Shows
Cosmos & Commerce PodcastS2 E12 Wayne Lewis - 614 Media - MasterchefIn this episode of Cosmos and Commerce, hosts Janis Francis and Michele Cook sit down with Wayne Lewis, founder of 614 Magazine, Stock & Barrel Magazine, and a former contestant on MasterChef. From navigating the dynamic world of media to showcasing his culinary talents, Wayne’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.Key Highlights:Media Mogul Beginnings: Wayne shares how a college misstep led him to launch his first newspaper at LSU, ultimately sparking his passion for publishing. His drive and persistence carried him through challenges as he built 614 Media Group...
2024-11-241h 02Cosmos & Commerce PodcastS2 E11 Carol Haynes - Kiddie AcademyPodcast Summary: Carol Haynes – Building a Legacy with Kiddie AcademyIn this heartwarming episode of Cosmos and Commerce, co-hosts Michele Cook and Janis Francis interview Carol Haynes, founder of Kiddie Academy. From her roots as a nurse to becoming a multi-location childcare entrepreneur, Carol shares how her passion for children and community led to the creation of a thriving childcare enterprise.Key Takeaways:The Power of Passion and Perseverance: Carol's journey began with a deep love for children, catalyzed by personal challenges and her daughter’s unexpected pregnancy. She turned obst...
2024-11-181h 12Cosmos & Commerce PodcastS2 E10 Keith Border- Cardo's Pizza- A Slice of WisdomA Slice of Business Wisdom with Keith Bordner, Owner of Cardo’s Pizza & TavernEpisode HighlightsIn this episode, Janis Francis and Michele Cook welcome Keith Bordner, the mastermind behind Cardo's Pizza and Tavern, a local staple known not only for its mouthwatering pizza but also for its innovative business strategies. Together, they dig into the secrets behind Cardo’s success, including how Keith has woven his own touch of creativity and community focus into this beloved pizzeria. With a unique twist of insights and humor, this episode serves up a perf...
2024-11-1153 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastS2 E9 Building Backyard Dreams with Columbus Hardscapes | Jennifer & Rob HewittEpisode Description:In this episode of Cosmos & Commerce, hosts Janice Francis and Michelle Cook sit down with Jennifer and Rob Hewitt, the powerhouse duo behind Columbus Hardscapes. Listen in as they share the journey of growing their company from a small lawn-mowing gig into a premier outdoor living business, crafting dream patios, and more.Rob and Jennifer open up about the challenges they’ve faced, including workforce turnover, seasonal demands, and finding the right team. They reveal the marketing strategies that helped propel Columbus Hardscapes, from direct mail campaigns to social media and cr...
2024-11-0454 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastS2 E8 Jeff Comer- 3XP ToursExploring Buckeye Lake with Jeff Comer of 3XP ToursIn this lively episode of Cosmos and Commerce, Michele and Janis sit down with Jeff Comer, the visionary behind 3XP Tours at Buckeye Lake, Ohio. Jeff takes listeners through his journey of creating unforgettable kayak and bike adventures that capture the spirit of the lake, complete with stops at local breweries and wineries. Dive into Jeff’s story and gain insights into his entrepreneurial path!Episode Highlights:Origins of 3XP ToursJeff’s inspiration struck in 2016 after an incr...
2024-10-2740 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastS2 E7 Jennifer Beckwith - Wayside BookkeepingEpisode Summary:In this episode of Cosmos and Commerce, hosts Michele and Janis sit down with Jennifer Beckwith, founder of Wayside Bookkeeping, to discuss her successful journey into restaurant and bar bookkeeping. Jennifer shares how she turned a side hustle into a thriving business, emphasizing the importance of understanding financial reports and the unique challenges of bookkeeping in the food industry. From networking strategies to mentoring aspiring bookkeepers, this conversation is filled with valuable insights.Key Highlights:Jennifer's Journey: From empty nester to entrepreneur, she started her bookkeeping...
2024-10-2045 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastS2 E6 Tracy Heitmeyer - 5 Bean CoffeePodcast Summary: Tracy Heitmeyer of 5 Bean CoffeeIn this episode of Cosmos and Commerce, Michele and Janice sit down with Tracy Heitmeyer, the inspiring owner of 5 Bean Coffee in Reynoldsburg, Ohio. Tracy takes us on a journey through her entrepreneurial path, from her humble beginnings learning the ropes of running a business to navigating the challenges of starting a coffee shop at the height of the 2008 recession.Tracy shares the origins of 5 Bean Coffee, explaining that the idea came from a family conversation about finding a business that would allow her to balance...
2024-10-141h 03Cosmos & Commerce PodcastS2 E5 Jason Diehl- The Ritzy RoseIn this episode of **Cosmos and Commerce**, hosts Michele and Janis sit down with Jason Diehl, co-founder of Ritzy Rose, to explore his incredible journey from crafting unique brooch bouquets to navigating the challenges of a thriving e-commerce business. Jason shares how a chance connection with country star Miranda Lambert skyrocketed their brand into the spotlight, leading them to leave their day jobs and pursue entrepreneurship full-time. As they dive into the evolution of Ritzy Rose, Jason discusses the pivotal moments that led to their shift away from brooch bouquets and into paper products, revealing insights on...
2024-10-061h 02Cosmos & Commerce PodcastS2 E4 Danielle Browning - The Dashing SuitesIn this episode of Cosmos and Commerce, hosts Michele and Janis welcome Danielle Browning, the owner of the innovative micro event center, Dashing Suites. The conversation dives into the rise of mini weddings and intimate gatherings, reflecting on how Danielle's journey in the event industry led her to create a unique space catering to small-scale celebrations.Key HighlightsDanielle's Background: With over a decade in floral design through her business, Dashing Designs, Danielle identified a gap in the market for small event venues in Pickerington, Ohio. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the trend toward micro...
2024-09-2942 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastS2 E3 Hot Heads Burritos- Jay BezakPodcast Summary: Cosmos and Commerce - Episode with Jay Bezak, Owner of Hot Head BurritosIn this episode of Cosmos and Commerce, Michele and Janis sit down with Jay Bezak, the driven entrepreneur behind Hot Head Burritos in Groveport, Ohio. Jay shares her inspiring journey from working a corporate job at Chase to owning multiple Hot Head Burritos locations, despite the challenges of the food industry.Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at Jay’s transition into the world of food, starting with the influence of her father, a successful bowling alley owner, and he...
2024-09-2240 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastS2E2 Rachel Scofield- Pickerington OnlineEpisode HighlightsRachel Schofield shares the inspiration behind starting Pickerington Online, stemming from her journalism background and a desire to provide accurate local newsThe online magazine began during COVID, with a print version added later to cater to readers who prefer physical copies.Pickerington Online generates revenue primarily through advertising, with rates ranging from $50 to $500.Key InsightsThe lack of communications officers in local government bodies poses a challenge for gathering information.Collaborations with the Pickerington Violet Township Historical Society have led to popular projects, including a 1970s Pickerington slideshow...
2024-09-1543 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastSeason 2 Episode 1 Catching UpEpisode Summary: Season 2 Kickoff & Personal UpdatesHosts Michele and Janis return for the second season of Cosmos and Commerce with a casual catch-up episode, discussing their lives, businesses, and future podcast guests.Michele opens up about the launch of the new Body Ache Escape Wellness Center, which had a grand opening in May, attracting over 200 people.New hires include an esthetician, an acupuncturist, and a nurse practitioner specializing in weight loss.Janis shares an update on her recovery from foot surgery and getting back into hiking.She talks...
2024-09-0945 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastHeather Lipe- Woodchuck Arts- Graphic Design Welcome to "Cosmos and Commerce," the podcast where business and fun converge. Hosted by Michele Cook of Body Ache Escape Massage Center and Janis Francis of The Humble Crate. Join us as we engage with some of the most creative and influential minds in the business arena. In today's episode, we're thrilled to have Heather Lipe, the creative force behind Woodchuck Arts. Heather's unique talent lies in weaving together the aesthetics of design and the pragmatics of business, enabling small companies to flourish in the digital landscape. With a knack for creating websites that are not just visually stunning b...
2024-01-1445 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastPeg Tobin- Tobin and Associates- Healthcare Recruiting- Episode 19Guest:Peg Tobin, a healthcare recruiter, educator, writer, and public speaker, owner of Tobin and Associates.In this episode of "Cosmos and Commerce," hosts Janis Francis and Michele Cook interview Peg Tobin, a seasoned healthcare recruiter and the visionary behind Tobin and Associates. Peg shares her unexpected journey into healthcare recruitment, a path that began with her granddaughter's health crisis and led to the founding of her successful company. Over the course of the episode, Peg shares the challenges and triumphs of growing her business, the evolution of healthcare recruitment practices, and the importance of...
2023-12-171h 01Cosmos & Commerce PodcastNate Hux- Pickerington Pharmacy- The Problem with "the system" - Episode 18Hosts: Janis Francis and Michele CookGuest: Nate Hux, a pharmacist and entrepreneurKey Points:Background and Career Shift: Nate Hux, initially a corporate pharmacist, shifted to an independent pharmacy. He bought Pickerington Pharmacy from Dale Schultz, aiming to focus more on patient care rather than corporate profits.Launching Freedom Pharmacy: In 2020, Nate launched Freedom Pharmacy, a separate entity from Pickerington Pharmacy, to offer medications at more affordable prices by bypassing insurance companies. This approach aimed to reduce administrative costs and focus on direct consumer transactions.Challenges and Decisions
2023-12-1048 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastDarian Rowles- Uncork Your Life- Unleashing Potential- Episode 17Episode 17- Darian's multifaceted career spans holistic health, fitness, acting, photography, TV, and marketing, providing a rich tapestry of experiences for listeners to draw inspiration from.Darian opens up about her life journey, emphasizing how becoming a parent at a young age influenced her career trajectory. She shares her transition from pursuing practical career options to embracing her passions in photography, acting, and fitness. This transition is a central theme, highlighting the importance of flexibility and adaptability in both personal and professional life.A significant portion of the conversation is devoted to the intersection of...
2023-12-0327 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastSarah Kahn- Corporate Rehab- Episode 16Podcast Episode Title: Cosmos and Commerce - Sip, Savor, Succeed with Sarah KahnHosts:Michele CookJanis FrancisGuest:Sarah Kahn, owner of Corporate Rehab and host of Business Blasphemy PodcastPodcast Sections:Introduction:Greetings and introductions by hosts Michele Cook and Janis Francis.Guest Introduction:Introduction of Sarah Kahn, her mission, and her work with Corporate Rehab.Interview with Sarah Kahn:Background of Corporate Rehab:Sarah's transition from Linchpin Virtual to Corporate Rehab.Discussion on the...
2023-11-1943 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastJen Routte- Routte Law- Episode 15Cosmos and Commerce with Jen Routte of Routte LawHosts: Michele Cook & Janis FrancisIntroductionWelcoming Jen RoutteBrief overview of Routte Law and Jen’s backgroundJen’s Journey into Law and EntrepreneurshipJen’s early career and motivationsTransition from traditional law practice to entrepreneurshipChallenges faced and overcoming themFounding of Routte LawInspiration behind starting Routte LawUnique aspects of Routte Law’s approach to legal servicesTarget clientele and service offeringsBusiness Philosophy and StrategiesJen’s business philosophy and valuesStrategies for client engagement and satisfactionBalancing legal expertise...
2023-11-1255 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastHelen Holloway- Champion Pest & Termite ControlPodcast Outline Summary: Cosmos and Commerce with Michele CookIntroduction to Helen Holloway and Champion Pest and Termite Control: Helen Holloway is the tenacious and insightful founder of Champion Pest and Termite Control, a company that has carved a niche for itself in the competitive pest management industry. With a keen focus on customer satisfaction and environmentally friendly practices, Helen's business stands out for its commitment to both efficacy and eco-consciousness. Her journey from a curious observer in the field to a leading entrepreneur is a testament to her dedication and innovative approach to pest...
2023-11-051h 01Cosmos & Commerce PodcastMichelle Plumby- AR Workshop- Episode 13Cosmos and Commerce Podcast Summary: Michelle Plumby from AR WorkshopIntroduction:Michelle Plumby is a dynamic figure in the world of DIY and home decor. As a representative of AR Workshop, she embodies the spirit of creativity and hands-on crafting. AR Workshop is a boutique DIY studio that offers hands-on classes for creating custom and charming home decor from raw materials. From wood signs to canvas pillows, they provide an experience that merges the joy of DIY with the charm of boutique home decor.Hosts: Michele Cook and...
2023-10-2949 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastJean Tully- Adored Boudoir Photography- Episode 12Cosmos and Commerce: Sip Savor Succeed - Jean Tully Interview SummaryIntroduction:Hosts: Janis Francis (Humble Crate Artisan Marketplace and RE MAX Connection) and Michele Cook (Body Ache Escape Massage Center).Theme: Exploring the intersection of business and pleasure.Guest: Jean Tully, one of the best boudoir photographers, specializes in capturing the natural beauty of women in a comfortable environment.Jean Tully's Journey:Initial Introduction: Met Michele Cook at a National Association of Women Business Owners meeting.Photography Passion: Started in middle school with...
2023-10-2248 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastK. Zulene Adams- Z Promotions- Episode 11Summary of Podcast: K. Zulene Adams- Z Promotions Introduction:Host: Janis Francis of Humble Crate Artisan Marketplace.Co-host: Michele Cook of Body Ache Escape Massage Center.Guest: Zulene, the force behind Z promotions and president of NAWBO Columbus.Zulene's Journey to Z Promotions:Started Z promotions 17 years ago.Started Z promotions to tailor company culture and align with personal values.About Z Promotions:A promotional products company with an international footprint.Focuses on understanding the client's mission, vision, values, and objectives.Aims to make b...
2023-10-151h 03Cosmos & Commerce PodcastSarah Jackson - Combustion Brewing - Episode 10Hosts:Michele Cook from Body Ache Escape Massage CenterJanis Francis with the Humble Crate Artisan MarketplaceGuest:Sarah Jackson, the driving force behind Combustion BreweryHeadlines:Introduction to Sarah Jackson and Combustion BreweryMichele introduces the episode and the guest, emphasizing the blend of business and pleasure.Sarah expresses gratitude for being on the show.Origin Story of Combustion BrewerySarah shares how homebrewing was the catalyst for entering the industry.Personal story of how she and her husband Keith started brewing as a...
2023-10-0846 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastDanielle Resseguie - Ruby Joy Boutique - Episode 9Podcast SummaryHeadline: Embracing Size Inclusivity and Entrepreneurial Spirit: A Conversation with Danielle ResseguieIntroduction:Guest: Danielle Resseguie, founder of Ruby Joy BoutiqueHosts: Michele Cook and Janis FrancisTopics Discussed: Size inclusivity in fashion, entrepreneurial journey, business values, and challenges in establishing a boutique.Bullet Points:1. Inspiration and Concept of Ruby Joy Boutique:Danielle has been in the business for over eight and a half...
2023-10-0143 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastLory Kim- Remax Connections Broker- Episode 8Cosmos and Commerce Podcast Summary- Lory Kim - Remax ConnectionsIntroductionHosts: Michele Cook (Body Ache Escape Massage Center) and Janis Francis (REMAX Connection Realtors and the Humble Crate Artisan Marketplace).Podcast's aim: Provide actionable insights and entrepreneurial spirit.Guest IntroductionLory Kim, owner of REMAX Connection Realtors.Lory's Background and InspirationStarted in telemarketing in 1998.Inspired by Delina Siamako, a top-producing agent and brokerage owner.Challenges in Starting a BusinessImportance of self-belief, consistency, and persistence.Seeking...
2023-09-2428 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastElla Williams - Posh Teatime Co. - Episode 7Hosts: Michele Cook & Janis FrancisGuest: Ella Williams, Posh Teatime CoSection 1: IntroductionIntroducing Ella Williams: Guest is an entrepreneur and founder of "Posh Teatime Co."Background: Talked about her personal and business journey.Section 2: Business AcumenLaunching Posh Tea Time Co.: Ella shares her experiences and challenges in setting up her brand.Inspiration: The significance of tea in her culture and family.Business Expansion: Future plans about product development and expanding to a physical store.Section 3...
2023-09-1733 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastEpisode 6- Lillie Williams- J Dog Hauling & Rags to RichesGuest:Lillie Williams (J Dog Junk Removal & Hauling and Rags to Riches) Introduction:Transitioned from military service to entrepreneurship.Experienced injury during deployment, leading to time at Walter Reed.Inspiration for J Dog:Participated in Boots to Business, an organization aiding veterans' transition into business.Introduced to J Dog during a 12-week training, a veteran-established franchise.Beginning of Rags to Riches:J Dog's operation led to the accumulation of items which spurred the idea for Rags to Riches.Boots to Business Program:
2023-09-101h 02Cosmos & Commerce PodcastEpisode 5- Elijah Danilets- Danilets DetailingPodcast Episode Summary: Interview with Elijah DaniletsBackground & Early Life:Elijah's roots in Ukraine and his immigration journey to the U.S.Development of his car detailing passion from his father.Danilets Detailing:Main business venture focused on car detailing.Emphasis on the joy of the transformation process in detailing.Contributions to the community: hiring and mentoring the youth.Learning from Experiences:Value of adaptability and resilience.Importance of customer feedback:Choosing to own and learn from criticism.Realizing that customer opinions shape a...
2023-09-0358 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastEpisode 4- Carol Wentzel- Personal TrainerPodcast Summary: Exploring Health, Fitness, and Empowerment with Carol WentzelIntroduction:In the "Cosmos and Commerce" podcast, hosts Janis Francis and Michele Cook sit down with Carol Wentzel from Amanda Black Fitness to delve into her journey as a health and fitness coach, specifically focusing on women's health during menopause.Getting to Know Carol Wentzel:The hosts introduce Carol Wentzel, a health and fitness coach with Amanda Black Fitness, as their special guest. Carol shares her personal journey, battling weight and body image issues, and the turning point that led her to...
2023-08-2741 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastEpisode 3- Shelley Wasicki- The Positive Spirit CoEPISODE 3 - SHELLEY WASICKI- THE POSITIVE SPIRIT COPodcast Summary: "Cosmos and Commerce"Introduction: Hosted by Janis Francis from Remax Connection and The Humble Crate Artisan Marketplace, and co-host Michele Cook from Body Ache Escape Massage Center.Purpose: Offers actionable insights and entrepreneurial spirit, combining innovative strategies and inspirational wisdom for success in commerce.Guest: Shelley Wasicki from The Positive Spirit Co., instrumental in inspiring the podcast's creation.Shelley's Role in Podcast Creation:Shelley's intuitive reading...
2023-08-2046 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastMichele Cook- Body Ache Escape Massage Center- Episode 2🎙️ Step into the vibrant world of "Cosmos and Commerce," where host Janis Francis and guest Michele Cook from Body Ache Escape Massage Center embark on a captivating journey of discovery. In this exhilarating episode, they delve into the fascinating stories and insights behind Michele's remarkable business journey, uncovering the inspiration, challenges, and growth that have shaped her success.🌟 As the conversation unfolds, Janis and Michele's dynamic rapport shines, showcasing their genuine excitement for their shared venture. This episode captures the essence of collaboration, camaraderie, and entrepreneurship at its finest.🏢 Michele Cook's Body Ache Escape Massage Center is n...
2023-08-1329 minCosmos & Commerce PodcastJanis Francis - The Humble Crate - Episode 1Step into a world of vibrant conversations and clinking cocktail glasses as the debut episode of "Cosmos and Commerce" takes center stage. Hosted by the effervescent Michele Cook and her partner in crime, Janis Francis, this podcast sets sail on a journey that blends business insights with the art of sipping cocktails. 🍹With a cheerful and lively atmosphere, listeners are transported to the heart of the action as Michele and Janis, the dynamic duo, exchange greetings. Their voices intertwine like a harmonious dance, setting the tone for an evening filled with laughter, spontaneity, and perhaps a few off...
2023-08-1335 min