Women entrepreneur turning failure into success and growth. Today, I want to talk about something that we all encounter on our journey to success, failure. Yup, you heard me right. Failure. It’s not exactly everyone’s favorite topic, right? But trust me, it’s an essential part of the entrepreneurial rollercoaster ride. Now, I know what you’re thinking. Failure? Isn’t that something we’re supposed to avoid at all costs? Well, not exactly. In fact, failure can be one of the most powerful tools in your arsenal if you know how to wield

Unlock Business Growth with Free Grants to Propel Your Dream Forward! What’s better than free tacos?  How about free money for your business!?! That’s right—there are some fantastic grant opportunities available right now for small businesses in South Florida and beyond. It’s like a little extra boost to help your business sparkle even more.   Here’s the lowdown on some incredible grants you might qualify for. Need help with the application process or have questions? Just give me a shout! And seriously—don’t feel like you have to tackle all the grunt

Unlock Your Veteran Advantage With These 9 Marketing Tips for Business Success Running a business is no walk in the park, but the potential rewards are totally worth the hustle. And for those who’ve rocked the military life, jumping into entrepreneurship just feels like the next logical step. The discipline, leadership chops, and sheer determination picked up in the armed forces? They’re like gold when it comes to laying down the groundwork for a kickass business. Just like any business owner, our veteran entrepreneurs need to get the hang of

Shine Bright at Work by Embracing How Positivity Transforms Your Success Hey there, lovely readers! Let’s dive into the magic that comes with embracing positivity in your work life. Today, we’ll explore how meeting new clients with a smile, bringing positive vibes to your workspace, and cultivating genuine happiness can completely transform your professional journey. So, get ready to unleash your inner sunshine and see how far a positive attitude can take you!Meeting New Clients with a Smile that Seals the Deal First impressions are everything, and when it comes

Keep a close eye on cash flow by invoicing promptly, offering discounts for early payments, and negotiating favorable payment terms with suppliers. Welcome back to May Money Management Month, where we’re unlocking the secrets to small business success one tip at a time. Today’s golden nugget of wisdom?  Manage Cash Flow Keep a close eye on cash flow by invoicing promptly, offering discounts for early payments, and negotiating favorable payment terms with suppliers. Now, this may seem like a no-brainer but, you’d be surprised how many small businesses I’ve seen that

Analyze financial statements regularly to identify trends, strengths, and areas for improvement.       Welcome back to May Money Management Month, where we’re unlocking the secrets to small business success one tip at a time. Today’s golden nugget of wisdom? Regularly Review Financial Statements Analyze financial statements regularly to identify trends, strengths,  and areas for improvement. As a small business owner, it’s crucial to stay on top of your financial health. Regularly reviewing your financial statements can provide you with valuable insights into your business’s performance and guide you towards making

Anticipate future expenses associated with business growth and allocate resources accordingly.     Welcome back to May Money Management Month, where we’re unlocking the secrets to small business success one tip at a time. Today’s golden nugget of wisdom?  Plan for Growth Anticipate future expenses associated with business  growth and allocate resources accordingly.  As a small business owner, planning for growth is essential to ensure that your business can scale smoothly and sustainably. By anticipating future expenses and allocating resources wisely, you can avoid financial pitfalls and position your business for

Stay informed about economic and financial trends that may impact your business, such as changes in interest rates or inflation. Welcome back to May Money Management Month, where we’re unlocking the secrets to small business success one tip at a time. Today’s golden nugget of wisdom?  Stay Updated on Financial Trends.  Stay informed about economic and financial trends that may impact your business, such as changes in interest rates or inflation. Staying updated on financial trends is crucial for small business owners. Understanding the broader economic landscape can help you make informed

Compare your financial performance against industry benchmarks to identify opportunities for improvement. Welcome back to May Money Management Month, where we’re unlocking the secrets to small business success one tip at a time. Today’s golden nugget of wisdom? Benchmark Against Competitors. Let’s dive into why this is crucial for your business growth. Benchmark Against Competitors Running a small business can often feel like navigating uncharted waters. But here’s the secret: you don’t have to go it alone. One of the most effective ways to ensure your business is on the

UNLOCKING POTENTIAL AND FIGHTING SOCIAL INJUSTICE THROUGH SUPPLIER DIVERSITY Why Corporations Need a Supplier-Diversity Program Supplier diversity programs are a vital strategy to combat social injustice in the United States. This article dives into the socioeconomic contributions these programs can make and the myriad ways they can benefit businesses. I’ll also spotlight model programs from large companies who have embraced supplier-diversity programs, leading the way for the expansion of diversity programs within thousands of corporations. A handful of socially conscious major companies have long led the charge in addressing racial

  COST REDUCTION STRATEGIES FOR SAVVY SMALL-BUSINESS OWNERS I’m writing this article, sitting at my desk, with two broken wrists, drinking coffee from a bendy-straw. I had a small accident last week that left me with casts on both wrists (and they’re not even matching casts), making typing and texting a challenge. Simple tasks like turning a doorknob or twisting open a water bottle cap are near impossible. Even brushing my teeth or taking a shower has become a Herculean task. But on the plus side, I’ve had friends and family

YOUR STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO FINDING A LENDER AND STARTING THE PROCESS Hey there! 🌟 Ready to boost your small business with a guaranteed SBA loan? I’m thrilled to guide you through this process. Whether you’re looking to expand, buy new equipment, or manage cash flow, this guide will help you secure the funding you need with ease. Let’s dive in! Step 1 | Understand SBA Loan Basics Before jumping in, get familiar with SBA loans. These loans are backed by the Small Business Administration (SBA) and are designed to help

Hey there, fellow go-getters! I totally get it – the struggle to stay productive amidst the chaos of our daily lives can feel like an uphill battle. Whether you’re juggling meetings, deadlines, or the occasional curveball life throws your way, maintaining productivity can seem daunting, right? But fear not! I’m here to share three easy everyday habits that can help you achieve better productivity at work. I promise you, these habits are simple to implement and can make a world of difference in your daily routine. Let’s dive in and

FUEL YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY WITH THESE MUST-READ LITERARY GEMS “Reading is essential for those who seek to rise about the ordinary.”  ~ Jim Rohn “If you don’t like to read, you haven’t found the right book.”  ~ J.K. Rowling As entrepreneurs, we’re constantly seeking ways to grow our business, enhance our skills, and stay inspired. And, you know, one of the best methods I’ve found to achieve this is through reading great books. Today, I’m excited to share my top 15 must-read books for entrepreneurs. These books have made a

Learn how to apply Lean Six Sigma techniques to streamline time management and boost productivity. Let’s be real for a moment—when you’re running a small business, your time is your most valuable resource. But somehow, there’s never enough of it, right?  Every minute counts, and it often feels like you’re trying to juggle a thousand things at once => managing operations, handling clients, leading your team, and squeezing in strategic planning. The overwhelm is real, I get it. But here’s the thing, you don’t have to do it all yourself. In fact,

Simplify key financial metrics and why they matter for long-term success. Alright, let’s talk business numbers. And before you roll your eyes and think, “not another finance lecture,” hear me out. Financial metrics aren’t just about math – they’re about making sense of your business’s health. Imagine your financial metrics as a doctor’s report – they tell you what’s working and what needs a little TLC. So, here’s a straightforward rundown of five essential metrics every small business owner should track and why these numbers matter in the long run.

       Here’s the thing about confidence – we all want it, but most of us feel like confidence is really a mysterious creature lurking in the wild—you’ve heard of it, but you’ve never actually seen it in your own mirror. The good news? Confidence isn’t some magical trait bestowed on a lucky few; it’s a skill you can build, like assembling IKEA furniture (but way less frustrating).         If fear has ever held you back (and believe me, I’ve been there), it’s time to push

How My Elevator Pitch went from Pitch-Panic to Pitch-Perfect         When I worked as a Senior Project Manager for a global consulting firm, leading teams of management and tax consultants for small to medium-sized businesses, I was bouncing between two to three cities every week. Being the extrovert that I am, striking up conversations with random strangers was my superpower. You’d think I would’ve had my elevator pitch nailed-down, right? Well, not quite. Anytime someone asked, “So, what do you do?” I’d dive into a rambling mess

From Financial Plans to Dance Floor Jams!         Sometimes life throws you a curveball, but instead of dodging, you catch it and turn it into a disco ball. That’s exactly how I felt today after a chance phone call with Jackie “Danza”—a DJ, financial wizard, and overall powerhouse of a woman.        Here’s how it went down => I’ve been coordinating a 130+ guest Awards Gala/Masquerade Ball (purely as a friendly gesture, mind you—I am not, now, or have ever worked as an event planner).

Building Relationships Beyond the Sale – Lessons from Breakfast at Cracker Barrel         This morning, over hashbrown casserole and coffee at Cracker Barrel, I found myself in a lively conversation with two fellow members of my Business Networking Chapter, BNI Wealth Builders. Joining me were Adam Zipper, an esteemed Real Estate/Title Attorney with over 40 years of experience (and enough stories to fill a novel), and Stephen Benson, a rising star in real estate with four years under his belt and a fresh take on the industry.

Embrace Your Authenticity and Build a Business That Feels Like Home         In a world constantly telling us who we should be, it is easy to forget the power of just being ourselves. As women business owners, the pressure to fit into a certain mold, to do things a certain way, or to match someone else’s version of success can be overwhelming. But here’s the truth – your greatest asset in business and life is your authenticity. Your unique perspective, your story, and your voice are exactly

The Power of Positive Thinking     You’re in the thick of it. Your to-do list feels like it’s on steroids, your inbox is overflowing, and every time you think you’ve caught up, another task lands in your lap. Sound familiar? Trust me, I get it.        As small-business owners, we are conditioned to believe that the only way forward is through relentless action. If we’re not working, planning, or strategizing, we start to panic. We tell ourselves, I could be doing more. Maybe I should send another email

Embracing 2025 with Grace and Purpose        As the clock strikes midnight and we step into a brand-new year, social media will likely flood with highlight reels of accomplishments. We’ll see posts about promotions, revenue milestones, and personal achievements. But before you let comparison steal your joy, let me remind you of something important. It is okay if the biggest thing you accomplished in 2024 was simply getting through it.         Sometimes, survival is success. Some years are about planting seeds, weathering storms, and just keeping

Build Your Brand and Your Success       When it comes to business, there’s no getting around it. You are the face, the heart, and the soul of what you do. No matter your industry or niche, one thing remains true. People don’t just buy products or services. They buy trust. They buy stories. They buy you.       This is why marketing yourself, branding yourself, promoting yourself, and investing in yourself are not optional if you want to thrive. These aren’t just buzzwords. They’re the foundation of growing a

Embracing National Hobby Month One Taco Truck at a Time       January is National Hobby Month and as someone who is all about balancing ambition with joy, I couldn’t let this celebration pass without sharing my favorite hobby with you. Let’s talk about two things that truly light me up when I’m not coaching, strategizing, or diving into business plans. If you know me, you know that traveling and hunting down the best tacos are my happy place.         Hobbies are about more than just

Turning Goals & Resolutions Into Reality    The start of a new year is brimming with hope, excitement, and an endless stream of resolutions. We promise ourselves that this year will be different. We’ll finally launch that new project, grow our business, prioritize self-care, or spend more quality time with family. But as January progresses, how many of us start losing steam?       Here’s the truth: no matter what you do in life, your level of discipline will determine your level of success. And if you’ve set big goals for

Unlocking the secrets to cutting waste and increasing profits with Lean Six Sigma strategies tailored for small-business owners   I’ve always said running a small business is like solving a jigsaw puzzle—every piece has a role, and the big picture only comes together with patience and persistence. Each piece represents a vital part of your business—profits, operations, time management, and yes, even your sanity. When a piece is missing or misplaced, the entire picture feels incomplete. Enter Lean Six Sigma – it’s like finding that perfect corner piece that ties everything together.

Boost Your Bottom Line with Proven Techniques That Attract Loyal Customers and Close More Deals   Running a small business is no walk in the park. You’ve got to juggle customer demands, marketing, operations, and oh yah – actually making money! The good news is that selling doesn’t have to feel like pulling teeth or a marathon of endless pitches. With the right strategies, you can transform your sales game and boost your revenue without losing your sanity.       Let’s dive into ten proven sales strategies that are

How MLK’s Vision Empowered Women in Business to Dream Bigger      Today, we honor a visionary whose dream transcended barriers and reshaped the world – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His legacy is one of hope, resilience, and unity, reminding us of the power of standing for what is right and just.         While his leadership during the Civil Rights Movement is celebrated globally, Dr. King’s impact on women in business deserves a spotlight of its own. His work laid the groundwork for equal opportunity, inspiring

Run Your Business Like a Pro with Systems and Processes Running a business without systems and processes is honestly like trying to bake a cake without a recipe – and, just so you know, I am likely one of the worst bakers on this planet! So you can imagine, baking a cake without a recipe or measurement tools, for anyone, you might end up with something edible, but chances are it’s not going to be a masterpiece. If you’re tired of the chaos and ready to transform your business into

Turning Aspirations into Reality Earlier last week, I wrote a blog titled, The Ripple Effect of Martin Luther King’s Dream – How MLK’s Vision Empowered Women in Business to Dream Bigger. It was a reflection on how Dr. King’s legacy paved the way for equality and opportunity, inspiring women entrepreneurs to dream boldly and build businesses that matter. If you haven’t read it yet, you can check it out here. Today, we’re shifting gears to focus on your dreams—and how to bring them to life. Building a Business That Fuels Your Dreams    

How to Scale Your Business While Keeping It Human    When you hear the word automation, do you picture a cold, impersonal robot taking over your business? If so, you’re not alone. Many business owners worry that automating their processes will make their brand feel robotic. But here’s the truth – automation and personalization can coexist beautifully, and together, they can take your business to the next level.       Last week, I shared insights about running your business with systems and processes in my blog The Secret to Working Smarter, Not Harder. If you

The Hardest Skill You Need to Master to Hit Seven Figures Let’s be real. Growing a seven-figure business sounds like a dream until you’re knee-deep in the daily grind, drowning in invoices, marketing strategies, and wondering if it’s all worth it. Maybe you’ve heard the phrase “work smarter, not harder” and rolled your eyes because, let’s face it, it sounds like something only billionaires with private chefs can say with a straight face.         But here’s the truth. The secret to hitting seven figures isn’t about working

Harnessing the Power of AI to Elevate Connection and Productivity      Running a business as a woman often means balancing a hundred moving parts at once. Now, imagine having a partner to simplify that chaos. Artificial intelligence isn’t just for tech giants or science fiction – it’s here, it’s accessible, and it’s ready to help women business owners strengthen connections, boost productivity, and increase profits. If you haven’t already, check out my January 27, 2025, blog, Automate Without Losing Your Personal Touch – How to Scale Your Business While Keeping

Stop Guessing and Start Growing Your Dream Business  Let me tell you a little secret about some of the most recent clients I’ve worked with this year. Every single one of them—yes, every single one—came to me without a business plan. Not even a scribbled napkin outline. They’re running their businesses by the seats of their pants, juggling a thousand tasks, and hoping for the best. Sound familiar? If so, you’re not alone, but let’s talk about why that might be a recipe for stress and stagnation.      

Because Your Business Should Light You Up, Not Burn You Out Happy Valentine’s Day! Whether you are celebrating love with a partner, your best friends, or a pint of ice cream, today is also the perfect time to rekindle the fire with another important relationship—your business!      Remember when you first started? You were excited, motivated, and ready to take on the world. But somewhere along the way, the passion fizzled out. The long hours, endless to-do lists, and stress replaced that honeymoon-phase excitement. If your business has started

Simple Fixes to Stop Losing Money and Start Maximizing Profits If you’re like most American entrepreneurs, you’re making sales, clients are coming in, and your business looks like it’s thriving but, when you check your bank account, something isn’t adding up. Where is all the money going? Why isn’t your business more profitable? And most importantly… how do you fix it?       The truth is, most businesses don’t lose money in one big, obvious way. It’s the slow, sneaky leaks—wasted expenses, underpricing, and inefficiencies—that drain your profits without you

Hackers Got Into My Email, Bank, and Credit Card—Here’s What I Missed “I Thought I Was Just Checking My Email… Turns Out, I Opened the Door for Hackers.” One click. That’s all it took. One distracted moment—between answering emails and running my business—was all a hacker needed to steal my email, compromise my domain, and rack up a $3,000 charge on my credit card. Here’s how it happened, and more importantly—how you can avoid it. How I Got Hacked (And How You Can Avoid It) Yesterday, I was fully locked into Day

Stop Letting Old Baggage Run Your Business This past Saturday, I had to practically shove my husband out the door and, that’s when it hit me. This is exactly what too many entrepreneurs do with their businesses. My husband, Brett, had just come home at 4:30pm from a 5-day instructor trip (he’s a 787 Instructor Pilot for American Airlines, which sounds fancy, but basically means he’s been stuck in a flight simulator for almost a week straight). Normally after a trip like that, Brett comes home, unpacks & repacks his suitcase, and

Have you ever had that gut feeling that something was off – like you just knew something wasn’t right? You pull up somewhere familiar – somewhere you go all the time – and yet, something feels… off. Your gut tightens. Your instincts go on high alert. You don’t have proof that anything’s wrong, but you sure as hell aren’t about to ignore that feeling. That was me the other morning at the dog park. And let me tell you – my instincts? Dead on. The Routine That Got Disrupted Adelaide

Every year on St. Patrick’s Day, Chicago pulls off one of the boldest marketing moves of all time. They don’t just slap a few shamrocks on storefronts and call it a day. No. They shut down streets, they throw massive parades, and they dye an entire river green. And guess what? It works.  People show up in droves. They take photos. They talk about it for weeks. Because when you go that big, that bold, and that unapologetically loud, you become impossible to ignore. Now, let me ask you this

Why First Impressions Could Be Costing You Clients — And Cash Yesterday, I had a conversation with my professional coach, Alan Samuel Cohen, founder of ASC Coaching and Speaking, and let me tell you, this chat was one for the books. Alan and I were talking about bias and judgment — you know, those snap decisions people make about you before you even say hello.          This all started because I was sharing something that happened while I was pulling stock photos online to market my LGBTQ+ Business