From Working In Tech to Owning a Franchise Dream Business | Paula Camarena | Business Owner

Paula Camarena worked for years in the tech world before answering the call to work for herself. Instead of starting a business from scratch, she explored franchise opportunities and found her perfect fit with Pillar to Post Home Inspectors. Today, she’s part of the 3% of women in her field, breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry while serving her clients with the same care she gives to friends and family. Paula shares her journey from Silicon Valley to small business ownership, what it takes to choose the right franchise, and why balancing ambition with self-care matters. She talks about the women who inspire her, the lessons learned from her early career, and the tools and systems she uses to run her business efficiently. Her story is proof that when you care deeply about your work, your clients feel it. Chapters 00:00 Meet Paula Camarena 03:15 Growing Up in California and Career Beginnings 07:45 Working in Tech at Cisco Systems 12:10 The Decision to Leave Corporate Life 16:25 Exploring Franchise Opportunities 20:15 Choosing Pillar to Post Home Inspectors 24:50 Breaking Barriers in a Male-Dominated Industry 29:30 Balancing Business Growth and Personal Life 33:40 Tools and Apps That Keep Her Business Running 37:15 Lessons from Serving Clients Like Family 41:05 The Women Who Inspire Her 44:50 Advice for Aspiring Franchise Owners The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices