do your dance, and, as I've mentioned before, to celebrate the small wins. On this episode I talk about the importance of remembering to do your dance and how it can help you get through those tough or stressful moments in business and in life. I even add a little music in here to get you started! :) Have a listen and have fun! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! [Music:"Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void and "Easy" by SPCZ] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Want to shift the energy during those moments when it feel like nothing is going your way? Here's the secret: Focus on what you're grateful for in that moment. Most of us know the healing power of gratitude, how being grateful for what you already have actually fertilizes the ground for more blessings, if you will. But I understand if there are days when a "parable" is the last thing you want to hear. All you want to know is how to fix it! Don't know if you're a believer, but I've heard many preachers talk about this notion that it's wonderful to praise God or whatever power you believe in and be grateful for the good times; but what does your prayer sound like in the hard times? What matters as much, if not more, is how much gratitude you can show in those WTF moments. If you're a regular listener to the podcast, you know I usually ask a key question of every single guest near the end of our interview: "If you think over your life and career, and you had the chance to thank only one person whose support was critical to you personally and professionally, who would that be and what would you say?" And usually, during that moment of reflection, most guests get choked up. We all forget to pause sometimes to say thank you and to reflect with intentional gratitude, especially with the people in our lives. So, your challenge for today is to call -- yes CALL -- at least one person to whom you are grateful for their love and support. Thank someone who has been there for you -- this might be a family member, spouse, a friend, a former colleague or someone you don't even know personally who has had a major influence. To give you some support and inspiration, I rounded up a few of the touching "thank yous" of some of our previous guests (listed below). And before you have a listen, I just want to say THANK YOU to all of you for listening and supporting the Support is Sexy podcast from all around the world. It truly means so much. Thank you! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void and "Candlepower" by Chris Zabriskie] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Believe or not, I can get business inspiration (or at least podcast episode inspiration) from nearly anywhere. And today's inspiration comes courtesy of the family dog. Pup (not pictured) shows no shame when going after something he wants, especially if that something is a treat -- he puts it all out there. What if we did the same when it came to our businesses and the things we want to create in this world. What if we stayed hungry? How much further along might you be in your business? Would you have a better chance of attracting the partners or resources you need to make some things happen? Would the satisfaction of at least knowing that you gave it your ALL continue to fuel you? Have a listen to 7 ways staying hungry may help move you forward in your business. It's a real treat! ;) Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Shortly after graduating college with a degree in broadcast journalism, Melinda Emerson landed her dream job as a television producer in Philadelphia -- and, she hated it. Mean people and countless hours pushed her to eventually make a move. And that move was to become an entrepreneur. Melinda studied as much as she could about business, going to events and joining organizations that would provide her with business insight, and then she used her experience to start a video production company called Quintessence Group with just a laptop, a fax machine and a dream in 1999. The company, and Melinda, became very successful -- topping many of the who's who in business lists -- then everything changed, again, and she made a change to figure out her next chapter. She hasn't looked back. On this episode, Melinda talks about how she became THE small biz lady, taking heed when "the voice" tells you where to go next, key ways to avoid small business failure and how to build a megabrand that reaches three million people weekly in spite of the curve balls in business and life. On this episode you'll learn: The biggest mistake she made in business.What happens when you fall out of love with the business you've created.Why writing a book -- a good book -- helps position you as an expert.What to do when life and business throw you a curve ball.How to market yourself and build your brand effectively on social media.The importance of repurposing content.Why quality content always rises to the top.Smart reasons to separate your brand from your name.Top 5 reasons small business fail.And why I'm pushing her to start her own podcast. :)Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When Erin Woodward was ten years old, she had what many may consider the experience of a lifetime: Her parents sent her away from her small town just north of Toronto to live with extended family in Bali. Since then, Erin has loved traveling the world and visited 53 countries, so when she fell in love and considered making the move to London, she didn't hesitate. But once there, she quickly realized she was missing something: Connections. Erin decided to use the Internet to bring other likeminded women together around something she was passionate about -- books -- and The Girly Book Club was born. Since then, it has grown to 46 chapters around the world in eight countries and with more than 30,000 members. On this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast, Erin talks about creating authentic connections, managing a global team and going virtual to grow your brand. On this episode you'll learn: How to know when it's time to take your business seriously.When it may be time to transition from moonlighting to full-time,How to manage a global brand.How to determine team leaders who can serve as the face of your brand.The importance of creating space for authentic connections.Scaling your brand by going virtual.Her top three recent reads.One of the biggest myths about entrepreneurshipTop tips for first steps when you're creating a group or event as part of your business.The importance of modeling. Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Karen Thomas has never fit in. Blame it on her third eye -- when everyone else sees blue or red, she sees purple. And while this ability may have irked her parents when she was growing up, it is what makes her an effective leader today, the ability to see what's not obvious others. Though Dr. Thomas has a graduate degree in special events and marketing, and held an enviable position that she loved as director of marketing at Essence magazine back in the 1990s, she saw something others did not: it was time to move on. And in 1996, at the behest of the pastor of her church, she founded the Marion P. Thomas Charter School in Newark, New Jersey, in spite of the fact that she had no education experience. But Dr. Thomas saw purple. "As women...we're just limitless," she says. "I feel like, if it's something you feel in your spirit that you feel compelled to do, you feel like no one can stop you." Today, the school has grown from 60 students to 1500, and from four classrooms to four campuses. On this episode, Dr. Thomas tells how to recognize when your next chapter makes itself known, how to keep moving when everyone else thinks your crazy, and what to do and where to turn in those moments when leadership gets lonely. On this episode you'll learn: The biggest challenge for running a charter school.Becoming a specialist in your category.3 things to know when starting a school.Why you have to think about your school as a business.How charter schools generate revenue.How to build a strong and balanced team.Why what got you here may not get you there.The importance of continuing to take courses to become a better leader.How to find people who can support you during those moments when leadership gets lonely.Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Tell me what you need." I have said it before and I will say it again, these are five of the sexiest words in the English language. There are many, but these rank high on my list. The person making this request of you, to tell them what you need, is creating space for you to fill it with your desire, your needs in the moment, the things that you think will help you to move forward. So, if someone were to make this request of you, as it relates to your business, would you be able to fill that space? Would you have answers? Would you be able to list AT LEAST three things that would move you forward in that moment? This is what I faced this past week during two interviews with two powerful and incredibly important women entrepreneurs: Karen Cah, CEO of ifundwomen.com, and Dr. Karen Thomas, CEO of the Marion P. Thomas Charter School in Newark, New Jersey. And in this episode (episode 100!), I talk about what happened when I was asked what I needed, and how it has shifted my thinking around just how unready I am to receive support. But that changes -- for you and for me -- starting today. It's time to GET ready to tell the world what you need. Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Miral Sattar has always been an entrepreneur, launching various businesses since high school -- from creating a successful blog for South Asian women to having a t-shirt line with fun slogans for South Asian women to launching her own iPhone case business (one of the businesses she wishes she held onto). "The hustle has always been in me," the Queens, New York, native says. This passion was passed along to her from her dad, an immigrant from Pakistan who was a very successful entrepreneur and who actually questioned why Miral wanted to work from someone else after she received a degree in engineering from Columbia University. Eventually, while working for Time she became intrigued by book publishing industry while working on her thesis for her masters degree, and created a tool that would evolve into her first business as an entrepreneur, Bibliocrunch. Bibliocrunch is a platform that connects self-publishing authors with professionals they need to produce their book. Today the platform has more than 17,000 authors and more than 1200 professionals. More recently, Miral has also launched an education platform, learnselfpublishingfast.com. On this episode, Miral talks to Support is Sexy podcast about what you need to know before you self publish, why 40% of Amazon's bestseller list is made up of self-published authors, how to learn what you need to know fast and why books have become the new business card. On this episode you'll learn: Important lessons Miral learned from her dad about entrepreneurship.What she makes sure she does before every launch.How self publishing has evolved in the past five years.Why some authors choose self publishing over traditional.Myths about self publishing.First three steps to take to self publish your book.The sweet spot as far as pricing for your self published book.The biggest mistakes self publishers make.Why that five-star review really matters and the best ways to get them. BONUS OFFER Tweet @bibliocrunch and tell them you heard about them on the #SupportisSexy for a discount code for courses on Learnselfpublishingfast.com! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Karen Cahn, a native of Canton, Massachusetts, has always believed in women building their own thing, living on their own terms and having their own money no matter what -- even when working for another company. Karen, who has worked ever since she was 13, took a job very early in her career at Google and spent 10 years at the Internet giant, working with YouTube, leading strategy in video and becoming an intrapreneur by launching a business within the business -- the Branded Entertainment Group -- which let her know that, yep, she could be a badass entrepreneur. Today, Karen has launched two businesses, is financially secure and is clearer than ever that money buys freedom, and now she is creating spaces (and businesses) where other women can realize that freedom as well. Through her latest venture, ifundwomen.com, which is the first crowdfunding platform exclusively for women, Karen offers women entrepreneurs and creatives a way to not only get their businesses financed, but to get vital support -- directly from Karen and her team -- in other important ways that will help them move forward, such as video production and accountability. On this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast, Karen talks to us about why women still lag significantly behind when it comes to funding (despite the fact that we are launching more businesses than ever), how to get of our own way, and her unwavering mission to support the female economy. On this episode, you'll learn... Myths about crowdfunding.5 questions you need to ask yourself for your project.Why crowdfunding is a great way to test your project and see if there's a business there.Why it's all about FFFs.What the confidence gap for women is and how Karen is working to close it.Why men don't have the confidence gap.How to know when someone is NOT going to invest in your business or project.Why we need to stop apologizing and people pleasing.Being aware of how you process feedback.How you do yourself a disservice if you don't share your idea with other people out of fear of stealing it.How the recent US election has refueled her passion. Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tracy Matthews considers herself a "natural hustler," comes from a long line of entrepreneurs and feels like entrepreneurship has always been in her blood. In fact, the idea of working for someone else kinda makes her cringe. But creating something? She can't get enough! In 1998 -- while still in her twenties -- Tracy created a top jewelry line, Tracy Matthews Designs, that became a beloved brand among celebs, was featured in several media outlets and was generating nearly $1 million in revenue. Her business was shining brightly -- until a drastic change in the 2008 economy nearly shattered everything. On this episode, Tracy talks about how she built her internationally successful jewelry line, mistakes she made along the way, what she learned about her business and herself during the tough times and why she's passionate about supporting other jewelry designers by creating something she didn't have access to when she was a young designer: shared information. On this episode you'll learn: How Tracy built an international jewelry design company (and why she walked away).The importance of structuring your day properly.How to focus on revenue generating activities.The importance of building on your momentum.Why you can't you jump directly from A and Z and succeed.What Tracy learned about growing fast without being ready.Why having a consultant -- and a support system -- can save your business and get you through the tough times.Questions to ask yourself when it's time to move on and when your business no longer serves you.Getting over the ego's definition of success.Learning to think strategically and install systems. The value of getting buy-in BEFORE you create a new product.Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From the time she was a young girl, Jovian Zayne witnessed her parents -- especially her mom -- setting up shop, creating her own consulting business and claiming her own space. As a result, "young Jovi" was the kind of child that dressed as a businesswoman for Halloween, used to sit at her mom's desk and pretend to handle business and was a natural negotiator on the school playground. Today, after leaving her full-time corporate life as a managing director of Teach for America, Jovian now helps her clients navigate the journey of finding their own unique contribution in their businesses and in their lives through her firm, On Purpose Movement. On this episode, Jovian talks about creating your movement, getting clear on your gifts, being uncomfortable and living not by accident, but decidedly on purpose. On this episode you'll learn: Why you gotta get comfortable being uncomfortable.How to position your business for success.How to determine when we're NOT living on purpose.Important resources to help you get clear on your WHY.How to make a shift to help you live on purpose.The value of accountability.Why the things that are bigger than us are the things that last.Building an effective team that helps you execute your big ideas.The importance of amplifying the greatness of others.Why it's more important than ever for us to get clear on our own unique gifts and how we can offer those to the world.Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Wow! What a week! In the United States, we had an election that was -- to say the least -- shocking to people within the country and all around the world. And I believe that's true on all sides, no matter who received your vote. But this episode is not about the election. It's about YOU, and making sure, whether it's feelings about the election or everyday life, that you're okay. A lot of people or spaces, well-intentioned or not, often -- in my opinion -- push you to "just get over it" whenever you're going through something or you're, as they say "in your feelings." Know what? It's okay to be in your feelings, to own what you feel, allow it, and then, in your own way, figure out a way to move on, to drive out that darkness. And on this episode, I offer seven ways that you can take care of yourself -- based on my own experience -- and how you can bring the light back into your life. Have a listen, and, when you're ready, feel better! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Like it or not, we live in a world where -- if you own your own business -- you, more than likely, need to have some sort of presence on social media in order to (as they say) establish your digital footprint. But with new platforms and unspoken rules of engagement popping up what feels like every other day, it can be difficult, and at time overwhelming, to not only know where you need to be but how you need to show up. Cathy E.Smith, owner of C2 Internet Marketing firm, helps her clients get in the right place with the right platform using the right tools and resources to make sure they maximize their opportunities to raise awareness for their brands. As the daughter of two longtime entrepreneurs, Cathy always had the desire to follow in their footsteps, but worked instead at least two jobs all while growing up. Now, although she still has a full-time gig with major benefits, Cathy is making moves and planning her exit strategy, and on this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast she speaks about why -- when it comes to business -- everybody can't come. On this episode you'll learn: Ways you can consider the both-and rather than the either-or when it comes to jobs and entrepreneurship.The trouble with "leaps of faith."Why you need an exit strategy before you quit your job.How to think of your job as an investor in your business.Realizing that you need to shift the focus of your business.How to know if you're using social media right.Top 3 strategies for maximizing your brand awareness online.How to pick the best social media platform and how to make it easy for people to find you.The value of having a digital footprint and why you should protect it.Why some of the folks who started with you may not continue with you. Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Evita Robinson launched Nomadness Travel Tribe on Facebook when she was on unemployment and looking for a way to connect with other world travelers who were having some of the same challenges that she was at that time in her life -- wanting a space to share their experiences and longing to travel to even more far-reaching places. The New York native had no idea that this small group that began with about 100 people would grow to the community it is today, five years later, with 15,000+ people and nearly 30 international trips under its belt. Much like many of her extravagant trips organized for her tribe, Evita's entrepreneurial journey has been sometimes complicated. She's clear, in fact, that entrepreneurship can make you feel kinda crazy (I relate!) and she is candid about the important role therapy played not only in her business but throughout her life. On this episode, Evita opens up about how she built her mega brand, how she got over being a people pleaser, why she chooses to use her platform to discuss mental health, and the importance of having her brand's evolution reflect her personal journey. On this episode you'll learn: Why you have to be a little delusional to be an entrepreneur.Getting comfortable making business decision that piss people off.Shutting out the white noise and making self care a sacred priority.How to maintain your sanity as an entrepreneur.The importance of lifting the taboo of discussing mental health.Why writing in a journal is the cheapest form of therapy for her.Why she shuts down the idea that she's fearless.The dangers of scaring yourself into analysis paralysis. Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Since she was a young girl in Washington, D.C. -- towering over other kids in her class thanks to her statuesque physique -- Quiana Murray has embraced her bossiness with pride. While many girls may be dissuaded from taking the bossy route, Quiana says her mother made sure to cultivate her leadership qualities. That propensity to lead carried over into college, where Quiana realized she was someone who naturally knew how to galvanize support for events and projects she led for the school. And later, as an entrepreneur, her business evolved as she tapped into that expertise and began focusing on helping small businesses and nonprofits procure sponsorships and giving them the ability to hone in on their own zone of genius. Now, as a business transformation coach, Quiana wants to help you take your business from "breaking even to bankrolled!" On this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast, Quiana discusses the journey to discover your own expertise, how to shift your mindset around sponsorships and partnerships and how to know when you're ready to make that first call. On this episode you'll learn: What the ability to say "no" teaches you about yourself.How to become sponsorship-ready.Shifting your mindset around sponsorship and partnership.Why you should rethink corporate opportunities.The biggest challenge businesses face when seeking sponsorship.The questions you need to ask yourself to know if you're sponsorship-ready.Which sponsors you should reach out to.The important difference between affiliates and sponsorships.Top 3 tips for getting sponsors.How to get to know your "tribe."Why you need to get started TODAY.Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Jen Riday grew up on a farm in Iowa, where family, a strong work ethic and dedication were instilled in her from the beginning. When Jen became a mother of her own children -- six in total -- she dedicated herself to raising them as a full-time mom and held off on putting her Ph.D. in human development and family studies to use, at least professionally. Until she realized being a stay at home mom wasn't enough for her, and she was brave enough to admit that to herself after hitting rock bottom. Jen set out to find out what made her happy and eventually decided it was time to make a change -- a drastic change -- to have that happiness be a part of her life, and her new business as a life coach and happiness expert, each day. On this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast, Jen talks about the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, managing expectations and living a vibrant, happy life no matter what. On this episode you'll learn: How to get over the "shoulds"How to move beyond social expectations.The importance of putting your oxygen mask on first.How to figure out what makes you happy and choose that for yourself each day.The power of meditation.Why it's important for moms to set boundaries, especially with those you love.How to let go of control and let others you love step up Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"This is the number one rule for your set, in order to survive, gotta learn to live with regrets..."--Jay Z, "Regrets." Funny how an evening conversation with my dad reminded me of this Jay Z lyric from the song "Regrets" from the 1996 Reasonable Doubt album (one of my favorites). Regrets, I believe, are a part of life, certainly a part of business, but -- if not kept in check -- they can hold us hostage, stuck in time and unable to move forward. In this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast, I talk about six ways to live with regrets, how it's important for you to acknowledge them, how you manage them and how you can use them to your advantage in business and life. Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The last thing you want to do is be a Jane of all trades and a master of none. When you're thinking about how to differentiate your business and tap into your zone of genius, ask yourself the question: What's my specialty? This is a topic that has come up with several of the women I've interviewed who discussed how they -- in their own ways -- tapped into what their specialty is, how they package it for their audience and how it allows them to differentiate themselves in different spaces. On this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast, I offer a 7 of the top tips I learned from these women entrepreneurs about the benefits of uncovering your specialty and tapping into your zone of genius. Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com. [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

All day, every day, you make decisions. Still, when you feel like one is weighing on you or that it's a decision that could change everything, there could be some stress, and -- ironically -- some indecision. I get it. I'm in a phase where I am being very conscious of the decisions I make, and being aware of whether I am making certain decisions out of fear, or if I'm stalling on others just because I am overwhelmed how "big" they seem. On this episode, I share part one of a three-part audio training I created called "How to Make Brave Decisions" -- a training that I have listened to again and again as a reminder to myself to make moves, and one that I hope will inspire you! Have a listen, and then be sure to visit ElayneFluker.com and click the "Free Resources" button at the top to sign up for the "How to Make Brave Decisions" audio training if you haven't already! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void and "Separation" by Ketsa] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's time for you to hit the refresh button, to boldly go outside of your comfort zone and to embrace your new beginning. On this episode, I talk about the journey to this phase of life and business, and how getting comfortable at being uncomfortable in this space is one of the best opportunities for you to grow. The adventure awaits. Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com Subscribe to Support is Sexy podcast on iTunes or on Stitcher Radio! Thank you for listening! And hey, if you love it, please click here to leave us a Rating & Review on iTunes! [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Out of the mouths of babes: "Life doesn't frighten me at all." That's how this message, these powerful words from the great poet Dr. Maya Angelou, reentered my consciousness -- it was thanks to the recent learnings of my two little boos (the young sons of my best friend) who recited the line, "Life doesn't frighten me at all..." as their parents drove me to the airport for my move from New York to Atlanta. I adore them so just about anything they do delights me, but this moment was particularly inspiring. One, because of the power of the phrase coming from these little souls, two, because of the story behind the poem, which Dr. Angelou said she wrote "for all children who whistle in the dark and refuse to admit that they're frightened out of their wits." How many times have you found yourself having to, as an adult, whistle through that darkness in your life. As a woman, as an entrepreneur, as a leader, a creative, a mom, a person just being -- there are going to be moments when you are "frightened out of your wits" and that you will need to decide to be brave, to whistle. On this episode of the Support is Sexy podcast, I talk about moments where we might face that darkness and how to whistle through it. You'll also get to hear a recording of Dr. Angelou reading her poem, which appears in the children's book, Life Doesn't Frighten Me, where her verses are paired with the embracing images of artist Jean Michel Basquiat. Have a listen, and keep whistling! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The only thing that is constant is change, right? And with change, whether we planned it or not, comes a period of transition. Are you going through a major transition in your business, your career, your life? If so, you know it can sometimes be overwhelming. But it doesn't have to be -- at least not all the time. Here are six must-haves to keep in mind whenever you go through a transition, planned or not. Have a listen, and let me know what you think -- I'd love to hear from you! You can reach me at [email protected]. Show notes, resources, contacts and links for this episode may be found at supportissexypodcast.com. [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Things happen, things throw you off course, things (and life) give you a great excuse to NOT do that thing that you've committed to doing. But you know what? You can't let that stop you. You gotta keep going! Here, I share a few reasons that you have to keep it moving, how it pays off in your business and your life, and the value of being consistent. Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Everybody can't come. This is something we all have to realize eventually -- especially if you're up to something, creating something, trying something new and making moves. Everybody ain't gonna get it, so everybody can't come along for the ride. And you know what? We shouldn't expect them to. On this episode, I talk about the big move I have coming up and how I realized that everybody can't come along. We also discuss other ways that we can get support when the people we thought would show up and be there just...don't, and my suggestions for how you might structure your friend circle. As they say, there are levels to this! Show notes, links, contacts and resources for this episode may be found at http://supportissexypodcast.com [Music: "Someone Else's Memories" by Revolution Void] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices