Podcast appearances and mentions of cheryl watkins moore

Dr. Cheryl Watkins-Moore is the Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Accelerated Rehabilitation Technologies, LLC a technology development company focused in the rehabilitation market. Dr. Moore also currently serves as the Director, Bioscience Entrepreneurial Inclusion for BioSTL. In this role, Cheryl is responsible for creating processes and programming that will increase the mission impact of BioSTL and the regional bioscience ecosystem by improving the performance and contribution of underrepresented populations in the regional bioscience sector. Twice monthly WISER Conversations features Women leading the way in Science, Entrepreneurship, and Research. Dena Ladd, Executive Director of the Missouri Cures Education Foundation interviews inspirational women from Missouri, the Midwest, and around the world. Find out more about Missouri Cures at: https://missouricures.org Learn more about Dr. Watkins-Moore: https://dapinclusive.org/dr-cheryl-watkins-moore-mba/ Check out the Entrepreneurially Thinking Podcast: https://entrepreneuriallythinking.com

Joining us today are Charlene and Darren Young, Co-Owners of The Fattened Caf, a catering and pop-up restaurant business. What started out as a hobby for these two, has now blossomed into a budding side hustle. Charlene attributes her Filipino heritage and family recipes for the concept of The Fattened Caf, but it is their love of cooking that has made their business an overnight sensation. In this episode: Dr. Cheryl Watkins-Moore updates us on the ups and downs of Real Cannabis Company and says they have lots of balls in the air right now and are looking forward to them landing in all the right places in the future. Also in this episode: Charlene and Darren discuss how they both ended up in St. Louis after having grown up and living in Los Angeles. Entrepreneurship runs in both families and Charlene feels that her interest in Urban Planning comes from her Grandparents. Charlene says that entrepreneurially thinking to her means understanding and believing you are a part of a community. Darren, a self-proclaimed 'foodie', talks about how the concept Fattened Caf came to be. He says baby steps ensued first by experimentation, then by hosting parties with friends, which quickly turned into friends asking them to cater their parties; born was The Fattened Caf. Darren says that entrepreneurially thinking to him means building a business around your gifts and passions. Darren and Charlene talk about acquiring the proper permits and licenses and explain that they got their start at The Cherokee Community Market with enough food to make 30 plates, which sold out in 30 minutes, to having collaborative pop-up's in restaurants around the St. Louis area. Charlene tells us how a BALSA presentation at St. Louis Cortex helped her realize that her dreams of becoming a minority business owner could become a reality. She went full speed ahead in utilizing the community resources made available to her and other minority business owners. Darren tells us about The Fattened Caf's newest adventure which is a residency at Earth Bound Beer. Charlene is proud that their business has gone from 30 plates at a market to 250 plates at their residency and talks about hiring others to help their progress. Charlene talks about what the future holds for The Fattened Caf and says that the concept includes Filipino baked goods. Learn More: Email: Charlene.kamill@gmail.com Facebook: Instagram:

Joining us today is Bronwyn Morgan, Founder and CEO of XEO Air. Bronwyn is a certified drone pilot and is also the founder of Airversity Drone Academy and Consulting, where she develops strategic business models and disruptive strategies. Bronwyn has worked with companies such as Delta Airlines, Proctor and Gamble as well as The Coca-Cola Company. Bronwyn says that entrepreneurially thinking to her means approaching life with a robust and open viewpoint to see how things look to you and recognize a way to solve problems and sharing that with everyone around you.   In this episode:  Dr. Cheryl Watkins-Moore discusses how she has kept REAL Cannabis Company investors interested and vested in the endeavor and recognizing that the team continues to fight the fight so that the business they have invested in can succeed and make a positive impact in the community and in the industry.   Also in this episode:  Bronwyn tells us about her journey into entrepreneurship and how she found herself working in the innovation sector. She describes being very awestruck by a new form of innovation called UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) also known as Drones.   Bronwyn explains what it was like when she took a huge leap of faith as she took the necessary steps to become a certified drone pilot which has lead to her success as a business owner of 2 businesses and a deep rooted reach in the St. Louis Geo-spatial community. Bronwyn says that St. Louis' own T-Rex played a huge role in her planting her entrepreneurial roots in St. Louis. XEO Air is a 'Drones on Demand' company that collects data from the sky for businesses in the area and around the nation.   Bronwyn explains the process of being certified as a drone pilot. Rules are extremely important and follow strict FAA guidelines. Brownyn talks about the hazards involved in piloting a drone.   Bronwyn tells us how her role as a Female African American drone pilot and entrepreneur presents pathways for other female innovators to also rise up and start to fill the gender and ethnicity void within the spatial community. Bronwyn talks about founding the organization Black Women of STEAM and the movement it has created. Bronwyn discusses her outlook as a business owner and being able to source talent in St, Louis. She talk s about the gap in talent for engineers, development, data sciences, and artificial intelligence not only in St. Louis, but globally.    Learn More:   Email:  bmm@xeoaire.com   Company Website:     Company Twitter:   

Joining us today are Mimo Davis and Miranda Duschak, Co-Founders of Urban Buds: City Grown Flowers, an urban farm located in St. Louis' Dutchtown neighborhood. Together their story is one of land, community, culture and love.  In this episode: Dr. Cheryl Watkins-Moore talks about how she keeps her REAL Cannabis Company teams'  morale engaged and staying positive when things don't go as planned. Cheryl says it's important to stay focused and continue to move forward so that your company can move in the right direction.  Also in this episode: Miranda explains the history of the location that now houses Urban Buds-City Grown Flowers. The nursery is located in the Dutchtown neighborhood which was founded in the 1870's. As the neighborhood grew, so did the love for the nursery. Miranda and Mimo are production focused and love catering to their community. Miranda and Mimo discuss how they formed a business relationship with the City of St. Louis in an effort to "grow" a successful business. Miranda explains the processes in which they had to go through in order for the farm to be recognized as a farm and be taxed as a farm. This process included things such as many hours at the Business Assistance Office at City Hall to conversations with FEMA and the Dutchtown Alderman.  Miranda and Mimo discuss where their flowers are sold and can be found from local farmers markets to local florist shops; they are also a big part of the Bridal community. Miranda states that they also have a love for traveling and teaching others about agriculture.  Mimo talks distribution and building existing and long lasting business relationships. Mimo gives some words of advice and says "start small and never stop sowing seeds - literally and figuratively". Miranda's advice is to "Do your homework!".  Learn More:  Email: citygrownflowers@gmail.com Website: Company Facebook: https:  

Joining us today is Salman Shah, Co-Founder and designer of JORD Wood Watches. Salman is the creative mind behind the innovative line of wood watches. He has extensive experience working closely with global manufactures throughout the manufacturing process and brings a unique set of flair and personable characteristics that make him a great spokesperson for the JORD brand. In this episode: Dr. Cheryl Watkins-Moore informs us that unfortunately REAL Cannabis Company did not win the application process from the State of Missouri and she discusses the scoring that REAL Cannabis received in the manufacturing and cultivating licensing process and explains the current application appeals process in which the hope they will be successful so that they can move REAL Cannabis Company to the next level.    Also in this episode: Salman discusses his path from college to business owner/entrepreneur. In working with other companies and helping them optimize their SEO's, Salman realized that he too could use his inner entrepreneur and the learned skills he had to create his own products and brands to become a CEO himself.    Salman talks about his personal love of watches and how a social media post from an influencer inspired him to try his first ever wood watch. Salman says he was disappointed in the craftsmanship of that particular watch and so he set out on a mission to make the best possible wood watch on the market.    Salman speaks about the evolution of JORD Watches from start to present time. He talks about the importance of crafting a timepiece that consists of natural quality and the ability to create an emotional attachment and a passion. He explains the importance of his brand being eco-friendly and forward thinking.  Salman discusses how he and his partners are moving towards expanding their brand with even more eco-friendly products such as women's handbags that are made from cork-infused fabric called 'suber-hyde'. Salman says that Entrepreneurially thinking to him   Learn More: Email: salman.shah@woodwatches.com Website: Company Facebook: https: Company Twitter:  

Joining us today is Tamara Keefe, Founder of Clementine's Naughty and Nice Creamery and self-proclaimed 'Flavor Temptress'. Tamara is one of the lucky ones, she makes a living doing something she loves. Clementine's Naughty and Nice Creamery is not just a place to get ice cream, Tamara has worked hard to make sure that a visit to her creamery is also an experience.   In this episode: Dr. Cheryl Watkins-Moore discusses marketing and the strategies REAL Cannabis Company is using. She says that they started by building a brand and brand guidelines, website development, designs etc. They have also hired a PR firm that already has scored REAL Cannabis Co. with an interview on NPR. Cheryl discusses the importance of strategic marketing and creating an even balance within the business.   Also in this episode: Tamara explains that after unwillingly transferring to St. Louis from Southern California for an employer, that she instantly fell in love with the city, food scene and welcoming neighbors. She goes on to explain how after a minor meltdown while on a weekend retreat within the Ozarks with a group of girlfriends she decided to bestow upon our city her talents of making REALLY good ice cream.     Tamara tells us how she used experience in marketing to get her business plan and business up and running. Tamara started her ice cream shop in her kitchen then moved to a kitchen incubator space for food prep and has since moved into a full sized 5000 square foot production facility. Tamara speaks about the importance of networking and building great relationships with the business world.    Tamara discusses the sacrifices she has had to make in order to make her dreams of becoming an entrepreneur come true. She speaks of her determination to make the business work no matter what!  Tamara tells us that entrepreneurially thinking to her means rising tides, raises all ships. She firmly believes in paying it forward and supporting other businesses and that way everyone wins. She also talks about giving back to the community through being a mentor and by helping other small businesses succeed.     Learn More: Email: tamara@clementinescreamery.com  Website: m  Company Facebook:   Company Twitter:  

Joining us today is Jamila Owens-Todd, Naturopathic Doctor and serial entrepreneur. Jamila started her career path with studying sciences at The University of Missouri-St. Louis. Jamila has a passion for helping others heal themselves and has pledged to educate and provide insight in regaining your innate healing power.    In this episode:   Dr. Cheryl Watkins- Moore discusses raising capital for REAL Cannabis Company and the challenges that come with that. She explains the value of your company plays an important role in fundraising. Key factors in value are a strong business plan, a professional team, and good relationships.    Also in this episode:   Jamila tells us about a great opportunity she was given in her Senior year of high school to become an analytical student chemist with the FDA. She shares a personal story that took her in the direction of homeopathic cures and tells us the many voyages she has been on in her quest for her Ph.D. Jamila says that entrepreneurially thinking to her means being a solution bearing person.   Jamila speaks about her solo projects and a few of the other projects that she works on with other entrepreneurs. She tells us about her tea business called RootBerryLeaf and how the concept came to life. She started by simply blending different teas to not only provide an appeal to the taste buds but to also serve a medicinal purpose. The teas provide a therapeutic remedy that is not only accessible but also affordable.     Jamila speaks about self-identifying. She says she doesn't identify as an entrepreneur per se, but rather as a holistic support system. She has had to learn how to deal with customers in a private practice setting with MINT as well as a transactional setting with Golden Grocer.   Jamila talks about her new line of CBD products and the reality of what CBD can do for some folks. She tells us about her process of product experimentation, tours of facilities and steps she took in making the best-informed decision for a successful line of products.     Learn More:  Email:  jamila@minthealth.org  Website:    Company Facebook:    Company Twitter:   

Joining us today is Daphne Benzaquen, Creative Designer, CEO and Founder of Daph., a St. Louis based fashion and lifestyle brand inspired by her Peruvian heritage. Founded in 2016, Daph. is one of the only U.S. fashion and lifestyle brands that solely culminates modern, timeless designs with Peruvian resources and handmade craftsmanship.    In this episode:  Dr. Cheryl Watkins-Moore discusses how REAL Cannabis Company is using technology in a way that is not obtrusive to future customers but at the same time offers a secure environment for customers and employees as well.    Also in this episode:  Daphne tells us about her Peruvian heritage and how that has an influence on her designs. She goes into detail about how the concept of her fashion and design business came to be and explains her unique prototype process.  Daphne says that entrepreneurially thinking to her means coming up with various creative solutions to everyday problems.  Daphne explains that it was while she was completing her MBA that her dreams of one day being her own boss encouraged her to try an entrepreneur course which in turn gave her the fuel she needed to take the leap into starting her own business.   Daphne tells us how her collection went from one item to a whole line of accessories, handbags, apparel, and totes. She goes into detail about the design process which can sometimes take up to a year to create and she also tells us what kinds of Peruvian products she likes to use in the design process. Daphne is very focused on her companies values which are: Quality over quantity, sustainability, and giving back.   Daphne explains how she got her business off the ground financially and also tells us how she is experimenting with other events such as pop-up shops and social media. She gives us a heads-up on what to expect in the future for Daph.    Learn More:  Email:  daphne@shopdaph.com  Company Website:  http://www.shopdaph.com  Company Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/shopdaph  Company Instagram:  https://www.instagram/shopdaph 

Joining us today is Brandin Vaughn, Owner and Fashion Designer of The Brandin Vaughn Collection, a clothing line that is a 'contemporary bridge' ready to wear line for both men and women. Before launching his business, Brandin was the Director of Development at Create Space. Brandin has always had an entrepreneurial spirit.   In this episode:  Dr. Cheryl Watkins - Moore updates us on REAL Cannabis Company and the importance of prioritizing and creating a nice 'balance' not only in business but in your personal life as well.   Also in this episode:  Brandin talks about how his love for fashion and design transpired by first creating cushions for his couch at home. He tells us that he taught himself how to sew and the rest just fell into place. Brandin says that to him, entrepreneurially thinking means never giving up, falling and getting back up but always staying consistent with what you believe. He also explains how his creative visions turned profitable in high school.   Brandin discusses the challenges he has faced in his first few years of business. He talks about letting go of some of the business responsibilities and handing those tasks over to a trusted individual or manufacturer.   Brandin tells us about how he celebrated his 1000th designed item and what that success felt like and what he plans to do with his future collections. He explains that in his vision the 'working person' has a right to have something made just for them and he loves being able to give that to his clients.  Brandin tells us how he keeps himself inspired by going to different functions and keeping an eye on the fashion industry. He discusses how he keeps his business relevant through social media. He feels the importance of connecting with clients and giving them a piece of himself.     Learn More:  Email:    Website:    Company Facebook:    Company Instagram:   

Joining us today is Christy Schlafly, CEO, and Owner of STL Foodworks, a culinary incubator located in the Central West End. Christy is a native St. Louis' who loves working with creative culinarians. Christy noticed a need for extra kitchen space for young businesses to ramp up and therefore decided to provide a professional environment for culinary entrepreneurs to work their magic.   In this episode:  Dr. Cheryl Watkins-Moore discusses where REAL Cannabis stands post-application process. She fills us in on what strategies they are focusing on in order to also get licensing in other states and how to move the company forward.   Also in this episode:  Christy talks about her love for the City of St. Louis and she tells us about the long line of entrepreneurs in her family starting with her Grandfather's business called Ford Hotel Supply Company. She talks about how after college, she dug her feet right into the family business by taking a position in the purchasing division and that eventually led to sales.   Christy explains that after speaking with some really neat people and entrepreneurs, she decided to take a leap of faith and start her very own business called STL Foodworks. Christy explains how she found the space for her new business and how they transformed an old hardware store to meet all of the needs for future culinary incubator tenants.   Christy describes the process a 'foodpreneur' has to go thru I order to become a member/client of STL Foodworks. This list consists of having insurance, training on equipment (which is provided through STL Foodworks), and the future tenant must have their "Serve Safe Hazard" training certification. She also tells us how the STL Foodworks membership works.   Christy talks about the challenges she has faced as a new entrepreneur and she says that to her, entrepreneurially thinking means thinking with excitement, passion, motivation, and inspiration! Christy loves showcasing other entrepreneurs and feels like St. Louis has a wonderful pot of 'foodpreneurs' to choose from.   Email:    Website:    Instagram:  https;//  Facebook:   

Joining us today is Sucheta Bhide, Owner of The Resplendent Crow, a small business located in University City. Missouri that refinishes vintage furniture in glossy paint and lacquer. Sucheta is a dynamic entrepreneurial leader with a proven record of achievement and she demonstrates success in leading a franchise with sales close to 1 million dollars while maintaining over 96% customer satisfaction.  In this episode: Cheryl Watkins-Moore gives us an update on REAL Cannabis Company and the intense application process they have just undergone in order to get a permit to manufacture, distribute, and infuse cannabis.  Also in this episode: Sucheta explains that she moved to the United States from India in 1997. She talks about going to Washington University, St. Louis as an adult and once she qualified to legally hold full-time employment she started in retail. She tells us how The Resplendent Crow was birthed and says that entrepreneurially thinking to her means chasing your dreams and going after them hard.  Sucheta talks about what media outlets she uses to promote her pieces. She started by using ETSY and now uses Instagram, Facebook and many other avenues for her business. She also tells us where the name The Resplendent Crow came from.  Sucheta talks about the day to day task of running the business and how she makes working with her husband, who is by chance a cabinet maker by trade, an asset not a hindrance.  Sucheta talks about where she sees The Resplendent Crow in the future. She talks about the things her customers are asking for and how her team strives on a daily basis to make sure the demands are met.    Learn More: Email Website:  Facebook: Instagram: https;//www/

Joining us today is Dr. Cheryl Watkins- Moore, Co-Owner and Chief Marketing Officer of REAL Cannabis Company. REAL Cannabis Co. hopes to put their locations in a predominately minority communities in the St. Louis region and hire in those areas. Cheryl says she is encouraged that this strategy should boost its application, which seeks licenses for 5 dispensaries as well as a cultivation and processing center.  In this episode: Cheryl tells us what REAL Cannabis Company hopes to do in the future and explains not only how the process came about but how they raised capital and even had folks wanting to give them more than they were needing when it came down to it.  Cheryl talks about the intricate and exhausting process of obtaining a cannabis license in the State of Missouri. The first hurdle was to get the cannabis amendment passed. The second hurdle was the tedious task of filling out and writing the applications.  Cheryl tells us about the 'capped market' structured around the application process. The State of Missouri only allowed applications for 60 cultivation centers, 80 manufacturing centers, and 194 dispensaries in total. Cheryl talks about the future of REAL Cannabis Company and she shares with us how she manages her busy life schedule from family to entrepreneurship.  Learn More: Email: Company Website:

ETHINKSTL 146: Betsy Nacrelli | Joya [Season 12, Episode 02] Joining us today is Betsy Blancett-Nacrelli, Founder of Collections by Joya. Betsy's lifelong passion for Women empowerment and her 14 years of experience in international retail and design, afforded her many opportunities to travel to amazing places such as Istanbul, Bali and India where she fell in love with the vast selection of artisan jewelry. Founded in 2016, Collections by Joya continues to grow and inspire women all over the world. Betsy believe fully that when women support each other, incredible things can happen! In this episode: Betsy tells us about how her journey in product development and design in the furniture industry turned into a whole new journey in jewelry design and development which Betsy has since turned into a full-time career and business. Betsy fills us in on the long line of entrepreneurs with her family and how she knew from a very young age that she too wanted to be an entrepreneur. She talks about the long line of leaders who taught her the many principles of business such as retail to product development and supply chain management. Betsy discusses the process of testing the market and the conclusions she reached form that process and how testing helped her have a better understanding of the needs of the market. She also gives us some insight on the testing timeline. Betsy tells us about the growth of Collections by Joya and how with a lot of support from family and friends she was able to grow from a company of 1 in her home to a company of 12 in a studio here in St. Louis, Missouri. Learn More: Email: betsy@collectionsbyjoya.com Company Website: www.collectionsbyjoya.com Company Facebook: http://www,facebook.com/collectionsbyjoya Company Instgram: http://www.instgram.com/collectionsbyjoya

ETHINKSTL 146: Betsy Nacrelli | Joya [Season 12, Episode 02] Joining us today is Betsy Blancett-Nacrelli, Founder of Collections by Joya. Betsy's lifelong passion for Women empowerment and her 14 years of experience in international retail and design, afforded her many opportunities to travel to amazing places such as Istanbul, Bali and India where she fell in love with the vast selection of artisan jewelry. Founded in 2016, Collections by Joya continues to grow and inspire women all over the world. Betsy believe fully that when women support each other, incredible things can happen! In this episode: Betsy tells us about how her journey in product development and design in the furniture industry turned into a whole new journey in jewelry design and development which Betsy has since turned into a full-time career and business. Betsy fills us in on the long line of entrepreneurs with her family and how she knew from a very young age that she too wanted to be an entrepreneur. She talks about the long line of leaders who taught her the many principles of business such as retail to product development and supply chain management. Betsy discusses the process of testing the market and the conclusions she reached form that process and how testing helped her have a better understanding of the needs of the market. She also gives us some insight on the testing timeline. Betsy tells us about the growth of Collections by Joya and how with a lot of support from family and friends she was able to grow from a company of 1 in her home to a company of 12 in a studio here in St. Louis, Missouri. Learn More: Email: betsy@collectionsbyjoya.com Company Website: www.collectionsbyjoya.com Company Facebook: http://www,facebook.com/collectionsbyjoya Company Instgram: http://www.instgram.com/collectionsbyjoya

ETHINKSTL 145: Jeremy Goss | LinkMarket [Season 12, Episode 01] Joining us today is Dr. Jeremy Goss, Founder, Chairman and CEO of The Link Market. Jeremy is an advocate for low-income communities on issues related to food justice, hunger and health. Upon graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, Jeremy took notice to the fact that healthy food options were not available to certain communities in the St. Louis Region. Jeremy's frustration turned into a life changing idea for many St. Louis residents. In this episode: Jeremy discusses the challenges he faced upon his arrival here in St. Louis and how he began to tackle poverty and inequality in the region and how he turned the art of science and healing to a reality for a city that so badly needed it. Jeremy talks about how he reached out to his peers in the medical community to help research how he could best fill the void in the food deserts of of St. Louis and the next steps he took to make his idea take form. Jeremy discusses his very own experience with racism within his own team and the challenges he faced as an out-ofstate entrepreneur. Jeremy talks about the training program set up specifically centered around the community each Link Market serves. Learn More: Email: Jeremy@linkmarket.org Company Website: http://linkmarket.org/ Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelinkmarket

ETHINKSTL 145: Jeremy Goss | LinkMarket [Season 12, Episode 01] Joining us today is Dr. Jeremy Goss, Founder, Chairman and CEO of The Link Market. Jeremy is an advocate for low-income communities on issues related to food justice, hunger and health. Upon graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, Jeremy took notice to the fact that healthy food options were not available to certain communities in the St. Louis Region. Jeremy's frustration turned into a life changing idea for many St. Louis residents. In this episode: Jeremy discusses the challenges he faced upon his arrival here in St. Louis and how he began to tackle poverty and inequality in the region and how he turned the art of science and healing to a reality for a city that so badly needed it. Jeremy talks about how he reached out to his peers in the medical community to help research how he could best fill the void in the food deserts of of St. Louis and the next steps he took to make his idea take form. Jeremy discusses his very own experience with racism within his own team and the challenges he faced as an out-ofstate entrepreneur. Jeremy talks about the training program set up specifically centered around the community each Link Market serves. Learn More: Email: Jeremy@linkmarket.org Company Website: http://linkmarket.org/ Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelinkmarket

ETHINKSTL 144: Shannon Thompson | Indie Eatery [Season 11, Episode 11] Joining us today is Shannon Thompson, Proprietor of Indie Eatery and Indie 4 Catering. Shannon devoted 12 years of her life to the United States Air Force. Upon returning , she spent a short time in the corporate world. It didn't take long for Shannon to realize that the corporate world just didn't fill her passion within; It was then that she and her husband started Indie 4 Catering and the rest is history. In this episode: Shannon discusses how Indie 4 Catering maintains sustainability not only in the business aspect but also on the menu side of the business with items such as 'compost nachos' and health based all natural juice drinks. Shannon talks about how being laid off from her full-time job thrust her into entrepreneurship by incident and the process of transitioning into the business with her husband by her side. Shannon discusses the difficulties she and her husband faced in trying to find a new form of employment once exiting the Air Force and how she has to teach herself to ask others for help and how through mentoring, she was able to learn how to be 'coachable'. Shannon tells us about where she sees herself and Indie 4 catering in the future through partnerships, collaborations and franchising. Learn More: Email: eatsbyindie@gmail.com Company Website: http://www.eatsbyindie.com Company Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/eatsbyindie

ETHINKSTL 144: Shannon Thompson | Indie Eatery [Season 11, Episode 11] Joining us today is Shannon Thompson, Proprietor of Indie Eatery and Indie 4 Catering. Shannon devoted 12 years of her life to the United States Air Force. Upon returning , she spent a short time in the corporate world. It didn't take long for Shannon to realize that the corporate world just didn't fill her passion within; It was then that she and her husband started Indie 4 Catering and the rest is history. In this episode: Shannon discusses how Indie 4 Catering maintains sustainability not only in the business aspect but also on the menu side of the business with items such as 'compost nachos' and health based all natural juice drinks. Shannon talks about how being laid off from her full-time job thrust her into entrepreneurship by incident and the process of transitioning into the business with her husband by her side. Shannon discusses the difficulties she and her husband faced in trying to find a new form of employment once exiting the Air Force and how she has to teach herself to ask others for help and how through mentoring, she was able to learn how to be 'coachable'. Shannon tells us about where she sees herself and Indie 4 catering in the future through partnerships, collaborations and franchising. Learn More: Email: eatsbyindie@gmail.com Company Website: http://www.eatsbyindie.com Company Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/eatsbyindie

ETHINKSTL 143: Alexces Bartley | MO SourceLink [Season 11, Episode 10] Joining us today is Alexces Bartley, Director and Network Builder of Missouri SourceLink. At her core, Alex is a connector with a deep passion for helping communities and individuals grow through access to entrepreneurial opportunities. Prior to her work with Missouri SourceLink, Alex served as Outreach Programs Manager at Oklahoma State University Riata Center for Entrepreneurship. In this episode: Alexces talks about how she fills her role as a Network Builder and the idea of the concept that entrepreneurship is a team sport wherever you go and how social networks are extremely valuable to the growth of a business. Alexces talks about the importance of unlocking the talent that Missouri holds within it many territories and accepting that what is good for Missouri is good for its towns and what is good for our towns is good for Missouri. Alexces explains how Missouri SourceLink connects rural communities who may not have the ability to connect otherwise, with the tools the need to get their business to the next step. Alexces gives a detailed summary of the resources available to small business owners and start ups through Missouri SourceLink such as a hotline number, referrals, a personal action plan and a Resource Navigator that gives you access to 500 business resource organizations with the click of just one button. Learn More: Email: bartleya@mosourcelink.com Company Website: https://www.mosourcelink.com/ Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoSourceLink/ Company Twitter: https://twitter.com/mosourcelink

ETHINKSTL 143: Alexces Bartley | MO SourceLink [Season 11, Episode 10] Joining us today is Alexces Bartley, Director and Network Builder of Missouri SourceLink. At her core, Alex is a connector with a deep passion for helping communities and individuals grow through access to entrepreneurial opportunities. Prior to her work with Missouri SourceLink, Alex served as Outreach Programs Manager at Oklahoma State University Riata Center for Entrepreneurship. In this episode: Alexces talks about how she fills her role as a Network Builder and the idea of the concept that entrepreneurship is a team sport wherever you go and how social networks are extremely valuable to the growth of a business. Alexces talks about the importance of unlocking the talent that Missouri holds within it many territories and accepting that what is good for Missouri is good for its towns and what is good for our towns is good for Missouri. Alexces explains how Missouri SourceLink connects rural communities who may not have the ability to connect otherwise, with the tools the need to get their business to the next step. Alexces gives a detailed summary of the resources available to small business owners and start ups through Missouri SourceLink such as a hotline number, referrals, a personal action plan and a Resource Navigator that gives you access to 500 business resource organizations with the click of just one button. Learn More: Email: bartleya@mosourcelink.com Company Website: https://www.mosourcelink.com/ Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoSourceLink/ Company Twitter: https://twitter.com/mosourcelink

ETHINKSTL 142: Collective STL | Healing Mind, Body and Spirit in North St. Louis [Season 11, Episode 09] Joining us today are Terry and Ericka Harris and Alonzo Nelson, Jr., Co Founders of Collective STL. This team of amazing yogi's create a healthy and safe experience catered to African Americans by offering compassionate wisdom that helps heal the mind, body and spirit through techniques of yoga mindfulness and culturally relevant self-strategies. In this episode: Ericka and Terry talk about how their love for yoga transformed into the thought of bringing African American communities together through the Collective STL environment by creating a space that helps heal the mind, body and spirit. The trio talks about the need and importance of accessibility not just for some but for ALL in terms of financial and economics. Before the Collective STL, North St. Louis had no yoga studios. Alonzo discusses the platforms used to bring awareness to the African American communities about the healing qualities of yoga and the results that can be achieved thru a healthy mindset. Ericka explains how the team goes above and beyond to make the space a welcoming one through creating a family environment, various classes and a donation based model so that even low income families can participate. Learn more: Company Website: www.thecollectivestl.org Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecollective

ETHINKSTL 142: Collective STL | Healing Mind, Body and Spirit in North St. Louis [Season 11, Episode 09] Joining us today are Terry and Ericka Harris and Alonzo Nelson, Jr., Co Founders of Collective STL. This team of amazing yogi's create a healthy and safe experience catered to African Americans by offering compassionate wisdom that helps heal the mind, body and spirit through techniques of yoga mindfulness and culturally relevant self-strategies. In this episode: Ericka and Terry talk about how their love for yoga transformed into the thought of bringing African American communities together through the Collective STL environment by creating a space that helps heal the mind, body and spirit. The trio talks about the need and importance of accessibility not just for some but for ALL in terms of financial and economics. Before the Collective STL, North St. Louis had no yoga studios. Alonzo discusses the platforms used to bring awareness to the African American communities about the healing qualities of yoga and the results that can be achieved thru a healthy mindset. Ericka explains how the team goes above and beyond to make the space a welcoming one through creating a family environment, various classes and a donation based model so that even low income families can participate. Learn more: Company Website: www.thecollectivestl.org Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecollective

ETHINKSTL 141: Rachel D'Souza Siebert | Gladiator Consulting [Season 11, Episode 08] Joining us today is Rachel D'Souza Siebert, Founder and Principal of Gladiator Consulting. Rachel is at her best when she's starting, fixing or leading. In 2015, Gladiator Consulting came to life offering Core Values and Guiding Principles to our communities. In this episode: Rachel talks about how a need to have her voice heard and having a way to fulfill her interest in social justice led her to the nonprofit sector. Rachel discusses the importance of breaking down the barrier of being a mom and an entrepreneur and how she makes that work. Rachel talks about the power dynamic that exists in philanthropy between the people that fund and the people who need the funds and how Gladiator Consulting seeks to obtain their goals. Rachel explains abundance in the non-profit world and forging a new path for future organizations. Learn more: Email: Rachel@gladiatorrds.com Company Website: www.gladiatorrds.com

ETHINKSTL 141: Rachel D'Souza Siebert | Gladiator Consulting [Season 11, Episode 08] Joining us today is Rachel D'Souza Siebert, Founder and Principal of Gladiator Consulting. Rachel is at her best when she's starting, fixing or leading. In 2015, Gladiator Consulting came to life offering Core Values and Guiding Principles to our communities. In this episode: Rachel talks about how a need to have her voice heard and having a way to fulfill her interest in social justice led her to the nonprofit sector. Rachel discusses the importance of breaking down the barrier of being a mom and an entrepreneur and how she makes that work. Rachel talks about the power dynamic that exists in philanthropy between the people that fund and the people who need the funds and how Gladiator Consulting seeks to obtain their goals. Rachel explains abundance in the non-profit world and forging a new path for future organizations. Learn more: Email: Rachel@gladiatorrds.com Company Website: www.gladiatorrds.com

ETHINKSTL 140: Jessica Hitchcock | Following Her Entrepreneurial Heart for Art [Season 11, Episode 07] Joining us today is Jessica Hitchcock , owner of Jessica Hitchcock, LLC. Jessica paints from her home in St. Louis, Missouri and it's her bold colors that give her a signature look. She only recently quit her day job in Finance and Human Resources to devote her efforts full-time to her art business. Following a recent trip to Mexico to work with an expert to discuss a business plan, she is off to a great start and getting her name out there. In this episode : Jessica tells us where and how her artistic story started in 2015 and how her mom's entrepreneurship story may have had a little influence on her becoming an entrepreneur. Jessica explains how she went from being an artist as a hobby to having her paintings on display at the Metropolitan Pavilion in Manhattan. She tells us how it all happened very naturally for her. Jessica tells us how the transition of working full time in the Finance and Human Resource field into a full time artist happened and how other full time artists sparked a flame in her to make the jump from corporate to the world of entrepreneurship. Jessica talks about Instagram and how the Instagram platform has made a tremendous contribution to the growth of her business model not only locally but internationally. Jessica also talks about the power of social media in general. Learn More : Email: info@jessicahitchcock.org Website: http://www.jessicahitchcock.org Company Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jessicahitchcockart

ETHINKSTL 140: Jessica Hitchcock | Following Her Entrepreneurial Heart for Art [Season 11, Episode 07] Joining us today is Jessica Hitchcock , owner of Jessica Hitchcock, LLC. Jessica paints from her home in St. Louis, Missouri and it's her bold colors that give her a signature look. She only recently quit her day job in Finance and Human Resources to devote her efforts full-time to her art business. Following a recent trip to Mexico to work with an expert to discuss a business plan, she is off to a great start and getting her name out there. In this episode : Jessica tells us where and how her artistic story started in 2015 and how her mom’s entrepreneurship story may have had a little influence on her becoming an entrepreneur. Jessica explains how she went from being an artist as a hobby to having her paintings on display at the Metropolitan Pavilion in Manhattan. She tells us how it all happened very naturally for her. Jessica tells us how the transition of working full time in the Finance and Human Resource field into a full time artist happened and how other full time artists sparked a flame in her to make the jump from corporate to the world of entrepreneurship. Jessica talks about Instagram and how the Instagram platform has made a tremendous contribution to the growth of her business model not only locally but internationally. Jessica also talks about the power of social media in general. Learn More : Email: info@jessicahitchcock.org Website: http://www.jessicahitchcock.org Company Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jessicahitchcockart

ETHINKSTL 139: Nick Dunne | Marketing M.A.D.E. Man [Season 11, Episode 06] Joining us today is Nick Dunne, Communications Director For MADE, Third Degree Glass Factory and The Delmar Maker District. A 2011 graduate of Webster University with a B.A. degree in Public Relations, Nick brings a culmination of marketing experience to all three businesses while using his background as a professional communicator to elevate the community of artists, makers and other entrepreneurs in the St. Louis area. In this episode: Nick talks about how a collaborative idea turned into an evolution of a multifaceted studio for creating, making and selling; all the while building a social network. Nicks explains where the name M.A.D.E came from and its meaning;M-Makers, A-Artists, D-Designers, E-Entrepreneurs and he tells us how the MADE concept works. Nick talks about the lack of resources for children to learn, make and create and how MADE and The Magic House have collaborated to make a space for children to learn, grow and express themselves through art and design. Nick discusses the future of the maker district and his hopes of development which will help cultivate a community including the joining of a credit union and the possibility of a food truck park . Learn More: Email: promo@stlglass.com Website: http://delmarmakerdistrict.org Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/delmarmakerdistrict Nick Dunne Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/nickdunne_stl

ETHINKSTL 139: Nick Dunne | Marketing M.A.D.E. Man [Season 11, Episode 06] Joining us today is Nick Dunne, Communications Director For MADE, Third Degree Glass Factory and The Delmar Maker District. A 2011 graduate of Webster University with a B.A. degree in Public Relations, Nick brings a culmination of marketing experience to all three businesses while using his background as a professional communicator to elevate the community of artists, makers and other entrepreneurs in the St. Louis area. In this episode: Nick talks about how a collaborative idea turned into an evolution of a multifaceted studio for creating, making and selling; all the while building a social network. Nicks explains where the name M.A.D.E came from and its meaning;M-Makers, A-Artists, D-Designers, E-Entrepreneurs and he tells us how the MADE concept works. Nick talks about the lack of resources for children to learn, make and create and how MADE and The Magic House have collaborated to make a space for children to learn, grow and express themselves through art and design. Nick discusses the future of the maker district and his hopes of development which will help cultivate a community including the joining of a credit union and the possibility of a food truck park . Learn More: Email: promo@stlglass.com Website: http://delmarmakerdistrict.org Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/delmarmakerdistrict Nick Dunne Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/nickdunne_stl

ETHINKSTL 138: De Nichols | De-Signing Creative Cultures of Impact [Season 11, Episode 05] Joining us today is De Nichols, Principal of Design and Social Practice at Civic Creatives. As a cultural producer, De organizes artists to develop digital media and visual artworks that extend the impact of her design practice. In this episode: De speaks about the current challenges she faces and how she and her team at Civic Creatives rise to those challenges in an effort to bring awareness to these issues. De tells us about her projects such as designing the St. Louis Metro Market, The Artistic STL Collective; which mobilizes artists and creators across the region, the Unites Stories Summit and how she likes to create a vulnerable and brave space for people to express themselves in a safe environment. De describes how she came to the decision to be involved in Social Entrepreneurship. De speaks about how being an artist molded the social side and how her studies solidified the entrepreneurship side. De fills us in on how she manages to separate herself from a personal vantage point of a person from the person that fuels the business. De discusses what it was like to be the visioning artist of The Mirror Casket; currently on display at the Smithsonian. The Mirror Casket is a sculpture and performance piece created as protest art during the 2014 Ferguson uprising. Learn More: Email: deandrea@civiccreatives.com Website: https://www.denichols.com Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/civiccreatives Company Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/civiccreatives

ETHINKSTL 138: De Nichols | De-Signing Creative Cultures of Impact [Season 11, Episode 05] Joining us today is De Nichols, Principal of Design and Social Practice at Civic Creatives. As a cultural producer, De organizes artists to develop digital media and visual artworks that extend the impact of her design practice. In this episode: De speaks about the current challenges she faces and how she and her team at Civic Creatives rise to those challenges in an effort to bring awareness to these issues. De tells us about her projects such as designing the St. Louis Metro Market, The Artistic STL Collective; which mobilizes artists and creators across the region, the Unites Stories Summit and how she likes to create a vulnerable and brave space for people to express themselves in a safe environment. De describes how she came to the decision to be involved in Social Entrepreneurship. De speaks about how being an artist molded the social side and how her studies solidified the entrepreneurship side. De fills us in on how she manages to separate herself from a personal vantage point of a person from the person that fuels the business. De discusses what it was like to be the visioning artist of The Mirror Casket; currently on display at the Smithsonian. The Mirror Casket is a sculpture and performance piece created as protest art during the 2014 Ferguson uprising. Learn More: Email: deandrea@civiccreatives.com Website: https://www.denichols.com Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/civiccreatives Company Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/civiccreatives

ETHINKSTL 137: Claire Flowers | Durable, Comfortable, Stylish Shoes for Professional Women [Season 11, Episode 04] Joining us today is Claire Flowers, Founder and Designer of Claire Flowers, LLC. Claire has a passion for making things better. While working in sales and constantly traveling for her work, Claire found herself rapidly going through pairs of heels. In a effort to make women's lives easier, Claire decided to make a change. In December of 2014, Claire quit her full-time technology career to make this idea a reality by forming Claire Flowers, LLC. In this episode: Claire tells us how Claire Flowers, LLC evolved from a self-servicing idea to a much larger production of a full-line of women's shoes. Claire talks about the many different phases of getting her idea from her mind, to a CAD file, to a designer, to manufacturing, then finally to promotion. Claire tells us the 5 things that set Claire Flowers shoes apart from the competition. Claire discusses company growth and where she sees Claire Flowers, LLC in the future. Claire talks SEO and brand accountability. Learn More: Email: Claire@claireflowers.com Website: www.claireflowers.com Company Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/claireflowersshoes

ETHINKSTL 137: Claire Flowers | Durable, Comfortable, Stylish Shoes for Professional Women [Season 11, Episode 04] Joining us today is Claire Flowers, Founder and Designer of Claire Flowers, LLC. Claire has a passion for making things better. While working in sales and constantly traveling for her work, Claire found herself rapidly going through pairs of heels. In a effort to make women's lives easier, Claire decided to make a change. In December of 2014, Claire quit her full-time technology career to make this idea a reality by forming Claire Flowers, LLC. In this episode: Claire tells us how Claire Flowers, LLC evolved from a self-servicing idea to a much larger production of a full-line of women's shoes. Claire talks about the many different phases of getting her idea from her mind, to a CAD file, to a designer, to manufacturing, then finally to promotion. Claire tells us the 5 things that set Claire Flowers shoes apart from the competition. Claire discusses company growth and where she sees Claire Flowers, LLC in the future. Claire talks SEO and brand accountability. Learn More: Email: Claire@claireflowers.com Website: www.claireflowers.com Company Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/claireflowersshoes

ETHINKSTL 136: Amy Slaughter | Aims Moon Paperie [Season 11, Episode 03] Joining us today is Amy Slaughter, Owner of Aims Moon Paperie. Founded in 2016, Aims Moon Paperie is a stationery company dedicated to providing women with tools for self-reflection and organization. Amy always wanted to create and to become an entrepreneur. A writer for many years, Amy found journaling was a way to de-clutter her thoughts. Compelled by her passion for writing, she started her own business. Aims Moon Paperie is a chic, handcrafted-gifts brand that allows you to write your thoughts in style. In this episode: Amy describes her inner entrepreneur and how it took form. She discusses the various outlets she discovered and the experiences she encountered in her first year. Amy discusses her design process and her quality control initiatives for offering the BEST product to her clients. Amy talks about becoming an entrepreneur and how it helped her learn more about herself and gave her a reasons to believe in herself. Amy discusses her dreams and goals and where she sees her company in the future and how she plans to obtain those goals. Amy tells us how she organically developed her business connections and how she maintains those connections. Amy also gives advice to future entrepreneurs on how they can best showcase their inner entrepreneur. Learn More: Email: aimsmoonpaperie@gmail.com Company Website: http://www.aimsmoonpaperie.com Company Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/aimsmoonpaperie Company Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/aimsmoonpaperie

ETHINKSTL 136: Amy Slaughter | Aims Moon Paperie [Season 11, Episode 03] Joining us today is Amy Slaughter, Owner of Aims Moon Paperie. Founded in 2016, Aims Moon Paperie is a stationery company dedicated to providing women with tools for self-reflection and organization. Amy always wanted to create and to become an entrepreneur. A writer for many years, Amy found journaling was a way to de-clutter her thoughts. Compelled by her passion for writing, she started her own business. Aims Moon Paperie is a chic, handcrafted-gifts brand that allows you to write your thoughts in style. In this episode: Amy describes her inner entrepreneur and how it took form. She discusses the various outlets she discovered and the experiences she encountered in her first year. Amy discusses her design process and her quality control initiatives for offering the BEST product to her clients. Amy talks about becoming an entrepreneur and how it helped her learn more about herself and gave her a reasons to believe in herself. Amy discusses her dreams and goals and where she sees her company in the future and how she plans to obtain those goals. Amy tells us how she organically developed her business connections and how she maintains those connections. Amy also gives advice to future entrepreneurs on how they can best showcase their inner entrepreneur. Learn More: Email: aimsmoonpaperie@gmail.com Company Website: http://www.aimsmoonpaperie.com Company Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/aimsmoonpaperie Company Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/aimsmoonpaperie

ETHINKSTL 135: Devon Moody Graham | #CEOMOM [Season 11, Episode 02] Joining us today is Devon Moody-Graham, CEO and Founder of CEO MOM. Devon is a Wife, Mother, CEO, Community Leader and Serial Entrepreneur. Devon is passionate about creating solutions to ease the journey of pulling off all of the above. Devon created CEO MOM as a platform to help mothers who are entrepreneurs make their dreams come true. CEO MOM provides 'empire building' assistance, kid-friendly meet ups and opportunities for women to connect with other women while improving their businesses and grow together. In this episode: Devon discusses how CEO MOM came about through her own experiences as a mom and entrepreneur and seeing other moms struggle to achieve CEO status. Devon explains the importance of motherly figures inspiring their children to do better and to reach for and obtain their goals by leading by example. Devon also talks about a new term called 'Momager' and how inspiration goes both ways. Devon describes in detail what CEO MOM events, such as meet-ups and seminars, entail and what to expect when attending a CEO MOM event. Devon explains how she uses delegation in order to accomplish her long list of daily tasks and business development. Learn more: Email: www.devon.moody@gmail.com Business Website: www.ceomomspeaks.com

ETHINKSTL 135: Devon Moody Graham | #CEOMOM [Season 11, Episode 02] Joining us today is Devon Moody-Graham, CEO and Founder of CEO MOM. Devon is a Wife, Mother, CEO, Community Leader and Serial Entrepreneur. Devon is passionate about creating solutions to ease the journey of pulling off all of the above. Devon created CEO MOM as a platform to help mothers who are entrepreneurs make their dreams come true. CEO MOM provides 'empire building' assistance, kid-friendly meet ups and opportunities for women to connect with other women while improving their businesses and grow together. In this episode: Devon discusses how CEO MOM came about through her own experiences as a mom and entrepreneur and seeing other moms struggle to achieve CEO status. Devon explains the importance of motherly figures inspiring their children to do better and to reach for and obtain their goals by leading by example. Devon also talks about a new term called 'Momager' and how inspiration goes both ways. Devon describes in detail what CEO MOM events, such as meet-ups and seminars, entail and what to expect when attending a CEO MOM event. Devon explains how she uses delegation in order to accomplish her long list of daily tasks and business development. Learn more: Email: www.devon.moody@gmail.com Business Website: www.ceomomspeaks.com

ETHINKSTL 134: Leslie Gill | Rung for Women [Season 11, Episode 01] Joining us today is Leslie Gill, Executive Director of Rung for Women. Having served in leadership capacities for several profit and non-profit organizations, Leslie has been deeply involved in a wide range of social welfare issues. Before joining Rung, Leslie served as the Chief Executive Officer of Annie Malone Children and Family Service Center. In this episode: Leslie discusses how Rung got its start as a high-end consignment shop for the benefit of The Women's Foundation of Greater St. Louis and how through the years it evolved into its current state ASA program of holistic self sufficiency for women. Leslie tells us about the vision of Rung for Women and its goal to not only change the landscape of the St. Louis community, but to also help women remove barriers to success and help them to achieve higher financial goals. Leslie talks about how Ali Hogan, Founder of Rung for Women, took a pause in her efforts in order to make a successful pivot into a new organization with a broader scope. Leslie talks about the four pillars on which Rung for Women is built upon - Wealth Building, Family Stability, Well-Being and Career. Learn More: Email: leslie@rungforwomen.org Company Website: http://RungforWomen.org Company Facebook: https:www.facebook.com/RUNGSTL Company Twitter: https://twitter.com/rungstl

ETHINKSTL 134: Leslie Gill | Rung for Women [Season 11, Episode 01] Joining us today is Leslie Gill, Executive Director of Rung for Women. Having served in leadership capacities for several profit and non-profit organizations, Leslie has been deeply involved in a wide range of social welfare issues. Before joining Rung, Leslie served as the Chief Executive Officer of Annie Malone Children and Family Service Center. In this episode: Leslie discusses how Rung got its start as a high-end consignment shop for the benefit of The Women's Foundation of Greater St. Louis and how through the years it evolved into its current state ASA program of holistic self sufficiency for women. Leslie tells us about the vision of Rung for Women and its goal to not only change the landscape of the St. Louis community, but to also help women remove barriers to success and help them to achieve higher financial goals. Leslie talks about how Ali Hogan, Founder of Rung for Women, took a pause in her efforts in order to make a successful pivot into a new organization with a broader scope. Leslie talks about the four pillars on which Rung for Women is built upon - Wealth Building, Family Stability, Well-Being and Career. Learn More: Email: leslie@rungforwomen.org Company Website: http://RungforWomen.org Company Facebook: https:www.facebook.com/RUNGSTL Company Twitter: https://twitter.com/rungstl

Joining us today are Rita Childers and Candi Haas, Co-owners of Core + Rind. Both are certified Culinary Nutrition experts and together have created Cashew Cheesy Sauce to make your journey to health not only easier, but tastier as well. In this episode: Rita and Candi talk about how similarities and struggles with their own health, motivated them to create and market a product that would not only benefit them, but others as well. Rita and Candi talk about the process of taking their product from something personal to a product of scale and the difficulties of 'letting go of the reigns' per say in order to grow to the next level. This 'cheesy duo' discuss how the Ignite program helped them move through the development phase of Consumer Product Goods. Candi talks about how opportunity turned into preparedness and how Cashew Cheesy Sauce ended up on Whole Foods shelf space. Candi tells us about the different events and ways they promote their product line and what the future has in store for Core + Rind. Learn More: Email: hello@coreandrind.com Company Website: http://www.coreandrind.com Company Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/coreandrind Company Twitter: http://twitter.com/corerind

Joining us today are Rita Childers and Candi Haas, Co-owners of Core + Rind. Both are certified Culinary Nutrition experts and together have created Cashew Cheesy Sauce to make your journey to health not only easier, but tastier as well. In this episode: Rita and Candi talk about how similarities and struggles with their own health, motivated them to create and market a product that would not only benefit them, but others as well. Rita and Candi talk about the process of taking their product from something personal to a product of scale and the difficulties of 'letting go of the reigns' per say in order to grow to the next level. This 'cheesy duo' discuss how the Ignite program helped them move through the development phase of Consumer Product Goods. Candi talks about how opportunity turned into preparedness and how Cashew Cheesy Sauce ended up on Whole Foods shelf space. Candi tells us about the different events and ways they promote their product line and what the future has in store for Core + Rind. Learn More: Email: hello@coreandrind.com Company Website: http://www.coreandrind.com Company Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/coreandrind Company Twitter: http://twitter.com/corerind

Joining us today are Jacob Resch and Kevin McCulloch, Founders of FLOAT STL. FLOAT STL is St. Louis' first float center and was opened in February of 2015. FLOAT STL has facilitated over 42,000 floats and continues the mission to help create a better access to healing modality. In this episode: We learn what the craft of floating is and the experience of floating. -Jacob shares about his RN & Psyche background and the role it played to help build their float center experience. -Kevin gives light on how helping people with eating disorders and working at a treatment center led to meeting and working with Jacob. -Both talk about a weekend trip in 2012 to Chicago leading to conversations on opening a float center in St Louis. -Kevin describes what a float tank actually is, how it works, and the experience for an individual. He adds why they decided to focus only on the float craft instead of adding other services like massage for self-care. -Jacob describes their hiring and training of employees to maintain their float experience vision for Float STL guests. -Both Jacob and Kevin talked about the importance of partnership and financial backing for their unique business concept. Then they finish up about their own self-care besides just floating. Learn More: Email: info@floatingstl.com Company Website: www.floatingstl.com Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floatstl

Joining us today are Jacob Resch and Kevin McCulloch, Founders of FLOAT STL. FLOAT STL is St. Louis' first float center and was opened in February of 2015. FLOAT STL has facilitated over 42,000 floats and continues the mission to help create a better access to healing modality. In this episode: We learn what the craft of floating is and the experience of floating. -Jacob shares about his RN & Psyche background and the role it played to help build their float center experience. -Kevin gives light on how helping people with eating disorders and working at a treatment center led to meeting and working with Jacob. -Both talk about a weekend trip in 2012 to Chicago leading to conversations on opening a float center in St Louis. -Kevin describes what a float tank actually is, how it works, and the experience for an individual. He adds why they decided to focus only on the float craft instead of adding other services like massage for self-care. -Jacob describes their hiring and training of employees to maintain their float experience vision for Float STL guests. -Both Jacob and Kevin talked about the importance of partnership and financial backing for their unique business concept. Then they finish up about their own self-care besides just floating. Learn More: Email: info@floatingstl.com Company Website: www.floatingstl.com Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floatstl

Joining us today are Kate Loar of Venture For America and Chisom Uche, Alumnus of Venture For America and current Senior Associate at SixThirty. Kate works with Venture For America Fellows, company partners, donors and support systems in St. Louis and Kansas City. Chisom serves on numerous boards, one of which empowers students to direct their own lives and learning. In this episode: Kate discusses her many roles with Venture For America Chisom tells us how he became a "fellow" with Venture for America and how he fills his role as an alumni of the program. Kate talks about the criteria Venture For America looks for in the "fellow" selection process and what strategies they use in choosing the perfect candidate. Kate tells us about a few benchmark milestones that Venture For America recently hit. Chisom discusses the diversity within Venture For America community. Chisom goes into detail just how exactly the "fellows" of Venture For America contribute to the start-up community. Learn More: Kate Email: kate@ventureforamerica.org Chisom Email: chisom.uche@gmail.com Venture For America Website: https://ventureforamerica.org

Joining us today are Kate Loar of Venture For America and Chisom Uche, Alumnus of Venture For America and current Senior Associate at SixThirty. Kate works with Venture For America Fellows, company partners, donors and support systems in St. Louis and Kansas City. Chisom serves on numerous boards, one of which empowers students to direct their own lives and learning. In this episode: Kate discusses her many roles with Venture For America Chisom tells us how he became a "fellow" with Venture for America and how he fills his role as an alumni of the program. Kate talks about the criteria Venture For America looks for in the "fellow" selection process and what strategies they use in choosing the perfect candidate. Kate tells us about a few benchmark milestones that Venture For America recently hit. Chisom discusses the diversity within Venture For America community. Chisom goes into detail just how exactly the "fellows" of Venture For America contribute to the start-up community. Learn More: Kate Email: kate@ventureforamerica.org Chisom Email: chisom.uche@gmail.com Venture For America Website: https://ventureforamerica.org

Joining us today is Sloan Coleman, Business Development Director, AKA Monster Marketer, of Tiny Little Monster. Sloan, A lifelong entrepreneur with a background in art and graphic design, began her entrepreneurial career by co-founding a graphic and web design business at the age of 26. Through learning about marketing, networking and SEO while in the graphic design industry, Sloan stumbled into the screen printing industry, the seed was planted; Tiny Little Monster was born in her basement and the rest is history. In this Episode: Sloan talks about how her inner entrepreneur skills started when she was a child. Sloan tells us about how her start in the SEO/Website development business led her to an interest in the screen printing business. Sloan talks about how opportunity met preparedness with the name Tiny Little Monster and a preexisting SEO database. Sloan gives great feedback for staff and new growth practices. Sloan explains what makes Tiny Little Monster different from all the other screen printing shops in St. Louis and how she and her business partner troubleshoot ways to keep them on top of the business game. Learn More: Email: tiny@tinylittlemonster.com Website: http://tinylittlemonster.com Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tinylittlemonstertees/ Company Twitter: https://twitter.com/tinymonstertees/

Joining us today is Sloan Coleman, Business Development Director, AKA Monster Marketer, of Tiny Little Monster. Sloan, A lifelong entrepreneur with a background in art and graphic design, began her entrepreneurial career by co-founding a graphic and web design business at the age of 26. Through learning about marketing, networking and SEO while in the graphic design industry, Sloan stumbled into the screen printing industry, the seed was planted; Tiny Little Monster was born in her basement and the rest is history. In this Episode: Sloan talks about how her inner entrepreneur skills started when she was a child. Sloan tells us about how her start in the SEO/Website development business led her to an interest in the screen printing business. Sloan talks about how opportunity met preparedness with the name Tiny Little Monster and a preexisting SEO database. Sloan gives great feedback for staff and new growth practices. Sloan explains what makes Tiny Little Monster different from all the other screen printing shops in St. Louis and how she and her business partner troubleshoot ways to keep them on top of the business game. Learn More: Email: tiny@tinylittlemonster.com Website: http://tinylittlemonster.com Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tinylittlemonstertees/ Company Twitter: https://twitter.com/tinymonstertees/

Today, enjoy some of the best ETHINKSTL episodes of the season. Each show is filled with unique and valuable insight, experience and perspective. Check out this highlight episode for your must have entrepreneurial punch-list and be sure to come back for more in the full episodes of your favorites!! We are celebrating our favorite moments from practitioners, coaches and wise women. In our PRACTITIONER segment: Jeremy Nulik, lead futurist and strategist from Big Wide Sky gives us some tips on how to work through a major future change. Learn More: http://www.bigwidesky.com Diego Abente, Vice President of Economic Development of the International Institute and President of the International Institute Community Developmental Corporation, discusses how he helps immigrants achieve the American Dream. Learn More: http://www.iistl.org. Maria Meyers and Kate Pope-Hodel of KC SourceLink talk about how to build relationships and the importance of making the correct network connections. Learn More: http://www.joinsourcelink.com/ In our COACHING segment: Quentin Ortega, President of QCO Consulting, tells us how to be 'coach-able' and how to take feedback and turn it into a positive. Learn More: https://www.linkedin.com/in/quentinortega/ Nicci Roach and Lorie Jackson, Founders of Mosiac Ceiling, talk about the joys of having a business partner to help even the playing field. Learn More: http://nicciroach.com/ or https://www.linkedin.com/in/mosaic-ceiling-094a09147/ Erin Joy, Founder of Black Dress Partners, talks about finding the right cultural fit within your organization. Learn More: https://blackdresspartners.com/ In our WISE WOMEN segment: Rebeccah Bennett, Founder and Principal of Emerging Wisdom LLC and its subsidiary InPower Institute, talks about the importance of responsible transformation while acquiring your personal goals. Learn More: http://www.emergingwisdomllc.com/ Phyllis Librach, President and Founder of Sydney's Closet, discusses the importance of research and using past skills to better your business. Learn More: http://www.sydneyscloset.com Ronke Faleti, Founder and CEO of Korede, discusses the importance of a strong mindset in order to have a strong business. Learn More: http://www.shopkorede.com/

Today, enjoy some of the best ETHINKSTL episodes of the season. Each show is filled with unique and valuable insight, experience and perspective. Check out this highlight episode for your must have entrepreneurial punch-list and be sure to come back for more in the full episodes of your favorites!! We are celebrating our favorite moments from practitioners, coaches and wise women. In our PRACTITIONER segment: Jeremy Nulik, lead futurist and strategist from Big Wide Sky gives us some tips on how to work through a major future change. Learn More: http://www.bigwidesky.com Diego Abente, Vice President of Economic Development of the International Institute and President of the International Institute Community Developmental Corporation, discusses how he helps immigrants achieve the American Dream. Learn More: http://www.iistl.org. Maria Meyers and Kate Pope-Hodel of KC SourceLink talk about how to build relationships and the importance of making the correct network connections. Learn More: http://www.joinsourcelink.com/ In our COACHING segment: Quentin Ortega, President of QCO Consulting, tells us how to be 'coach-able' and how to take feedback and turn it into a positive. Learn More: https://www.linkedin.com/in/quentinortega/ Nicci Roach and Lorie Jackson, Founders of Mosiac Ceiling, talk about the joys of having a business partner to help even the playing field. Learn More: http://nicciroach.com/ or https://www.linkedin.com/in/mosaic-ceiling-094a09147/ Erin Joy, Founder of Black Dress Partners, talks about finding the right cultural fit within your organization. Learn More: https://blackdresspartners.com/ In our WISE WOMEN segment: Rebeccah Bennett, Founder and Principal of Emerging Wisdom LLC and its subsidiary InPower Institute, talks about the importance of responsible transformation while acquiring your personal goals. Learn More: http://www.emergingwisdomllc.com/ Phyllis Librach, President and Founder of Sydney's Closet, discusses the importance of research and using past skills to better your business. Learn More: http://www.sydneyscloset.com Ronke Faleti, Founder and CEO of Korede, discusses the importance of a strong mindset in order to have a strong business. Learn More: http://www.shopkorede.com/

Joining us today is Steve Epner. Steve has over 40 years of consulting experience. He served as “Entrepreneur in Residence” at Boeing and founded and manages the St. Louis Innovation Round table. Steve currently works with The Gateway Venture Mentoring Service, St. Louis Regional Entrepreneurship Educators and he teaches Corporate Entrepreneurship in the MBA program at St. Louis University. It has been said that Steve’s playful approach to business has allowed him to create supportive mentoring communities throughout his career. In this episode: Steve discusses his feelings on how higher education could better include entrepreneurship in it's curriculum. Steve tells us how he uses Venture Cafe in St. Louis as a lesson tool for the students enrolled in his classes. Steve gives us an idea on how to best get an advantage against competitors by thinking outside of the box. Steve explains the importance of getting out of our 'old ways' of thinking and start thinking outside of the box in a world that is evolving ever so quickly. Learn More: Email: Sepner@outlook.com Website: www.outsideinsidethinking.com

Listen in on Arlan's keynote talk from Vision 2018, the small business innovation symposium held October 19 in St. Louis, Missouri. It's a charming, hilarious, and inspiring interview that reveals stories you've never heard from Arlan's past — a candid conversation with Dr. Cheryl Watkins-Moore, Director + Lead of the Bioscience Entrepreneurial & Workforce Inclusion Initiative. Full show notes: https://backstagecapital.com/podcast/arlanwashere-vision-2018/ Credits Executive Producer: Arlan Hamilton Producer: Bryan Landers Theme by: Janine Additional music by: DeKobe