Want flexible work you can do from home—on your schedule—without another degree or certification? In this episode, Charisse sits down with Laura Nicole, a former college professor turned 6-figure Virtual Assistant (VA) and mentor to 1,000+ women. Laura breaks down exactly how to start as a VA, find clients fast, set your rates, and scale from a few hours a week to a real, reliable income.
Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom looking for $500–$1,000/month cushion, or aiming to replace (and surpass) your 9–5, this is your step-by-step playbook.
VA 101: What a virtual assistant actually does (and why businesses need you)
Getting clients fast: Personal network, Facebook groups, LinkedIn, and IG stories
Starter services that sell: Inbox + calendar management, community moderation, reporting, basic ops
Real numbers: Typical US starter rates ($25/hr) and how Laura matched, doubled, then tripled her former salary
Skill growth on the job: From simple admin to launches, automations, and funnels
Boundaries & balance: How to work in “pockets of time” and protect family time (Laura’s “phone bricking” trick!)
From VA to mentor: Inside Laura’s path to the Superstar Assistant Academy
00:00 Intro — Why VA work is perfect for mompreneurs
01:10 Meet Laura Nicole: professor → VA → 6-figure work-from-home income
03:45 Landing first clients (personal network, FB groups, LinkedIn, IG)
05:45 Beginner-friendly services you can offer today
07:50 Rates, retainers, and real income milestones
10:40 Learning as you go: tech, launches, automations
12:30 Evergreen courses & coaching (behind Laura’s model)
15:20 Work/life boundaries that actually stick
18:10 Park-bench advice for new moms (grace > perfection)
20:30 How to connect with Laura + resources
Make a simple offer list (email + calendar, community support, reporting).
Write a 1-paragraph bio + create a basic services PDF (Google Doc is fine).
Post “I’m taking 2 VA clients” to your personal network (FB/IG/LinkedIn).
Join 3–5 FB groups for small biz owners; respond to “VA needed” posts daily.
Pitch 10 dream businesses you follow on IG or LinkedIn (warm, value-first DM).
Start at $25/hr US (or package a 10-hour retainer).
Track wins + build a results sheet to raise rates with confidence.
Connect with Laura
IG: @hey.lauranicole
Ask about the Superstar Assistant Academy (self-paced with community support)
Host: @charissewalker1
Podcast: Unbreakable MompreneursBook: Flipping the Iceberg
Like, Subscribe, and Share with a mom who wants flexible, meaningful work from home. 💛
When your home life is dysregulated, your business pays the price. In this heart-opening, highly practical episode, Dr. Laurie Emery—former clinical therapist turned relationship transformation expert for high-achieving couples—joins Charisse to unpack how nervous-system regulation, emotional literacy, and real repair habits can turn “successful strangers running an empire” into intimate partners building a legacy.
We talk childhood patterns, perfectionism, burnout, co-regulation with kids, how to stop outsourcing intimacy to work, and what it really takes to create a couple’s code that becomes the floor your whole family stands on.
If you’ve ever thought, “Once the business calms down, I’ll fix things at home,” this one’s for you.
Why self-healing is a leadership strategy at home: how your regulation becomes your family’s permission slip to calm, connection, and growth
From survival to creation: spotting hyper-achiever patterns (people-pleasing, avoiding, perfecting) and shifting to grounded, values-led action
Nervous system 101 for moms: practical co-regulation with kids (naming emotions, micro-pauses, repair rituals) that reduce meltdowns and reactivity
Couples work that actually works: moving beyond “talk therapy” to identify your survival knot, create a Couple’s Code, and practice true repair
Power couple paradox: when two high performers use business to avoid intimacy—and how to redirect those strengths into connection
Boundaries vs. burnout: why “better culture” without clear systems backfires (at work and at home)
The reframe that saves marriages: what real accountability looks like after rupture—and when separation is a safety decision, not a failure
00:00 Intro — Why your business needs your relationships healthy
02:07 Meet Dr. Laurie: clinician → relationship strategist for high achievers
04:05 “When I heal, they heal”: modeling regulation vs. perfection
06:40 Co-regulation with kids: naming emotions, micro-breaks, repair
09:00 Escaping the hustle loop: the hidden cost of overachievement
12:05 Teaching excellence without shame: effort > outcome with kids
15:10 Self-care as foundation (not a luxury) for mom-CEOs
18:34 Couples work that works: survival knot, pathways to intimacy, Couple’s Code
22:48 Why many couples therapies miss the mark for founders
25:33 Public ruptures, private repair: betrayal, accountability, and choice
30:00 Mind–body–emotion: a simple nervous-system check-in you can use today
32:18 Park-bench advice: “Take care of yourself first. Be real.”
33:10 Where to find Dr. Laurie + free book
Name it: “I notice tight chest + fast thoughts = overwhelm.”
Pause & breathe: 4 slow nasal breaths, long exhale.
Share & repair (with partner/child): “I’m feeling flooded. I’m going to take 2 minutes to reset so I can listen well.”
Couple’s Code prompt: Together finish this sentence: “In hard moments, we commit to…” (limit to 3 behaviors you both agree to practice).
A former clinical therapist, Dr. Laurie Emery helps high-achieving couples move from relationship survival to creation without sacrificing ambition. She created The Integration Breakthrough Method™ and has guided hundreds of entrepreneurs and executives into deeper intimacy, steadier leadership at home, and legacies they’re proud of.
Free book + programs: Ignite Your Life → Ignite with Dr. Laurie (search “Ignite with Dr. Laurie”)
Host — Charisse Walker
• Website: unbreakablemompreneurs.com
• Instagram: @charissewalker1
• Book: Flipping the Iceberg
💡 What You’ll Learn⏱️ Timestamps🛠️ Try This Today (Dr. Laurie’s Mini-Ritual)👩⚕️ About Dr. Laurie Emery🔗 Connect
If this episode helped you exhale, LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE it with a mompreneur who could use more peace at home and power in her business. 💛
You started the business… now what? If accounting, HR, hiring, admin, and marketing are stretching you thin, this episode is your systems sanity check. I’m sitting down with Gabrielle Mills, co-founder and President of Sourced., a full-service back-office firm that grew from zero to five business units, 40+ team members, and clients nationwide—built by a mother–daughter team from the basement up.
We unpack exactly how to move from DIY chaos to a streamlined, scalable company—without burning out.
Back office decoded: What to outsource first (accounting, HR, admin/VA, marketing, talent acquisition) and what to keep in-house
Validate → build → scale: How Gabrielle and her mom mapped services directly to real client pain points
Systems vs. culture: Why great culture needs clear, enforceable processes to protect quality
Sales that last: Going from word-of-mouth to predictable pipelines as you level up
Hiring ≠ managing: Why “we can’t find good people” is often a management issue (and how to fix it)
AI & efficiency: What founders should be asking now to future-proof ops and margins
Motherhood, honestly: Maternity leave as a founder, Irish twins, and the best advice Gabrielle got: “Do whatever’s easiest in survival seasons.”
Founders who feel stuck in the weeds and want repeatable, scalable systems
Mompreneurs juggling growth, team, and family—and ready to get help
Operators building multi-service businesses or agencies
Website: unbreakablemompreneurs.com
Instagram: @charissewalker1
Book: Flipping the Iceberg
Website: GetSourced.com
Instagram / LinkedIn: @gabrielle.speaks (search Gabrielle Mills)
💡 What You’ll Learn🧭 Who this episode is for✨ Connect with Charisse (Host)🔗 Connect with Gabrielle Mills & Sourced.
Have you ever bought a course that ended up collecting dust? Or maybe you’ve dreamed of creating your own course but didn’t know where to start—or worse, you tried and it didn’t sell. You’re not alone!
In this powerful episode, Charisse Walker sits down with Dr. Catrina Mitchum, a recovering academic and learning experience designer, to talk about what’s really missing in the online course world—and how to fix it.
Catrina shares her journey from higher education to helping entrepreneurs design transformational learning experiences that don’t just inform—they change lives. You’ll learn how to validate your course idea, structure content that keeps students engaged, and build a program that people actually finish (and rave about!).
💡 What You’ll Learn:
Why most online courses fail—and how to avoid common pitfalls
How to validate your course idea before you spend months building it
The secret to creating action-based learning that gets results
Why quick wins and emotional connection matter more than endless videos
How to run a beta test that gives you real feedback before launch
What to do when your course flops—and how to fix it fast
The difference between teaching and transforming
How to balance logical and emotional learning for adult students
👩🎓 Dr. Catrina shares her unique approach to designing “learning journeys,” not just products—so your students reach the finish line inspired, capable, and ready for more.
✨ Connect with Dr. Catrina Mitchum🔗 LinkedIn: Catrina Mitchum
🎧 Hosted by Charisse WalkerCharisse is a mompreneur, real estate expert (Chalker Properties Group, eXp Realty), and author of Flipping the Iceberg. She helps women build thriving businesses while staying true to faith, family, and purpose.
🌐 Website: unbreakablemompreneurs.com📸 Instagram: @charissewalker1
⭐️ Keywords:
course creation, coaching business, Catrina Mitchum, Unbreakable Mompreneurs, Charisse Walker, how to build a course, online courses, course design, learning experience design, instructional design, course creation tips, validate your course idea, create a profitable course, course marketing, mompreneur podcast, how to launch a course, course engagement, beta testing, learning retention
On this episode of Unbreakable Mompreneurs, host Charisse Walker sits down with Sarena Diamond, CEO & Founder of Diamond Solutions Group—a former Fortune 500 executive turned organizational change partner who helps small and mid-sized businesses scale with clarity, culture, and confidence.
After 30+ years leading inside companies like IBM and across global programs, Sarena “escaped” corporate to build a consultancy that turns “What if?” into “Way to go!” through her signature Power of AND approach: vision and execution, structure and humanity, growth and sustainability.
If you’re a mom juggling family and a business that’s ready to grow, this conversation is your blueprint for scaling without losing yourself—or your team.
💎 From W-2 to Founder—without the free fall: How Sarena made the leap, replaced (and surpassed) her executive income, and learned to choose clients aligned with her values.
💎 Change Management vs. Organizational Change: Why Gantt charts aren’t culture—and how to build belief, enable new behaviors, and sustain progress.
💎 The “Messy Middle” rescue plan: What to do when your initiative loses traction and how to realign teams to the original “why.”
💎 Scaling SMBs with The Power of AND: Practical ways to grow operations and protect culture, drive accountability and empathy.
💎 Boundaries & Happy Money: The power of saying no to misaligned projects and charging what your impact is worth.
💎 Network Like a Giver: Sarena’s “support or solutions?” rule, her weekly mentoring calls with women founders, and how generosity fuels success.
💎 Mompreneur Wisdom: Lessons from raising kids solo while running teams—and why finding your “village” is the secret to thriving, not just surviving.
✅ Three-Step Change Framework:
Clarify & communicate the why until people can see themselves in it.
Define & enable the behaviors through training and support.
Design sustainment systems that keep success from fading.
✅ Leadership Prompts:
“How will my team’s day-to-day actually change?”
“What makes the new way easier than the old way?”
“How will we measure and celebrate small wins weekly?”
✅ Networking Challenge:
Send one message this week that says, “Can I borrow 20 minutes to run an idea by you?” Then schedule one where you offer the same gift to someone else.
Entrepreneurs and leaders of small-to-medium-sized businesses (SMBs) ready to scale; moms balancing purpose and profit; founders navigating change who need a reminder that leadership doesn’t have to be lonely.
Connect with Charisse Walker & Unbreakable Mompreneurs
🌐 UnbreakableMompreneurs.com📸 Instagram: @charissewalker1
Connect with Sarena Diamond:
💎 LinkedIn: Search Sarena Diamond (S-A-R-E-N-A Diamond) — she’s the only one!
💎 Company: Diamond Solutions Group — helping leaders turn visions into reality through organizational change and growth strategies.
💎 Book: Contributor to Becoming an Unstoppable Woman Entrepreneur 2 → https://a.co/d/guSa3hB
On my 200th episode of Unbreakable Mompreneurs, I’m showing up exactly as I am—paint in my hair, zero glam, and a heart that’s honest about burnout. This one isn’t polished. It’s real. Because if you’re a mom running a business (or five), juggling houses, clients, kids, contractors, spreadsheets, and a to-do list that never sleeps… you know “perfect” is a myth. Today is about choosing presence over perfection and priorities over pressure.
Over the past few months, our family has been elbow-deep in repairing two rentals—bids that made no sense, DIY nights stretching past midnight, and the very real math of opportunity cost: how much money (and memory) we lose when we try to do it all ourselves. Add the gut-punch of my daughter’s recent car accident—she’s okay, thank God—and everything snapped into focus: What truly matters? Who needs me most? Where is my time best spent?
Inside this episode, we dig into:
Burnout without the buzzwords: the unfiltered story of exhaustion, overwhelm, and the “I can’t do it all” moment that became a turning point.
Opportunity cost for mompreneurs: when DIY actually costs more—lost revenue, longer timelines, missed moments with your kids.
Trusting your gut in weird markets: why I dropped a list price (and why I didn’t drop it again), learning to make informed decisions guided by intuition.
Outsourcing without guilt: how to ask the right questions and buy back your life.
Community market leadership: how showing up for your city (not just BNI coffee) builds real relationships, referrals, and roots.
Faith and focus: simple reflection prompts that help you hear God more clearly and move with peace, not panic.
Family first (for real): why I now answer my kids’ calls—even when it’s inconvenient—and how that single habit reshaped my leadership.
Legacy > hustle: the question I’m asking daily: Would I want my kids to grow up to be like me? If not, what changes now?
Practical takeaways you can use today:
Make a 3-line audit: What should I stop doing? What should I start doing? What should I keep doing?
Calculate your true hourly rate and compare it to the cost of painting, editing, inbox management, or turnovers. If it’s cheaper to delegate, delegate.
Name your season: If this is a “kids first” chapter, give yourself permission to scale your business accordingly—on purpose, not by accident.
Relationship flywheel: Pick one school, one nonprofit, and one neighborhood initiative to support for 90 days. Show up. Repeat. Watch your brand trust compound.
Phone rule: When your child calls, answer (when safe/appropriate). Model your values out loud.
This episode is a love letter to every tired, big-hearted mom who’s still showing up. You don’t have to do everything to do the important things. Build a business that serves your life, not the other way around. And remember: if you’re thinking about it, worried about it, praying about it—you’re probably doing a better job than you give yourself credit for. 💛
Resources & Next Steps
• Need help? Start small: 2–5 hours/week of VA support or hire a local mom for inbox + scheduling.• Realtors & investors: make a sell/hold/rehab decision date and stick to it. Time kills margins and memories.• Want my prompts for weekly reflection + prioritization? Comment “REFLECT” and I’ll share the template.
Connect with meWebsite: UnbreakableMompreneurs.com
Instagram: @charissewalker1
Subscribe on YouTube & Spotify for new episodes and practical tools for resilient mompreneurs.
Charisse Walker is the owner of Chalker Properties Group (brokered by eXp Realty), a Realtor and mortgage loan officer, real-estate investor, and host of Unbreakable Mompreneurs. She creates practical tools that help women build profitable businesses without sacrificing family—integrating real estate expertise, entrepreneurship, and faith-driven leadership. She’s also the author of Flipping the Iceberg and its growing workshop ecosystem, helping couples and creators lead with purpose, clarity, and connection.
Welcome back to Unbreakable Mompreneurs with your host Charisse Walker, where we celebrate the journey of motherhood, entrepreneurship, resilience, and building businesses that last. In this episode, I sit down with the amazing Ashley Campos—a powerhouse entrepreneur who went from owning successful restaurant franchises to co-founding a thriving virtual assistant company, Global Connect Solutions (GCS).
Ashley’s story is full of lessons every mompreneur, business owner, and aspiring entrepreneur can learn from. She has owned and operated franchise restaurants including Jimmy John’s (a top-performing training store that earned awards for excellence) and Little Caesars, where she learned the hard truths about location, profitability, and knowing when to pivot. Through wins and losses, Ashley discovered that business success isn’t about perfection—it’s about resilience, decisiveness, and trusting your gut.
💡 In this episode, Ashley shares:
How she started in the restaurant business despite having no industry background beyond waitressing in college.
The advantages of franchising—including built-in systems and training—and the frustrations that come with limited flexibility.
Hard lessons from her Little Caesars franchise and why location truly is everything in the restaurant world.
Why you should stop throwing good money after bad and know when to rip off the bandaid on a failing business.
The pivot that changed everything—how losing one business inspired her to launch a local delivery service (City Cheetah), which then led to her building a global virtual assistant company.
How Global Connect Solutions was born, and how it now supports over 200 team members across Colombia and the Philippines, helping businesses in the U.S. scale smarter and faster.
What to look for when hiring a VA and the most important questions to ask to ensure it’s a good fit.
How much to expect to pay for virtual assistants (and why global talent often brings higher skill sets for the same cost).
Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship—Ashley shares candidly about raising three kids while running demanding businesses, why having an au pair saved her family time and money, and how to integrate kids into your lifestyle without losing yourself.
Advice for young moms and first-time entrepreneurs: don’t sacrifice your identity, let your children grow with your life, and remember—if you’re worrying, you’re probably doing a good job.
✨ Ashley’s journey proves that failure is never final—it’s just a stepping stone to the next opportunity. Her ability to adapt, pivot, and reinvent herself shows exactly what it means to be an Unbreakable Mompreneur.
📌 Whether you’re considering buying into a franchise, scaling your business with virtual teams, or just figuring out how to juggle family and entrepreneurship, this conversation is packed with real-world advice, honest lessons, and practical strategies to help you move forward with confidence.
🌐 Connect with Ashley Campos:
Website: gcshelps.com
Website: UnbreakableMompreneurs.com
Instagram: @charissewalker1
🌐 Connect with Charisse Walker & Unbreakable Mompreneurs:
Welcome back to Unbreakable Mompreneurs with your host Charisse Walker — the podcast where motherhood meets entrepreneurship and resilience becomes the superpower that fuels your business and your life. In this deeply moving and motivational episode, Charisse welcomes her very first solo male guest, Lyubim (Loo-beem) Kogan, a five-time first-generation immigrant, Winter Olympian, NYU Stern graduate, 9/11 survivor, national bestselling co-author with Steve Forbes, and founder of Wings4Heroes.org.
Lyubim’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, dedication, and following your “why.” From growing up without his mother to being homeless while launching his first investment business, to surviving 9/11 and rebuilding his life, Lyubim has faced adversity head-on and emerged stronger. His mission today—helping amputee veterans reclaim dignity, purpose, and joy through paragliding and adventure—is changing lives and redefining what’s possible for those who’ve sacrificed so much.
In this inspiring conversation, you’ll learn:
Why moms already have unmatched resilience and discipline—and how to leverage that to build thriving businesses.
Lyubim’s simple, repeatable formula for success: Make a decision, do whatever it takes for as long as it takes, and take one step at a time.
Mental health strategies for entrepreneurs—including grounding and breathing exercises that instantly calm stress and activate your parasympathetic nervous system.
How to balance motherhood, business, and your own dreams without losing yourself or your sense of purpose.
The story behind Wings for Heroes and why paragliding with amputee veterans creates “positive traumatic experiences” that can break through depression and reignite hope.
Real-world entrepreneur tips for starting before you’re ready, saying yes to opportunities, and building a name for yourself without sacrificing your relationships.
Lyubim’s advice to his 19-year-old self about trusting your instincts and moving faster on what matters.
If you’re a mompreneur, aspiring entrepreneur, veteran supporter, or someone seeking motivation to pursue your passion despite obstacles, this episode is packed with actionable insights, inspiring stories, and practical tools to help you succeed.
🎙️ Keywords: resilience, dedication, entrepreneurship, mompreneurship, mental health for moms, veterans support, amputee veterans, Wings for Heroes, paragliding therapy, breathing exercises for stress, grounding techniques, small business tips, inspiration for mothers, motivational stories, overcoming adversity, starting a business with kids, finding your why, balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, work-life balance, veteran charity, motivational podcast, leadership tips, trauma recovery.
Connect with Lyubim: Wings4Heroes.org — scroll to the bottom to watch powerful videos and hit the Contact button to reach him directly.
Connect with Charisse Walker and Unbreakable Mompreneurs:
🌐 UnbreakableMompreneurs.com
📸 Instagram: @charissewalker1
Are you drowning in chaos, marketing tasks, and never-ending to-do lists as a business owner and mom? Do you wish you had a tool that could help you save time, work smarter, and still keep your authentic voice? This episode is for YOU.
I’m joined by Lynn Colepaugh, founder of Cyber PR Army, a women-led digital strategy agency that helps entrepreneurs and creatives simplify their tech stack, clarify their message, and market smarter—not louder. With over 14 years of experience in content strategy, brand storytelling, and audience design, Lynn brings a unique perspective on how to use AI tools like ChatGPT in ways that actually support you as a mompreneur.
How to use AI as a clarity tool (not a crutch): from rewriting emails to removing “stressed energy” before sending to clients.
The hilarious ‘Cold Villain Lair vs. Rebel Tavern’ test: why tone matters more than you think.
How to go from blank page to built plan in minutes: use ChatGPT to create course outlines, lesson plans, and even client handouts.
10 practical AI prompts you can steal today to save time and sanity in your business.
Why emotional intelligence is your secret business advantage: how AI can help you notice hidden burnout patterns in your marketing and branding.
How AI can lighten your mental load at home too: yes, even planning dinner from a photo of your pantry!
How to build a healthier tech stack: stop chasing shiny tools and start focusing on what actually drives results.
The power of emotional strategy over hustle culture: context matters more than just cranking out content.
Rewrite this email to sound warm, confident, and collaborative.
Create a 6-week course outline on [topic] for [audience] with outcomes, key lessons, and homework.
Draft a lesson plan for Week 1 with timings, talking points, and a printable worksheet.
Audit this outline for gaps. Where would a checklist, template, or script be most helpful?
Give me a 200-word show description in my voice: energetic, clear, mom-friendly.
I’m overwhelmed. Help me choose the top 3 most leveraged tasks from this list.
Here are my brand values and quirks. Refine my Instagram caption to reflect them.
Summarize this 20-paragraph client email into the 2 questions they’re actually asking.
From these pantry photos, plan a 30-minute dinner with steps.
Review this landing page. Is it strategic or just poetic? Suggest 3 conversion boosts.
Lynn doesn’t just use AI—she collaborates with it. She has built a daily working relationship with her AI companion (lovingly named Binghy), using it as a creative partner, accountability buddy, and sounding board. From quote games to memory systems to co-writing rituals, Lynn shows us how AI can be more than a tool—it can be a mirror that helps us see ourselves more clearly.
With a background in the music industry (band member, label owner, tour manager), Lynn deeply understands attention, rhythm, and resonance—skills that now help entrepreneurs create marketing that actually connects.
At the end of every episode, I ask my guest for advice they’d give a nine-month pregnant woman sitting next to them on a park bench. Lynn’s answer? Accept duality.
Life as a mom (and entrepreneur) will be both messy and meaningful, loud and lovely—all at the same time. Don’t fight it. Let it be.
Website: cyberprarmy.com
Special page for Unbreakable Mompreneurs listeners: cyberprarmy.com/thecastle
I’m Charisse Walker—mompreneur, real estate expert (Chalker Properties Group, eXp Realty), and author of Flipping the Iceberg. I know firsthand what it means to balance business and family while chasing big dreams. This podcast is here to give you practical strategies, honest conversations, and a whole lot of encouragement to build a thriving business without sacrificing faith, family, or freedom.
Website: unbreakablemompreneurs.com
Instagram: @charissewalker1
Hello, Unbreakable Mompreneurs! If bookkeeping is the last thing you want to do—until tax time shows up and panic sets in—this episode is your fresh start. I’m joined by Debbie DeKnight (RightWay Profits), a 30+ year accounting pro who supports small businesses with fractional CFO, Profit First® coaching, and done-for-you bookkeeping. Debbie keeps it real about why finances—not just sales—determine the health, freedom, and future of your business.
Why sales ≠ success: If your expenses scale with revenue, you’ll stay on the hamster wheel.
The weekly habit that changes everything: Look at your numbers weekly (not “when you get a minute”).
Software is not optional: QuickBooks Online, Xero, etc.—if you’re beyond a hobby, you need proper tools.
The 10-Day Rule for spending: If it’s not essential to delivering your product/service, wait 10 days. Most “needs” disappear by day 5–6.
Stop leaking profit: Snacks, swag, subscriptions, “tiny” automations, and untracked marketing add up—fast.
Marketing with a brain: Track ROI or turn it off. Refuse long-term contracts without proof of results.
Set real boundaries: Your calendar should protect CEO time, money time, and mom time.
How to use Profit First®: Open separate accounts for Income, Profit, Owner’s Pay, Tax, and OpEx so your money has a job before it’s spent.
What healthy cash actually looks like: That big checking balance isn’t real if payroll, taxes, and owner’s pay aren’t carved out.
All revenue lands in “Income.”
On a set cadence (weekly/biweekly), transfer fixed percentages to:
Profit (reward the risk you’re taking)
Owner’s Pay (you are your most important employee)
Tax (business pays business + personal taxes)
OpEx (run the company on what’s left)
Live within OpEx. If it’s not enough, you have a spending problem—not a sales problem.
“Sales minus profit equals expenses.”
Flip the old equation. When you pay you and future you first, you force smarter operating decisions.
DIY Bookkeeping: Up to ~$500k annual revenue (get trained; don’t wing it).
Outsource Bookkeeping + Quarterly CFO: ~$500k–$750k.
Monthly Fractional CFO (forecasting, pricing, profit strategy): ~$750k–$1M+ or any time you’re growing fast, adding debt, or feeling out of control.
You make decisions by gut, not reports.
You can’t read your P&L and Balance Sheet with confidence.
You’re surprised by payroll, annual subscriptions, or taxes.
You’re carrying debt while “celebrating” record revenue.
Subscriptions you don’t use (or can’t justify) keep renewing.
It’s okay to ask for help—at home and in business.
Block non-negotiables on your calendar (dinner, games, recovery time).
Enjoy the early years. They move fast—faster than you think.
Pick a numbers day (30–60 minutes) and put it on repeat.
List every recurring expense & subscription; cancel or pause what’s not pulling weight.
Open your Profit, Owner’s Pay, Tax, OpEx accounts and set starter percentages.
Choose/confirm your bookkeeping software and get trained (no spreadsheets for real businesses).
If you’re stuck, book a call with a pro. Your peace is worth it.
Website: rightwayprofits.com
(Ask about Profit First® coaching, fractional CFO, and small-business bookkeeping.)
I’m Charisse Walker—mompreneur, real estate expert (Chalker Properties Group, eXp Realty), and author of Flipping the Iceberg. My mission is to help women build thriving businesses without sacrificing faith, family, or freedom. Here, you’ll get practical strategy, mindset upgrades, and real talk to keep you strong and sustainable.
Website: unbreakablemompreneurs.com
Instagram: @charissewalker1
If this episode helps you breathe easier about your books, share it with a fellow mompreneur and drop a comment with your biggest money win this week. You’ve got this. 💙
In this episode you’ll learn:When to level up support:Red flags your finances aren’t healthy:Mom-life truths we loved:Action steps (do these this week):Connect with Debbie DeKnightAbout Unbreakable Mompreneurs
Finding Your Path & Protecting Your Time with Top NJ Realtor, Karen Gonen
Hello, Unbreakable Mompreneurs! 💪 If you’re feeling the tug to do something different—to scale smarter, serve deeper, and still be truly present for your family—this episode is for you. Today’s guest is Karen Gonen, a New Jersey real estate broker and #1 agent in Sussex County who has built a powerhouse business while fiercely honoring her first role: mom.
Karen’s story is a masterclass in resilience, boundaries, and heart-led leadership. Born and raised in Israel, she moved to the U.S. as a teen, adapted through 29 moves (!), and learned early that home is less a place and more something you carry inside. After two decades helping run a logistics company with her family, a hard reset pushed her to reinvent—ultimately finding her lane in real estate. Nine years in, Karen has stacked career milestones (including nearly $24M in volume in 2024) while staying deeply involved in her kids’ lives and local community. She serves, she mentors, and she wins—with integrity.
Boundaries that buyers respect: How Karen uses Google Calendar to protect family time—without “oversharing” what’s on her schedule—and why confident options earn clients’ trust.
Your ‘why’ as a filter: Why her kids come first—and how that clarity simplifies decisions, shields your sanity, and actually strengthens your brand.
Invest to grow: Karen’s pay-to-play lead strategy from day one and how a smart spend can unlock compounding relationships for years.
Community = pipeline: Volunteering and local service as a long-game lead engine—and the surprising reason she advertises outside her town to align with price points and goals.
Serve your team, serve your clients: Why she shares office leads freely, mentors junior agents, and keeps an assistant focused on the highest-value admin and gifting.
Education is a moat: From 64 CE credits in a single cycle to books stacked high and early-morning reading, Karen shows how curiosity and craft mastery become your unfair advantage.
Integrity over everything: Real talk on contracts, legalities, and doing what’s right—owning mistakes, insisting on complete paperwork, and protecting clients.
Adaptability as a superpower: Moving created fearlessness, grit, and the ability to connect anywhere.
If you’ve ever looked at your calendar and felt swallowed, Karen’s framework will set you free:
Block life first. Family on the calendar before business.
Lead with options, not apologies. Clients respect clarity.
Build a support ecosystem. Assistant, partner, office teammates, referral networks.
Play the long game. Invest in relationships, education, and reputation—ROI that outlives any single deal.
Measure what matters. Referrals, repeat clients, community trust, and your peace at home.
Karen also shares a beautiful encouragement for new moms: don’t blink. Time is a vapor. Hold that baby. Be where your feet are. Careers can be reimagined; moments with our kids cannot be replayed.
Instagram / Facebook: Karen Gonen Real Estate New Jersey
Call/Text: 551-262-4062
Referral communities: Referral Roundtable (founder) and BW NICE Sussex Chapter (President)
I’m Charisse Walker, your host—mompreneur, real estate pro (Chalker Properties Group, eXp Realty), and author of Flipping the Iceberg. My mission is to help women build unshakable businesses without sacrificing what matters most. Each week, we bring you practical strategies, honest conversations, and faith-fueled encouragement to help you show up with clarity, courage, and joy.
Learn more: unbreakablemompreneurs.com
Instagram: @charissewalker1
If today’s episode reminded you to choose presence over pressure, share it with a friend who needs that same nudge. And remember: you’re allowed to build big dreams and be all-in at home. The secret is clarity, boundaries, and a tribe that has your back. 🩵
What we cover in this conversationWhy this matters for mompreneursConnect with Karen GonenAbout Unbreakable Mompreneurs
Hello, Unbreakable Mompreneurs! 💪 Are you feeling stretched too thin? Maybe you’ve lost a little direction, gone off track, or find yourself questioning how to bring focus and balance back into your life and business. If that sounds familiar, today’s episode is going to speak right to your heart.
I’m joined by the amazing Deb Coviello, founder of The Drop-In CEO™, trusted advisor, podcast host, and author of The CEO’s Compass. Deb is a powerhouse leader who spent over 35 years in corporate America, serving in senior roles as Head of Quality and Operational Excellence before life took an unexpected turn. After what she lovingly calls being “kicked out of the nest,” Deb had to navigate the bittersweet process of rediscovering who she truly was, finding peace of mind, and building a business that would impact countless leaders and entrepreneurs.
In this episode, we dive deep into:
✅ What to do when life throws you off course – and how to find your “compass” again.
✅ Why grieving a setback (yes, even a career shift) is necessary before you bounce back.
✅ How to recognize when you’re physically present but mentally absent with family – and what to do about it.
✅ The power of boundaries, slowing down, and reclaiming your time.
✅ Why success isn’t only measured by money, but by impact, relationships, and daily wins.
✅ How to avoid giving away your power to others – and instead make choices that align with your values.
Deb shares candid stories about her own transition from corporate to consulting, the stress of high-level leadership, and the liberating moment she admitted she didn’t “choose” entrepreneurship but was pushed into it. That push, however, became the best thing that ever happened to her—and her story will inspire you to see your own “kicked out of the nest” moments in a new light.
She also talks about her work as The Drop-In CEO™, where she steps into organizations during times of crisis or transformation. Instead of just solving problems, she uplifts leaders and teams so they have the confidence and tools to succeed long after she leaves. It’s about building leaders who pursue peace of mind over chasing results—a theme she explores in her upcoming book The NEW CEO Playbook: Stop Chasing Results and Start Pursuing Peace of Mind.
As mompreneurs, we wear many hats—mother, partner, business owner, friend—and it can feel impossible to juggle it all. Deb reminds us that we don’t have to do everything, and sometimes the bravest, most productive choice we can make is to stop, rest, and reset. She even shares her own rituals of clearing her calendar, playing silly games, and celebrating small wins with a wall full of Post-it notes. It’s a powerful reminder that little victories add up to big impact.
Whether you’re in a valley moment right now or standing on top of your mountain, this conversation will help you reframe what success means and how to pursue it without losing yourself in the process.
✨ About Deb Coviello ✨
Known as the CEO Whisperer, Deb helps C-suite leaders and rising executives navigate transformation with clarity and confidence. She’s the author of The CEO’s Compass: Your Guide to Get Back on Track, host of the Top 1.5% podcast The Drop-In CEO, and an advocate for lifting up leaders with empathy, patience, and strategy.
💬 Connect with Deb:🌐 Website: dropinceo.com🔗 LinkedIn: Deborah Coviello
🎙️ About Unbreakable Mompreneurs
I’m Charisse Walker, your host—mompreneur, real estate expert, success coach, and author of Flipping the Iceberg. My mission is to help women uncover their strength, embrace their purpose, and build thriving businesses without losing sight of what matters most: faith, family, and freedom.
👉 Learn more at unbreakablemompreneurs.com👉 Follow me on Instagram: @charissewalker1
If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or off track, this episode is your gentle reminder: you’re not alone. Take a deep breath, celebrate your wins, and remember—you can always get back on track. 🌟
Have you ever taken a personality test and thought, “Well, that’s just who I am—I’ll never change”? In this episode of Unbreakable Mompreneurs, host Charisse Walker sits down with Dr. Shannon Sauer-Zavala, clinical psychologist, researcher, professor, and mom of two, to challenge that myth.
Shannon explains why popular tools like the Myers-Briggs or Enneagram may not tell the full story—and how personality is far more flexible than we think. She shares powerful insights from her research on evidence-based treatments that can help us “nudge” traits like people-pleasing, perfectionism, and overachieving when they’re no longer serving us.
In this conversation, you’ll discover:
Why personality tests can hold us back if we treat them as destiny.
The role of values in motivating lasting personality shifts.
How traits like perfectionism and overachieving can both help and harm us—and how to find balance.
Real strategies for breaking free from people-pleasing, burnout, and self-limiting beliefs.
Why personality is not fixed—and how change can happen faster than you think.
Shannon also shares candidly about her own journey as a “recovering overachiever perfectionist” and how becoming a mom forced her to rethink what success and happiness really mean. Her story, combined with cutting-edge research, offers both hope and practical tools for high-achieving women who feel stuck in patterns that no longer fit.
✨ Whether you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or mom navigating the pressures of doing it all, this episode will inspire you to step outside the box of labels, let go of old narratives, and embrace the possibility of change.
🌟 Connect with Dr. Shannon Sauer-ZavalaWebsite: personality-compass.comInstagram: @self.made.personality
🌟 Connect with Host Charisse WalkerWebsite: unbreakablemompreneurs.comInstagram: @charissewalker1
Are you building your business on a strong foundation—or just winging it and hoping for the best? In this episode of Unbreakable Mompreneurs, host Charisse Walker sits down with Jessica Millhiser, owner of JMills Consulting, to dive deep into the five foundational pillars every entrepreneur needs to grow, scale, and create a business that truly works.
So many entrepreneurs focus only on getting clients, making sales, and marketing—but neglect the structure, systems, and processes that make growth sustainable. Jessica explains why the back-end foundation of your business is just as important as the front-end hustle.
✨ What you’ll learn in this episode:
Why your business identity (mission, vision, and values) is your North Star and how to use it to make better decisions.
How to create a flawless client journey that builds trust and keeps clients coming back.
The importance of organization and processes—and how SOPs (standard operating procedures) free up your time and energy.
What it takes to grow a team with intention, from hiring to onboarding to training.
How to use strategic planning to set realistic benchmarks and build a roadmap for long-term success.
Jessica shares practical examples of why documenting your processes, building systems, and training team members the right way will save you time and stress in the long run. Whether you’re a solopreneur, hiring your first VA, or managing a growing team, these insights will help you scale without burnout.
We also discuss the changing expectations of today’s clients, why checklists and communication matter more than ever, and how to stand out in a crowded marketplace by identifying your unique differentiators.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, chaotic, or like your business is running you instead of the other way around, this conversation will give you clarity, permission to pause, and strategies to move forward with confidence.
💡 This episode is for you if:
You’re starting a business and want to avoid costly mistakes.
You’re ready to scale but don’t know where to begin.
You feel disorganized and want systems that work.
You want to create a positive, reliable client experience.
You’re tired of working harder instead of smarter.
🌟 Connect with Jessica MillhiserWebsite: jmillsconsulting.comEmail: jessica@jmillsconsulting.comLinkedIn: Jessica Millhiser
🌟 Connect with Host Charisse WalkerWebsite: unbreakablemompreneurs.comInstagram: @charissewalker1
Are you ready to turn your passion into a thriving business? In this powerful episode of Unbreakable Mompreneurs, host Charisse Walker—entrepreneur, real estate leader, coach, and author of Flipping the Iceberg—sits down with Sandra Kemayou, a 7-figure success coach who has helped over 1,000 women transform their expertise into profitable coaching businesses.
Sandra knows what it’s like to juggle a demanding career, family, and the dream of entrepreneurship.
She shares how she went from self-doubt to building a multi-six-figure business and now teaches other women how to:
✅ Build highly profitable coaching businesses—even while working a 9-to-5
✅ Master sales without feeling awkward or “salesy”
✅ Use ads the right way to attract high-quality clients
✅ Create businesses that support their dream lifestyles—without burnoutTogether, Charisse and Sandra explore the mindset shifts, systems, and strategies that help women step into their power, scale their income, and design lives they love.
This episode is a must-listen for mompreneurs, aspiring coaches, and high-achieving women who are ready to stop playing small and finally step into their full potential.Sandra has been featured on ABC, FOX, NAACP, and major media outlets, and her no-fluff, high-energy approach makes business growth feel simple and attainable.
🔑 Key Takeaways
Confidence comes from mastery, not faking it
Your story is your brand edge—use it powerfully
Without automation, you don’t have a business, you have a job
Sales is a skill you can learn and enjoy
You can achieve financial freedom without sacrificing your sanity
📌 Connect with Sandra KemayouWebsite: SandraKemayou.comBook Sandra to speak: sandrakemayou.com/speaking-engagements
📌 Connect with Host Charisse WalkerWebsite: unbreakablemompreneurs.comInstagram: @charissewalker1✨ Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with another mompreneur ready to scale her business with confidence and clarity!
In this inspiring episode of Unbreakable Mompreneurs, host Charisse Walker—real estate entrepreneur, coach, podcast host, and author of Flipping the Iceberg—sits down with Stacie Shifflett to explore the power of reinvention, intention, and living with purpose.Stacie shares her personal journey of reinvention, showing that transformation is possible at any stage of life. Together, Charisse and Stacie dive into self-improvement, emotional intelligence, motherhood, personal growth, resilience, and entrepreneurship, unpacking the tools that help women thrive in today’s fast-paced world.At first glance, Stacie might seem like any other accomplished woman over 50. But behind her sharp mind and soft smile is a trailblazer who has:✅ Led the acquisition of a $50M software company with no upfront investment✅ Pioneered the first desktop computers for a major U.S. government agency✅ Built a consulting career in federal procurement—with zero formal training✅ Thrived in industries ranging from construction to hospitality to farming llamas✅ Transformed personal heartbreak into a mission to guide others to joyNow, through Modern Consciousness® and her signature Treasure Map to Joy™ framework, Stacie helps people step off life’s treadmill, calm emotional triggers, and start living with intention. In this conversation, Charisse and Stacie explore self-improvement, motherhood, personal growth, emotional intelligence, resilience, entrepreneurship, mental health, and reinvention—showing that transformation is possible at every stage of life.🔑 Key TakeawaysReinvention is a skill you can master at any stage of life.Emotional triggers aren’t roadblocks—they’re guides to growth.Life assessments reveal what’s truly aligned (and what isn’t).Self-care is not optional, especially for mothers.Living consciously helps you define joy beyond society’s expectations.Small, intentional shifts can spark massive transformation.Stacie opens up about the role of emotional triggers, the importance of life assessments, and why self-care is not optional—especially for mothers. She encourages listeners to create their own treasure maps to joy, free from societal expectations, while Charisse underscores the importance of resilience, boundaries, and redefining success on your own terms.This conversation is a must-listen for women navigating motherhood, business, mental health, and reinvention, offering practical insights and soulful encouragement to help you chart your own path with intention.✨ Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode of Unbreakable Mompreneurs with women who are ready to embrace reinvention, live intentionally, and design a life they truly love.📌 Connect with Charisse WalkerWebsite: unbreakablemompreneurs.comInstagram: @charissewalker1📌 Connect with Stacie ShifflettLearn more about Modern Consciousness® and her Treasure Map to Joy™ workbook: [link here if available]#selfimprovement #emotionalintelligence #motherhood #personalgrowth #personalgrowthjourney #lifeassessment #intention #resilience #entrepreneurship #mentalhealth #reinvention #reinventionjourney #unbreakablemompreneurs #charissewalker #stacieshifflett
Welcome back, Unbreakable Mompreneurs! In this powerful and soul-stirring episode, your host Charisse Walker dives deep into two of the most essential skills for success in business, relationships, and motherhood: authenticity and effective communication.
Joining Charisse is special guest Corine La Font, a communication specialist and consultant based in the Caribbean, who shares her 5-step framework for helping individuals uncover their true voice, understand their audience, and communicate with clarity and confidence. But this isn’t just about business—this is about real-life communication, especially at home. From understanding your spouse’s love language to leading your children with grace and intention, Corine brings refreshing wisdom and humor to the table.
Together, Charisse and Corine explore:
✅ Why most communication breakdowns are really just misaligned love languages
✅ How your kids are actually your greatest teachers
✅ Why leadership at home requires just as much intention as leadership at work
✅ How to stop people-pleasing and start standing in your truth
✅ Why parenting and running a business share the same core communication principles
Corine also shares vulnerable stories from her past, including being teased for speaking well as a child, and how those early experiences shaped her passion for communication today. Whether you’re a mom, a business owner, or both, you’ll walk away with tools to connect more deeply with the people around you—and most importantly, with yourself.
💬 Plus, don’t miss Corine’s 5-Step Method to Transform Your Communication:
1. Discover Your Strengths
2. Understand Your Audience
3. Develop Your Message
4. Practice Speaking
5. Get Feedback
✨ BONUS TAKEAWAY: Corine’s advice to every new mom? “Enjoy the process. Give yourself grace. You will make mistakes, and that’s okay.”
🙌If you’ve ever struggled with feeling misunderstood, not speaking up, or doubting your voice—this episode is your reminder that your words matter, your presence matters, and you matter.
🔗 Connect & Learn More:
Website: www.unbreakablemompreneurs.com
Instagram: @charissewalker1
🔗 Connect with Corine by searching her name online or reaching out through Charisse. And remember, mompreneur—be unapologetically you.
🎧 Listen now and get ready to flip the script on how you lead, speak, and live authentically.
Are you the kind of mom who secretly hopes the apocalypse never comes just so you don’t have to figure out what a go bag even is? Same. But what if disaster preparedness didn’t have to feel like prepping for doomsday in a bunker full of canned beans and conspiracy theories?In this must-listen episode of Unbreakable Mompreneurs, host Charisse Walker sits down with Jennifer Heller, founder of Here Comes the Apocalypse and long-time entrepreneur, to talk about how moms (and non-preppers) can realistically and creatively prepare their families for natural disasters—without the paranoia or panic.From losing family homes in California wildfires to navigating motherhood and business simultaneously, Jennifer shares how becoming a mom radically shifted her priorities and inspired her to make disaster planning actually doable—and even kind of fun. She breaks down:✅ Why the “prepper” label is getting a rebrand✅ How her I Will Thrive playbook turns vague advice into simple, achievable steps✅ What to actually pack in a go bag (hint: not a buried fridge)✅ Why having physical copies of your important documents might save your future✅ How disaster prep is really about building community resilience, not isolationCharisse and Jennifer also get real about motherhood, letting go of perfectionism, and how viewing your business like a growing child can shift how you lead and grow as a woman.This conversation will fire you up to take small, impactful steps toward protecting what matters most—and give you permission to ditch the fear-based narratives.🔗 Connect with Charisse: unbreakablemompreneurs.comInstagram: @charissewalker1🔗 Connect with Jennifer:Disaster Prep Resources: herecomestheapocalypse.comDesign & Branding: artsygeek.com👩👧👦 Because being a mom is already an emergency sometimes—might as well be ready for the real ones too.#naturaldisaster #naturaldisasters #emergencypreparedness #emergencyplanning #apocolypse #branding #marketing
Are you concerned about the hidden dangers in our modern food and medicine systems? Overwhelmed by the rise in pharmaceuticals, preservatives, and synthetic "solutions" to everyday health problems? Then you’re in for an eye-opening episode of Unbreakable Mompreneurs.
In today’s conversation, host Charisse Walker welcomes the inspiring and deeply knowledgeable Jane Barlow Christensen—master herbalist, founder of Barlow Herbal Specialties, author of Be Your Own Shaman, and steward of a powerful herbal legacy rooted in generational wisdom.
Jane grew up as the second oldest of 14 children in rural Idaho, under the guidance of her botanist father who built a well-respected herbal medicine business. Now, decades later, she continues that legacy—educating people on how to reconnect with nature, embrace natural healing, and trust the intuitive wisdom that lives within us.
In this heartfelt and dynamic episode, Charisse and Jane dive into:
Why our food and pharmaceutical systems in the U.S. are failing us
The real reasons chronic illness, autism, anxiety, and other conditions are on the rise
How herbal medicine can be a safer, more effective alternative to many prescription drugs
What herbs every home should have—and how to start small
Jane’s personal wellness mantra that keeps her thriving and pharmaceutical-free at 64
Why it’s essential to raise children with both intellect and intuition
How technology is disrupting childhood development—and what to do about it
And the #1 regret of dying people… and how to avoid it as a mom and businesswoman
Whether you're new to herbal medicine or already walking the green path, Jane delivers practical wisdom for busy moms who want to support their families with natural, time-tested solutions. You’ll learn about herbs like cayenne, rosemary, turmeric, dandelion, and holy basil—and how they can be used for common health concerns like inflammation, digestion, sleep, and immunity.
Jane also opens up about her journey as a businesswoman—restarting her father’s herbal company after his passing, navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, and staying true to her values while leveraging the power of technology to share her message with the world.
And perhaps most powerful of all: Charisse and Jane have a raw, real discussion about motherhood—what it means to be the one, why staying home matters, and how to align your priorities to build a life (and business) that nourishes your soul and your children.
This episode is a must-listen for any mom who wants to live more intentionally, lead with intuition, and build a legacy of wellness for the next generation.
🌱 Connect with Jane:
Website: https://barlowherbal.com
YouTube: @BarlowHerbal
Instagram: @barlowherbal
Download the free Barlow Herbal product catalog on her website for guidance on herbal remedies for everything from sleep to parasites.
✨ Charisse Walker is the host of Unbreakable Mompreneurs, a podcast where faith, family, and business collide. She’s an author, speaker, real estate investor, and passionate advocate for helping moms live fully and fearlessly while building businesses that matter.
👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe if you found this episode valuable—and leave a comment about your favorite herbal remedy or biggest takeaway!
#HerbalMedicine #NaturalHealing #MompreneurLife #TrustYourIntuition #BarlowHerbal #UnbreakableMompreneurs #HolisticHealth #MotherhoodMatters #naturalremedies #homeopathic #motherhood
What happens when you blend generational legacy, motherhood, and a thriving commercial photography business? In this powerful episode of Unbreakable Mompreneurs, your host Charisse Walker sits down with Lesle Lane—corporate photographer, legacy business owner, mentor, and one of the few women thriving in the male-dominated world of commercial photography.
Lesle shares her unique journey of taking over the business her parents built, navigating the dramatic shift from film to digital photography, and ultimately transforming the business model to fit today’s gig economy. She now leads a team of contract-based creatives, including photographers, videographers, drone operators, and social media managers—all while maintaining a commitment to high-quality work and personalized service.
Lesle opens up about being raised in a family business where photography was a lifestyle and legacy. From age six, she knew she was destined for this field—even when her parents initially looked to her brothers to take it over. When they passed the torch to her, she didn’t just maintain the legacy—she modernized and scaled it. In fact, after losing a key team member, her daughter stepped in to help rebuild and restructure operations, demonstrating the power of family and adaptability in business.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
📸 How Lesle transitioned a traditional photography business into a modern, scalable enterprise
💼 The power of standard operating procedures, strategic hiring, and planning for succession
👩👧 Why children raised in small business environments gain invaluable life skills
🌿 Why giving yourself grace as a mom and entrepreneur is essential to long-term success
💪 How to thrive as a woman in a male-dominated industry—and how to find the mentors and advocates who will help you succeed
🤖 How Lesle balances traditional artistry with modern technology, including AI and advanced photo editing tools
🎯 Her plans for succession, mentorship, and empowering the next generation of photographers
Lesle also dives into the often-overlooked emotional journey of mompreneurs—the guilt, the drive, the pressure to do it all. She vulnerably reflects on her own parenting style and how watching her daughter parent differently became one of her proudest moments. Her advice to new moms? “Give yourself grace. Your 80% is someone else’s 120%.”
This interview is more than just business strategy—it’s a heartfelt look at legacy, leadership, and life behind the lens. Whether you're a mom balancing kids and clients, an entrepreneur building your dream from scratch, or a creative looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with wisdom, relatability, and encouragement.
📌 Connect with Lesle Lane:
🌐 Website: www.studio13online.com
📸 LinkedIn & Instagram: @studio13online and @leslelane
🎙️ About Your Host:
Charisse Walker is the host of Unbreakable Mompreneurs, a podcast for women who are building businesses while raising families. She is also the author of Flipping the Iceberg, a realtor, lender, speaker, and coach helping others navigate relationships, real estate, and reinvention.
📚 Grab her book: Flipping the Iceberg – now available on Amazon
🌐 Visit: www.unbreakablemompreneurs.com
📧 Email: unbreakablemompreneurs@gmail.com
📱 Instagram: @charissekwalker1
🏠 Real Estate & Lending: Chalker Properties Group | EXP Realty
🎧 Be sure to subscribe for more inspiring episodes featuring powerhouse women redefining what it means to be a successful mom and entrepreneur.
#mompreneur #womeninbusiness #photographybusiness #familylegacy #femaleentrepreneur #unbreakablemompreneurs #commercialphotography #aiandbusiness #charissewalker #leslelane #studio13 #businesssuccession