Her Ceo Journey

Key TakeawaysFinding Wellness in a Bustling World: How a high-stress career fueled Sheena's search for personal well-being, leading her to discover the power of tea.More Than Just a Tea Company: Tease Wellness offers functional tea blends designed to seamlessly integrate into everyday life.  Overcoming Barriers as a Woman Entrepreneur: Sheena sheds light on the challenges women face in accessing capital.Debt Financing for Growth: Sheena shares her experience using debt financing, an often-overlooked strategy, to scale Tease.Strategic Debt Financing: Sheena shares the benefits of leveraging debt financing instead of giving up equity and highlights how timing and planning are key when securing business loans.Financial Knowledge for Entrepreneurs: Understanding financial health through cash flow and balance sheets is crucial for avoiding pitfalls, especially when planning for an exit.Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Sheena founded the Founders Fund to help women entrepreneurs access funding, mentorship, and

In this episode of Her CEO Journey, we’re joined by Lisa Curtis, the dynamic founder and CEO of Kuli Kuli Foods. Lisa’s journey began during her Peace Corps service in Niger, where she struggled with finding nutritious food. A group of local women introduced her to moringa, a superfood that helped tackle malnutrition—and that simple solution later became the foundation of her thriving business. Recognizing the potential of moringa as both a powerful source of nutrition and a way to support the livelihoods of small farmers, Lisa began her journey in partnership with these farmers. She set out on a mission to introduce this superfood to the global market. As Kuli Kuli grew from a grassroots effort to an international brand, Lisa Curtis faced challenges such as consumer education and fundraising for her mission-driven company. Key TakeawaysAligning your company's mission with both profit and purpose is crucial for long-term success, especially in the CPG industry.Finding a product that resonates with your p

Key TakeawaysThe Importance of Financial Planning: While Sarah enjoys branding and marketing, her experience highlights how vital financial planning is to long-term success. Early lessons from fundraising helped her keep profitability front and center as she built Chiwis.Understanding the CPG Landscape: Entering the CPG industry comes with its own set of challenges. Sarah delves into the importance of knowing your margins, pricing strategies, and building strong relationships with key players like brokers and retailers. Strategic Decision-Making for Growth: Data-driven choices are at the heart of Chiwis' success. Even when a product like the mango chip line was popular, Sarah discontinued it because of slim margins—a clear example of making tough calls for long-term gain.Building a Scalable Brand with Purpose: Building a scalable brand takes thoughtful planning. For Sarah, partnering with the right co-manufacturers and leaning on industry expertise has been instrumental in positioning Chiwis for sustaine

In this episode of Her CEO Journey, we sit down with Venessa Stonehouse, the founder of Mindful FÜD. Venessa’s journey from running a food truck to creating a successful plant-based brand is nothing short of inspiring. Mindful FÜD isn’t just about tasty vegan products—it’s about making a positive impact with every bite, including their unique honey alternative made from upcycled apples. Join us as Venessa shares her insights on scaling a business in  the CPG industry, building a brand that’s both sustainable and innovative, and securing crucial partnerships with major retailers. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up, Venessa’s tips and stories are packed with insights you won’t want to miss.Discover the story behind Mindful FÜD, the challenges Venessa has overcome, and her vision for the future of plant-based food.Key TakeawaysEntrepreneurial Journey: Venessa Stonehouse's entrepreneurial journey started at a young age with a food truck business and has evolved into her current vent

The Power of Upcycling: Kimberle Lau on Sustainable Food ProductionIn this episode of Her CEO Journey, we sit down with Kimberle Lau, the inspiring founder of Bake Me Healthy. Kimberle shares her journey from management consulting to the beauty industry and ultimately, her passion project of creating a sustainable, plant-based baking company.Key TakeawaysSustainable Entrepreneurship: Kimberle's journey demonstrates how personal experiences can fuel entrepreneurial ventures with a sustainable mission.Social Impact through Food: Bake Me Healthy's commitment to using upcycled ingredients and fighting food waste highlights the positive impact businesses can have on society.Navigating the Food Industry: Kimberle's insights into the challenges and rewards of starting a food business offer valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.Financial Strategies for Startups: Learn from Kimberle's experiences with pricing, distribution, and fundraising as she navigates the complexities of scaling a food b

Welcome back to Her CEO Journey, the podcast empowering women entrepreneurs to build thriving businesses that make a difference!Throughout this season's Finance for Change series,our host Christina Sjahli has been breaking down complex financial concepts and translating them into actionable strategies for mission-driven founders like yourself. As a founder with a social impact mission, you understand the importance of financial health. It's the foundation that allows you to turn your passion into a powerful force for good. But managing the financial side of things can feel overwhelming, especially as your business grows.In today's episode, Christina is going to explore a solution that can change the game: the power of a fractional CFO. Many founders mistakenly believe their accountant or bookkeeper can handle everything. While these roles are essential, a fractional CFO brings a whole new level of strategic expertise to the table.Key Takeaways:A fractional CFO is a strategic financial partner,

Forecasting is naturally imperfect.It is imperfect because businesses are always changing, and economic conditions are always shifting.So, as a founder, you have to be ready to adapt and deal with uncertainty.Today, our host Christina Sjahli will take you into the world of forecasting.In this episode, Christina will guide you through the art of forecasting by breaking down the key steps to creating an intentional forecast, even with the understanding that things can change along the way.  She talks about why forecasting is essential for any business.Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, grasping the essence of forecasting can serve as a formidable asset in ensuring your business's success.  Keep in mind, forecasting isn't just about predicting numbers; it's about shaping the future of your business with purpose and clarity.Let's jump in!Key Takeaways:Benefits of a good forecast:Early identification of deviations from predictions (positive or negative).Understand

If you're building a mission-driven business, there's one particular number you definitely need to check. Understanding this number will quickly pinpoint any issues in your business and determine if you're building a sustainable, profitable venture.In this episode of Her CEO Journey, we demystify the significance of this essential metric for business vitality: Gross Margin.Join our host Christina Sjahli as she unveils the power of this metric, teaches you how to calculate it in minutes, and explains what it tells you about your pricing, costs, and overall financial sustainability.  Access the path to informed decision-making and build a thriving business that resonates with your purpose!Listen and move from panic to power. Key Takeaways:Gross Margin Explained: It's a profitability indicator representing revenue minus the direct cost of delivering your service or product.Calculating Gross Margin Percentage: Revenue minus Cost of Goods Sold divided by Revenue.Interpreting Your Gross Margin:B

Do you ever find yourself feeling anxious, even though your business is profitable? Perhaps this unease stems from uncertainties about your cash flow – a crucial financial aspect that often confuses many mission-driven CEOs.  Fear not!  This episode of Her CEO Journey serves as your comprehensive cash flow masterclass, equipping you with the knowledge and strategies to confidently manage your business's financial health.Join our founder, Christina Sjahli, as she delves into practical techniques for closely monitoring your operating cash flow.Christina will walk you through the art of cash flow management, empowering you to take proactive control of your business's financial well-being.By the end of this episode, you'll be a cash flow pro, ready to:Extend your runway and breathe a sigh of relief.Make sound decisions based on real financial data.Prioritize effectively and stay true to your mission.Are you ready to become a cash flow master? Let's get started!Bonus: We've got a Practical

Imagine this: You've built a thriving business, your sales are climbing, and on paper, you're incredibly profitable.  But then, reality hits. Payroll day arrives, and suddenly you're scrambling to find the cash to cover it. Does this scenario sound familiar? It's what many founders experience—the profit versus cash flow paradox. While profit might seem promising, cash flow tells the real story about your business's financial health.In this episode, our founder and host of Her CEO Journey, Christina Sjahli will clarify the difference between profit and cash flow. Christina will explain why profit and cash flow don't always go hand-in-hand, and equip you, a mission-driven founder, with the knowledge to use both effectively for wise and sustainable business decisions.  Ditch the financial frustration and join us as Christina reveals the secrets of true financial health for your business!Key Takeaways:Profit (net income): The remaining amount after deducting all costs from revenue. I

Patrice's journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring women entrepreneurs, showcasing the profound impact of blending passion, purpose, and strategic planning to build a successful and meaningful business.In this episode of Her CEO Journey, our host Christina Sjahli welcomes Patrice Mousseau, founder and CEO of Satya Organics, a company dedicated to creating effective and sustainable skincare products. Patrice unfolds her inspiring journey from media personality to entrepreneur, driven by a personal need to find natural remedies for her daughter's eczema. She delves into Satya Organics' commitment to social good, building a diverse workforce, and navigating the dynamic world of international expansion.Key Takeaways:From passion to purpose: Patrice's  journey underscores how personal experiences can ignite entrepreneurial ventures. Values-driven business: Satya Organics prioritizes quality, sustainability, and social responsibility, demonstrating that businesses can be profitable while ma

Dionne Laslo-Baker, the founder and CEO of Deebee’s Organics, is a fellow certified B Corp dedicated to revolutionizing snacks. With a background in medical science and as a mother, she embarked on a mission to provide organic, flavorful, and nutritious snacks for families.In this episode, Dionne delves into the highs and lows of growing a business from scratch. She offers valuable insights into overcoming regulatory hurdles, embracing cultural diversity, and the pivotal role of advisors in business expansion.But what truly sets Dionne's story apart is her unwavering commitment to a purpose-driven culture and sustainable business practices, which has not only propelled Deebee’s Organics to international success but also made a lasting impact on the industry.Tune in to this episode of Her CEO Journey to discover more about Dionne’s path to building a sustainable global enterprise while staying true to her core values.Here's what you'll discover:Learn how advisors can influence your business in t

Amanda Klucowicz serves as a Senior Relationship Manager at Export Development Canada. She is dedicated to helping Canadian businesses break into international markets. With EDC's tailored tools and solutions, navigating global waters becomes more manageable, ensuring not only profitability but also the long-term security of your company.In this episode, Amanda delves into crucial topics such as EDC's criteria for Canadian companies, the customized solutions they offer, and essential preparations for business owners venturing into international markets. Customized solutions are especially vital for businesses committed to social impact or seeking B Corp certification, as their challenges often differ significantly from traditional businesses.Join us on Her CEO Journey to explore EDC's strategies for global market entry.Here's what you'll discover:Discover how EDC tailors assistance specifically for your Canadian business.Prepare effectively for partnering with EDC to enter internation

Meet Ashlee Froese, the driving force behind Froese Law, serving as its Founder and CEO. Leading this cross-border legal firm, Ashlee adeptly steers through diverse industries, specializing in key areas like branding, corporate, and commercial law.Ashlee embarked on her legal journey with a clear mission: to empower clients with comprehensive information for informed business decisions and to demystify the legal space, making it accessible to a broader audience.In this episode of Her CEO Journey, Ashlee Froese delves into the intricacies of contract writing for international business. While local contracts might seem straightforward with all parties governed by local laws, the international landscape introduces complexities such as:Which laws apply? How does culture come into play? Does ethical approach vary between countries?Join us in this episode of Her CEO Journey to learn the nuances behind contract writing on the international stage.Here's what you'll discover:Learn the essential elements that

Navigating the global landscape is crucial for Canadian businesses due to the country's relatively small population — which means that most of your customers and clients are outside the country.In this episode, Sara Wilshaw, Chief Trade Commissioner at Global Affairs Canada, shares her expertise in guiding local companies towards international success. She sheds light on leveraging the Trade Commission Service for market entry beyond Canada.Whether you're a Canadian or international company, Sara's insights in this Her CEO Journey episode offer valuable guidance for those venturing into international business.Tune in to discover key considerations for companies transitioning from local to global markets.3 reasons why you should listen to the full episode:Gain insights into the role of Canada's Trade Commission Service in supporting international business.Understand what your company needs to know before entering markets abroad.Explore the specific challenges faced by women-owned businesses

Ever wondered where your money really goes?As a purpose-driven business, you do your best to put your money toward your mission and the world you envision. But every business relies on money, and that involves systems, like processing fees.A virtual CFO can help track every cent of your business's finances. You might be surprised to find a significant percentage going to something as ordinary as processing fees.That's where Shizuka Buckley of Giv Local steps in. Processing fees are okay—they're crucial in today's business world. But Shizuka turns those fees into a force for good in her communities.Join us in this episode to learn more about what goes on in payment processing and how Shizuka is changing it for the better!3 reasons why you should listen to the full episode:Find inspiration in Shizuka’s drive to create a payment company that works not for profit, but for the mission.Learn how to overcome the challenges inherent to running a nonprofit.Clarify the opacity surrounding payment pr

In many companies, the main goal is to maximize profits, often overlooking the needs of people and the environment. But that's neither sustainable nor ethical. Liz Rojic experienced this in the fashion industry and bravely decided to challenge the norm. With MZ Made, she crafted a business model that prioritizes mutually beneficial relationships for both the company and its artisans. As entrepreneurs, our focus should be on creating a positive impact rather than just chasing the highest profits.In this episode of Her CEO Journey, Liz shares her experiences in building a company grounded in humanism. She emphasizes the importance of adhering to core principles, even in the face of challenges. Join us to gain insights into the significance of cultural values in products, the concept of slow fashion, and how to establish a company that truly embodies its values.3 reasons why you should listen to the full episode:Learn what it takes to create a humanist company that puts people and the planet ahead of profit

In a world filled with plastic and single-use packaging, how can we reduce our impact on the environment? We often purchase, use, and discard products daily, but the zero-waste movement encourages both consumers and business owners to be more environmentally responsible.This reflects the values that Allisha Heidts aimed to promote when she founded Chickpeace, a zero-waste refillery. This holiday season, join our special holiday series on Her CEO Journey to embrace mindful gift-giving. Discover how to embark on your zero-waste journey and integrate these important principles into your business with Allisha. From your daily essentials to the gifts you purchase during this season of giving, let's make more responsible choices that benefit the world. Join us in this episode to explore how you can incorporate zero waste and sustainability into your business this upcoming holiday season!3 reasons why you should listen to the full episode:Be inspired by Allisha’s journey and her passion for sustainability and t

Every founder has a team behind them, working together to make the whole business successful. If you're a business owner, you care not only about growing your company but also about your employees' well-being. This includes making sure they earn a living wage and have the support they need. But to make such a big change, you must first ensure your business is prepared. That's where financial planning comes in, a crucial part of building a sustainable business.Over the past four episodes, the Living Wage Series has showcased conversations with remarkable women in business, delving into the implementation of living wages. As we conclude this series, our host, Christina Sjahli, reflects on the valuable insights and experiences shared by each guest. She also emphasizes a critical aspect — the significance of financial planning. As a CFO, Christina breaks down the essential steps in financial planning that empower you to make significant changes like introducing a living wage.If you're keen to

Creating positive change sounds like a good idea — and one effective way to achieve it within your company is by implementing a living wage. However, like any worthwhile endeavor, it requires careful planning. Good intentions are a starting point, but thoughtless action can lead to unintended consequences.In the fourth episode of our Living Wage series, we delve into Mari Parker's experiences as the COO of Boldr, where they raised baseline pay to a living wage. We've discussed the importance of living wages for ethical business owners; now, let's explore the implementation process.Providing a living wage shouldn't jeopardize your business. In fact, it can enhance your company's sustainability if integrated effectively. Join us to discover how your business can make this transition.3 reasons why you should listen to the full episode:Create sustainable change in your business that can continue to evolve and meet the challenges of the times.Gain insights into designing an ethical methodo