In this episode of wakesetGO!, host Mercedes chats with Alkan, the founder of Mailsoftly, about what it really takes to build a SaaS company from the ground up. From finding product–market fit to validating ideas and learning through trial and error, Alkan shares the unfiltered reality of the startup journey.
What started as an idea after beginning his entrepreneur journey as a consult became a thriving platform now serving over 5,000 users worldwide. Alkan opens up about how he innovates, builds his team, and executes ideas.
💡 Best advice?
Test your idea, get feedback, and keep refining until you find what works.
🚀 Ready to see what he built?
Visit mailsoftly.com
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in.
Are you ready to wakesetGO! for it?
Visit wakesetgo.com to learn about how to become a guest and sponsor our next episode. www.wakesetgo.com
In this episode, we’re joined by Jay Todd, a motivational speaker and educator who is on a mission to change the way we support youth through mental health advocacy. Jay opens up about what fuels his passion for helping young people heal, overcome trauma, and find the support they need to thrive in today’s world.
We dive into the challenges facing inner-city school systems and why mental health resources are more critical than ever. This conversation is both inspiring and timely, offering a reminder that change starts with awareness, compassion, and action.
👉 To book Jay Todd for your next event or school program, visit jaytoddtalks.com
👉 Be sure to follow him on social media @jay_todd26
Don't forget to visit wakesetgo.com to become a guest or receive information on how to promote your business on our channel!
In this episode of wakesetGO! we dive into the intersection of Tech, Art, and Community with our guest based in France, Eli, CEO of Conspicuis.
Learn how Eli was motivated to launch her business in the mental health space and discover how she built the resilience to go for it! Conspicuis transforms emotions into art using AI, and users can get started for free by visiting conspicuis.com
Conspicuis provides a space for people to bond over an artistic experience that invites human offline and online connections to be built. Eli combines her passion and purpose to build community and peer support in times when humans need it most.
Connect with Eli Strzelecka via email @ eli.s@conspicuis.com
CONSPICUIS
Everything you feel, made beautiful.
Want more wakesetGO? check out www.wakesetgo.com to sign up to become a guest, or receive coaching services.
We also want to shoutout i3clicks!
In this inspiring episode of wakesetGO!, host Mercedes sits down with Doaa, a dynamic business leader from Saudi Arabia, to explore her journey of building her own confidence, embracing change, and redefining career paths. Doaa shares how she navigated a major career shift, and overcame self-doubt to wakesetGO! for it in her path in Saudi Arabia. We also learn how her home country is evolving and embracing women in leadership.
Listeners will walk away with practical insights on:
How to strengthen your confidence in moments of uncertainty and without role models
Why owning your story can inspire others to pursue their goals
Doaa’s journey is a reminder that confidence isn’t something you’re born with, but something you build and grow with daily affirmations, and work.
Tune in for motivation to wake, set, and GO after your own vision.
At just 31, Chelsea Walker, a medical scientist by day but known online as @theModLittleMelanin, survived a life-altering stroke. In this wakesetGO! episode, Mercedes has a candid conversation with Chelsea about how she uses fashion as a form of therapy, why she’s choosing goals over rigid plans, and how she's thriving as a macro influencer despite the odds.
Chelsea discusses how passionate she is about embracing bold style in your 30s, tuning out negativity (even hate helps the algorithm!), and building a purpose-driven platform that attracts real community and brand deals!
💡 Episode Highlights:
🧠 Did You Know? Stroke is the 5th leading cause of death in the U.S. and a leading cause of serious long-term disability (CDC, 2024).
Learn the F.A.S.T. signs to act quickly in emergencies.
F – Face drooping
A – Arm weakness
S – Speech difficulty
T – Time to call 911
No matter your age it can happen to anyone!
📲 Connect with Chelsea Walker
Follow her inspiring journey:
Instagram, TikTok, Threads, YouTube → @theModLittleMelanin
🔗 Explore more from wakesetGO! on Instagram and YouTube
In this special Earth 🌍 Day episode, we chat with Staroyce Nealy, co-founder of Global One Urban Farming, a social good nonprofit based in Kansas City, Missouri. Staroyce shares her journey of purchasing 1.1 acres after working to save up to focus on a dream of hers to have her own garden. That garden promotes healthy eating, which we dive into the natural ingredients in many of the plants at the farm can help heal medical issues.
Fast forward today, her dream of feeding the community has allowed her to provide over 30,000 pounds of free, organic produce to seniors, veterans, and families in underserved neighborhoods.
Global One Urban Farming is more than just a garden—it's a movement rooted in food justice, education, and empowerment. From hands-on youth mentorship to teaching sustainable agriculture, Staroyce and her team are transforming lives, one harvest at a time.
🌱 Ways to Support Global One Urban Farming:
🔗 More Info on how to be a guest on our podcast:
Tune in to hear how Staroyce is planting seeds of change—and how you can help grow the movement. 🌾 Also learn how food you eat can actually heal you!
In this episode of wakesetGO!, host Mercedes Allen sits down with Dr. Holly P. Battrum, a Doctor of Eastern Medicine and Licensed Acupuncturist based in Kansas City. As the founder of Sjökort Health & Wellness, Dr. Battrum blends ancient practices with modern insights to help people heal, grow, and thrive. We explore her journey into holistic health, what drives her to wakesetGO each day, and her best advice for anyone seeking a healthier, more intentional life. Whether you’re curious about holistic medicine or simply seeking wellness motivation, this episode is for you.
For ways to connect with Dr. Holly email holly@hollybattrum.com or visit https://sjokort.com/
On this episode Mercedes chats with Dr. Chandresh Patel, a clinical researcher with a background in biomedical engineering.
Together, they discuss topics surrounding vaccines, the misconceptions about artificial intelligence, and the anxiety fueled by social media regarding everyday products and ingredients. Dr. Patel sheds light on how individual bodies may react differently to vaccines, emphasizing the importance of personalized understanding over generalized fear.
Beyond debunking myths, the discussion transitions into practical strategies for achieving work-life balance and cultivating inner zen amidst the chaos of modern life. This episode is a great wakesetGO! episode for listeners seeking clarity, balance, and empowerment where fear-mongering is rampant.
Tune in to explore:
The roots and repercussions of fear-based narratives in health and technology.
The science behind individual reactions to various substances and ingredients.
Practical approaches to harmonizing professional responsibilities with personal well-being.
Mindfulness techniques to foster inner peace and resilience.
Available now on all major podcast platforms.
It's time to wakesetGO!
Available now on all podcast platforms.
Visit wakesetgo.com for more ways to stay connected!
With the advanced use of technology, community building is easier, but also tougher for those who crave in-depth connections. In this episode, Mercedes explains what being parasocial is and how it can affect our online relationships.
Also listen in as Mercedes breaks down the pros and cons of building communities online, vs. in person. Some of the pros to building online communities include tracking metrics, and scalability to touch international audiences.
You’ll learn how online communities can unite people across distances and foster rapid growth, while offline groups tend to cultivate tight-knit bonds and more hands-on collaboration. Listen to how to use hybrid approaches, and have the best of both worlds!
www.wakesetgo.com
www.getlocallo.com
This episode discusses your "goat" whoever that may be some of our favorite entertainers, icons, and athletes have experience losing at some point. What makes them want to stay competitive makes them so great, and should motivate you as well to believe in your dreams just as much. Mercedes discusses how you can use challenges as your charge up to wakesetGO! after everything you set your mind to.
After listening you will want to not only write things down, but execute and find others to connect with to make your dreams happen!
www.wakesetgo.com
On this episode Mercedes discusses Walmart's brand refresh that was recently rolled out. Along with discussing other large companies, and how they resonate with their audiences by their logo, and use designs to cause customers to act/buy/purchase.
With the use of mobile apps, many companies like McDonald's, Starbucks, and Target are having a chance to market to consumers at a faster rate than ever. With promotional opportunities via mobile device on a rise, this episode will motivate you to get going with getting your brand reviewed!
If interested in marketing, be sure to check out i3clicks.com!
The Chinese New Year is a yearly celebration that occurs during the new moon, Jan. 21th -Feb 20th. Mercedes discusses traditions of the lunar year, where its celebrated, even how DEI laws affects how it is celebrated this year.
With 2025 being the year of the snake, this is a good moment to prepare and set yourself up for long-term success. Enjoy the breakdown of how being thorough this year can help you reach your goals in the future.
Learn more about the resources used to reference this episode below:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/maryroeloffs/2025/01/29/year-of-the-snake-kicks-off-what-to-know-about-the-lunar-new-year-in-2025-photos/
https://www.bridgemi.com/talent-education/amid-fears-trump-dei-orders-msu-cancels-chinese-new-year-student-lunch
In this episode, we tackle the big question on every business owner's mind: What happens if TikTok goes away? While the potential ban looms, savvy entrepreneurs know the key to success is a diversified online presence. Tune in as we explore actionable strategies to prepare your business for any platform shifts, ensuring you stay afloat and continue connecting with your audience. Discover how to identify the best platforms to meet your audience's needs and future-proof your online strategy. Don't let uncertainty hold you back—get ready to thrive, no matter what happens!
With the Superbowl approaching, Mercedes analyzes the success "it" factor that is common when it comes to coaches, and successful business owners. They not only embrace failure, but have a winning mindset.
If you never give up, you build the resilience needed to go farther. Just because you are in a losing season, doesn't mean you are a loser.
We also dive into company exploration as we see how Apple takes over sponsoring the half-time performances, and why understanding why having the right placement can connect you to your audience. Redbull for example gives you wings, but also thoughts on all extreme sports because of the brand placements they have built.
Charge up the CEO in you with this episode!
This episode Mercedes discusses tips and strategies to thrive in the current as well as any economy. As entrepreneurs its important to have a positive mindset that understands the power of community, and creativity. Though recent decisions of companies to remove DEI are happening rapidly, Mercedes breakdown the importance of using your voice to ensure talented people are not overlooked based on their outer appearance.
After this episode, listeners should be able to have a game plan to pivot, and be charged up to execute on ideas, and build on knowledge.
www.wakesetgo.com
In this episode of wakesetGO! hosted by Mercedes, we dive deep into the often-overlooked importance of rest and mental health, taking a closer look at how it played a pivotal role in the life of Olympic champion Simone Biles. Mercedes explores Simone’s bold decision to step back from the Tokyo Olympics, focusing on her mental well-being—a move that shocked the world but ultimately led her to come back stronger than ever.
Join us as we discuss the immense pressure athletes face, the courage it takes to prioritize self-care, and the lessons we can all learn from Simone's journey. We’ll also delve into the broader implications of rest in our daily lives and why sometimes the best way to move forward is by taking a step back. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the balance between striving for excellence and honoring our need for rest.
Hopefully this episode inspires us to take time we need for our own mental health, and realize that rest is a luxury, and prioritizing our mental health is more important than any award we can earn.
Visit wakesetgo.com for more ways to connect : )
Your host Mercedes, Unpacks all things design, ai, and business strategy with graphic designer Robert Price, the visionary behind RP74 Creative.
Bringing over 30 years experience in the design world we gain insight into how to wakesetGO! for it, as well as key elements to keep in mind when starting a business. In this discussion, Robert shares his insights on what makes design memorable and how it can significantly influence business success. We also delve into an engaging debate on what holds more weight in today's fast-paced market: a solid business strategy or a compelling logo.
Connect with Robert and view his portfolio https://www.behance.net/robertprice and Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertpricecreative/
In the latest episode of wakesetGo!, hosted by Mercedes, we commemorate the conclusion of Women's History Month by engaging with Ariel Young, the innovative founder behind Copper and Brass Paper Goods. Ariel shares her remarkable journey from her roots as a school psychologist to becoming an entrepreneur dedicated to infusing the stationery industry with the vibrancy and joy of African American culture. Recognizing a gap in diversity, she embarked on a creative endeavor that initially focused on wrapping paper but soon expanded into a wide array of paper goods celebrating "black woman joy."
The offerings from Copper and Brass are not just products; they are delightful, whimsical creations designed to spread happiness and inspiration. Each item is a testament to diverse expressions of joy, aiming to motivate and uplift your loved ones.
Don't miss out on their spring cleaning sale! Visit https://www.copperandbrass.net/ to explore and purchase. Supporting and sharing this positive venture is crucial in promoting uplifting media.
Join us for this empowering conversation with Ariel. Let her story inspire you to pursue your ambitions relentlessly, reminding you that no dream is too far out of reach if you push past negativity.
Prelude: When it comes to talking about diversity, it can make different people uncomfortable for whatever reason, however in order to support innovations in business, and technology, its important to highlight businesses no matter what the demographic is or ethnicity.
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In an increasingly diverse world, discussing diversity and inclusion can be a sensitive subject, yet it is essential for fostering innovation in business and technology. This episode of wakesetGO!, hosted by Mercedes post-Black History Month, shines a light on the remarkable contributions of famous Black inventors outside of February. It also delves into the Fearless Fund lawsuit and explores its potential repercussions for Black women seeking business funding.
Moreover, Mercedes tackles the critical role of diverse marketing teams in identifying and engaging niche demographics. By examining successful businesses, including Black-owned enterprises, we illustrate the importance of cultural connection in marketing strategies. This conversation extends beyond simple color labels, addressing the nuances within communities and emphasizing the value of understanding and supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs.
As we unpack these loaded topics, the goal is to foster awareness and encourage listeners to support local businesses in meaningful ways, such as sharing their stories, Teflar, has grown from being a small black-owned business to having the slogan "Not for you, for everyone", and the list goes on, as we hope it continues for businesses that are looking to expand global reach as Calendly, and Fenty have done, amongst others (too many to name ^_^).
For further insights and to join the wakesetGO! community, visit wakesetgo.com. Additionally, for expertise in tailoring your marketing efforts, explore i3clicks.com.
On this solo episode Mercedes discusses how Warren Buffett, and Richard Branson both are very strict when it comes to their goals, so much they eliminate any distractions to be successful.
One strategy discussed is the 2 list method, where Warren Buffet's lesson is put into place.
Another story is shared about how Richard Branson turned down opportunities to make $$$ because it was not apart of his priority list.
Having discipline is key on this episode, because when you value your time, you are not just wasting time, or saying yes to anything. Knowing what you want out of life, and focusing on making things happen is what the goal of this episode is all about.
One key take-away is that busy doesn't mean productive....so wakesetGO! prioritize and focus : )
