Fifteenish

Jen Rubio was born in the Philippines and moved to New Jersey at seven years old. She arrived in a classroom where she didn't look like anyone around her, got placed in ESL classes, and spent years hiding her accent, her food, her whole self — just trying to belong. In this episode of Fifteenish, I'm not talking about the suitcase or the billion dollar valuation. I'm talking about that classroom. And what it costs a person to flatten themselves to fit a room that wasn't built for them — and what gets built when they finally stop. Jen went on to co-found Away, grow it to a $1.4 billion valuation, and step in as CEO for the first time ever — eight months pregnant — when the company needed someone who actually believed in what it was supposed to be. This one is about visibility, belonging, and what becomes possible when someone finally goes first.Sources & DisclaimerWikipedia — Jen Rubio entryCNN Money — The Founders of Away Changed the Luggage Industry After a Travel Mishap (October 2017)Asian Journal News — Meet the Filipina Who Turned a Suitcase Filled With Dreams Into a Billion-Dollar Reality (October 2025)Grokipedia — Jen Rubio entryForbes — Jen Rubio interviews and featuresBlank Brand — Women to Watch Vol 1: Jen Rubio's Community-First Brand Strategy (September 2025)Medium / The Founder Stories — Meet Jen Rubio, Who Created the Perfect Suitcase at AwayAll facts shared in this episode are based on information available at the time of recording. Any personal reflections, interpretations, or opinions are my own. If anything is found to be inaccurate, I'm happy to issue a correction.

Jen Atkin grew up in a conservative Mormon community in Utah, adopted at birth, with one tiny salon in her town and a dream that had nowhere to go. At nineteen she moved to Los Angeles with $300, spent a year calling salons with no callbacks, and took a receptionist job on Beverly Boulevard just to get in the door. In this episode of Fifteenish, I talk about how she worked her way from answering phones to styling Madonna's world tour, built one of the most recognizable careers in beauty alongside the Kardashians, and then did something nobody expected — she started over. In 2016 she launched OUAI, a haircare brand built around the simple idea that women deserved products made by someone who actually understood their lives. It sold to Procter and Gamble in 2022 for nine figures. And it all started because a rock star asked what she wanted and she already knew.

I found today's founder the way I hope more founders find each other... completely by accident. Alice Bugeja, the founder of mileoff, was out on a run when she spotted a woman wearing her gear, ran up to introduce herself, and discovered she was talking to a founder. That founder was Emily Tout, co-founder and CEO of Mighty Slice. Alice even posted a reel about it. And I went down a rabbit hole immediately.Emily's story is one of the most honest ones I've told on this show. She wanted to be a lawyer since she was eight years old. She went to the London School of Economics, pursued space law, got the career — and then realized it felt completely wrong. What followed was an identity crisis, a brother who was obsessed with entrepreneurship podcasts, a powerlifting habit that rewired how she thought, and a very simple question she couldn't stop asking: why do protein products taste so terrible? Mighty Slice started in her kitchen in 2021. In January 2023 the team was still hand-making every single cheesecake themselves. By the end of that year revenue had grown 1,900%. They're now in Asda, Sainsbury's and Ocado. She's still in it. Still building. And what she said about risk is something I haven't been able to stop thinking about.Sources and DisclaimerRecipe for Greatness Podcast — From Powerlifting to Protein-Rich Desserts: Emily Tout's Journey with Mighty Slice (November 2024)The Grocer — Mighty Slice Nets Almost £1M in Fresh Investment as Giles Brook Backs High-Protein Cheesecake Brand (January 2025)Emily Tout — LinkedIn (@emily-tout)Alice Bugeja — Instagram @aliceroserunner (reel featuring the encounter)mightyslice.co.ukAll facts shared in this episode are based on information available at the time of recording. Any personal reflections, interpretations, or opinions are my own. If anything is found to be inaccurate, I'm happy to issue a correction.

Allison Ellsworth is the co-founder of Poppi, the prebiotic soda brand acquired by PepsiCo in May 2025 for $1.95 billion. In this episode of Fifteenish, I talk about how she spent ten years on the road in the oil and gas industry, developed serious health problems nobody could diagnose, fixed it herself with apple cider vinegar, and then spent three months in her kitchen trying to make it taste good enough to share. From mason jars to her neighbors, to a Whole Foods buyer showing up at her farmers market booth three weeks in, to pitching on Shark Tank nine months pregnant, to going viral on TikTok during a global pandemic with zero makeup and one honest video — Allison's story is about what happens when you stop waiting for someone else to solve your problem and just go figure it out yourself.Sources & DisclaimerTexas Monthly — How Poppi Founder Allison Ellsworth Went From Shark Tank to Shark (September 2025)CNBC Make It — Poppi Went From Kitchen Experiment to $2 Billion Deal With PepsiCo (October 2025)Entrepreneur — She Went From Being Ignored at a Farmer's Market to Selling to PepsiCo for $1.95 Billion (2025)Tribeza — How Austin-Based Founders Journeyed From the Farmers Market to a $1.95 Billion-Dollar Brand (June 2025)DFW Child — Poppi's Allison Ellsworth on Trusting Her GutAustin Woman — Allison Ellsworth: Poppi PowerWikipedia — Poppi entryAll facts shared in this episode are based on information available at the time of recording. Any personal reflections, interpretations, or opinions are my own. If anything is found to be inaccurate, I'm happy to issue a correction.Allison Ellsworth IGPoppi websitePoppi IG

There's a voice most of us have. The one that says not yet, not you, not this. And today's founder built an entire brand around proving it wrong. Alice Bugeja is the solo-female founder of mileoff — a women's running brand she built completely from scratch, self-funded, while working full time at Dyson, in a city where she barely knew anyone. She spent two years building in secret before anyone knew her name and launched on International Women's Day March 2025 to a completely sold out first drop. In this episode we talk about the history behind the name mileoff, Kathrine Switzer and what actually happened at the 1967 Boston Marathon, and why the most powerful thing Alice did wasn't design a product, it was letting people in. This one's for anyone who's been dreaming about something for a year without actually doing the hard part yet.Sources & DisclaimerHypebae — Why Mileoff Makes Running Gear for the Girlies (July 2025)Emirates Woman — How Alice Bugeja is Redefining the Activewear Space with Mileoff (September 2025)Alice Bugeja — LinkedIn and TikTok (@aliceroserunner)Sky Sports News — Kathrine Switzer: First Woman to Officially Run Boston Marathon (December 2021)Wikipedia — Kathrine Switzer entryRunning USA — Women's marathon participation dataAll facts shared in this episode are based on information available at the time of recording. Any personal reflections, interpretations, or opinions are my own. If anything is found to be inaccurate, I'm happy to issue a correction.mileoff websitemileoff instagramAlice Bugeja instagram

Three weeks into marathon training (not a runner, by the way) I hurt my foot. And the frustration of being forced to slow down right when I'd finally found my momentum sent me straight to Ellen Latham's story. Ellen was a single mom in her forties when she got fired from her dream job without warning. No plan. No backup. Just a Pilates certification and a spare room in her house. What she built from there eventually became Orangetheory Fitness. A billion dollar global company with over 1,300 studios in 23 countries. In this episode we talk about her dad's "momentum shifts up" philosophy, what it actually looks like to rebuild from nothing, and why the forced stop might be the thing that creates the opening. This one's for anyone sitting in a pause they didn't choose.Sources & DisclaimerStrong Fitness Magazine — Orangetheory's Ellen Latham Found Wild Success After Being Fired at 40PNC Insights — Momentum Shift: How Ellen Latham Transformed a Career Setback into Orangetheory FitnessAustin Woman Magazine — How Ellen Latham Made Orangetheory Fitness a Global TrendLifestyle Media Group — How Ellen Latham Created Orangetheory FitnessFranchiseWire — Turning Setbacks into Successes: The Ellen Latham StoryOrangetheory Fitness — Momentum Shift documentary (2019)All facts shared in this episode are based on information available at the time of recording. Any personal reflections, interpretations, or opinions are my own. If anything is found to be inaccurate, I'm happy to issue a correction.orangetheory fitness websiteorangetheory fitness instagramellen latham instagram

Tiffany Masterson wasn't a beauty insider. She wasn't a chemist. She wasn't even looking to build a company. She was a stay at home mom in Houston who got a one-star review on a product she was selling, and instead of quitting, she decided to go make something better herself. In this episode, we talk about the moment that started everything, the midnight research sessions that turned her into an expert, the cold email that landed her in Sephora, and what it actually looks like to let criticism redirect you instead of stop you. Also: she started at forty. With no industry experience. And sold for $845 million six years later. This one's for anyone who's ever felt too late, too unqualified, or too stung by a no to keep going.Sources & DisclaimerFashionista — How Drunk Elephant Founder Tiffany Masterson Went From Stay-at-Home Mom to Beauty Mogul (March 2018)Glam — Drunk Elephant Founder Tiffany Masterson's Journey to Becoming a Beauty Mogul (March 2023)NUVO Magazine — Tiffany Masterson on Drunk Elephant, Gen Alpha's Essential Beauty Brand (April 2024)How I Built This with Guy Raz — Drunk Elephant episode (January 2024)Wikipedia — Drunk Elephant entryAll facts shared in this episode are based on information available at the time of recording. Any personal reflections, interpretations, or opinions are my own. If anything is found to be inaccurate, I'm happy to issue a correction.drunk elephant websitedrunk elephant instagram

We're Not Really Strangers has become one of the most recognizable brands of the last decade, those red and white cards, those questions that make you go quiet for a second. But most people have no idea where it actually came from.In this episode, we talk about Koreen Odiney, founder, photographer, and the woman who turned a broken heart into a global movement. At 16, after her first heartbreak, Koreen walked out onto Ventura Boulevard in Los Angeles and started asking strangers one question: Did you ever get over your first love? That single act of vulnerability became the seed for everything.Sources & DisclaimerThis episode was created using publicly available information about Koreen Odiney and We're Not Really Strangers, gathered from verified interviews, articles, and brand coverage, including:Hypebae — Interview with Koreen Odiney on the origin of WNRS and her photography background (November 2020)The Digital Campfire — "How a Card Game Exploded into a Global Movement" (September 2020)ILY Magazine — Interview with Koreen Odiney on heartbreak, vulnerability, and building WNRS (November 2019)UP Magazine — "Turning Lessons into Art: The Story Behind We're Not Really Strangers" (February 2023)Wikipedia — We're Not Really Strangers entryAll facts shared in this episode are based on information available at the time of recording. Any personal reflections, interpretations, or opinions included are my own. If any details are found to be inaccurate, I'm happy to issue corrections.we’re not really strangers websitewe’re not really strangers instagram

I just signed up for a marathon. 26.2 miles. And I am not a runner. I've started and stopped workout plans so many times over the last ten years. But when World Vision came to speak at our church, I felt like she was speaking directly to me. She said, "If you're sitting there thinking I'm not an athlete, or I'm not a runner, you can do this." And I realized I literally had no excuses.So I signed up. And I'm terrified. But I'm doing it anyway.And that decision of saying yes even when I felt unqualified, made me think of Payal Kadakia. She was a consultant at Bain with a safe job and a clear path. But she had this side project, first Classtivity, then ClassPass, that she couldn't let go of. And she had to decide: stay safe or quit and go all-in on something she had no idea how to build.She wasn't a tech person. She wasn't a fitness person. She was just someone with an idea who said yes even though she felt completely unqualified. She quit Bain in 2013, almost ran out of money multiple times, had to pivot the business model, and faced major backlash. But she kept going. And ClassPass was eventually acquired by Mindbody for hundreds of millions of dollars.If you're waiting to feel qualified before you say yes to something, this one's for you. You don't have to feel ready to start. You just have to say yes and figure it out as you go.Mentioned in this episode: I talk about running my first 6K in this episodeSources & DisclaimerThis episode was created using publicly available information about Payal Kadakia's life and career, gathered from verified interviews, articles, and business reports, including:Payal Kadakia's background as an Indian classical dancerHer education at MIT studying economicsHer career at Bain & Company as a consultantFounding Classtivity in 2010 as a search engine for fitness classesBuilding Classtivity as a side project while working at Bain (2010-2013)Pivoting to the ClassPass membership model in 2013Quitting Bain in 2013 to work on ClassPass full-timeClassPass's early growth and near-failure momentsThe business model change from unlimited to credit-based systemClassPass expansion to 30+ cities by 2015 and international growthClassPass reaching millions of users by 2020ClassPass acquisition by Mindbody in 2021Interviews where Payal discussed the decision to quit Bain and challenges of building ClassPassAll facts shared in this episode are based on information available at the time of recording. Any personal reflections, interpretations, or opinions included are my own. If any details are found to be inaccurate, I'm happy to issue corrections.

The last few weeks, we've talked about Hilary Duff stepping back, Katrina Lake refusing to step back, and Emma Grede building in the background. This week, we're talking about rejection. A lot of rejection. Melanie Perkins got rejected by over 100 investors while trying to raise funding for Canva. Over three years, she heard no again and again. One investor literally fell asleep during her pitch. And she kept going anyway. She was running Fusion Books during the day, pitching Canva at night and on weekends, flying to conferences, refining her deck, and hearing no over and over. For three years. Until she finally got the yes she needed. Now Canva is worth $26 billion. Melanie is one of the youngest female tech billionaires in the world. And over 170 million people use Canva every month. If you're sitting with a rejection right now, if you've been told no and you're wondering if you should give up, this one's for you. Rejection isn't the end. It's just part of the process.Sources & DisclaimerThis episode was created using publicly available information about Melanie Perkins' life and career, gathered from verified interviews, articles, and business reports, including:Melanie Perkins' background growing up in Perth, AustraliaHer experience teaching design software in collegeCo-founding Fusion Books in 2007 with Cliff ObrechtHer journey pitching Canva to over 100 investors (2010-2013)The story of an investor falling asleep during her pitchMeeting Bill Tai in 2012 and securing fundingCanva's launch in 2013Canva's user growth milestones (10M in 2018, 30M in 2020, 60M in 2021, 170M+ currently)Canva's valuation reaching $26 billionInterviews where Melanie discussed the rejection years and what kept her goingHer vision of democratizing design and making it accessible to everyoneAll facts shared in this episode are based on information available at the time of recording. Any personal reflections, interpretations, or opinions included are my own. If any details are found to be inaccurate, I'm happy to issue corrections.

The last couple weeks, we talked about Hilary Duff stepping back and Katrina Lake refusing to step back. This week, we're talking about Emma Grede, a woman who built a hundred million dollar brand without anyone even noticing. Emma co-founded Good American with Khloe Kardashian, but everyone assumed Khloe was the brains. Emma was the one in the factories, negotiating with manufacturers, building the supply chain, all while raising four kids and running multiple businesses. She did it all in the background. Let Khloe be the face. Let other people get the credit. She just kept building. When people finally started paying attention, when she became the first Black woman investor on Shark Tank, she'd already built something massive. If you're building something and no one's paying attention, this one's for you. You don't need to be seen to be valuable. You just need to keep building.Sources & DisclaimerThis episode was created using publicly available information about Emma Grede's life and career, gathered from verified interviews, articles, and business reports, including:Emma Grede's background growing up in East LondonHer career in marketing and PR, co-founding ITB WorldwideCo-founding Good American with Khloe Kardashian in 2016Good American's launch details (sizes 00-24, million-dollar first day)Her work building the supply chain and manufacturing partnershipsCoverage of Good American's growth into a hundred-million-dollar brandHer role as a mother of four while building multiple businessesHer statements about work-life integration vs. balanceHer history as a guest shark on Shark Tank (2021) and becoming the first Black woman regular investor (2024)Interviews where she discussed being overlooked as the founderBusiness reporting on Good American's inclusive sizing and approachAll facts shared in this episode are based on information available at the time of recording. Any personal reflections, interpretations, or opinions included are my own. If any details are found to be inaccurate, I'm happy to issue corrections.

Last week, we talked about Hilary Duff stepping back from Hollywood to be a mom. This week, we're talking about a woman who refused to step back; Katrina Lake, founder of Stitch Fix. When Katrina was seven months pregnant and pitching investors, everyone kept asking the same question: "How are you going to do this?" They doubted whether she could be both a founder and a mom. They suggested she slow down, step back, or bring in someone else to lead. She didn't wait. She didn't slow down. She kept building. And in 2017, she became the youngest woman ever to take a company public, all while being a mom. If someone's asking you "How are you going to do this?" and it's making you doubt yourself, this episode is for you.Sources & DisclaimerThis episode was created using publicly available information about Katrina Lake's life and career, gathered from verified interviews, articles, and business reports, including:Katrina Lake's founding story of Stitch Fix (started 2011)Her career background at Parthenon Group (consulting)Interviews about building Stitch Fix while pregnantCoverage of Stitch Fix's growth and revenue milestonesStitch Fix IPO in 2017 (youngest woman to take a company public)Articles and profiles about motherhood and entrepreneurshipBusiness reporting on Stitch Fix's business model and data-driven approachPublic interviews where Katrina discussed investor doubt and challengesHer statements about being a mom making her a better CEOAll facts shared in this episode are based on information available at the time of recording. Any personal reflections, interpretations, or opinions included are my own. If any details are found to be inaccurate, I'm happy to issue corrections.

After Hilary left Disney, she made a choice a lot of people didn't really get. She stepped back from Hollywood. Not because her career failed or anything like that. But because she chose to build a real life over chasing fame. In this episode, we're walking through the years when people kind of forgot about her. How she came back with shows like Younger. And why her return to music now isn't about proving she's still got it, it's just about showing up as who she is today. If you've ever felt pressure to stay the same version of yourself, or if you've wondered whether you can step away from something and come back as someone completely different, Hilary's story might be the permission you need. You're allowed to live in seasons. No apology needed.Sources & DisclaimerThis episode was created using publicly available information about Hilary Duff's life and career, gathered from verified interviews, articles, and public statements, including:Hilary Duff's social media posts and public announcementsInterviews about her music career and albums (including Breathe In. Breathe Out.)Coverage of her role in the TV series YoungerArticles about her transition from child star to adult actor and musicianEntertainment industry reporting on her career evolutionPublic statements about her family life and career choicesHer Instagram reel and caption about returning to musicAll facts shared in this episode are based on information available at the time of recording. Any personal reflections, interpretations, or opinions included are my own. If any details are found to be inaccurate, I'm happy to issue corrections.

This week's episode is different. I'm processing in real time what it means to hold grief and life at the same time; losing my grandma, watching what's happening in my community here in Minnesota, and trying to show up for my kids, my business, and my own life while carrying all of it. If you've ever felt the weight of the world pressing down on you while still trying to function, this episode is for you. We talk about the pull of doomscrolling, the guilt of protecting your peace, and the messy reality of holding heartbreak and presence at the same time. I don't have all the answers, but I'm figuring it out alongside you.

My Grandma died, and I didn't make it in time to say goodbye. I was thirty minutes too late. Five and a half years ago, my family had a falling out and I let fear keep me from reaching out to her. I convinced myself I had time, that someday I'd be brave enough to have the hard conversation. But someday never came. This episode exists because I wasn't brave enough when it mattered. I'm recording this less than 24 hours after losing her because I need you to hear this while the pain is still raw, while the regret is sitting in the pit of my stomach. If there's someone you've been thinking about; someone you miss, someone you've been too scared or too proud to reach out to, please don't do what I did. Don't wait for perfect timing. Don't give other people power over when you show up. Because none of us know how much time we really have, and "I wish I had" is the heaviest sentence you'll ever carry.Grandma Barbin, this one's for you. I love you. I'm sorry. And I promise to be braver now.

Before Reshma Saujani founded Girls Who Code and changed the lives of over 500,000 girls, she experienced one of the most public failures of her life. In 2010, she quit her corporate law career to run for Congress in New York—and lost badly, getting just 19% of the vote. But that devastating loss showed her a problem she couldn't ignore: girls were missing from computer science classrooms. In this episode, we zoom in on that Congressional race, the brutal aftermath of public failure, and how losing everything redirected her toward the work she was actually meant to do. If you've ever failed publicly, or you're afraid of taking a risk because you might fail, this story will show you that failure isn't the end—it's redirection.Sources & DisclaimerThis episode was created using publicly available information about Reshma Saujani's life and career, gathered from verified interviews, articles, and organizational records, including:Reshma Saujani's 2010 Congressional race in New York's 14th DistrictElection results and campaign coverage from 2010Interviews and profiles about the founding of Girls Who CodeGirls Who Code organizational data and impact reportsTED Talks and public speaking appearances by Reshma SaujaniArticles about her transition from law and finance to nonprofit leadershipMedia coverage of Girls Who Code's growth and national expansionPublicly available information about women in tech and the gender gap in computer scienceAll facts shared in this episode are based on information available at the time of recording. Any personal reflections, interpretations, or opinions included are my own. If any details are found to be inaccurate, I'm happy to issue corrections.

Before Jenna Kutcher became one of the most well known online educators, podcast hosts, and business mentors, she was a wedding photographer with a waitlist of couples. But success wasn't enough. In this episode, we zoom in on the moment Jenna walked away from her thriving photography business to build something that felt more aligned, even when everyone thought she was crazy.And now she's doing it again now with her podcast, Goal Digger. If you've ever felt the pull to let go of something successful because it doesn't feel right anymore, this story will give you permission to listen to that voice.Sources & DisclaimerThis episode was created using publicly available information about Jenna Kutcher's life and career, gathered from verified interviews, articles, podcast episodes, and public statements, including:Jenna Kutcher's own podcast (Goal Digger) and public interviewsHer Instagram announcements and social media presenceArticles and features about her transition from photography to online educationBusiness profiles and entrepreneur spotlightsHer public announcement about stepping back from Goal Digger podcastPublicly available information about her courses, programs, and business evolutionAll facts shared in this episode are based on information available at the time of recording. Any personal reflections, interpretations, or opinions included are my own. If any details are found to be inaccurate, I'm happy to issue corrections.

In this episode, I share the story of Lori Harder and how her career evolved over time. I walk through her journey from competitive fitness into entrepreneurship, podcasting, live events, and online education, focusing on the transitions between seasons rather than one defining moment. This episode looks at how growth often happens gradually, with chapters overlapping and identities shifting along the way.Follow us on IG @just.fifteenishSourcesThis episode is based on publicly available information, including:Episodes and interviews from the Earn Your Happy podcastPublic interviews, talks, and written features about Lori HarderLori Harder’s website and Business Class materialsMedia coverage related to Light Pink, The Bliss Project, and Business ClassPublic social media posts and long-form reflections shared by Lori HarderDisclaimerThis episode is an independent narrative overview based on publicly available information and Lori Harder’s own shared experiences. It is not sponsored, endorsed, or affiliated with Lori Harder or her companies. Details and timelines are presented to the best of available public knowledge and are intended for storytelling and informational purposes.

As the year winds down and Christmas approaches, I’m sharing a gentle way to reflect on the year you’ve lived and set the next one up without pressure. No resolutions, no hustle. Just a simple fifteen minute reset to help you release what drained you and carry forward what matters.

This episode marks a shift.If you’ve been listening for a while, you might be wondering what happened to Might Be Something. This episode explains the name change, the mindset behind it, and why Fifteenish feels like a better fit for the season I’m in now.This episode is about why fifteen minutes matters. Why small, manageable shifts often create more momentum than big all‑or‑nothing plans. And why so many of us get stuck waiting for the “right time” instead of starting where we are. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or like you’re always “almost” starting — this episode is for you. Because fifteenish minutes can change everything.Follow us on Instagram! @just.fifteenish

In this episode, I walk through the story of Sophia Amoruso — her early years, the start of Nasty Gal, the fast growth, the pressure that followed, and the chapters that came after. We look at how she began selling vintage online, what those early days actually looked like, the rise and collapse of the company, and how she rebuilt her work and life through Girlboss and Business Class. If you’re curious about her full timeline or you’re in a season of change yourself, this one will land.Sources & DisclaimerThis episode was created using publicly available information about Sophia Amoruso’s life and career, gathered from verified interviews, articles, and published timelines, including:Sophia Amoruso’s memoir #GIRLBOSSForbes profiles and founder featuresInc. Magazine coverage of Nasty Gal’s growthFast Company and Business Insider reporting on Nasty Gal’s rise and bankruptcyGirlboss Media announcements, interviews, and public statementsPublic interviews with Sophia across podcasts, conferences, and digital mediaAdditional publicly available reporting on Business Class and her later venturesAll facts shared in this episode are based on information available at the time of recording. Any personal reflections, interpretations, or opinions included are my own.

In this episode, I’m opening up in a way I never have before. We’re diving into the real money story I grew up with, how it shaped my relationship with finances as a woman, a mom, and an entrepreneur, and what it’s taken to finally break the patterns I inherited. If you’ve ever struggled with money anxiety, childhood money wounds, or figuring out how to build confidence around personal finance, this one is for you.I share the parts of my story I’ve never said out loud and explore why so many women — especially business owners — were never taught healthy money habits, financial literacy, or how to build real stability. Then we look at Tori Dunlap’s story from Her First $100K, how her early financial education changed everything, and what it means for women who didn’t get that same foundation.If you’re navigating money mindset work, rewriting old beliefs, healing financial shame, or trying to feel more grounded in your business decisions, this episode will meet you right where you are.Sources and DisclaimersThis episode was created using publicly available, verifiable information from credible sources, including:Her First $100K – Official Website & Blog: Background on Tori’s early financial education, mission, and the origins of her brand.Financial Feminist (the book) – Publicly Available Summaries & Excerpts: Details on Tori’s upbringing, negotiation skills, and foundational money lessons.Financial Feminist Podcast – Public Episodes: Insights into Tori’s money philosophy, negotiations, financial literacy education, and brand mission.CNBC Make It – Interviews & Features: Reporting on Tori’s $100K by 25 goal, her savings strategies, and the rapid growth of her company.Forbes – Profiles & Interviews: Discussion of Her First $100K’s business growth, community impact, and Tori’s approach to financial empowerment.Business Insider – Features on Tori’s Money Journey: Coverage of her early financial habits, budgeting, and entrepreneurship milestones.Time, Glamour, and Other Public Interviews: Additional context on the emotional, social, and systemic aspects of women’s financial literacy.All facts shared in this episode are based on publicly available information at the time of recording. Any personal commentary, reflections, interpretations, or emotional connections expressed are solely my own and are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Tori Dunlap or Her First $100K.

This episode is for anyone trying to plan next year while still recovering from this one, especially if you’re a mom, juggling the holidays, work, kids at home, and that weird feeling of wanting to slow down but also not fall behind.I’m talking about what this past year looked like for me (spoiler: my word of the year was “calm” and life had other plans), and how I’m using the end of the year to reset without doing the whole “new year, new me” thing. If you’re tired, stretched thin, or just feeling the emotional hangover of the holidays, you’re in good company.I’ll walk you through how I actually plan my year vision board, how I choose my word of the year, the categories I use to make planning feel doable, and how to start small when you don’t have the energy for a full overhaul. Think of this as an honest check in for anyone who wants next year to feel better, steadier, and more intentional… without pretending motherhood and life aren’t happening at the same time.

In this episode, I’m sharing the story of Mari Llewellyn, the founder behind Bloom Nutrition and one of the internet’s most relatable wellness transformations. But instead of focusing on the viral success or the TikTok greens moment, we’re talking about how it really started… with one uncomfortable morning, one tiny decision, and a girl who was tired of her own life. It’s a reminder that the biggest pivots often begin from the smallest, messiest places. And honestly? I think you’ll see parts of yourself in her story.Sources & Disclaimers This episode was created using publicly available, verifiable information from credible sources, including:Fox Business – Coverage of Mari Llewellyn’s early fitness transformation and background.Cliché Magazine – Interview detailing the early development of Bloom Nutrition and product testing.Net Influencer – Reporting on Bloom’s TikTok reach and revenue estimates.Entreprenista – Interview highlighting Mari’s design/merchandising background and early brand-building.Camille Styles – “Wake Up Call” feature outlining Mari’s routine, lifestyle, and mental wellness practices.Additional publicly available interviews, profiles, and features discussing Bloom Nutrition’s growth, retail expansion, and community-driven brand development.All facts shared are based on publicly available information at the time of recording. Any personal commentary, reflections, or interpretations are my own.

In this episode, we dive into the story of Kendra Scott, the woman who turned a $500 dream into a billion dollar jewelry brand built on heart, hustle, and resilience. From her early days designing hats for cancer patients to walking boutique floors with a baby on her hip, Kendra’s journey is a reminder that success often starts in the messiest, most uncertain seasons. I’ll share her story, the pivotal moments that shaped her brand, and a few reflections of my own about failure, faith, and building something that actually matters.Perfect for anyone standing at a crossroads, wondering if they have what it takes to start—or start again.Sources & Disclaimers This episode was created using publicly available information from credible and verifiable sources, including:Kendra Scott Official Website – Brand overview, founding story, and philanthropic initiatives.Wikipedia – “Kendra Scott” – Verified biography, career timeline, and company milestones.Forbes – Articles by Tanya Tarr and Michael Jones detailing Kendra’s early ventures, business philosophy, and billion-dollar valuation.Foundr Magazine – “How Kendra Scott Built a Billion-Dollar Business” feature outlining her startup phase, 2008 recession pivot, and retail expansion strategy.Tampa Magazines – In-depth profile covering Kendra’s childhood, family influences, and entrepreneurial values.The Elevate Podcast with Robert Glazer – Interview highlighting her leadership style, culture-building approach, and reflections on failure.Glamour Magazine (Millionaire Moves series) – Coverage of Kendra Scott’s financial milestones and mission-driven growth.The Alcalde (University of Texas Alumni Magazine) – Details on the Kendra Scott Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute and philanthropic impact.StyleBlueprint – “Face of the South” feature discussing her creative process and early influences.How I Built This with Guy Raz (NPR) – Interview excerpts exploring her personal journey, early setbacks, and business evolution.All facts shared are based on publicly available information as of 2025.Commentary, reflections, and personal stories are my own.

This week on Might Be Something, we’re talking about Whitney Wolfe Herd, the founder of Bumble and the youngest woman to ever take a company public. At 24, she walked away from the company she helped build, faced brutal headlines, and could’ve disappeared. Instead, she turned that pain into power, creating an app that flipped the script and changed how women connect online. This episode is about resilience, reputation, and what it really takes to start over when the world’s already watching.

Last week, my husband’s company announced a 1,000 person layoff, and we had five long days of not knowing if he’d be one of them. That waiting cracked something open for me. In this episode, I’m sharing what that week taught me about stability and why I’m done relying on “safe.” If you’ve ever built your peace around something that suddenly didn’t feel so steady, this one will hit home.

What if the smallest decisions ended up changing everything?In this episode, I dive into the story of Sarah Gibson Tuttle, founder of Olive & June. Before creating one of the most recognizable names in modern beauty, Sarah spent nearly a decade on Wall Street. By every outside measure, she had “made it.” But when success stopped feeling like success, she did something few people have the courage to do... she walked away.Sources & DisclaimersThis episode was created using publicly available information from credible sources, including:Olive & June official website – Brand mission, history, and product launch details.Refinery29 – Coverage of Olive & June’s 2019 at-home manicure system launch.WWD (Women’s Wear Daily) – Reporting on Olive & June’s pandemic growth and shift toward at-home nail care.BeautyMatter – 2024 Future50 feature on Sarah Gibson Tuttle and Olive & June’s mission.CreatorIQ “Earned” Podcast (Episode 113) – Interview with Sarah Gibson Tuttle on leadership and pandemic pivots.Glossy.co – Interviews about the Olive & June product line expansion and retail partnerships.Business of Fashion – Features on accessible beauty trends and Olive & June’s brand positioning.All facts shared are based on publicly available information at the time of recording. Commentary, reflections, and personal stories are my own.

This episode hits deeper than business. It’s about building something beautiful, losing yourself inside it, and finding your way back. Alli Webb’s story isn’t just about blowouts and branding, it’s about identity, burnout, and starting over when success doesn’t feel like success anymore. If you’ve ever wondered who you are without the thing you built, this one’s going to hit you right in the gut.Sources & DisclaimersThis episode was created using publicly available information from verified and credible sources, including:NPR’s How I Built This – interview with Alli Webb detailing the creation and growth of DrybarForbes – coverage on Drybar’s expansion, valuation, and Alli Webb’s entrepreneurial journeyInc. Magazine – features and interviews on leadership, scaling, and burnoutMarie Claire – personal profile covering Alli’s struggles with self-image and identity after successBeautyMatter – interviews and articles on her post-Drybar ventures, Squeeze, Becket + Quill, and The Messy ProjectThe Messy Truth (book by Alli Webb) – verified insights from her personal reflections and public excerptsHelen of Troy press release (2020) – acquisition details of Drybar’s product line and valuation confirmationLos Angeles Times and Entrepreneur Magazine – background on the early concept of Drybar and its influence on the beauty industryAdditional verified reporting from CNN Business, Today Show, and Refinery29 on the brand’s launch, scaling, and sale.Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for storytelling and educational purposes only. All facts and timelines shared are based on publicly available information at the time of recording. Commentary and reflections represent personal interpretations of verified events.

What if embarrassment was your best business strategy?Before nuuds became a $100M brand, Daryl-Ann Denner was just a teacher posting outfit selfies and losing half her followers. In this episode, I unpack how she turned that cringe worthy start into one of the fastest growing fashion brands in the U.S. We’ll talk about confidence that’s earned, fear that never fully leaves, and what it really means to bet on yourself when everyone’s watching. Because sometimes, the most successful stories start with being willing to look foolish first.This episode was created using publicly available information from credible sources, including:Forbes (2025) – “From Losing Half Her Followers To $100 Million: nuuds Founder Daryl-Ann Denner’s 6 Rules For Entrepreneurs” by Megan Bruneau (primary source for verified business and mindset insights)Business of Fashion – reporting on nuuds’ growth trajectory and Daryl-Ann Denner’s influence-driven brand modelGlossy.co – coverage of nuuds’ launch, marketing strategy, and direct-to-consumer successDaryl-Ann Denner podcast interviews (2024–2025) – including The Failure Factor and WorkParty, used for quotes and verified personal anecdotesInstagram content and nuuds official website – references for launch visuals, brand voice, and community engagementPublicly available financial reports and coverage from Inc., CNBC, and Entrepreneur – for valuation estimates and industry contextDisclaimer: This podcast is intended for storytelling and informational purposes only. All facts shared are based on publicly available sources at the time of recording. Commentary, reflections, and opinions are my own.

In this guided reset, we step into a quiet meadow together — unpacking what you’ve been carrying, setting it down, and filling yourself back up with calm. You’ll leave with a simple reminder you can “carry” into your day, so you don’t have to hold the weight alone.

I'm feeling a little spicy, a little ranty in today's episode. We're talking misalignment, beliefs about ourselves, boring content, AI, and ENERGY. Let's vow to shed some of the stuff that's holding us back, mmk?Need help? We're here to support!Things we can support with:– Brand clarity & messaging– Creative direction & marketing strategy– Website edits (Squarespace)– Newsletter campaigns– Blogging campaigns– Social media campaigns– Pinterest campaignsBook a quick 15 min chat HERE!Find us on Instagram @mightbesomethingpodcast & @hey.mabella

Katia Beauchamp co-founded Birchbox in 2010 with a simple idea: make beauty less overwhelming by delivering curated samples to your door for $10 a month. The idea took off, within a few years, Birchbox had raised nearly $90 million in venture funding, topped a million subscribers, and was valued at almost half a billion dollars. But behind the big headlines, the business faced deep challenges, skyrocketing customer acquisition costs, copycat competitors, and a customer base that proved harder to serve than anyone expected.In this episode, we dive into the story: the early skepticism, the explosive growth, the messy middle years, the layoffs, and the eventual sale to FemTec Health and later Retention Brands. More than a story about a subscription box, this is about resilience, tough choices, and the courage to keep going when both the beginning and the middle are harder than expected.If you’ve ever wondered what happens when the shine wears off or what it means to build something that matters even when it doesn’t end in a billion dollar exit, this episode is for you.Sources & DisclaimersThis episode was created using publicly available information from credible sources, including:Fast Company – coverage of Birchbox’s rise, funding history, leadership changes, and 2021 acquisition by FemTec HealthTechCrunch – reporting on Birchbox’s Walgreens partnership and retail expansionBusiness Insider – in-depth features on Birchbox’s growth, decline, and eventual sale to Retention Brands in 2023Modern Retail – reporting on Birchbox layoffs, pricing changes, and subscription model strugglesRetail Dive – coverage of customer complaints, shipping delays, and vendor debt issues after the FemTec acquisitionThe New York Times – profiles of Katia Beauchamp and Hayley Barna, with context on Birchbox’s early innovationInc. Magazine – interviews and background on Birchbox’s founding storyThe Industry Beauty – reporting on Katia Beauchamp’s appointment as CEO of Victoria Beckham Beauty in 2022Wikipedia (cross-checked with primary reporting) – confirmation of leadership transitions at Victoria Beckham Beauty in 2025Additional reporting from Forbes, Fortune, and other mainstream outletsDisclaimer: This podcast is intended for informational and storytelling purposes only. All facts shared are based on publicly available sources at the time of recording. Commentary and reflections are my own.

Sara Blakely turned $5,000 and a pair of scissors into Spanx, a billion dollar brand that changed the way women get dressed and redefined what’s possible for entrepreneurs everywhere. In this episode, I trace her story from growing up in Clearwater, Florida, to selling fax machines in the Florida heat, to that legendary bathroom demo at Neiman Marcus, and finally to the $1.2 billion Blackstone deal. Along the way, I dig into the lessons we can take from her path: reframing failure, building resilience through rejection, and trusting the small sparks that might just change everything.Sources & DisclaimersThis episode was created using publicly available information from credible sources, including:Forbes – coverage of Sara Blakely’s career, net worth, and business milestonesInc. Magazine – interviews and features on the founding of SpanxNPR’s How I Built This – Sara Blakely’s own account of building SpanxEncyclopedia Britannica – verified biographical detailsThe New York Times – profiles and reporting on Spanx’s growth and cultural impactCNN Money and Fortune – features on Blakely’s entrepreneurial journey and philanthropyThe Giving Pledge – confirmation of Sara Blakely’s 2013 philanthropic pledgeAtlanta Journal-Constitution – local reporting on Spanx milestones and her Atlanta Hawks investmentQVC press coverage (2001) – documenting her early sellout appearancesU.S. Patent and Trademark Office records – including U.S. Patent No. 6,463,765 for her original pantyhose undergarmentBlackstone press release (2021) – details of the Spanx majority stake acquisition and valuationAdditional reporting from Time, Bloomberg, and other mainstream outletsDisclaimer: This podcast is intended for informational and storytelling purposes only. All facts shared are based on publicly available sources at the time of recording. Commentary and reflections are my own.

Feeling drained after summer chaos, school starting, or just the everyday grind? This RESET episode is your mini energy audit. A simple check in for your body, mind, focus, and future self. Take a few breaths, stretch it out, and leave with more clarity and calm to carry into your week.Find us on Instagram @mightbesomethingpodcast & @hey.mabella

Big goals can feel exciting… until you have no idea how to actually start. In this episode, we break down how to take those big, dreamy visions and turn them into clear daily actions you can follow through on. If you’ve ever felt stuck between “someday” and “today,” this one’s for you.Overview of reverse engineering from the episode:Pick the specific goal.Define what success looks like.Reverse engineer the numbersAttach real actions.Make it time-based.Track it.Plan for roadblocks.Make sure it actually fits your life.Use tools to stay on track & accountableTake the first small step today.Need help? We're here to support!Things we can support with:– Brand clarity & messaging– Creative direction & marketing strategy– Website edits (Squarespace)– Newsletter campaigns– Blogging campaigns– Social media campaigns– Pinterest campaignsBook a quick 15 min chat HERE!Find us on Instagram @mightbesomethingpodcast & @hey.mabella

It's time to embrace the grey area. This is a part of your business that you simply cannot skip past. Everyone goes through it, unless you're one of those magical unicorns that happens to be great at everything you touch. In this episode, I am coming alongside you, in the grey area, and I talk about a couple strategies that help keep me moving forward, even without all the clarity I think I need.Need help? We're here to support!Things we can support with:– Brand clarity & messaging– Creative direction & marketing strategy– Website edits (Squarespace)– Newsletter campaigns– Blogging campaigns– Social media campaigns– Pinterest campaignsBook a quick 15 min chat HERE!Find us on Instagram @mightbesomethingpodcast & @hey.mabella

I wasn’t even going to record today. I’m tired. My kid’s been waking me up every night. My vision’s been weird. But I showed up anywa, not because I’m motivated, but because I’m committed. In this episode, I share how I stay consistent even when life throws curveballs, why habit stacking works for people who hate structure, and how Mel Robbins 5 second rule helps me keep moving.This one’s for you if you’ve been waiting to feel ready again. Let’s talk about what actually works.Need help? We're here to support!Things we can support with:– Brand clarity & messaging– Creative direction & marketing strategy– Website edits (Squarespace)– Newsletter campaigns– Blogging campaigns– Social media campaigns– Pinterest campaignsBook a quick 15 min chat HERE!Find us on Instagram @mightbesomethingpodcast & @hey.mabella

This RESET episode is for the woman navigating the slow shift from summer into fall—the space between routines, energy changes, and back-to-school season. Whether or not school is part of your world, this time of year brings a natural reset. If you’re feeling a little off, a little full, or just not quite ready, this episode is a gentle pause to help you slow down, check in, and ease into what’s next without rushing.Find us on Instagram @mightbesomethingpodcast & @hey.mabella

What do you actually want your life to look like in 3–5 years? The mornings, the schedule, the money, the energy?In this episode, we zoom out...way out...to make sure your business is built to support the life you’re dreaming about, not just a job that keeps you busy. You’ll walk away with real prompts to pull the thread, reverse engineer your goals, and start making micro shifts that lead to massive change.Need help? We're here to support!Things we can support with:– Brand clarity & messaging– Creative direction & marketing strategy– Website edits (Squarespace)– Newsletter campaigns– Blogging campaigns– Social media campaigns– Pinterest campaignsBook a quick 15 min chat HERE!Find us on Instagram @mightbesomethingpodcast & @hey.mabella

In this episode, I walk through what actually matters when it comes to website strategy for creative entrepreneurs.We chat about:The truth about pricing on your siteHow your copy might be costing you clientsCommon mobile mistakes (and how to fix them)Quick SEO tips you can actually doAND MORE!This is a must listen if you want your site to attract better leads, book more dream clients, and finally reflect the business you're proud of building.Need help? We're here to support!Things we can support with:– Brand clarity & messaging– Creative direction & marketing strategy– Website edits (Squarespace)– Newsletter campaigns– Blogging campaigns– Social media campaigns– Pinterest campaignsBook a quick 15 min chat HERE!Find us on Instagram @mightbesomethingpodcast & @hey.mabella

If the word sales makes you feel like crawling under a table, this episode is for you. We’re ditching outdated strategies (cold calls, copy paste DMs, awkward pitches) and talking about what it really looks like to sell without the "ick". This is for the entrepreneur who wants to sell without the manipulation.From my early real estate days, to my run in with a scammy garbage company, to using AI in a way that still sounds like me, I’m giving you a gut check on what it takes to build trust, attract the right people, and actually enjoy selling again.Find us on Instagram @mightbesomethingpodcast & @hey.mabella

If your dream clients are still confused about what you do or how to work with you, this episode is a must. We’re diving into 4 simple questions to help you get crystal clear on your offers, pricing, and call to action so people can actually hire you.Whether you’re a coach, creative, or service provider, this episode is your roadmap to more confident messaging and easier yeses.Interested in a strategy session? Let's first book a 15 min chat to see if we might be a good fit!Find us on Instagram @mightbesomethingpodcast & @hey.mabella

This RESET episode is a gentle reminder that things don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. If you’ve been holding back on an idea or waiting for everything to line up just right, this is your quiet nudge to begin anyway.Start where you are, even if it’s a little messy. Sometimes the most honest, impactful things begin before they feel fully ready.A soft reset for women entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone craving real momentum without the pressure.Find us on Instagram @mightbesomethingpodcast & @hey.mabella

Ever feel like your brand is trying to talk to everyone and no one’s actually listening?Yeah, me too. In this episode, I’m sharing the messy (but game changing) shift that happened when I stopped writing for the masses and started speaking to one person: my dream client.Try this voice note exercise right after you listen:Voice note yourself as your dream client.Answer these 5 questions:What am I stuck on right now?What do I wish I had help with?What have I already tried that didn’t work?What would make me say “Yes, this is for me”?What would make me trust someone enough to invest?Then go back and listen. Write down the actual words you say. That’s your next caption. Your next offer. Your next big shift. This one might be the clarity you’ve been waiting for.Find us on Instagram @mightbesomethingpodcast & @hey.mabella

What if the reason you’re feeling off isn’t because you’re doing it wrong—but because the “rules” you’ve been following were never built for you in the first place? In this episode, I open up about what it’s been like to finally get to know myself at 36 — from motherhood in my twenties, to unlearning hustle culture, to discovering how I actually work best (hint: it’s not at 5 a.m. with a protein shake and a power hour). Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a mom, or someone just trying to feel more like you again—this one’s for you. Maybe it’s not burnout. Maybe it’s misalignment. Let’s talk about what it could look like to work with your wiring instead of constantly fighting it.Find us on Instagram @mightbesomethingpodcast & @hey.mabellaRESOURCESLiving In Sync Apple Podcast Living In Sync SpotifyFREE Enneagram Test - There are more in depth tests that are paid, just pop it into google and you'll find a bunch!Strengths Finder Test -There are other options out there, but this one is great!Human Design

In this episode, I’m unpacking what happened after a high energy night that ended in unexpected tears and why I think overstimulation had everything to do with it.We’re diving into what overstimulation really looks like for women navigating business, parenting, summer chaos, shared home offices, and just everyday life. I’m sharing examples of how it shows up in your body, work, and emotional health, plus the tools I’m starting to implement to manage it better.Whether you’ve been feeling scattered, snappy, or just plain overwhelmed, this episode offers practical ways to build resilience, reset your nervous system, and stop powering through when your body’s begging for calm.Find us on Instagram @mightbesomethingpodcast & @hey.mabella

If you're a mom staring down the chaos of summer break with zero camps, a messy house, and a work schedule you're trying to duct tape together, this RESET is for you. We're not mapping out goals. We're just hitting pause together. Grab your headphones, sneak a second for yourself, and breathe with me. This one’s about doing less, noticing what matters, and letting the season be what it is.Find us on Instagram @mightbesomethingpodcast

Ever feel like the business or brand you built doesn’t even feel like you anymore? In this episode, I’m sharing the real story behind walking away from my 8 year real estate career, how 2020 forced my hand, and why it’s okay to outgrow your old plan...fast. We’ll talk about the pressure to stay consistent, the fear of starting over without a degree or backup plan, and how to trust yourself when the old vision doesn’t fit.Whether you’re pivoting, pausing, or completely burning it down, this one’s for you.Find us on Instagram @mightbesomethingpodcast

I didn’t think I could do it. I had all the reasons not to, but I showed up anyway.In this episode, I share what running a 6K (after not running for years) taught me about momentum, belief, and saying yes before you're ready. Whether you're launching something new or stuck in the middle of a big pivot, this story is your reminder to keep going, one step at a time.More about World Vision