E50: Leaving a Safe Career to Pursue a Vision with Dimitra Kolotoura

“I can't explain the amount of energy and time and resources we had to display in order to get all these people to come on board and work for us and with us. It was the biggest lesson of my life. And it looks like it worked."I'm thrilled to have Dimitra Kolotoura as my guest today. She is a former PR and communications agency owner, turned fashion entrepreneur. Dimitra is the co-founder of the upscale Greek fashion brand, Zeus+Dione. The brand has a cult-like international following and is being expanded into Asia and the United States. I invited Dimitra to the show because she is such a great example of someone who had a vision to create something, took big risks, and made the vision a reality. She offers practical and wise advice about leaving a safe career to pursue a big idea and a big dream – and also speaks about the rewards, trials, and realities of entrepreneurship. In this episode:The importance of perseverance when creating a brandThe responsibility you have as a business owner to the people you have engaged in your business and visionTrusting your gut as an entrepreneurThe distinction between creating a business and having a hobbyFinding a team to enhance your visionPower Presence Academy: Practical Wisdom for Leaders is the go-to podcast for anyone who leads. Your host is Janet Ioli, leadership and human development expert, sought-after coach and advisor to global executives, and former executive with experience in four Fortune 100 companies. She helps leaders ground themselves with confidence, connection, and purpose and learn to lead with Less Ego, More Soul.Resource Links:Zeus+Dione was conceived as a creative nod to the rich Hellenic tradition, seen from a fresh and contemporary standpoint. References to mythology and symbolism are manifested through sharp, forward, and dynamic designs. Shop Zeus+Dione here.Connect with today’s guest on LinkedIn: Dimitra KolotouraConnect with Janet Ioli:Website: janetioli.comLinkedIn: Janet IoliInstagram: @janetioliYouTube: @janetioliIf you want to become more grounded, confident, and aligned with your deeper values in just 21 days, check out Janet Ioli’s book Less Ego, More Soul: A Modern Reinvention Guide for Women.If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts.  Select “Listen in Apple Podcasts,” then choose the “Ratings & Reviews” tab to share what you think.  Produced by Ideablossoms