Eleanor Mooney is the co-founder of Verdant, a New York City-made luxury lingerie line built for real life - not just the fitting room. In this episode, she and Emily Jean get into what it actually takes to create high-quality lingerie from the ground up: sourcing European fabrics, obsessing over stretch and recovery, wear-testing every sample, and building an e-commerce experience that still feels like boutique-level service.
If you’ve ever wondered why some bras look amazing for five minutes and then fall apart by lunchtime, Eleanor breaks down the details most brands overlook - plus how Verdant is designing for “stillness and motion” so women can move, work, commute, mom, and live without adjusting straps all day.
Verdant is a masterclass in what “premium” is supposed to mean: fewer pieces, better materials, better fit, and an obsession with how a woman actually moves through her day. If you’re building a product brand (or just tired of bras that don’t keep up with your life), this conversation will make you rethink what’s worth investing in - and how service and craftsmanship become the real differentiators.
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💌 Build the life you deserve - on your own terms. Subscribe to the Founders in Jeans newsletter, the no-BS guide to startup life, consumer brands, and becoming your most confident, successful self, written by Emily Jean. Join 50,000+ women redefining wealth, community, and growth: https://foundersinjeans.beehiiv.com/subscribe
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https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-jeans/
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Follow Eleanor Mooney of Verdant:
https://verdant-nyc.com/
https://www.instagram.com/verdant_newyork/
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SEO keywords:
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Personal branding isn’t about perfect pictures or chasing likes - it’s about whether your audience actually learns something from you. In this episode, Emily Jean sits down with Ayesha Ameer, founder of Mentoria Digitals, to unpack what real LinkedIn influence looks like, why executives from Louis Vuitton to Visa are investing in personal brands, and how founders can build visibility without burning out or losing authenticity.
From starting her career in a marketing apprenticeship at 16 to helping leaders generate 20M+ impressions, Ayesha shares what she’s learned about positioning, consistency, and why “looking polished” is often the fastest way to dilute your brand long term.
Why personal branding is less about you - and more about your audience
The biggest LinkedIn misconception holding founders back
How to move from 5 likes to real opportunities on LinkedIn
The difference between vanity metrics and long-term brand equity
What executives from Louis Vuitton, Visa, and Emirates do differently online
How to build a LinkedIn presence without a ghostwriter or agency
The role AI should (and should not) play in your content strategy
The cringiest LinkedIn trends that quietly damage your brand
How Ayesha scaled her agency without burning out
Why imperfect, human content consistently outperforms “polished” posts
Whether you’re a founder just opening LinkedIn for the first time or a leader tired of posting content that goes nowhere, this episode is a reminder that real influence is built through clarity, consistency, and genuine value - not aesthetics alone.
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If you loved today’s conversation, please rate, review, and subscribe to Founders in Jeans - the podcast celebrating women claiming their worth in business, leadership, and life.
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💌 Build the life you deserve - on your own terms. Subscribe to the Founders in Jeans newsletter, the no-BS guide to startup life, consumer brands, and becoming your most confident, successful self, written by Emily Jean. Join 50,000+ women redefining wealth, community, and growth:
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https://www.mentoriadigitals.com/
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SEO keywords and phrases: personal branding for founders, LinkedIn personal branding, LinkedIn for entrepreneurs, female founders podcast, startup branding strategy, building a personal brand on LinkedIn, LinkedIn content strategy, thought leadership LinkedIn, founders in jeans podcast, women in business podcast, executive personal branding, branding for startups, how to grow on LinkedIn, LinkedIn marketing tips, authenticity in branding, social media for founders, entrepreneurship podcast for women, branding mistakes founders make, LinkedIn growth strategy, marketing agency founder story, AI tools for content creators, avoiding burnout as a founder, visibility for entrepreneurs, career growth LinkedIn, branding vs vanity metrics, building audience trust, founder storytelling, startup marketing insights, business podcast for recent grads, leadership personal brand, content creation for executives, LinkedIn best practices, building influence online, marketing apprenticeship to founder, branding for women entrepreneurs
This week, Emily sits down with Vimbai Midzi, the founder of Deeper Beauty, a melanin-first skincare brand born out of frustration, lived experience, and a whole lot of brilliance. Vimbai grew up never finding products that worked for her dark skin and instead of settling for “making it work,” she built the solution herself.
In this honest, eye-opening conversation, Vimbai shares what it’s really like to build a beauty brand as a woman of color, why “universal” skincare often excludes most of the world, and how she created a sunscreen that works for every skin tone without the white cast, greasiness, or thickness most people hate. She breaks down the inclusivity gap in beauty, the realities behind formulation, and how her global background shaped her approach to representation and product design.
It’s thoughtful. It’s empowering. It’s full of truth every beauty lover and founder needs to hear.
If you’ve ever felt unseen by the beauty industry — or wondered why “inclusivity” still feels like a trend instead of the norm — this episode gives real answers. Vimbai’s story is a reminder that representation isn’t optional. It changes the products we use, the habits we form, and the way we feel in our own skin.
For founders, her journey is a masterclass in trusting your lived experience, betting on yourself, and building something the world hasn’t made space for yet. For beauty lovers, it’s a look at what it actually takes to create products that work for everybody, not just the safest demographic. For anyone dreaming of starting something meaningful — this conversation will light a fire in you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐If you loved today’s conversation, please rate, review, and subscribe to Founders in Jeans - the podcast celebrating women claiming their worth in business, leadership, and life.
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💌 Build the life you deserve - on your own terms. Subscribe to the Founders in Jeans newsletter, the no-BS guide to startup life, consumer brands, and becoming your most confident, successful self, written by Emily Jean. Join 2,500+ women redefining wealth, community, and growth: https://foundersinjeans.beehiiv.com/subscribe
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Follow Emily:
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Follow Vimbai Midzi:
Instagram: deep_in_dxb
Visit Deeper Beauty: deeperbeauty.co
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Episode Description
From a New Jersey dairy farm to co-founding a boutique marketing agency trusted by early stage tech founders, Amy Winner has built her career on grit, intuition, and an uncanny ability to spot potential where others don’t. In this conversation, Amy breaks down the real state of marketing today, why early founders consistently focus on the wrong things, and how AI will change (and already is changing) the entire industry. This episode is a rare blend of honesty, strategic depth, and founder-to-founder truth-telling you won’t hear anywhere else.
This episode is a reminder that the future of marketing isn’t about chasing every new tool but anchoring yourself in what is deeply human: connection, curiosity, and conviction. Whether you’re raising a seed round, building your first marketing function, or trying to stay relevant in an AI-powered world, Amy brings clarity you can act on today.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you loved today’s conversation, please rate, review, and subscribe to Founders in Jeans - the podcast celebrating women claiming their worth in business, leadership, and life.
💌 Build the life you deserve - on your own terms. Subscribe to the Founders in Jeans newsletter, the no-BS guide to startup life, consumer brands, and becoming your most confident, successful self, written by Emily Jean. Join 50,000+ women redefining wealth, community, and growth:
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Follow Emily: https://www.instagram.com/emily.jeans/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-jeans/
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Follow Founders in Jeans: https://www.instagram.com/foundersinjeans/
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Follow Amy Winner & Wheels Up Collective:
Website: wheelsupcollective.com
Instagram: wheelsupcollective
Email: amy@wheelsupcollective.com
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female founders, startup marketing, early stage marketing, B2B marketing, marketing strategy, Amy Winner, Wheels Up Collective, Emily Jean podcast, Founders in Jeans, tech startups, seed stage growth, Series A marketing, founder mistakes, how to market a startup, marketing for founders, growth strategy, go to market, GTM strategy, bootstrapping marketing, customer persona building, founder-led sales, marketing data, marketing analytics, micro testing, marketing iteration, AI marketing, future of marketing, AI tools, AI automation, search AI previews, Google AI search, social media marketing, social fatigue, influencer fatigue, digital ads, Reddit ads, startup hiring, hiring for potential, culture-first hiring, distributed teams, remote teams, managing remote teams, startup leadership, founder advice, startup recession, marketing downturn, building resilient teams, authenticity in marketing, sales enablement, startup branding, marketing mistakes, marketing trends, founder resilience, startup community, startup empathy, customer discovery, product market fit, early adopters, startup storytelling, brand building, B2B growth, content marketing, CRM data, marketing funnel, awareness strategy, retention strategy, early founder advice, female entrepreneurship, hustle culture, work life balance, startup culture, remote work, startup HR, startup team building, startup layoffs, founder transparency, startup uncertainty, startup fundraising, marketing channels, Reddit marketing, niche marketing, community building, empathy driven marketing, AI doom, AI ethics, tech culture, podcast for entrepreneurs, business insights, startup journeys, women in business, founder challenges, startup experiences, leadership EQ, startup hiring mistakes, nurturing talent, creative careers in AI era, future of work, startup authenticity, marketing playbook.
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When you meet Grace Lancer, you immediately know she was never meant for the 9-to-5 grind. As a personal branding and marketing strategist for powerhouse female coaches, Grace helps women sell with undeniable conviction—ditching the funnels, the scripts, and the self-doubt to build businesses fueled by authenticity and confidence.
In this episode, Grace joins Emily Jean to talk about quitting corporate, building a personal brand that actually converts, and why personality—not perfection—is your most profitable asset.
Why Grace walked away from corporate life after realizing her personality no longer fit the “sit down and shut up” culture
How to sell with conviction so potential clients think, “F*ck, I need to buy from this person”
The “no Plan B” mindset every entrepreneur needs to succeed
Why websites don’t matter (yet) and what you actually need to attract your first clients
How to build a magnetic personal brand on LinkedIn—and why it’s the most underrated platform for female founders
Finding the line between personality and professionalism without toning yourself down
Grace’s refreshing take on remote work, work-life balance, and employee wellbeing
The mindset shift that helped her stop overthinking content and start showing up authentically
Practical video and content creation tips that make you stand out without fancy equipment
Why your ideal client should evolve as you evolve—and how to know when it’s time to pivot
If you’ve ever doubted your voice, your niche, or your worth in business—this episode is your permission slip to stop holding back. Grace and Emily talk about building confidence, creating conviction, and showing up online in a way that feels so you that selling becomes second nature.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you loved today’s conversation, please rate, review, and subscribe to Founders in Jeans - the podcast celebrating women claiming their worth in business, leadership, and life.
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💌 Build the life you deserve - on your own terms. Subscribe to the Founders in Jeans newsletter, the no-BS guide to startup life, consumer brands, and becoming your most confident, successful self, written by Emily Jean. Join 2,500+ women redefining wealth, community, and growth: https://foundersinjeans.beehiiv.com/subscribe
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Follow Emily:
https://www.instagram.com/emily.jeans/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-jeans/
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Follow Founders in Jeans: https://www.instagram.com/foundersinjeans/
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Follow Grace Lancer:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracelancer/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gracelancercoaching/
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female entrepreneurship, women founders podcast, personal branding for coaches, Grace Lancer Coaching, Emily Jean podcast, LinkedIn marketing tips, selling with conviction, how to sell coaching services, female leadership, mindset coaching, how to build confidence, leaving corporate job, quitting 9-to-5, build your personal brand, marketing strategy for women, online coaching business, business growth mindset, authenticity in marketing, social selling tips, women in business podcast, how to attract clients online, female coach branding, how to pivot your brand, LinkedIn content strategy, content creation tips, confidence for women entrepreneurs, work-life balance for founders, remote work insights, personal development podcast, entrepreneurship advice, self-employment journey, women empowerment, building authority online, social media strategy, building audience on LinkedIn, professional branding tips, marketing mindset, small business podcast, digital presence for entrepreneurs, storytelling in business, female-led startups, online visibility strategy, content ideas for coaches, authenticity online, women building businesses, entrepreneur lifestyle, motivation for founders, startup storytelling, female founder advice, business coaching for women, self-confidence, female empowerment podcast, entrepreneurship lessons, Grace Lancer interview, Founders in Jeans episode.
What if the chaos in your business wasn’t a sign of growth but a symptom of broken systems? Noor Barrage, also known as The Systems Girl on LinkedIn, joins Emily Jean to challenge hustle culture and show founders how structure can actually unlock freedom. From fitness coach to COO to running her own consultancy, Noor has seen the pitfalls of scaling without foundations and now she’s teaching entrepreneurs how to build businesses that last without burning out.
Why most founders mistake scaling for success - and what it really means
The three core systems every business under 10 employees needs
What a time audit reveals about where your hours really go
Why visionary founders and operators are the yin and yang of growth
How visionaries unintentionally sabotage their teams
The truth about fractional COOs and when to bring one in
Why assistants can often grow into powerful operators
Noor’s upcoming mentorship and why it’s the program she wished she had years ago
Running a business doesn’t have to mean 80-hour weeks, constant firefighting, and sleepless nights. Noor’s story is proof that when you invest in the unglamorous but essential backbone of systems and operations, you gain the freedom to build a company — and a life — that actually works.
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you loved today’s conversation, please rate, review, and subscribe to Founders in Jeans - the podcast celebrating women claiming their worth in business, leadership, and life.
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💌 Build the life you deserve - on your own terms. Subscribe to the Founders in Jeans newsletter, the no-BS guide to startup life, consumer brands, and becoming your most confident, successful self, written by Emily Jean. Join 2,500+ women redefining wealth, community, and growth: https://foundersinjeans.beehiiv.com/subscribe
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🎧 This episode is sponsored by KAIA
KAIA is democratizing women’s access to funding and fueling the multi-trillion dollar female economy. They’re building a new ecosystem where women can fund the founders they believe in, access curated experiences, and learn how to move like investors, together.
Join the waitlist at kaiawomen.net or send founder Hailey Handler a DM on Linkedin to step into the future of funding women.
A huge thank you to KAIA for supporting this episode and empowering more women to own their financial future.
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Follow Emily :
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emily.jeans/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-jeans/
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Follow Noor Barrage:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noorbarrage/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noorbarrage/
Book a Session with Noor: https://calendly.com/noor-nvbcollective/1-1-consulting-session-w-noor
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female founders, women entrepreneurs, business systems, operations, COO, fractional COO, visionary vs operator, scaling sustainably, how to scale a business, startup operations, time audit, project management systems, sustainable business growth, burnout prevention, hustle culture alternatives, how to hire an operator, business infrastructure, entrepreneurial leadership, founder-operator relationship, business structure for scaling, team management, sustainable scaling strategies, Noor Barrage, Systems Girl, NVB Collective,
What does it mean to scale your business without burning out? Nikki St Paul, leadership coach and nervous system guide for purpose-driven women, joins Emily Jean to share how subconscious beliefs shape our success, why rest is a power move, and how female founders can lead with both strength and ease. Nikki blends neuroscience, embodiment, and mindset work to help women step fully into their power while creating sustainable businesses they love.
The meaning behind “lead like a powerhouse, rest like a queen”
How subconscious beliefs quietly sabotage business growth
The signs of burnout most women ignore until it’s too late
Why ease and easy are not the same thing
Practical tools for rewiring hidden rules about worth and work
A powerful client story about charging what you’re worth
Why rejection can be a sign of growth, not failure
Hustle culture vs. sustainable success in the female founder space
The truth about rest as a strategic leadership move
Simple daily practices to regulate your nervous system and thrive
If you’ve ever tied your worth to your work, pushed past burnout, or wondered why scaling feels harder than it should, Nikki’s perspective will hit home. She offers a blueprint for building a business that honors both ambition and wellbeing - because leading with power and resting with intention are not opposites, they’re the formula for sustainable success.
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If you loved today’s conversation, please rate, review, and subscribe to Founders in Jeans - the podcast celebrating women claiming their worth in business, leadership, and life.
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💌 Build the life you deserve - on your own terms. Subscribe to the Founders in Jeans newsletter, the no-BS guide to entrepreneurial life, consumer brands, and becoming your most confident, successful self, written by Emily Jean. Join 2,500+ women redefining wealth, community, and growth: https://foundersinjeans.beehiiv.com/subscribe
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🎧 This episode is sponsored by KAIA
KAIA is democratizing women’s access to funding and fueling the multi-trillion dollar female economy. They’re building a new ecosystem where women can fund the founders they believe in, access curated experiences, and learn how to move like investors, together.
Join the waitlist at kaiawomen.net or send founder Hailey Handler a DM on LinkedIn to step into the future of funding women.
A huge thank you to KAIA for supporting this episode and empowering more women to own their financial future.
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Follow Emily:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emily.jeans/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-jeans/
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Follow Founders in Jeans:
https://www.instagram.com/foundersinjeans/
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Follow Nikki St Paul & Breathing Mindful Coaching:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamnikkistpaul/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkistpaul/
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SEO Keywords:
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Episode Description
What does it take to build a women’s community of 50,000 in just three years and why does Bitcoin belong in that story? Emily Dempsey, founder of The Brickell Babes, joins Emily Jean to share her journey from New York fashion buyer to Miami community builder to tech founder weaving Bitcoin into the future of female entrepreneurship. From her first happy hour meetup to launching a curated membership platform, Emily has redefined what it means to connect women in business and life.
The origin story of The Brickell Babes and how it grew to 50,000 members in under three years
Why community-building is harder, and more strategic, than most people think
The misconceptions about women’s networks (and why it’s not just “happy hours and matching sets”)
How Emily is building a new platform blending Facebook groups, ClassPass, and Soho House
Why brand partnerships only work when values align and why she rejects 95% of offers
How Bitcoin fits into the future of female entrepreneurship
The resources every woman should start with if they’re curious about Bitcoin
Why sales skills are non-negotiable for founders (even if you’re not selling a product)
Emily’s non-negotiables in business: ethics, reputation, and integrity
Building The Brickell Babes wasn’t about creating another social club — it was about curating authentic, elevated connections for women looking to grow in every area of life. Emily’s story is proof that community is strategy, integrity is non-negotiable, and the future of money belongs to women who are ready to learn.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you loved today’s conversation, please rate, review, and subscribe to Founders in Jeans - the podcast celebrating women claiming their worth in business, leadership, and life.
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💌 Build the life you deserve - on your own terms. Subscribe to the Founders in Jeans newsletter, the no-BS guide to startup life, consumer brands, and becoming your most confident, successful self, written by Emily Jean. Join 50,000+ women redefining wealth, community, and growth: https://foundersinjeans.beehiiv.com/subscribe
⸻
🎧 This episode is sponsored by KAIA
KAIA is democratizing women’s access to funding and fueling the multi-trillion dollar female economy. They’re building a new ecosystem where women can fund the founders they believe in, access curated experiences, and learn how to move like investors, together.
Join the waitlist at kaiawomen.net or send founder Hailey Handler a DM on LinkedIn to step into the future of funding women.
A huge thank you to KAIA for supporting this episode and empowering more women to own their financial future.
⸻
Follow Emily Jean: https://www.instagram.com/emily.jeans/https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-jeans/
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Follow Founders in Jeans: https://www.instagram.com/foundersinjeans/
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Follow Emily Dempsey:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilydempsey/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-j-dempsey/
Follow The Brickell Babes:
Website: https://www.thebrickellbabes.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebrickellbabes/
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female founders, women entrepreneurs, community building, women’s networks, Brickell Babes, Miami entrepreneurs, startup community, women in tech, Bitcoin for women, Bitcoin and entrepreneurship, female business leaders, how to build a community, event-based communities, scaling community, sales skills for founders, women in finance, networking for women, integrity in business, brand partnerships, scaling women’s platforms, future of finance, Bitcoin adoption, financial independence for women, Emily Dempsey, Emily Jean podcast, Founders in Jeans
How do you stand out in a sea of sameness on LinkedIn? And how do you build a personal brand that feels authentic and drives real results? In this episode, Emily sits down with Ciara O’Neil, founder of Brandfulness and rising voice in the personal branding space, to break down exactly how she grew to 10,000 followers in under a year and what it takes to turn visibility into opportunity. From her background in law and psychology to building a thriving strategy business, Ciara shares the playbook for founders, solopreneurs, and creatives who want to be known, remembered, and respected for what they do.
Why LinkedIn isn’t oversaturated - it’s your untapped growth channel
The #1 misconception about personal branding (hint: it’s not just posting)
How psychology and perception shape influence and trust
A client story: how an accountant went from invisible to in-demand
Why sharing your whole life online isn’t required to build connection
The difference between authentic and intentionally authentic branding
Comment sections, cold DMs, and the tactics that hurt your brand
What happens when you rebrand yourself as an authority voice
The power (and limits) of niching down for personal branding
Why your personal brand should transcend social media platforms
If you’re trying to stand out on LinkedIn, land clients, or position yourself as an industry authority, this episode is packed with insights you can use today. Ciara cuts through the noise of “be authentic” fluff and shows exactly how to align your brand, communicate clearly, and grow with intention.
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐If you loved today’s conversation, please rate, review, and subscribe to Founders in Jeans - the podcast celebrating women claiming their worth in business, leadership, and life.
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💌 Build the life you deserve - on your own terms. Subscribe to the Founders in Jeans newsletter, the no-BS guide to startup life, consumer brands, and becoming your most confident, successful self, written by Emily Jean. Join 50,000+ women redefining wealth, community, and growth: https://foundersinjeans.beehiiv.com/subscribe
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Follow Emily:https://www.instagram.com/emily.jeans/https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-jeans/
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Follow Founders in Jeans:https://www.instagram.com/foundersinjeans/
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Follow Ciara O’Neil & Brandfulness:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ciaraoneil/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_brandfulness/Website: https://brandfulness.co.uk
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SEO Keywords
personal branding, LinkedIn growth, how to grow on LinkedIn, building a personal brand, Brandfulness, Ciara O’Neil, personal branding coach, LinkedIn content strategy, LinkedIn growth tips, visibility vs authority, personal branding psychology, business storytelling, building trust online, LinkedIn misconceptions, how to get clients on LinkedIn, managing reputation, perception in branding, authority building, niching down personal brand, oversharing vs intentional sharing, authenticity in branding, authority rebrand, accountant case study branding, client transformation story, brand clarity, psychology in branding, identity and perception, self-determination theory branding, connection in branding, consumer psychology branding, AI and branding, LinkedIn AI comments, engagement tactics LinkedIn, cold DM strategy, outreach mistakes LinkedIn, pitching on LinkedIn, how to get inbound leads LinkedIn, social media for founders, brand storytelling LinkedIn, career transitions branding, law to branding journey, mindset in personal branding, confidence in brand building, limiting beliefs branding, clarity and messaging, building a brand beyond social media, Simon Sinek Start With Why, best books for personal branding, LinkedIn thought leadership, solopreneur LinkedIn strategy, founder branding, career branding, visibility vs engagement, marketing on LinkedIn, future of LinkedIn, B2B branding, pitching clients with confidence, elevator pitch branding, storytelling for business, content that converts on LinkedIn.
Ella McMahan leads marketing for Spring Fertility and its sister brands Open Fertility and Nest Donor Bank. In this conversation, Ella breaks down the realities of IVF and egg freezing, why education beats fear, and how patient-first marketing, community events, and smart influencer partnerships can literally change lives. If you care about building brands that feel human and drive outcomes, this episode delivers.
Why Spring built an accessible sister clinic model at half the cost
The marketing lever that matters most in healthcare: education before sales
How to speak like a girlfriend without dumbing down the science
Building community in a vulnerable category without forcing 24/7 chatter
The influencer campaign that set a new bar for impact and authenticity
Messaging rules that make clinical info feel clear, warm, and useful
The under-discussed myth: getting pregnant is “easy”
Partner ideas Ella is chasing: clothing rentals for stim bloat and wearables research
Leading with empathy using the first follower framework
Word of mouth that works: why in-person moments beat performative posting
Whether you are marketing a clinic or a consumer brand, this episode is a masterclass in building trust when stakes are high. Ella shows how language, access, and genuine community moments turn fear into informed action. You will walk away with usable ideas for customer education, partnerships, and leadership that actually scales care.
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SEO Keywords:
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Episode Description
She moved to Japan at 19 and never looked back. In this episode of Founders in Jeans, Emily Jean sits down with Fanny Berteaud, Country Manager at Selectra, who built the company’s Tokyo operations from the ground up and now oversees both the Japanese and Australian markets. From cultural shocks in academia to navigating business as a young foreigner in Japan, Fanny’s story is equal parts bold, inspiring, and refreshingly honest.
If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to launch and scale a business abroad while balancing identity, leadership, and personal passions, this conversation will give you a front-row seat.
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⏱ Time-Stamped Guide
00:00 – Emily’s intro and podcast updates
01:39 – Meet Fanny Berteaud: her journey from France to Japan
03:00 – How she introduces herself at parties
05:01 – Why she chose Japan in the first place
05:37 – The cultural shock of French vs Japanese universities
07:05 – Landing the opportunity at Selectra
10:42 – Why she stayed in Japan long-term
13:16 – The balance of safety and challenge that keeps her there
13:45 – The unexpected challenges of being a foreigner in Japanese business
15:46 – Building Selectra Tokyo from scratch
19:31 – Expanding into the Australian market
22:46 – Managing across French, English, and Japanese languages
26:21 – Lessons in leadership and communication
29:19 – From basketball to snowboarding: sports shaping business resilience
34:58 – Running a half marathon and lessons on discipline
38:28 – Rapid fire: favorite Japanese dish, destination, and what she misses from France
41:27 – Where to find Fanny and Selectra
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Follow Fanny Berteaud & Selectra:
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https://selectra.com.au
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Keywords:
entrepreneurship abroad, launching a business in Japan, French entrepreneur in Tokyo, women in leadership Japan, cross-cultural leadership, business in Japan vs Australia, managing multicultural teams, Selectra Tokyo expansion, Fanny Berteaud Selectra, startup challenges Japan, expat career journey, young leaders abroad, female founders international, scaling operations overseas, startup resilience, cultural adaptability in business, student moving abroad, Sciences Po Keio exchange, studying abroad in Japan, leadership lessons for women, balancing sports and career, personal growth abroad, running a half marathon lessons, sports and business mindset, Tokyo business culture, trust-building across languages, managing across borders, expat entrepreneurship, business growth Australia, women in global leadership, how to start a career in Japan, managing in different languages, resilience in leadership, finding identity abroad, work-life balance Japan, foreign women in Japanese business, startup founder stories, intercultural communication in leadership, scaling international operations, expat success story, Japan expat entrepreneur, women founders podcast, leadership evolution young founders, business culture differences France Japan Australia, building trust in global teams, Selectra expansion story, sports and entrepreneurship parallels, nabe Japanese dish, Nozawa Onsen Japan travel tip, living abroad challenges, moving to Japan as a student, expat life Tokyo
Summary
In this episode of Founders in Jeans, host Emily Jean speaks with Lauren Wittenberg Weiner, a former CEO, current founder and now author of the upcoming book 'Unruly'. They discuss Lauren's journey from leading a successful government contracting firm to navigating the world of publishing. Lauren shares her insights on imposter syndrome, the importance of trusting one's gut, and the challenges of balancing personal and professional responsibilities. The conversation highlights the significance of redefining success and the power of mentorship in one's career.
You can follow Lauren on Instagram @laurenwittenbergweiner. And visit her website at https://laurenwittenbergweiner.com. And her book is available for purchase on Amazon here.
You can follow us on Instagram @foundersinjeans. You can also visit our website at www.livegooddigital.com.
Chapters
00:00 The Accidental Entrepreneur
03:22 Transitioning from Government to Business
06:04 The Journey of Writing a Book
08:51 Finding Balance in Life and Work
11:14 Defining 'Unruly' and Breaking the Mold
13:51 Empowerment Through Reinvention
16:27 Navigating Identity After Selling a Business
19:14 Authenticity in a Male-Dominated Industry
23:33 Building Trust and Leadership
24:16 Imposter Syndrome as a Superpower
27:04 Different Perspectives on Imposter Syndrome
29:14 Lessons from Youth Sports
32:34 Work-Life Equilibrium vs. Balance
37:18 Misconceptions About Ambitious Women
39:07 Rapid Fire Insights and Advice
Takeaways
Lauren Weiner transitioned from CEO to author after selling her company.
The title 'Unruly' reflects breaking free from societal expectations.
Imposter syndrome can serve as a signal for personal growth.
It's important to trust your gut in decision-making.
Balancing life requires ruthless prioritization.
Women in leadership often face unique challenges and perceptions.
Mentorship plays a crucial role in navigating career transitions.
Success can be redefined at different stages of life.
Learning to say no is essential for maintaining balance.
Embracing discomfort can lead to new opportunities.
Keywords
entrepreneurship, leadership, imposter syndrome, work-life balance, women in business, personal growth, book publishing, success, career transition, mentorship, founder stories, female founder, startup journey, business growth, scaling a business, founder mindset, business lessons, startup success, entrepreneur journey, founder exit, bootstrap business, business transformation, startup life, exit strategy, CEO stories, growth mindset, startup advice, strategic planning, company culture, business pivot, founder reinvention, business decisions, personal branding, life after CEO, founder challenges, building from scratch, military spouse entrepreneur, selling a business, career shifts, startup resilience, authentic leadership, visionary leadership, founder evolution, navigating change, business transition, career pivot, book writing journey, first-time author, writing a book, publishing process, Simon & Schuster, author podcast, author interview, nonfiction author, leadership books, women authors, book marketing, writing therapy, memoir writing, publishing industry, author spotlight, book promotion, business memoir, book recommendations, female authors, unruly book, unruly by Lauren Weiner, writing inspiration, from CEO to author, author journey, women in leadership, breaking barriers, career woman, empowered women, career development, working moms, mompreneur, supporting women, women CEOs, female leaders, women who lead, women supporting women, balancing motherhood and work, ambitious women, leading with grace, inspiring women, professional women, female mentorship, women in startups, powerful women, inclusive leadership, women-led business, girls in business, confidence in business, mental resilience, growth journey, career fulfillment, self-discovery, inner strength, trust your gut, overcoming fear, life transitions, rediscovering purpose
Summary
In this episode, Quinn McLaughlin, founder of Praerie, shares her journey from tech to fashion, the philosophy behind her brand, and the challenges of running a sustainable fashion business. She discusses the importance of design, the slow fashion movement, and the realities of marketing and sales in the fashion industry. Quinn also reflects on her personal growth as an entrepreneur and her aspirations for the future of Praerie.
You can follow Praerie on Instagram @shoppraerie. You can also visit their website here: www.shoppraerie.com.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Prairie and Quinn's Journey
01:41 The Essence of Prairie's Design Philosophy
04:33 Balancing Wearability and Aesthetic in Fashion
07:13 The Design Process: From Concept to Creation
10:01 Navigating Manufacturing and Sustainability Challenges
12:34 Lessons Learned: Mistakes and Growth in Entrepreneurship
15:07 Building Confidence and Community in Business
17:56 Future Aspirations and Brand Identity
24:29 Wholesale Ventures and Challenges
25:59 Marketing Strategies in the Digital Age
29:11 Navigating Hurdles in Production and Sales
32:54 Customer Connections and Rewards
34:56 Future Plans and Product Launches
36:42 Long-Term Vision for Prairie
38:31 Rapid Fire Insights and Reflections
Takeaways
Quinn started Praerie during the COVID-19 pandemic as a response to her furlough.
The brand embodies a connection to nature, inspired by the French word for meadow.
Praerie focuses on slow fashion, avoiding hyper trends and promoting sustainability.
The design process is extensive, often taking 9-12 months before a collection is released.
Sales and marketing are significant challenges for small fashion brands.
Quinn emphasizes the importance of separating personal worth from business success.
Building a supportive network has been crucial for Quinn's confidence as an entrepreneur.
The brand aims to expand its size range and product offerings in the future.
Quinn's experience with Free People was a validating moment for her brand.
The podcast highlights the importance of resilience and adaptability in entrepreneurship.
Sound Bites
"I started Praerie in a time of need."
"Sales don't come easy."
"I hope to expand our size range."
Keywords
fashion, entrepreneurship, sustainability, design, marketing, slow fashion, brand growth, manufacturing, confidence, challenges
Summary
In this episode, Leah Garcia shares her journey from being a rodeo cowgirl to the founder of Nulastin, a science-backed beauty brand. She discusses the importance of identifying market gaps, building customer trust, and the role of mentorship in her entrepreneurial journey. Leah emphasizes the significance of focus in business and the exciting advancements in biotechnology within the beauty industry. She also shares valuable insights on personal growth and the importance of storytelling in branding.
You can follow Leah on Instagram @leahgarciatv and Nulastin on Instagram @nulastin. You can also visit their website here: https://nulastin.com.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Leah Garcia and New Lastin
06:08 The Journey from Rodeo to Beauty Entrepreneur
08:30 Lessons from the Rodeo: Responsibility and Competition
11:10 The Connection Between Nature and Entrepreneurship
13:48 Understanding Elastin: The Gap in the Beauty Industry
16:33 Building a Brand: Customer Trust and Community Engagement
25:23 Building a Strong Team Culture
27:57 The Importance of Female Leadership
29:44 Decision-Making and Problem-Solving
33:14 Learning Moments and Personal Growth
34:58 The Power of Looking Up
37:42 Idea Transference and Taking Action
41:28 The Balance of Speed and Preparedness
43:46 Research-Driven Formulations
48:23 Navigating the Beauty Industry's Marketing Landscape
51:12 The Role of Science in Beauty Products
54:04 Biotechnology: The Future of Skincare
57:24 The Journey of Learning and Mentorship
01:03:01 The Importance of Focus in Entrepreneurship
01:04:10 Personal Reflections and Self-Care Rituals
01:05:21 Impact and Reward in Building a Brand
01:07:32 Recommended Resources for Entrepreneurs
01:11:43 New Chapter
Takeaways
Leah's diverse background shapes her entrepreneurial journey.
Identifying gaps in the market is crucial for success.
Learning to fail with dignity is a valuable life lesson.
Building customer trust is essential for brand loyalty.
Science-backed products can set a brand apart in the beauty industry.
Mentorship plays a significant role in personal and professional growth.
Focus and clarity are vital for business success.
Navigating the beauty industry requires understanding market trends.
Biotechnology is revolutionizing the beauty sector.
Storytelling is key to connecting with customers.
Sound Bites
"I am a rodeo cowgirl ranch girl."
"I saw that gap in the market."
"We are a science-backed brand."
Keywords
Leah Garcia, Nulastin, beauty industry, entrepreneurship, rodeo, mentorship, customer trust, biotechnology, skincare, female founders
Summary
In this episode, Emily Jean interviews Sofia, the founder and CEO of a Ukrainian wellness program. Sofia shares her journey of building a successful business focused on helping individuals develop a healthy relationship with food and their bodies. The conversation covers her experiences in scaling the business, the importance of personalized nutrition, and the challenges of launching an app. Sofia emphasizes the significance of community support, debunks common nutrition myths, and provides valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.
You can follow Sofia on Instagram @sofi_rozhko and the Body School on Instagram @thebody.school & @thebodyschool.global. You can also visit their website here https://thebody.school.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Sofia and Her Journey
07:13 Building a Team and Scaling the Business
10:23 Passion and Motivation Behind the Business
13:14 Differentiating from Competitors
16:07 Adapting to Current Trends and Research
19:13 The Five Elements Approach to Nutrition
22:14 Launching the App and Transitioning Online
34:18 Building a User-Centric App
36:23 Prioritizing Client Needs
38:44 Creating a Supportive Community
41:25 Key Nutritional Insights
45:47 Debunking Nutrition Myths
48:09 Future Vision for the Body School
51:08 Upcoming Initiatives and Programs
53:45 Rewarding Moments in Business
57:06 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
59:33 New Chapter
Takeaways
Sofia emphasizes the importance of building a healthy relationship with food.
The Body School focuses on personalized nutrition and fitness plans.
Sofia's journey includes hiring a team to scale her business effectively.
The program is based on a five-element approach to wellness.
Sofia's app was developed to provide continuous support to clients.
Building trust with clients is crucial for long-term success.
Nutrition timing is essential for maintaining energy and focus.
Excluding food groups without reason can lead to unhealthy habits.
Sleep deprivation negatively impacts nutrition and overall health.
Sofia believes one person's change can influence an entire family.
Sound Bites
"I always wanted to help people."
"Carbs are good for you!"
"Focus on your product first."
Keywords
wellness, nutrition, entrepreneurship, health, body transformation, personal branding, diet culture, scaling business, app development, community support
Summary
In this conversation, Emma Bradford discusses her journey from set design in the film industry to creating her unique pillow brand, Dream Giggles. She shares insights on the emotional connections people have with her pillows, the aesthetic trends in home decor, and the therapeutic aspects of her art. Emma also delves into the challenges of building a community around her work, navigating social media, and the importance of sustainability in sourcing materials. She expresses her aspirations for the future of Dream Giggles, including merging her love for puppetry with her pillow designs and engaging more with her audience through workshops and creative projects.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Dream Giggles
06:48 The Evolution of Textile Sculptures
10:10 Childhood Connections and Emotional Support
13:01 Artistic Inspirations and Influences
15:55 Transition from Film to Textile Art
19:10 Building a Community and Social Media Strategy
22:04 Therapeutic Aspects of Art and Comfort
25:01 Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality
45:11 The Emotional Connection to Handmade Textiles
47:14 Sourcing and Sustainability in Textile Production
51:02 Creative Process: From Concept to Creation
54:07 Balancing Business and Personal Creativity
01:01:08 Future Aspirations for Dream Giggles
01:17:02 Insights on Entrepreneurship and Industry Advice
Keywords
Dream Giggles, pillows, art, community, minimalism, maximalism, set design, social media, sustainability, creative process, Emma Bradford
Summary
In this episode, Emily Jean interviews Nadja Sayej, a journalist turned entrepreneur, discussing her journey through various creative hubs, the challenges of transitioning from journalism to running her own agency, and the importance of authenticity in media. They explore the changing landscape of PR, the empowerment of women entrepreneurs, and the significance of cultural relevance in business. Nadja shares insights on navigating career changes, the impact of toxic positivity, and the necessity of questioning oneself for growth.
Chapters
00:00 The Shift in Fashion Media and Influencer Culture
07:17 Exploring Global Fashion Hubs
10:26 The Evolution of Dreams and Career Paths
13:12 The Berlin Experience and Its Impact on Creativity
16:20 Transitioning from Journalism to Agency Life
19:06 The Power Dynamics Between Journalists and PR
22:13 The Changing Landscape of Media and Journalism
26:48 The Charm of Analog in a Digital World
27:57 Transitioning from Journalism to Agency Life
29:07 The Importance of Client Relationships
30:56 Understanding Vanity Press and Media Trends
32:14 The Value of Feedback and Continuous Improvement
34:50 Empowering Women in Business
36:54 Cultural Relevance in Marketing
39:14 Media Training and Engaging Personalities
41:34 The Surprising Realities of Entrepreneurship
43:49 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
46:56 New Chapter
Keywords
Nadja Sayej, entrepreneurship, journalism, media, women founders, cultural relevance, PR, career change, toxic positivity, creative hubs, Art Stars Agency
Summary
In this episode, Jackie Kim, co-founder and CEO of Maelove Skincare, shares her unique journey from being an attorney to a skincare entrepreneur. She discusses the inspiration behind Maelove, the success of their flagship product, the Glowmaker serum, and the brand's commitment to quality and customer feedback. Jackie emphasizes the importance of transparency and consumer trust in building a skincare brand, as well as the challenges faced in the early days of Maelove. The conversation also touches on skincare myths, product recommendations, and exciting future launches.
Chapters
00:00 From Law to Skincare: A Unique Journey
05:59 The Birth of Maelove: A Passion Project
10:38 Innovative Product Development: The Glowmaker Serum
14:43 Consumer-Centric Approach: Building Trust and Community
19:16 Quality Over Everything: The Formulation Process
23:05 Challenges in the Beauty Industry: Lessons Learned
28:03 Choosing the Right Skincare: Tips for Consumers
34:04 Future Aspirations: Expanding Maelove's Product Line
Keywords
Jackie Kim, Maelove, skincare, Glowmaker, product development, entrepreneurship, customer service, skincare myths, beauty industry, women empowerment
Summary
In this episode, Emily Jean chats with Shannon McLaughlin, the founder of Feline Swim, a sustainable luxury swimwear brand. Shannon shares her journey from studying biology to pursuing a career in fashion, the challenges she faced in launching her brand, and her commitment to sustainability. The conversation also touches on the impact of celebrity endorsements, marketing strategies, and the importance of starting small as an entrepreneur. Shannon reflects on the loneliness of entrepreneurship and offers advice for aspiring fashion entrepreneurs.
Takeaways
Shannon transitioned from a biology degree to fashion during the pandemic.
Feline Swim focuses on sustainability by using dead stock and recycled fabrics.
Celebrity endorsements have significantly boosted brand visibility.
Organic marketing strategies are essential for small businesses.
Shannon emphasizes the importance of starting small and testing products.
The swimwear industry is highly competitive, requiring unique branding.
Shannon's designs are inspired by 90s aesthetics and personal experiences.
Building a brand can be a lonely journey without a co-founder.
Shannon plans to expand Feline Swim into resort wear.
Networking and support from other entrepreneurs can be invaluable.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Shannon and Feline Swim
03:13 The Journey from Biology to Fashion
06:04 Sustainability in Fashion: A Core Value
09:11 Navigating the Competitive Swimwear Industry
12:09 Celebrity Endorsements and Brand Visibility
15:13 Marketing Strategies and Organic Growth
18:04 Challenges of Being a Solo Entrepreneur
21:12 Advice for Aspiring Fashion Entrepreneurs
24:00 Future Aspirations for Feline Swim
35:22 New Chapter
Summary
In this conversation, Emily Jean interviews Emma Vollrath, the founder of Emma Lou, discussing her journey from personal trainer to entrepreneur. Emma shares insights on her innovative product, the Glow Band, which addresses bloating and water weight while being stylish. The discussion covers branding challenges, marketing strategies, and the importance of community engagement. Emma reflects on her experience on the show ' Hustlers' and her aspirations for the future of her brand, emphasizing the significance of building a loyal audience and the challenges of navigating the competitive athleisure market.
Takeaways
Emma Lou's GloBand is designed to reduce bloating and water weight.
Branding is an evolving process; Emma changed her branding multiple times.
Community engagement is key to building a loyal audience.
Navigating the athleisure market presents unique challenges for small brands.
Emma's experience on 'Side Hustlers' inspired her to push harder for her brand.
Innovative fabric technology is central to Emma Lou's product development.
Collaborations with other brands and studios are a focus for future growth.
Social media is a powerful tool for audience engagement and marketing.
Understanding analytics is crucial for effective marketing strategies.
Emma emphasizes the importance of reaching out to other entrepreneurs for guidance.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Emma Lou and Its Founder
00:53 The Glow Band: Innovation in Activewear
02:52 Empowering Women Through Fashion
04:54 Challenges in the Competitive Athleisure Market
07:37 Media Exposure and Its Impact
10:20 Future Goals and Collaborations
12:42 Marketing Strategies and Community Engagement
15:32 Navigating Social Media and Advertising
18:11 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
21:00 Reflections on Failure and Growth
23:44 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations
Keywords
Emma Lou, Glow Band, athleisure, branding, entrepreneurship, women empowerment, product innovation, marketing strategies, community engagement, fitness wear