Shows
The Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP78 Kelly Vero Author & CEO NAK3D ; Code Like a Girl: Women Shaping Modern TechEP78 Kelly Vero returns to the podcast to explore the hidden history of women in technology and her journey as a tech innovator, game developer, and author. Her latest book, "Breaking Through Bytes" uncovers remarkable female tech pioneers dating back to Ancient Egypt, challenging the narrative that women's contributions to technology.• Kelly founded Nak3d, an AI-powered digital fashion factory that reduces waste by creating items only when there's demand• Kelly's crime fiction writing has led to one of her books being developed into a TV series• Many pioneering women had fathers as their first allies and su...2025-04-2049 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP77 Annabel Kalmar :CEO & Founder Tea Rebellion: Disrupting an Industry One Cup at a TimeEP77 Annabel our next guest, is the founder and CEO of Tea Rebellion, shares how she's disrupting the tea industry by connecting consumers directly with farmers and challenging existing practices. Her company rejects industry norms of blending and flavoring, instead treating tea like fine wine with clearly labeled origins that honor the farmers who grow it.• Agricultural roots and early passion for international development that eventually led to founding Tea Rebellion• How the traditional tea industry obscures farmer stories and keeps prices artificially low• The significance behind the name "Tea Rebellion" and its connection to repres...2025-04-1336 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP76 Amy Anzel CEO Hollywood Browzer Beauty :From Stage Lights to Beauty InnovationsIn this Episode 76, CEO Amy Anzel , founder of Hollywood Browzer Beauty, shares her journey from entertainment to creating award-winning dermaplaners that make Hollywood beauty accessible to all. Her entrepreneurial story reveals how identifying a market gap led to developing products that empower women to take control of their beauty routines without expensive salon treatments.• From acting and theater to beauty entrepreneur after discovering dermaplaning through a celebrity makeup artist• Identified a market gap when unable to find dermaplaners in the UK after moving from the US• Transitioned to eco-friendly materials like biodegradable wheat straw in respon...2025-03-1738 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP75 Gillian CEO Founder Peachaus From Fast Fashion to Ethical Entrepreneurship:My next guest on EP75 is Gillian Ridley Whittle CEO & Founder of Peachaus shares her journey from corporate fashion director to ethical entrepreneur , creating a brand that serves as an antidote to the destructive fast fashion system.• Founded Peachaus in March 2022 as an ethical underwear and lifestyle brand • Currently focused on revolutionizing the underwear industry by putting women first• Uses bra fitting experiences as opportunities for connection and education• Built a brand that celebrates design and craftsmanship while maintaining ethical standards• Creating a company culture that allows individuals to flourish and healChapter...2025-03-0937 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP74 Susana CEO and Founder A Sip of Authenticity: The Mezcal JourneyA captivating journey through the world of mezcal with Susana, founder of Mezcal Arena, reveals how this traditional spirit is gaining momentum among enthusiasts. Through Susana’s personal stories and insights, we learn about mezcal's production, cultural significance, and the challenges faced in bringing an artisanal spirit to market.• Introduction of the podcast and Susana's background • Discussion about the rise of mezcal and its unique qualities • Insights into the painstaking traditional production process • Community involvement and sustainability in mezcal production • Challenges faced from regulations and market entry • Trailblazer tips for aspiring entrepreneurs Chapters0...2025-03-0344 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastTakeaway Tips EP73 Mastering Entrepreneurship : Guests Rima & Morgan The Peachies BrandIn this Takeaway Tips Episode, Peachies is a bold new player in the nappies industry, founded by two female entrepreneurs, Rima & Morgan, who faced significant challenges with determination and resilience. They share valuable insights about branding, community support, and the importance of self-care in entrepreneurship. • Exploring the significance of distinct branding in a competitive market • Understanding the risks and logistics involved in launching a product • The power of community and collaboration among female founders • Practical tips for aspiring entrepreneurs based on personal experiences • Encouraging vulnerability and humility in leadership roles • Celebrating the journey and impact of nurt...2025-02-0531 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastTakeaway Tips EP72 : Empowering Women in Leadership: Authentic Branding, Resilience, and Personal Growth : Guest YvetteIn this Takeaway Tips episode, Yvette shares the journey of a balance coach and highlights the importance of authenticity in personal branding and leadership. It explores themes of active listening, the power of storytelling, and the necessity of integrating health into career success.• Discusses the evolution of personal branding and authenticity in business • Emphasises the importance of active listening versus being overly communicative • Highlights the role of storytelling in empowering women in leadership • Encourages networking and outreach to find mentors • Explores future aspirations and the impact of coaching • Stresses the interconnection between health and career...2025-02-0222 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP71 Rosie Bailey CEO and Co-Founder of Nibble -The Art of Negotiation Rosie's Transformative Career PathHow do you transform mathematical prowess into groundbreaking entrepreneurship? Rosie Bailey, the dynamic CEO and co-founder of Nibble, an innovative AI negotiation tool, joins us to share her remarkable journey from the world of mathematics and investment banking to trailblazing in tech. Rosie's story is a testament to the power of seizing opportunities, working with dedication, and strategically utilizing one's strengths to navigate bold career transitions. She opens up about the motivations and challenges that propelled her from a structured banking career to the unpredictable, yet rewarding, world of tech startups.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Rosie Bailey...2025-01-1358 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP70 Michaela Weber: SVP & GM BigCommerce - Empowering Women, and Building Resilience Through Unexpected Career TwistsIn this episode of the Trailblazers Experience podcast, Michaela Weber shares her remarkable career journey from her early years in Cape Cod to becoming the SVP & GM at BigCommerce. She discusses the importance of networking, navigating the financial crisis, and her transition into the FinTech and payments industry. Michaela emphasizes the significance of being open to new opportunities, the challenges of working in a global environment, and the need for women to empower each other in business. She also shares insights on finding balance in a demanding career and offers key takeaways for career growth.Michaela...2025-01-0644 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP69 Brie Reid: Founder & CEO of SNAG - Building a £40M Inclusive Fashion business with Entrepreneurial Spirit & VisionJoin me for an inspiring conversation with Brie Reid, the visionary founder and CEO of Snag. Discover how her personal experience with uncomfortable tights led to a complete transformation in the fashion industry, starting with a simple survey of 3,000 people and growing into an ethical and size-inclusive clothing brand. Brie's journey from a marketing background to creating a product she truly believes in underscores the entrepreneurial spirit and highlights the importance of listening to customer needs. The episode ends with an inspiring discussion on potential customer ownership, echoing the community-driven success of BrewDog, and emphasizes the importance of b...2024-12-1654 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP68 Yvette Janse van Rensburg: Consultant & Leadership Coach - Building Future Leaders with the 1% MindsetEver wondered how an unplanned journey could lead to a thriving career? Join us as we sit down with the incredible Yvette Janse van Rensburg, a master talent manager consultant and leadership coach, whose unexpected path from South Africa to the UK unfolds like a captivating novel. Originally meant to be a short stint abroad, Yvette's journey evolved into a nearly 20-year exploration of recruitment, human resources, and talent management. . Our conversation ends with a focus on the future, including the aspiration to create "corporate athletes" and a checklist for seeking mentorship. Tune in for a rich tapestry of...2024-11-2548 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP67 Tash Courtenay Smith : Serial Entrepreneur , Investor & Founder of Biz Kids: Empowering the Next Generation Through Entrepreneurship & Financial LiteracyEP67 Our next guest is Tash Courtenay Smith Entrepreneur , Investor , Author and Founder of Biz Kids Unleash the secrets of entrepreneurial success with Tash Courtenay Smith, a former health journalist turned dynamic entrepreneur and founder of Biz Kids. In our latest episode, Tash shares her exhilarating journey from aspiring to join the police force to revolutionizing children's education on TikTok. Her story is filled with pivotal moments that led her to embrace entrepreneurship, offering insights on balancing career ambitions with parenting, and the societal pressures women face in seeking work-life harmony.Finally, Tash delves into her passion...2024-11-181h 05The Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP 66 Jade Sammour CEO & Founder Dainty London Jewellery : My Entrepreneurship Journey & Building a Family LegacyEP66 Jade Sammour Founder and CEO Dainty London In this episode of the Trailblazers Experience, Jade Sammour shares her inspiring journey from being a children's heart transplant specialist to founding her own jewellery brand, Dainty London. She discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of networking, and how she balances motherhood with running a business. Jade emphasizes the value of mentorship, the power of creativity, and the significance of building a community around her brand. Her story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of passion in the face of adversity.Her journey is a t...2024-11-1158 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP65 Nyeji Mhango , Founder wCap, Unlocking Potential: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Developing MarketsEver wondered how a business can not only thrive but also empower others? Join us on the Trailblazers Experience podcast as we welcome Nyeji Mhango, the inspiring founder of wCAP Investments. With over two decades in corporate finance, Nyeji has been a beacon of change in Southern Africa, advocating for climate finance and gender lens investing. Her profound journey from corporate finance to working with the Zambian government reveals the power of resilience and vision. Learn how her strategic moves and diplomatic roles opened up new pathways for educational and professional growth, setting the stage for her impactful work...2024-10-2851 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP64 Sairan Aqrawi: From Engineer to Empowerment Coach - Mastering Time, Personal Branding, and Breaking Boundaries for Midlife SuccessEP64 Our next Guest is Sairan Aqrawi ,Engineer , Speaker ,Author and Coach In this episode of the Trailblazer Experience podcast, Sairan Aqrawi shares her inspiring journey from being an immigrant engineer to a successful business coach. She discusses the challenges of pursuing the American dream, the importance of transferable skills, and the balance between emotional intelligence and technical expertise. Sairan emphasizes the significance of authenticity, mastery, and continuous practice in both coaching and public speaking. She encourages listeners to find their hidden talents and to be committed to their goals, while also sharing her aspirations for global impact...2024-10-2154 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP63 Naseema Adam: Founder of Saaabuni Skincare - Transforming the Industry with Ayurveda & Entrepreneurial ResilienceEP63 In this episode of the Trailblazers Experience Podcast, Naseema, Adam , founder of Saaabuni, Skincare shares her inspiring journey from a health and safety professional to an entrepreneur in the skincare industry. She discusses the challenges she faced as a female founder, the importance of Ayurvedic principles in her products, and her vision for creating a community around natural skincare. Naseema emphasizes the need for education in skincare, the significance of networking, and the joy of balancing personal and professional life. Her story is a testament to resilience, curiosity, and the pursuit of passion in business.Listeners...2024-10-1453 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP62 Charlotte Blackler: Founder of Menopause-Friendly Foods - Transforming Women's Health with Nutrition and InnovationEP62 Guest is Charlotte Blackler , Founder of Mena ( Mena-pause Food Range ) In this episode of the Trailblazers Experience podcast, my guest is Charlotte Blackler shares her journey from pharmaceuticals to founding a menopause-friendly food brand. She discusses the importance of nutrition in managing menopause symptoms, the challenges of starting a business, and the significance of community support. Charlotte emphasizes the need for women to take control of their health through diet and lifestyle changes, rather than relying solely on HRT. She also shares valuable lessons learned as an entrepreneur and encourages women to seek help and not to a...2024-10-0751 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP61 Mo Carrier: Founder of myBliss - Empowering Women's Sexual Wellness and Innovation in the Fem-tech IndustryEP61 In this episode of the Trailblazers Experience Podcast, Mo Carrier, co-founder of My Bliss, shares her journey of creating a sexual wellness brand focused on women's health and pleasure. Mo Carrier's journey into the realm of sexual wellness started with a personal crisis. After enduring severe side effects from hormonal contraception, Mo co-founded my Bliss to offer better alternatives for women. This episode explores her inspiring mission to empower women in their sexual health, addressing the hurdles they face and the crucial role of male allyship. Learn how my Bliss is tackling the gap with products t...2024-09-3032 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP60 Lara Solomon: Founder of Hoopsy - Revolutionizing Women's Health & Sustainability with an Eco-Friendly Pregnancy TestEP60 Our guest is , Lara Solomon, founder of Hoopsy, shares her inspiring journey from personal challenges with IVF to creating an eco-friendly pregnancy test.What if you could revolutionize both women's health and the environment with a single innovative product? Listen to Lara Solomon, the visionary founder of Hoopsy, as she discusses her ground-breaking eco-friendly pregnancy test made from 99% paper. Inspired by her own IVF journey, Lara's entrepreneurial spirit shines through as she talks about turning a significant environmental concern into a transformative business opportunity. Her story is one of passion and necessity, aiming to make...2024-09-2353 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP59 Kathryn Bricken: Founder & CEO of Doughlicious - From Hobby Baker to Cookie Empire SuccessEP59 , Our Guest is Kathryn Bricken, the founder and CEO of Doughlicious, shares her journey from baking in her Miami kitchen to creating a beloved gluten-free cookie brand in London. Kathryn's story is one of organic growth, from bake sales at her children’s school to seeing her products in major retailers and celebrated on social media. Listen as she recounts her path from crafting decorative cakes in the U.S. to finding her entrepreneurial spirit in the UK, and how her love for baking became the cornerstone of Doughlicious.Building a business from the ground up is...2024-09-1640 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP58 :Paula Co-Founder of Marty's Drinks Juice From Digital Media to Thriving Drink's EntrepreneurEP58 Our next guest is Paula Raubenheimer , Co-Founder of @Drinksmartys Spiced Tomatoes Juice What happens when you leave the corporate grind behind to chase a passion for food? Join us as Paula, the spirited co-founder of Marty's Drinks Juice, recounts her remarkable career shift from digital media and marketing in South Africa to launching a successful food and beverage brand amidst a global pandemic. Paula's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, strategic partnerships, and the joy of hands-on entrepreneurship. Her story is not only inspiring but also packed with actionable insights for anyone considering a si...2024-09-091h 03The Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP57.Rima & Morgan: Co-Founders of Peachies Revolutionizing the Diaper Industry with Sustainability and InnovationImagine transforming the traditional diaper industry from mundane to modern and eco-friendly! In this episode of the Trailblazers Experience podcast, we're thrilled to host the dynamic duo behind Peachies, Rima and Morgan. They share the captivating story of how they went from sceptical classmates at Imperial College London to successful co-founders of a premium diaper subscription service. Discover how their childhood dreams, from becoming an astronaut to growing up in entrepreneurial households, set the stage for their innovative business journeyWe also explore the grueling yet rewarding aspects of entrepreneurship, from fundraising hurdles to the personal sacrifices...2024-09-011h 21
Plant Based CuriousCrafting a Holistic Life: Wellness & SuccessWelcome to a special REPOST of an episode on the Plant-Based Curious Podcast! In this unique session, I had the incredible opportunity to switch roles and become the interviewee on The Trailblazers Experience Podcast, hosted by the insightful Ntola Obazee.During our conversation, Ntola and I embarked on a deep exploration of my personal and professional journey in the realms of health, wellness, and success. With a background as an author, consultant, college instructor, professional speaker, and host, I delved into the many facets of holistic well-being that have shaped my life.I opened up...2024-08-1147 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP56 Nadine Maggi Managing Director : From Forensic Science Dream to Armed Forces/Military Service & Leadership SuccessEP56 Nadine Maggi , Managing Director of Sweet Freedom What if your unconventional career path could lead you to an unexpected yet fulfilling destination? Join us as we sit down with Nadine Maggi, the inspiring Managing Director of Sweet Freedom, who opens up about her incredible journey from aspiring forensic scientist to military service, and eventually to HR leadership. Nadine reveals how her background in the armed forces equipped her with invaluable skills like discipline, teamwork, and resilience, which she later applied to manage a loss-making business successfully. This episode is a treasure trove of insights on how initial...2024-07-2255 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP55 Sara Russell: Founder The Women's Domain & Empowering Women in BusinessMy next guest is Sara Russell, Marketing Director at 5874 Commerce & Founder of The Women Domain Learn about the inspiring journey of the Women's Domain, a community founded by Sarah to integrate more women into the e-commerce community Join us as we celebrate empowerment through networking and continuous learning. Sarah introduces the Women's Accelerator Program, dedicated to supporting female-led businesses through mentorship and virtual get-togethers. Reflecting on the growth of the Trailblazers Experience podcast, we take a moment to appreciate the authentic, heartfelt conversations that have inspired many. Don't miss this episode filled with stories of perseverance, authenticity, an...2024-07-1536 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP54 Lisa Sharapata: CMO Leadership with purpose through Community & CultureEver wondered how marketing principles can be the secret sauce to building high-performing cultures? Join us as we sit down with Lisa Sharapata, the dynamic Chief Marketing Officer of the Arbinger Institute, who shares her fascinating career journey from a graphic designer to a strategic leader and now a CMO. Lisa dives into how her passion for understanding audiences and strategy led her to pivot across various roles and industries, ultimately finding her calling in resolving people problems within organizations. Discover how these marketing insights can transform leadership and culture in your workplace.Lisa opens up about...2024-07-0137 min