Courageous Conversations with Fran Pastore
Through her work as the Founder and CEO of the Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) in Connecticut, Fran Pastore has had the privilege of knowing and working with remarkable and accomplished leaders who have invaluable insights and strategies for success in the business world and beyond. In every episode, guests share lessons they’ve learned through their personal journeys as they and Fran delve into topics such as financial empowerment, economic equity & access to capital, advocacy for women, growing a business, and more. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, Fran and her guests offer practical advice and inspiration to help you overcome obstacles, conquer your fears, and achieve your goals.
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S4/Ep.10 Networking Like a Pro
11/16/2023
S4/Ep.10 Networking Like a Pro
In this episode of Courageous Conversations, WBDC CEO Fran Pastore takes on a different role as she's interviewed by Terri Piekara, a WBDC Business Advisor and podcast Editor. Fran's vast experience in networking shines through as they discuss strategies for building meaningful relationships and offer actionable tips for successful networking. Many thanks to the entrepreneurs who attended WBDC’s recent networking event and shared their own insights on networking: Vini Kaul, Kaulverse X Holdings, LLC; Serena Biondi, Nautical Nutrition Services; Angelina Gardner, Uncle D’s Blazin’ BBQ and Comfort Catering; Grier Stanley Barnwell, Grier & Company. To discover more about the Women's Business Development Council and the resources we provide to help women thrive in business, visit And don't forget to follow Courageous Conversations on your preferred podcast platform. Find Out More About Us: WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on Join
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S4/Ep.9 Owning the Arena: Katrina Adams on Leadership and Breaking Glass Ceilings
10/19/2023
S4/Ep.9 Owning the Arena: Katrina Adams on Leadership and Breaking Glass Ceilings
Today, we are replaying a thought-provoking conversation Fran had in 2020 with Katrina Adams, a true trailblazer in the world of tennis and in the boardroom. Katrina’s insights are as valuable today as they were when this episode was first released, and we hope you’ll find inspiration from her journey. If you want to hear more from Katrina, author of Own the Arena, join us at WBDC’s annual Gala and Awards celebration on Friday, October 27th at the Hyatt Regency Greenwich, where Katrina will be the Keynote speaker.
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S4/Ep.8 Lead to Win with Carla Harris
09/28/2023
S4/Ep.8 Lead to Win with Carla Harris
In this episode of Courageous Conversations, Fran is honored to host the remarkable Carla Harris, Senior Client Advisor at Morgan Stanley, and author of the empowering book, Lead to Win. Carla’s “Pearls” – nuggets of wisdom she’s gained throughout her extensive and impressive career – will inspire you to lead with purpose, foster a culture of inclusivity, and ultimately, lead to win. Don't miss this enlightening conversation with Carla Harris, a trailblazer in the world of finance, leadership, and empowerment. Find out more about Carla on her Purchase Carla’s Find Out More About Us: WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on Join To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at Purchase Tickets to the
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S4/Ep.7 Connecticut Works for Small Business
07/20/2023
S4/Ep.7 Connecticut Works for Small Business
Join Fran Pastore on this episode of Courageous Conversations as she engages in a thoughtful discussion with Connecticut’s Lt. Governor, Susan Bysiewicz. Together, they explore why it’s a good time to be a small business entrepreneur in CT and share information about the many programs currently available in the state – the CT Small Business Boost Fund, the state’s child care initiative, WBDC’s Equity Match Grant Program, and others – that are intended to help small business owners access the resources that will enable them to strengthen and grow their businesses. Lt. Gov. Bysiewicz also shares her personal story of being raised on a CT farm by parents who prioritized education and believed strongly in standing up for others. Listen to hear how she was influenced by her mother, an attorney who fought against gender discrimination and rallied in support of the Equal Rights Amendment Find Out More About Us: WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on Join Resources & Sources mentioned in this episode (OEC) WBDC’s (203) 353-1750 extension 110 for info on CT Boost Fund To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at
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S4/Ep.6 The Journey from Product to Pitch: Learn from FunkkOFF’s Shark Tank Adventure
06/22/2023
S4/Ep.6 The Journey from Product to Pitch: Learn from FunkkOFF’s Shark Tank Adventure
The creators of FunkkOFF TeethRefreshers, Joelle Flynn and Sonia Hounsell, join Fran on today’s episode of Courageous Conversations. Lifelong friends, the duo share their journey of entrepreneurship, how their diverse skillsets in finance and brand marketing played an instrumental role in the development and launch of their groundbreaking product and how a WBDC pitch class helped them hone their skills for an incredible opportunity on SharkTank. Tune in to be inspired by Joelle and Sonia and learn from their experiences. There are so many valuable takeaways for every entrepreneur; you won’t want to miss it! Find Out More about: FunkkOFF! On FunkkOFF! Find Out More About Us: WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on Join Thanks for listening to Courageous Conversations. To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at .
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S4/Ep.5 Growth, Innovation and the Economic Futures of CT & NY
05/18/2023
S4/Ep.5 Growth, Innovation and the Economic Futures of CT & NY
How are New York and Connecticut embracing growth, innovation, and collaboration? Join Fran Pastore as she engages in a dynamic dialogue with Alexandra Daum, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), and Hope Knight, President, CEO and Commissioner of Empire State Development, New York State’s economic development agency, as they discuss the strengthened relationship, aligned objectives, and collective efforts between the two states to create a thriving future in the region. Find Out More about: Find Out More About Us: WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on Join To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at .
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S4/Ep.4 Grit & Grace: The Fight for the American Dream with Dr. Oscar Guerra
04/20/2023
S4/Ep.4 Grit & Grace: The Fight for the American Dream with Dr. Oscar Guerra
Join Fran Pastore in this episode of Courageous Conversations as she speaks with Dr. Oscar Guerra, an Emmy award-winning documentary filmmaker and UConn professor. Dr. Guerra shares his experience directing "Grit & Grace: The Fight for the American Dream," a 30-minute documentary produced by the House Select Committee on Economic Disparity and Fairness in Growth, led by CT Congressman Jim Himes. The film portrays the journeys of families from various parts of the US and examines their quest for economic stability. Listen in as Fran and Oscar discuss the impact of these stories and how they highlight our shared desire to achieve the American Dream, despite our diverse backgrounds and experiences. Don't miss this insightful conversation on Courageous Conversations! Find Out More about Dr. Oscar Guerra Find Out More About WBDC: WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on Join Resources & Sources mentioned in this episode. To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at .
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S4/Ep3 Revolutionizing Retirement with CT State Comptroller Sean Scanlon & MyCTSavings
03/24/2023
S4/Ep3 Revolutionizing Retirement with CT State Comptroller Sean Scanlon & MyCTSavings
Connecticut State Comptroller Sean Scanlon is on a mission to make financial literacy and saving for retirement more accessible for the state’s small businesses and their employees. He sits down with Fran in today’s episode of Courageous Conversations to talk about MyCTSavings, Connecticut's retirement savings program, and why it’s so important to him. His passion for the program was born, in part, from witnessing his own mother who, as a single parent, started a small business to support herself and her young family. She was able to grow the business into a successful venture over time, but still was not able to afford health insurance or retirement benefits. Comptroller Scanlan says he recognizes that this story is the plight of many women-owned businesses to this day and he strongly believes MyCTSavings can be part of the solution. The program provides small businesses and their employees an opportunity to save for retirement – at no cost to the employee or the employer! Listen in as Fran asks the questions about the program that are on the minds of all small business owners. If you own an eligible business with 5 to 24 employees, you have until March 30, 2023 to either register for MyCTSavings or to let the Comptroller’s office know that you already offer a retirement program Find out more at Learn more about Comptroller Sean Scanlon at or: Twitter: Instagram: Facebook: Find Out More About Us: WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC Connect Members To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at and thanks for listening.
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S4/Ep.2 It Starts With A Business Plan
02/16/2023
S4/Ep.2 It Starts With A Business Plan
“If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” – Ben Franklin Mr. Franklin certainly knew what he was talking about – especially for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs! That’s why Fran is joined by WBDC Business Advisor Carol Cheswick on today’s episode of Courageous Conversations. Carol has helped thousands of clients craft their business plan. She knows many entrepreneurs are overwhelmed by the idea of creating a business plan – and she has advice on how to make the process manageable and stress-free. Fran & Carol also discuss how completing a business plan has helped WBDC Equity Match Grant applicants & recipients become more conversant in financial speak, which in turns has helped them secure other funding. If you’d like help getting your business plan started, contact Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you Thanks for listening to Courageous Conversations, a podcast dedicated to inspiring women entrepreneurs through the stories of incredible leaders! To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at . Sources & Resources Mentioned: Learn more about the Ron Angelo, CEO of Find Out More About Us: WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC Connect Members
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S4/Ep1. Unlocking Connecticut
01/19/2023
S4/Ep1. Unlocking Connecticut
Unlocking Connecticut is a blog, Instagram account and website created by Lora Karam and Bev Canepari, which explores the places and faces of Connecticut. Fran recently had the pleasure of meeting Lora and Bev and invited them to join her to share their start up story, the challenges they see facing small businesses & their love of all things CT. Listen to hear about their entrepreneurial journey and learn about some of their and Fran’s picks for Connecticut’s most interesting hidden gems! You can find out more about the dynamic duo behind Unlocking Connecticut by visiting their website at Mentioned: Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you Thanks for listening to Courageous Conversations, a podcast dedicated to inspiring women entrepreneurs through the stories of incredible leaders! To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at . Learn more about the Find Out More About Us: WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC Connect Members
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S3/Ep.3 The Impact of Elections on Women Entrepreneurs
11/17/2022
S3/Ep.3 The Impact of Elections on Women Entrepreneurs
The 2022 mid-term elections took place just over a week ago. While we don’t fully know all of the results or what they will mean for the balance of power in our country, it is clear that female voters came out in force to make their voices heard. In this episode of Courageous Conversations, Fran spoke with two extraordinary female leaders; , Executive Director at the and of , about why elections matter, particularly for women and women-owned businesses and why it’s imperative that women become engaged in the decisions that are being made that affect them. Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you Thanks for listening to Courageous Conversations, a podcast dedicated to inspiring women entrepreneurs through the stories of incredible leaders! To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at . Learn More about The Campaign School at Yale (TCSYale): TCSYale on TCSYale on TCSYale on TCSYale on Or call: (203) 734-7385 Learn More about Ms. Foundation for Women: Ms. Foundation on Ms. Foundation on Ms. Foundation on Ms. Foundation on Find Out More About Us: WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC Connect Members Learn more about the WBDC’s
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S3/Ep.2 Accelerating The Growth of Women's Entrepreneurship in CT
10/20/2022
S3/Ep.2 Accelerating The Growth of Women's Entrepreneurship in CT
25 years ago, Fran Pastore & Dorothy Bratchell embarked on a mission to create a resource for women entrepreneurs in Connecticut. They were at the forefront of forging a path to accelerate the growth of women’s entrepreneurship and remain committed to that mission today. Listen to this episode of Courageous Conversations to hear how WBDC began, learn about the struggles faced by Fran and Dorothy, as well as their clients in those early days, and what they think the future looks like for women owned businesses in Connecticut. Join us at our on Friday, October 28th at the Hyatt Regency in Greenwich, CT Find Out More About Us: ind Out MoreAbout Us: WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC Connect Members Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you Thanks for listening to Courageous Conversations, a podcast dedicated to inspiring women entrepreneurs through the stories of incredible leaders. To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at .
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S3/Ep.1 Women in Banking: Meet Four Connecticut CEOs
09/22/2022
S3/Ep.1 Women in Banking: Meet Four Connecticut CEOs
What does it take to reach the pinnacle of success in a male dominated arena? Of the more than two dozen banks that are licensed or headquartered in CT, six are led by women in the CEO position. Four of those extraordinary women join Fran to discuss the lessons they learned along the way, the mentors who inspired them, and the advice they have for young people coming up in today’s world – in business or in any other field. Find out more about our guests: Diane Arnold, President & CEO of Cynthia Merkle, President & CEO of Sue Shields President & CEO of Lesa Vanotti President & CEO Find Out More About Us: WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC Connect Members Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you Thanks for listening to Courageous Conversations, a podcast dedicated to inspiring women entrepreneurs through the stories of incredible leaders. To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at .
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S2/Ep.7 Introducing The Mom Shuffle Podcast: When Women Thrive, Communities Come Alive
08/10/2022
S2/Ep.7 Introducing The Mom Shuffle Podcast: When Women Thrive, Communities Come Alive
Twenty-five years ago, Fran Pastore turned a transition in her career into an opportunity for thousands of other women, their communities, and the State of Connecticut. A recent guest of the Mom Shuffle Podcast, a show which features interviews with guests who are trying to build businesses while also raising their families, Fran spoke with host, Dr. Colleen Kendrick about her own entrepreneurial journey and the evolution of the Women's Business Development Council. While Courageous Conversations is on a break for the summer, we invite you to listen to this episode of The Mom Shuffle Podcast. Find out more about Dr. Colleen Kendrick and Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you Thanks for listening to Courageous Conversations, a podcast dedicated to inspiring women entrepreneurs through the stories of incredible leaders! To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at . Find Out More About Us: WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC Connect
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S2/Ep.6 Investing In the Future Of Women
06/23/2022
S2/Ep.6 Investing In the Future Of Women
WBDC CEO Fran Pastore was recently appointed Board Chairperson for the Connecticut Paid Leave Authority. In this episode of Courageous Conversations Fran sits down with Nancy Barrow, host of . Of course, they discuss WBDC's work and why Fran is so passionate about CT's paid leave program, but they also cover the need for more women in leadership positions, small business funding and why it's still easier for men to access capital, and so much more. This podcast was previously released as the latest episode of which examines the state of Connecticut's paid leave program and the impact it has on various groups and diverse communities. You can findon Apple Podcasts. To learn more about Connecticut's paid leave program, visit Learn More About Nancy Barrow on her Thanks for listening to Courageous Conversations, a podcast dedicated to inspiring women entrepreneurs through the stories of incredible leaders! To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at . This episode of Courageous Conversations is brought to you by Find Out More About Us: WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC Connect Members
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S2/Ep.5 Supporting the Community While Boosting the Bottom Line
05/26/2022
S2/Ep.5 Supporting the Community While Boosting the Bottom Line
Can supporting your local Community affect your bottom line? Amy Kenkel and Laurie Surprenant say it can! Amy and Laurie are the owners of Leaps and Bones, a pet supply store and pet bakery with locations in South Windsor, Southington and a new location opening soon in Manchester, CT. They are passionate about giving back to the communities that have supported them and they have some great advice for other small business owners looking to give back while also boosting their bottom line. Find Out More About Leaps & Bones: Leaps & Bones Leaps & Bones on Leaps & Bones on Season 2 of Courageous Conversations, a podcast dedicated to inspiring women entrepreneurs and small business owners through the stories of incredible leaders has been brought to you by Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at . Learn more about the Find Out MoreAbout Us: WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on Join
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S2/Ep.4 The First, The Few, The Only with Deepa Purushothaman
04/21/2022
S2/Ep.4 The First, The Few, The Only with Deepa Purushothaman
In her inspiring and eye-opening book, The First, The Few, The Only, Deepa Purushothaman examines the challenges faced by women of color in the workplace. In this episode, Fran had the opportunity to discuss Deepa’s work at an event held by the Westport Library. While the intended audience for this book is women of color navigating corporate America, it can truly serve as a roadmap for anyone wanting to create a more equitable workplace. Deepa Purushothaman is the co-founder of nFormation, a Women and Public Policy Leader in Practice at the Harvard Kennedy School and was the first Indian American woman to make partner at Deloitte. To learn more about Deepa Purushothaman and her work, visit To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at . Thanks for listening to Courageous Conversations, a podcast dedicated to inspiring women entrepreneurs through the stories of incredible leaders! Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you listen to podcasts. This episode of Courageous Conversations is brought to you by Find Out MoreAbout Us: WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on Become a member of WBDC Connect Members
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S2/Ep.3 Supporting Child Care – An Industry in Crisis Pt.2
03/24/2022
S2/Ep.3 Supporting Child Care – An Industry in Crisis Pt.2
We continue our conversation about child care – an industry in crisis – with Beth Bye, Commissioner of the CT Office of Early Childhood. Child care providers are struggling as they strive to recover from the pandemic. While much has been done to strengthen the industry – including an innovative public private partnership between WBDC and OEC – there is still much to be done to stabilize this industry and support these businesses that provide a much needed service for parents as they return to work. To learn more about the CT Office of Early Childhood visit To learn more about the WBDC Child Care Support Program, visit . The application period for Child Care Opportunity Fund grants is now open. Sign up for an information session at . Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you listen to podcasts. To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at . Thanks for listening to Courageous Conversations, a podcast dedicated to inspiring women entrepreneurs through the stories of incredible leaders!
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S2/Ep. 2: Supporting Child Care, an Industry in Crisis Pt.1
02/24/2022
S2/Ep. 2: Supporting Child Care, an Industry in Crisis Pt.1
The child care industry is in crisis – in Connecticut and across the country. Recognizing that access to quality child care is essential for our economic recovery, Connecticut’s leadership took action to stabilize the industry and drive growth for its businesses. As part of those efforts, WBDC has partnered with the CT Office of Early Childhood (OEC) to provide business training, technical support, and financial relief to the state’s child care providers. In this episode of Courageous Conversations, Fran talks with Louise Lisboa, WBDC’s Director of Impact, Operations and Child Care, about the state of the industry and the work WBDC is doing to help support providers in Connecticut. Nichelle Wadell, owner of Watch Me Grow Daycare in Stamford, CT provides the perspective of a child care provider. Nichelle Wadell, Watch Me Grow Daycare To learn more about the WBDC Child Care Support Program, visit . The next application period for Child Care Opportunity Fund grants is opening soon. Sign up for an information session at . Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you listen to podcasts. To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at . Thanks for listening to Courageous Conversations, a podcast dedicated to inspiring women entrepreneurs through the stories of incredible leaders!
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S2/Ep.1 Funding Growth for Connecticut’s Women-Owned Businesses
01/27/2022
S2/Ep.1 Funding Growth for Connecticut’s Women-Owned Businesses
Welcome to Season 2 of Courageous Conversations with Fran Pastore! We’re kicking off the season with two recent WBDC Equity Match Grant recipients, Kevnesha Boyd, owner of in Hamden, and Jona Jeffcoat, owner of in Southington. Listen to hear how these inspiring entrepreneurs plan to use the EMG funds to expand their businesses. The WBDC Equity Match Grant program was created by the Women’s Business Development Council to assist Connecticut’s women-owned businesses, especially disenfranchised populations and those in distressed communities, providing grants of up to $10,000 to qualified applicants. The current application period is open until February 13, 2022. WBDC Vice President of Programs and Business Services Brenda Thickett joins the conversation to discuss eligibility and the application process, and to describe the impact this program has had on Connecticut’s women-owned businesses and the state’s economy. Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you Thanks for listening to Courageous Conversations, a podcast dedicated to inspiring women entrepreneurs through the stories of incredible leaders! To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at . RESOURCES: Learn more about the Find Out More About Us: WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on WBDC on Become a member of WBDC Connect Members OUR GUESTS: Jona Jeffcoat Website on Instagram on Facebook on LinkedIn Kevnesha Boyd Website on Instagram on Facebook on LinkedIn Season 2 of Courageous Conversations, a podcast dedicated to inspiring women entrepreneurs and small business owners through the stories of incredible leaders has been brought to you by
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S1/Ep.20 Shopping Local on Small Business Saturday . . . And Everyday
11/18/2021
S1/Ep.20 Shopping Local on Small Business Saturday . . . And Everyday
Small Business Saturday, November 27, is right around the corner. Started to encourage people to bring more holiday shopping to small businesses, Small Business Saturday has become a critical component to the holiday shopping season for many of our local retailers. In this episode of Courageous Conversations Fran talks with four local business owners about their own entrepreneurial journeys and discusses the importance of shopping local, not just on Small Business Saturday, but everyday! Joining Fran are WBDC clients Lorenza Arnal (), Tori Brown (), Jodi Burns (), Lyndsay Dean (), Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you listen to podcasts. Check us out on and Become a member of To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at . Thanks for listening! This episode of Courageous Conversations is brought to you Thanks for listening to Courageous Conversations, a podcast dedicated to inspiring women entrepreneurs through the stories of incredible leaders!
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S1/Ep.19 Shifting Norms with Jennifer Palmer, CEO of Gerber Finance
10/14/2021
S1/Ep.19 Shifting Norms with Jennifer Palmer, CEO of Gerber Finance
Until 1988 a woman could not access capital in her own name for commercial purposes. That year, legislation was enacted that finally allowed a woman to apply for a business loan without a male co-signor. A lot has changed in 33 years, but access to capital remains one of the most difficult challenges facing women entrepreneurs. In this episode, Fran talks with Jennifer Palmer, CEO of Gerber Finance, who has spent much of her career finding ways that financiers can better support female business owners. Fran and Jennifer explore Jennifer’s unique journey to the C-Suite of a major financial institution, the importance of surrounding yourself with the right support system, and methods for breaking down the barriers that stand between women entrepreneurs and access to capital. Listen to hear why Jennifer thinks it’s critically important to know what you don’t know. To learn more about Jennifer and her work at Gerber Finance, visit . Check us out on and Become a member of Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations on your favorite podcast listening app so you won't miss an episode! Thanks for listening to Courageous Conversations, a podcast dedicated to inspiring women entrepreneurs through the stories of incredible leaders! This episode has been brought to you by
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S1/Ep.18 Talking (and Walking) to End Alzheimer’s
09/30/2021
S1/Ep.18 Talking (and Walking) to End Alzheimer’s
In the United States, approximately 11 MILLION WOMEN are either living with Alzheimer’s or caring for someone who has it. Almost TWO-THIRDS of Americans living with Alzheimer’s are women. More than THREE IN FIVE unpaid Alzheimer's caregivers are women. To learn more about this devastating disease that so disproportionately impacts women, Fran talks with Kristen Cusato, Director of Communications at the Connecticut Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, and Molly Devanney, Co-Owner and Vice President of Public Relations for Highland Park Market, who balances her professional responsibilities with serving as the primary caregiver for her aunt who has Alzheimer’s. During this honest and open conversation, you’ll gain an understanding of the disease and learn about resources available for caregivers. You’ll also learn how you can help, including how to participate in one of the Walks to End Alzheimer’s taking place in Connecticut through the end of October. To learn more about the resources available through the Alzheimer’s Association, or to get involved with one of the walks happening in Connecticut in October, visit . To access the Alzheimer's 24/7 Helpline, call: 1(800) 272-3900 To find out where you can visit a Highland Park Market, visit . This episode of Courageous Conversations is brought to you Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you listen to podcasts. Check us out on and Become a member of To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at . Thanks for listening!
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S1/Ep.17 Celebrating Small Business Week With Three of CT's Best
09/16/2021
S1/Ep.17 Celebrating Small Business Week With Three of CT's Best
Molly Hirsch abandoned her budding marketing career to move to Vermont and help run a relative’s home goods boutique, unknowingly heading down the path to a successful future in interior design. Shivonne Mathison cared for her aging grandmother. That experience, combined with her background in social work, paved the way for her to start a company to provide compassionate home care to the elderly. Jane Moen watched as her autistic daughter struggled to find her way as a young adult, motivating her to create a safe place to help other disabled individuals transition to the working world. These “accidental entrepreneurs” join Fran for this episode of Courageous Conversations as we celebrate Small Business Week. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or an established business owner, you’ll be inspired by the stories of these remarkable women. They’ve got some great advice and insight to share! To learn more about today’s guests, visit , , and . Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you listen to podcasts. Check us out on and Become a member of To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at . Thanks for listening!
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S1/Ep.16 Talking Food with Stephanie Webster of CT Bites
08/19/2021
S1/Ep.16 Talking Food with Stephanie Webster of CT Bites
The pandemic hasn’t been easy on any of us, but you could argue that it’s been tougher on restaurants than almost any other industry. In this episode of Courageous Conversations, Fran sits down with Stephanie Webster, Editor-in-Chief and Founder of CTBites, an online community focused on the food scene in Connecticut. Listen to learn about how, during the state-wide pandemic shutdown, CTBites found a new way to support local restaurants while also helping to feed our exhausted healthcare workers. Stephanie also shares her thoughts on which trends born out of necessity – think outdoor dining and takeout cocktails – will continue post-pandemic. You’ll also find out which Connecticut restaurants are currently Stephanie’s favorites and learn one small thing we can all do to help Connecticut’s restaurants recover. Visit to get the latest on what’s new with food in Connecticut. You can also follow CTBites on your favorite social media platform. , and . Subscribe to the newsletter on their website Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you listen to podcasts. Check us out on and Become a member of To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at . Thanks for listening!
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S1/Ep.15 Getting the 411 on 211CT
07/22/2021
S1/Ep.15 Getting the 411 on 211CT
Mental Illness, homelessness, food insecurity, domestic abuse, lack of childcare . . . . These are just some of the issues for which Connecticut residents can turn to 211CT for help. Offered by the State of Connecticut through the United Way of CT, 211CT is a free, confidential information and referral service that connects people to essential health and human services 24 hours a day, seven days a week online and over the phone. In this episode of Courageous Conversations, Fran talks with United Way of CT President and CEO Lisa Tepper Bates and Nadia, a Housing Supervisor with 211CT who speaks directly with residents seeking support. Nadia asked that we refer to her by first name only in order to protect her privacy. This enlightening conversation covers the types of resources available through 211CT, the trends that have emerged since the beginning of the pandemic and the issues that Lisa and Nadia believe front and center as Connecticut moves forward. If you or someone you know is in need of support for health and human services, you can dial 2-1-1 or visit 211ct.org, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For more information on United Way of CT and the work they’re doing to support residents and childcare businesses in the state, visit . Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you listen to podcasts. Check us out on and Become a member of To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at . Thanks for listening!
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S1/Ep.14 Racism and Your Small Business (Part 2)
07/01/2021
S1/Ep.14 Racism and Your Small Business (Part 2)
In this episode of Courageous Conversations we continue the conversation about racism and your small business that began with our previous episode. Originally part of a WBDC Roundtable discussion recorded in June 2020, this important conversation offers small business owners steps they can take to make a difference in the journey toward social, economic, and racial equity and justice. Joining Fran in this discussion are , and . Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you listen to podcasts. To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at and Become a member of
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S1/Ep.13 Racism and Your Small Business
06/17/2021
S1/Ep.13 Racism and Your Small Business
With Juneteenth just days away, and as we look back at the year since George Floyd’s murder, in this episode of Courageous Conversations and the one that will be launched on July 1, we are revisiting a conversation between Fran and a panel of prominent women that was originally recorded as a 3-part WBDC Roundtable discussion in June 2020. While much has changed since George Floyd’s murder and the civic unrest that followed, there is still a long way to go in our journey toward social, economic, and racial equity and justice. This discussion, intended to start a conversation and explore steps we can all take to make a difference, remains as relevant today as it was a year ago. Joining Fran are Britt-Marie Cole-Johnson, Esq., Partner, Robinson + Cole LLP, Robin Imbrogno, President, The Human Resource Consulting Group, and Joelle A. Murchison, Founder & Principal, ExecMommyGroup LLC. Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you listen to podcasts. To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at www.ctwbdc.org. Thanks for listening!
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S1/Ep.12. Recalling Lessons Learned with Kitt Shapiro
06/03/2021
S1/Ep.12. Recalling Lessons Learned with Kitt Shapiro
Authenticity, empathy, strength, vulnerability . . . . These are just some of the virtues Kitt Shapiro gained as she soaked in the lessons handed down by her mother, legendary performer Eartha Kitt. In this episode of Courageous Conversations, Fran and Kitt talk about what it was like to travel the world with Eartha and how those shared experiences shaped Kitt’s own journey as a mother and entrepreneur. Listen to learn some “Kitt-isms” – small but powerful nuggets of advice and perspective from Eartha – that we can all use in our everyday lives. You can read more about Kitt’s experiences with her famous mother in her recently published book, Eartha and Kitt: A Daughter’s Love Story in Black & White. For More information about Kitt & Eartha visit Visit Kitt's retail shop West, or online at Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you listen to podcasts. To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at . Become a Thanks for listening!
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S1/Ep.11 Seeking Mental Health Wellness with Kevnesha Boyd
05/20/2021
S1/Ep.11 Seeking Mental Health Wellness with Kevnesha Boyd
In this episode of Courageous Conversations, as we near the end of Mental Health Awareness month, Fran talks with Kevnesha Boyd, a trauma therapist and the owner of Quality Counseling, a mental health practice in Hamden, CT, that focuses on helping members of the Black community to heal from traumatic childhood experiences and break unhealthy generational patterns. During this inspiring and informative conversation, Fran and Kevnesha address the chronic and pervasive nature of racial trauma, inequities in access to mental health care in black communities, the decreasing stigma associated with mental illness, and the importance of proactively nurturing our mental well-being. Listen to learn why Kevnesha considers mental health care akin to brushing your teeth. To learn more about Kevnesha and the work she is doing through Quality Counseling, visit . Be sure to follow Courageous Conversations wherever you listen to podcasts. To learn more about the Women’s Business Development Council and the support we provide to help women thrive in business, visit us at , on and on Become a member of
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