Shows
The Nouveau PodcastEpisode 29: Final Message of 2025 | Use link below, Join my EmailThis week's episode reflects on a year of growth, change, and finding a nouveau direction. Host Meredith Waguespack offers a deeply personal update on her business journey and her spiritual life, explaining why the word "Nouveau" applies more than ever as she heads into 2026.Meredith discusses the challenges and triumphs of launching the podcast (hitting 1,200+ downloads!), the successful Small Business Audit series, and her major personal focus for the next year, including her family, her spiritual journey toward the Catholic Sacrament, and her new role as a visionary for Sweet Baton Rouge®.She also shares e...
2025-12-0817 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 28: From Finish Line to Launchpad: Building Your 2026 Strategy NowNow that the year is ending, it’s tempting to crash—but this is actually the most critical time to set yourself up for success.In this episode, we're transitioning from the final push to launching strong into 2026. We show you how to take the data and momentum from your Small Business Audit and turn it into a focused, mission-driven strategy for the new year.We dive into three essential steps for building your 2026 blueprint:Stop Guessing, Start Growing: How to use your Year-End Scorecard (Bestsellers and Top Revenue Channels) to determine exac...
2025-11-2409 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 27: The Black Friday Blitz: Preparing for Your MomentHow are you feeling as the biggest sales season of the year approaches? If you're running your small business full-time or juggling it as a side hustle, Black Friday is your moment of truth.In this timely episode, we're not just talking discounts—we're talking strategic, burnout-proof preparation. Meredith shares the focused tactics she uses after a year of major events (from hiring a new manager to running the Ultimate Tailgate!) to ensure Q4 success.We break down the simple steps you need to take right now to maximize holiday sales and protect yo...
2025-11-1715 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 26: The Art of the Values-Driven OfferStop selling stuff and start selling meaning. If your side hustle feels like it's drowning in a sea of competitors, you're missing the most powerful marketing tool you have: Your Values.This isn't about fluffy branding—it's about building deep trust that converts. When a customer buys from you, they aren't just getting a service; they are validating their own beliefs.Your Challenge: Can you clearly connect your core value (e.g., Simplicity, Transparency, Community) to a specific feature in your product?T...
2025-11-1007 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 25: Your "Why" on Display: Using Storytelling to Attract the Right CustomersYour marketing feels scattered, right? Especially if you’re a solo entrepreneur or running this as a side hustle. You’re constantly chasing trends or trying to write captions that sound salesy and awkward. The reason? You’re focused on the product instead of the promise. Today, we are unlocking the single most powerful marketing tool you own: your brand’s origin story and core values. This isn't just a fluffy exercise—this is the clarity that cuts through the noise. Listen today to learn how to stop inventing things to say and start simply sharing your truth to magnetize...
2025-11-0309 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 24: 15 Years of Sweet Baton Rouge®: The Power of Slow & Steady GrowthConnect with Meredith:I am a mom to three, big maw maw to seven. I've been married for 18+ years, counting the days down to the BIG 20 so we can open up a great bottle of wine.My husband and I also own a wine bar in our town we live in, called Library Wine & Provisions. I am the founder of Sweet Baton Rouge®, a local Louisiana business I created from scratch with no marketing plan, just a little grit and lots of geaux! This business will hit 15 years in October and by far h...
2025-10-2044 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 23: The Vision Board Isn't Just for DreamsIt’s the final 90-day push—and this is your business’s championship game! Today, we’re shifting our focus from data analysis to strategic vision.If you didn’t hop on the vision board train in January, today is the day we make one for the end of 2025. This isn't about pretty pictures; it’s about creating a powerful, visual roadmap to keep you solely motivated and focused on your ultimate goals for Q4.Meredith shares why she scaled her detailed Sweet Baton Rouge® brand book into a simple vision...
2025-10-1325 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 22: The Data Don’t Lie: Using Numbers to Fuel Your MissionIn the second step of our Small Business Audit, we’re showing you how to look past simple sales figures and connect your data directly to your mission and core values.Your brand is more than just a product. We discuss how clear vision—like Sweet Baton Rouge®’s commitment to community and comfort—allows us to grow sustainably (like our 49% retail sales increase over 2024 YTD!) and confidently invest in marketing that matters. Remember: Marketing is saying one thing 100 times, not 100 things once.We dive into:Connect...
2025-10-0615 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 21: The Small Business Audit: Your Roadmap to the Finish LineThe Small Business Audit: Your Roadmap to the Finish LineWelcome to your first step in the small business audit! This exercise is designed to give you a clear, data-driven look at your business's performance so far this year. Grab a piece of paper or open a spreadsheet—let's get started.Step 1: Identify Your Sales ChannelsFirst, list all the ways your business brings in money. These are your "buckets of money" or sales channels. Step 2: Calculate Your 2025 Sales MetricsFor each sales cha...
2025-09-2921 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 20 Local Series: With Ebony McCallister and Posh PopThis week on our Local Series, we're bringing you a story that's not just local, but truly inspiring and incredibly sweet! We sit down with Ebony McCalister, the incredible mom and guiding force behind Posh Pop Popcorn, a gourmet brand started by her brilliant daughters, Bailey Monet and Harper Juliet.You'll hear the full story of Posh Pop's journey from its humble beginnings in their kitchen during the pandemic to becoming a Baton Rouge sensation. We'll discuss their big moves, from selling at farmers markets and pop-up events to getting their products into LSU and SU stadiums...
2025-09-2241 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 19: Recap of My Summer BreakWe're back! After an extended summer break, I'm thrilled to be back behind the mic to share some personal and professional updates. In this episode, I’m taking you on a whirlwind tour of our summer adventures, from an incredible family trip to Europe—exploring Paris, Germany, and Normandy—to celebrating with friends in Florida. I’ll also share a vulnerable lesson about slowing down that I learned the hard way (and yes, my hip is much better now! 😉).But it wasn't just about travel! I’m revealing why this new season is taking a different direction. I'll share ho...
2025-09-2236 min
It's Baton Rouge: Out to LunchLadies & GentlemenIf you read the bestseller “Bowling Alone” in 2000 or are taking notice of wellness stories offering advice on how to reconnect with others IRL, you know that Americans are facing a crisis of loneliness. According to an advisory issued in 2023 by then U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, about one-in-two adults in America report experiencing loneliness, a condition that impacts mortality at a similar rate as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. For entrepreneurs, business owners, or corporate executives who might be feeling “lonely at the top,” the isolation can have devastating effects, especially for men...
2025-06-2928 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 18: Making the Most of Your Business's Quiet SeasonIs your business experiencing a seasonal slowdown? Instead of hitting pause, this week on The Nouveau Podcast, we're exploring how to strategically leverage your quiet season for long-term growth and success. Discover actionable steps you can take to work on your business, rather than just in it, during these valuable periods.We'll delve into key strategies like reviewing past performance, investing in learning and development for yourself and your team, optimizing your online presence, nurturing valuable customer relationships, and finally tackling those crucial behind-the-scenes tasks that often get neglected during busier times. Learn how to analyze your...
2025-05-2614 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 17: Batch Working: Your Secret Weapon for ProductivityFeeling overwhelmed by constant task-switching? Discover the power of batch working! This week on The Nouveau Podcast, we dive into a game-changing productivity strategy that can transform the way you work. Learn why grouping similar tasks into focused time blocks minimizes distractions, maximizes focus, and ultimately saves you precious time and energy.We'll explore the key benefits of batch working, including reduced mental fatigue, increased momentum, streamlined workflows, and more time for deep work. Plus, get practical, step-by-step guidance on how to implement batch working into your daily routine. From identifying recurring tasks and grouping them effectively...
2025-05-1919 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 16: Local Series: Sarah Fulton with Fulton Bookkeeping & AccountingFeeling overwhelmed by your business finances? You're not alone! This week on The Nouveau Podcast, we're diving into the crucial topic of bookkeeping and financial clarity with the wonderful Sarah from Fulton Bookkeeping. Sarah's on a mission to empower ambitious female entrepreneurs (that's you!) to feel confident and in control of their business numbers.Sarah understands that navigating your books can be daunting, and she's created a judgment-free space to help you truly understand your financial data and use it to drive your success. With 7 years of accounting expertise, Sarah breaks down common pain points, offering initial...
2025-05-1235 min
Trulea Entertainment Podcast#7 - Small-Town Roots, Big-Time Vision: Sweet Baton Rouge & BeyondIn this episode of Trulea Entertainment, host Cory Lea sits down with Meredith Waguespack—founder of Sweet Baton Rouge®, owner of Library Wine & Provisions, host of The Nouveau Podcast, and a proud Louisiana entrepreneur.Meredith shares her inspiring journey from small-town beginnings, college, setbacks to building one of the state’s most beloved local brands. Hear how she launched Petey’s Press, created The Petey’s Scholarship, and built a business rooted in community, creativity, and a whole lot of geaux.We also dive into her passion for podcasting, her upcoming book, and how she balances...
2025-05-0757 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 15: Local Series: Jordan Basham with Where To Geaux SocialThis week, I'm absolutely buzzing to introduce you to my friend, the incredibly dynamic Jordan Basham! Jordan is the driving force behind the hyper-local phenomenon that is Where To Geaux, your ultimate guide to all things Baton Rouge and beyond. If you've ever wondered where to eat, what to do, or how to truly experience our amazing community, you've likely stumbled upon her fantastic content.But Jordan isn't just about showcasing the best of where to "geaux" for fun – she's also the brains behind Where To Geaux Social, a thriving social media marketing agency dedicated to helping lo...
2025-05-0545 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 14: Local Series: With Lydia Matthews, Esther Clothing Brand.Welcome back to The Nouveau Podcast, everyone! This week, I'm so thrilled to introduce a guest whose entrepreneurial journey has been truly inspiring to witness. Please give a warm Nouveau welcome to the incredibly talented Lydia Matthews! Our paths first crossed maybe back in 2020 or 2021, right around the time she started to build the amazing Esther Clothing brand, when she joined us as a vendor for our Sweet Baton Rouge Ultimate Tailgate. And since then, I've had the wonderful opportunity to watch her business truly grow and blossom over the years.. Tune in for an inspiring story w...
2025-04-2836 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 13: Local Series: Finding Financial Freedom (Guest Amy Anderson)Welcome back to our Local Series! This week, we're diving into a topic crucial for everyone: financial freedom. I'm thrilled to welcome our guest, Amy Anderson from BF Anderson!Amy wears many hats, not just at her firm as both an Investment Advisor and Marketing Director, managing client portfolios and promoting investment strategies. She's also a passionate advocate for animal rescue and a loving dog mom to her adorable rescues. But what truly makes Amy a must-listen is her dedication to making personal finance accessible and empowering through her platform, @the.fiscal.fox....
2025-04-2147 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 12: Local Series: The Legal Side of Hiring Like a Boss! (Guest Johanna Landreneau)Welcome back to our Local Series! This week, we're tackling a crucial aspect of business growth: hiring. I'm thrilled to introduce our guest, Baton Rouge attorney Johanna Landreneau!With over 30 years of legal experience spanning complex civil litigation, including employment law, Johanna now dedicates her expertise to advising businesses on HR compliance, consulting, business formation, branding, and risk management. Fun fact: Johanna handled the trademark registration for Sweet Baton Rouge® way back when, and also played a significant role in my family's adoption journey.In this essential episode for business owners, Johanna shares h...
2025-04-1445 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 11: Local Series: The Power of Networking (Guest Leigh Moss)Welcome to our Local Series! Join us as we spotlight the vital roles local connections play in shaping your business. Today, we're thrilled to welcome our first ever guest on The Nouveau Podcast: the incredible Leigh Moss!Leigh is a true entrepreneurial force, juggling Highland Road Realty, The Influential BWN (Business Women's Network), and the charming event space Fete: A Petite Southern Venue, nestled in a historic cottage. Her love for beautiful spaces extends to The Dreamer’s Cottage, her adorable pink door retreat in Natchez, Mississippi. Plus, you can catch her inspiring stories of faith and ho...
2025-04-0738 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 10: Grit, Grace, and Getting Started: My StoryEver wondered about the voice behind The Nouveau Podcast? In this deeply personal episode, I'm stepping out from behind the microphone to share my story – a journey filled with unexpected turns, unwavering grit, and the grace that carried me through.From growing up in North Louisiana to a less-than-stellar academic start (think 12-14 ACT scores!), I'll take you through the moments that shaped me: being a determined, navigating the complexities of young adulthood, and finding my footing in Baton Rouge.Discover the origin story of my business, born from a $500 loan and a whole lot of...
2025-03-3121 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 9: Unlocking Your Audience's Pain Points: The Question-Driven ApproachIn Episode 9, we're understanding your audience's actual struggles. Because let's face it: creating content or products in a vacuum? That's a recipe for disconnect. We’re moving beyond assumptions and taking a "question-driven" approach to build genuine customer connections.We'll explore why understanding pain points isn't just a "nice-to-have," but the foundation of strong customer relationships. We'll delve into how to build emotional connections, making your brand feel meaningful and unique. Think about a time you were frustrated as a customer – that's the level of understanding we're aiming for!We'll cover how to build your "ques...
2025-03-2431 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 8: Why Email? Not SocialHey everyone, and welcome back to The Nouveau Podcast! In today's digital world, it's easy to get swept away by the latest social media trends. But what about the power of good old email marketing? Is it still relevant? Absolutely!In this episode, we're diving into why email remains a crucial tool in your marketing arsenal. You might be thinking, "Email? Isn't that outdated?" Think again! In 2020, over 306 billion business and consumer emails were sent and received daily, and that number is projected to surpass 376 billion by 2025. Email is far from dead—it's thriving!Here's wh...
2025-03-1731 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 7: Branding, Marketing, & Meta: Trifecta for SuccessIn this episode, we're tackling the trifecta for small business success: Branding, Marketing, & Meta Ads!First, we'll demystify marketing. It's more than just ads—it's about connecting with your ideal customer and guiding them through their journey with your brand. We'll cover the marketing funnel (Awareness, Consideration, Conversion, Loyalty) and how marketing builds brand awareness, fosters loyalty, drives data-driven decisions, and leverages content like blogging.Next, we dive into branding. Think of your brand as your business's personality—it's what sets you apart and creates an emotional connection with your customers. We'l...
2025-03-1053 minThe Nouveau PodcastWinning Wednesday: PerseveranceWinning Wednesday: Share Your Wins!Hey there, amazing local small businesses! Let me introduce you to Winning Wednesday, and because we want to celebrate YOU! We will sprinkle these episodes in to bring you mid week encouragement, shining a spotlight on the incredible achievements of small businesses like yours. Whether you landed a new client, launched a new product, or simply made it through another week with your sanity intact, we want to hear about it!Share your wins with us and inspire your fellow small business community. You can:...
2025-03-0506 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 6: Product, Page, & Collection OptimizationIn this episode, we dive deep into optimizing your product pages for maximum impact. Just like your product pages are your virtual storefront, they need to be engaging, informative, and persuasive to drive sales.Key Takeaways:Product Titles: Keep them concise, informative, and keyword-rich. Include your primary keyword near the start.Product Descriptions: Go beyond features; highlight benefits and tell a story. Use sensory language to bring the product to life.Collections: Organize your products into well-defined collections for easy browsing. Utilize "smart collections" features if available....
2025-02-2430 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 5: Website Must-Haves: A Checklist for SuccessIn this episode, we're diving deep into a crucial aspect of your online presence: your website. We'll be creating a checklist to ensure your website is optimized to attract customers, showcase your brand, and drive sales.We'll cover key elements like:Homepage Heroics: Clear messaging, visual appeal, strong calls to action (CTAs), and responsive design.Navigation That Navigates: User-friendly menus, well-organized product categories, and an informative "About Us" page.Product Page Powerhouses: High-quality images, detailed descriptions, and a smooth checkout process.Search Functionality: Easy-to-find search bars and accurate...
2025-02-1733 minThe Nouveau PodcastEpisode 4: Building Your Brand From Vision to RealityIn this episode, Meredith dives deep into the world of branding, sharing her own personal journey with Sweet Baton Rouge® as a case study. From early missteps with business names to the importance of consistent branding, Meredith offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs at every stage.Key Takeaways:The Importance of Self-Reflection: Understand your target audience, your values, and what makes your brand unique.Building a Strong Brand Identity:The Power of Storytelling: Share your brand story authentically and connect with your audience on a deeper level.Consistency is Key: Maintain consistency across all platforms, from your w...
2025-02-1036 min
The Nouveau PodcastEpisode 3: Building Your Brand Foundation - Mission, Vision & More!In this episode, we dive deep into the foundational elements of your business: your mission statement, vision, core values, and overall brand identity.Key Takeaways:Mission Statement:Define your purpose: What problem are you solving? What needs are you fulfilling?Know your audience: Understand your ideal customer and their needs.Keep it concise and clear: Use simple language and focus on impact.Make it unique: Differentiate yourself from the competition.Vision Statement:Describe the desired future state of your...
2025-02-0336 min
The Nouveau PodcastEpisode 1: Data & Dreams: The Nouveau PodcastEpisode 1: Data & Dreams: The Nouveau PodcastDescription:In this inaugural episode of The Nouveau Podcast, host Meredith Waguespack shares her entrepreneurial journey and the inspiration behind launching this exciting new venture. Discover how a passion for data and a desire to help other small businesses led to the creation of The Nouveau Podcast.Show Notes:Describes the challenges and rewards of launching a new business venture.Explains the inspiration behind creating The Nouveau Podcast.Outlines the key topics that will be covered in future episodes.Shares...
2025-01-2709 min
The Nouveau PodcastEpisode 2: Auditing Your Business: A Deep Dive into Marketing SuccessIn this episode, we dive deep into the importance of conducting a thorough marketing audit for your business. We discuss the critical role of humanizing your brand, the importance of analyzing your sales data, and the power of understanding your target audience. Learn how to identify areas for improvement and develop a plan for growth.Key Takeaways:The importance of humanizing your brand and connecting with your audience on a personal level.The value of conducting a thorough analysis of your sales data to identify trends and areas for...
2025-01-2736 min
The Punch Bowl DiariesEpisode 87: From Selling T-Shirts in the Back of Her Car to Being A Top Leader in Her Industry: A Story of Hope with Meredith WaguespackSend us a message! Click here!In this episode, the ladies interview Meredith Waguespack who is the owner and founder of Sweet Baton Rouge. She shares her journey as an entrepreneur and how through all the highs and lows she has been able to hang on to her hope. Get ready to feel inspired and hopeful as you borrow some of her faith and wisdom earned over the last 14 years of starting and growing a business. Enjoy! Instagram: @sweetbatonrougeBlog: https://www.sweetbatonrouge.com/blogs/sweet-baton-rouge-insider-blog/saturday-gave-us-locals-hopeFollow us on Instagram a...
2024-09-2337 min
In The Arena PodcastBUSINESS - Callin' Sweet Baton Rouge with Meredith WaguespackThis week on our business episode of In The Arena, our hosts are joined by Meredith Waguespack, the CEO and founder of Sweet Baton Rouge. Meredith gives us great insight to not only how her business is run, but the inspiring journey she took to get to where she is today. From starting as solely an online business to opening her first brick and mortar as 2020 hit, Meredith breaks down the highs and lows of what it is to be a business owner. You don't want to miss this episode!CONNECT WITH MEREDITH:WEBSITE: https://www...
2024-09-0339 min
Louisiana LadiesCalling Sweet Baton RougeWe are so excited to have Meredith Waguespack of Sweet Baton Rouge on this week's podcast! She has such an inspiring story of moving to Baton Rouge and starting her own business. She told us all about her journey, how she got to where she is today, and advice for others. Thank you so much, Meredith!Visit Sweet Baton Rouge! Sweet Baton Rouge - Louisiana T-ShirtsCatch up on Louisiana Ladies on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!Follow Louisiana Ladies on Instagram and FacebookWanna chat? Email louisianaladiespodcast@gmail.com.
2021-06-141h 04
SmidgenDinner Dinner in a Hurry HurryThe pandemic impacted so many families' eating routines, but one thing that never changes is the need to get dinner on the table quickly. Quick dinners that are hot, nutritious, and delicious are always in demand, no matter what the current circumstances. How much of fast dinners is hype? What can we keep in the pantry to make quick dinners easier? How do we keep fast dinners from getting boring (or plunging us into a cooking rut?) All these questions and more answered on this episode of Smidgen, the podcast of Red Stick Spice Company. Ho...
2021-03-1140 min
Chase Doesn't Know#16 - Meredith WaguespackMeredith Waguespack is the epitome of a go-getter. She's an entrepreneur and brand builder whose growing lifestyle business turns 10 years old this year. From a single t-shirt design to running multiple businesses, she's an inspiration for those who have high ambition and enough determination to keep pushing until something becomes a success. Check out her business at sweetbatonrouge.com and follow her on instagram @mwaguespack.
2020-09-211h 09
The Patty-G ShowEpisode #46: Baton Rouge Never Felt So Sweet - Meredith WaguespackIn this weeks episode we are talking all things t-shirts. We sat down with Meredith Waguespack of Sweet Baton Rouge, a local t-shirt line started a decade ago to create unique designs that centered around all things Baton Rouge. With starting her brand as a football tee line, Meredith had the drive to do more and focus even further on the Baton Rouge culture that runs through her veins. While some people tend to see business in their success stage, what really makes a business unique is the steady constant growth, over time. What Sweet Baton Rouge is today...
2020-08-191h 00
Do What You Want Radio with Jordan HeflerS1E8: Meredith Waguespack of Sweet Baton Rouge- Starting an Apparel Company, Routines, and Keeping it LocalIn this episode Jordan and Sweet Baton Rouge owner Meredith discuss how to start and run an apparel company, productive routines, and giving back to the community by keeping it local.For more of Meredith's companies visit:www.sweetbatonrouge.com @sweetbatonrouge@lagniappebox@sweetbatonrougeinsiderVisit www.jordanhefler.com and @jordanhefler for more of JordanDon't forget to SUBSCRIBE, RATE, and REVIEW on iTunes! FOLLOW on SpotifySHOW NOTES!Support the show (http://www.jordanhefler.com/podcast)
2019-01-261h 18
It's Baton Rouge: Out to LunchRoyal Tee - Out to Lunch - It's Baton RougeWe ve all heard about the Amazon Effect and how ecommerce is seriously disrupting the retail world. Savvy entrepreneurs are figuring out how to carve a niche for themselves, whether by offering unqiue products or that special personal touch you can t get online, creating a unique shopping experience , or, by creating a whole new business model. Mark Peirce is owner of The Royal Standard, a gifts, accessories and at one time antique furniture store. Mark and his wife Krista got into the business more than 20 years ago, selling European antiques. Over the years, as the market for antiques and...
2018-11-3029 min