Sydney Key and Priscilla Olivarez reflect on an incredible season, share their journeys, and reveal the new co-host for Season 4!
S3E23 Tom Nolan: Fashion, Family, and the Future of Kendra Scott
We’re joined by Tom Nolan, CEO of Kendra Scott, to talk leadership, growth, and what it’s like to lead a female-driven brand. From Ralph Lauren to Condé Nast to Kendra Scott, Tom’s journey is all about purpose, people, and staying true to your values.
S3E22 KS WELI Student Board 2025 Seniors Pt. 2: Kayla Akly, Vanessa Chen, & Kirsten Shin
We’re celebrating three more incredible seniors — Kayla Akly, Vanessa Chen, & Kirsten Shin — and their amazing journeys with KS WELI and beyond. Kayla, Vanessa, and Kirsten share their leadership experiences, advice for future Student Board members, and what’s next after graduation.
S3E21 KS WELI Student Board 2025 Seniors Pt. 1: Puja Satish, Kena Desai, & Grecia Angeles
We’re celebrating three incredible seniors — Puja Satish, Kena Desai, and Grecia Angeles — and their amazing journeys with KS WELI and beyond. Puja, Kena, and Grecia share their leadership experiences, advice for future Student Board members, and what’s next after graduation.
S3E20 Amira Khatib: Hungry for Innovation, Investing for Impact
We’re joined by Amira Khatib, Principal at Bluestein Ventures, a venture capital firm transforming the future of food, wellness, and commerce. Amira shares her journey to venture capital, how she’s empowering founders to reshape the food system, and the lessons she’s learned about staying curious, owning your story, and building an authentic career.
S3E19 Nicole Smith: How Flytographer Took Flight Around the World
We’re joined by Nicole Smith, Founder and CEO of Flytographer, the world’s leading vacation photography company. Nicole shares how she grew Flytographer from a side hustle to a global 8-figure brand, and how she’s built a community rooted in joy, connection, and creativity.
S3E18 Marina Middleton: Creating Impact, Cultivating Connection
We’re joined by Marina Middleton, CEO and Partner at Create & Cultivate, the powerhouse behind the world’s largest events and media platform for women in business. Marina dives into building confidence, personal branding, and breaking barriers as a first-time CEO and woman of color in business. Her journey is all about showing up unapologetically and creating space for others to …
S3E17 Nicole Swartz: Sprouting Success Through Trademark Protection
We’re joined by Nicole Swartz, trademark attorney and founder of Sprout Law, who’s on a mission to empower women entrepreneurs by protecting their brands! After her own business was served a cease and desist, she turned her experience into a passion for helping others navigate trademarks.
S3E16 Bella Hughes: Founder First, Investor Next
We’re joined by Isabella Hughes, co-founder of Better Sour and serial entrepreneur. From the arts to CPG, Bella’s journey is full of bold moves and innovation. As an angel investor and mentor, she’s passionate about empowering fellow founders and was named Entrepreneur of the Year by the Hawai’i Venture Capital Association. Tune in for her inspiring story and advice for …
S3E15 Lori Saldivar Schneider: The Spirit of Celebration with The Cupcake Bar
We’re joined by Lori Saldivar Schneider, the visionary behind The Cupcake Bar. From custom cupcakes to virtual classes and balloon-floating trays, Lori’s Latina- and woman-owned business makes every day a celebration. Tune in to hear her journey and the sweet success of The Cupcake Bar!
S3E14 Alma Hernandez: Soaring Beyond Barriers in Leadership
In this episode, we’re joined by Lieutenant Colonel Alma K. Hernandez, Commander of the 566th Intelligence Squadron at Buckley Space Force Base. With over 15 years of service, including roles with the NSA, DIA, and multiple combat deployments, she shares her passion for empowering women in leadership and offers insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, setting boundaries, and thriving in high-pressure …
S3E13 Shandi Nichelle: Hair, Health, and Healing
In this episode, we are joined by Shandi Nichelle, a hairstylist for almost 20 years and the founder and CEO of Freewell, a personal care company for active people dedicated to creating luxurious products free from toxic ingredients. Shandi is passionate about advocating for and volunteering with survivors of assault to help them thrive. In her free time, Shandi lives …
S3E11 Courtney Hutton: Brewing Community with Lucky Lab Coffee
In this episode, we are joined by Courtney Hutton, founder and CEO of Lucky Lab Coffee Co., a beloved coffee brand in Austin that began as a small idea in Hawaii, built in Charleston, SC, and eventually found its home in Austin, Texas. Tune in to hear about her path from a career in the legal field to building multiple …
S3E12 Susan Sarich: The Secret Ingredient to Entrepreneurship with SusieCakes
In this episode, Susan Sarich, founder of SusieCakes, shares her journey of turning her baking hobby into a national brand. As a community advocate, Forbes 50 Over 50 Award recipient, and Dean’s Distinguished Lecturer at Cornell University, Susan is dedicated to inspiring future generations of female professionals. Tune in for an extra sweet episode on entrepreneurship, leadership, and making an …
S3E10 Michaela Lindsay: Women, Wealth, and the Power of Investment
In this episode, we’re joined by Michaela Lindsay, founder of Savvy InvestHer, a social entrepreneur on a mission to close the gender wealth gap. After years in the tech industry, Michaela transitioned into entrepreneurship, creating spaces for women to feel empowered to talk about money. Tune in as Michaela shares her journey and offers advice on investing and building financial …
S3E9 Fatima Mohemedhen Louly: The Power of Influence – Turning Followers into a Beauty Brand
In this episode, we’re joined by Fatima Mohemedhen Louly, beauty influencer and founder of Define Beauty by F.M.A. After moving from Mauritania to the U.S. at 17, studying neuroscience, and working at Sephora, Fatima launched her inclusive, cruelty-free cosmetics brand to empower others to embrace their unique beauty.
S3E8 SHAZ & KIKS: Crowned by Culture, Two Sisters Who Redefined Cultural Hair Care
In this episode, we’re joined by Shaz Rajashekar and Kiku Chaudhuri, the sister duo behind SHAZ & KIKS, a vibrant Ayurvedic hair care brand. UT Austin grads, they’ve turned childhood summers in the Himalayas into a full product line that promotes healthy hair and celebrates their heritage.
S3E7 Rikki Wang: Tech Transforms the Table at Space Cowboy
In this episode, we sat down with Rikki Wang, founder of Space Cowboy, a modern kitchen and bar in Austin. Rikki turned to entrepreneurship to fulfill her passion for creating captivating dining experiences. In this episode, Rikki provides insights in the tech and food space and gives advice to others looking to follow in her footsteps. Tune in to hear …
S3E6 Cassie Shankman: The Sound of Startup Success
In this episode, we chat with Cassie Shankman (aka DJ Cassandra), an Austin-based DJ, composer, producer, and creative entrepreneur. As the founder of Sounds by Cassandra and co-founder of the music theory app Picardy, Cassie shares her journey through music, entrepreneurship, and advice for young creatives looking to break into the industry.
S3E5 Sarah Kenny: What It Means to Lead Like a Queen
In this episode, we talked with Sarah Kenny, a speaker, leadership coach, and the author of #1 Amazon bestselling book “Lead Like a Queen”. Sarah holds an MA in Gender Studies, is an ICF Professional Certified Coach, and has over 15 years of experience developing and training women leaders. Sarah’s journey has taken her all across the globe, cultivating a …
S3E4 Miles Bloxson: Crafting a Lifestyle Brand in Media
In this episode, we engaged with Miles Bloxson, the Founder, Host, and Executive Producer of the “Miles To Mogul” Podcast. A graduate of UT with a degree in Corporate Communications, Miles co-hosted “Campus Life” on Austin’s Public Access Channel before moving to Los Angeles, where she started her career with high-profile shows like Fox News LA and In-Touch Magazine, and …
S3E3 Elaine Garza: Shaping Stories, Building Brands, The story of establishing a PR empire, Giant Noise
Tune in as Elaine Garza, CEO of Giant Noise, shares her journey from majoring in journalism at the University of Texas at Austin and starting in the publishing industry to founding her own public relations and digital media company. Get inspired by her insights on the changing PR landscape and her advice to young professionals. Listen now on Spotify and …
S3E2 Whitney McElwain: Shaping the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem, One Player at a Time
In this episode, we sit down with Whitney McElwain, KS WELI’s new Director and a founder, investor, and advocate for female entrepreneurs. From her early days at Red Bull, working in venture capital, to launching her own brand, Daybird, Whitney shares her journey, passion for empowering women, and insights into creating a more equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem.
S2E18 Jessica Yang & Vani Jain: From Students to Graduates – Celebrating KS WELI Student Board Seniors
This episode explores the journey of graduating seniors, Jessica Yang and Vani Jain, from UT Austin and the KS WELI Student Board share their journey from students to graduates, reflecting on their time in leadership roles and discussing their plans for the future. They offer advice for incoming college freshmen while envisioning their entrepreneurial leadership journey ahead.
S3E1 Sophia Cuerquis: Starting A Platform To Inspire Others
In this episode, we explore Sophia Cuerquis’ inspiring journey from the Philippines to Austin, where she’s transformed her passions into successful ventures. Sophia, a dynamic entrepreneur, content creator, and personal creative director, shares her path to success, highlighting the importance of family, launching a clothing brand, and hosting a podcast. Tune in to hear her story of fearless entrepreneurship, creativity, …
S2E24 Sheena Wilde: Defining Purpose Through Intrapreneurship and Creating Philanthropic Impact at Kendra Scott
In this episode, we explore Sheena Wilde’s journey and her impactful role at Kendra Scott. As the Senior Vice President of Corporate Philanthropy & the Kendra Scott Foundation, Sheena is responsible for all philanthropic strategy, growth, and implementation. She oversees local and national programs, including the Kendra Scott Foundation, which aims to empower women and youth in health, wellness, education, …
S2E23 Janie Cooke and Caroline Nix: The Big O® Breakthrough, The Story of Building a Multi-Million Dollar Business – Oventure
In this episode, we highlight the power of partnership in achieving business success. Janie Cooke and Caroline Nix fused their skills to found Oventure, a company that offers hands-free accessories to help women everywhere. Their mission and teamwork set a powerful example for aspiring female entrepreneurs.
S2E22 Kristin Jacobson: Pioneering the Austin Flea Market Scene
In this episode, we explore Kristin Jacobson’s journey and discover how she transformed a passion project into a successful venture. Kristin Jacobson is the visionary founder behind Austin Flea, the city’s premier curated flea market experience. What began as a whimsical idea back in 07′, Austin Flea has blossomed into full-time operation celebrating the city’s vibrant community of vendors, artisans, …
S2E21 Elizabeth Findlay: Navigating Authenticity and Embracing Failure in Brand Building
In this episode, we highlight Elizabeth (Liz) Findlay’s story and gain insight into her journey of establishing Albion. Raised in Guatemala, her family owned and operated a clothing factory where they manufactured technical apparel for top U.S.-based fashion brands. However, Liz and her husband, Dave (Co-CEO), had to make a hard decision to close the factory and start their new …
S2E20 Maggie Brown: Building a Business That Redefines the Pickleball Game
In this episode, we dive into Maggie Brown’s Story and gain insight into how she turned a pandemic passion project into a successful business. Maggie is the CEO of Recess Pickleball, an innovative pickleball gear company aiming to elevate the game experience while fostering a community of passionate consumers. Maggie’s founding fearless approach serves as inspiration for aspiring women entrepreneurs …
S2E19 Samantha Leonard: Cultivating a Community and Business in a New City with ATX Brunch Girls
In this episode, we dive deep into Samantha Leonard’s story and gain insight into how Samantha turned a passion project into a successful business. Samantha founded ATX Brunch Girls, a local Austin social group aiming to elevate the brunch experience while fostering a community of passionate women. Samantha has built a thriving business by founding fearlessly, inspiring future generations of …
S2E17 Emily Ramshaw: The Journey to Creating and Establishing The 19th*: News That Represents
This episode explores the journey of Emily Ramshaw, President and CEO of The 19th*, the nation’s first independent nonprofit newsroom at the intersection of gender, politics, and policy. Emily shares the mission of the news outlet, which aims to elevate the voices of women and LGBTQ+ people with daily journalism, newsletters, and live events. As a trailblazer in her field, …
S2E16 Liz Matthews: Navigating Careers and Building Personal Brands on the Journey to Success with Liz, SVP of Dell Technologies Global Brand and Creative
This episode explores the journey of Liz Matthews, Senior Vice President of Dell Technologies Global Brand and Creative. Navigating through roles at Johnson & Johnson, Sun Microsystems, and now Dell Technologies, Liz shares how each experience shaped her leadership style and approach to personal branding. With insights gleaned from navigating both the startup scene and global corporations, she emphasizes the …
S2E15 Olivia Brady: Crafting Silk Stories for Key Insights and a Glimpse into the Entrepreneurial Mind with Olivia, Co-Founder and Designer of Saturday Silks
“Founding Fearless means just not giving up on your dreams!” 💛 New episode out now! This episode explores the journey of Olivia Brady, a 2020 graduate from the University of Texas at Austin. She is the Co-Founder and Designer behind Saturday Silks, a game day silk scarf brand that merges the elements of Texan roots and tradition. She hand illustrates …
S2E14 Gabriela Bucio: Embracing Culture and Authenticity When Becoming a Serial Business Owner to Build a Business Empire from the Ground Up
A new episode is out now! ✨ This episode explores the journey of Gabriela Bucio, co-owner of one of the city’s most popular and fast-growing restaurant management groups, Gabriela’s Group. Gabriela initially worked behind the scenes at several restaurants after moving to Austin more than 20 years ago from Mexico. Over time, Gabriela learned the business inside and out and …
S2E13 Bryn Carter-Brown and Emily Salberg: Women; The OG Social Network – Unveiling the Power of Community with Bryn and Emily, CEO and COO of What She Said
A new episode is out now! This episode explores the journey of Bryn Carter-Brown and Emily Salberg, CEO and COO of What She Said. From growing vibrant communities in Denver to revolutionizing referral networks for women entrepreneurs nationwide, Bryn and Emily are the visionary duo behind What She Said. Today, they are working on building a platform for women in …
S2E12 Natalie Franke: The Power of Finding Your Inner Gutsy and Going Beyond the Comfort Zone
“Go after things and don’t be afraid of sucking” ~ Natalie Franke in ‘Gutsy.’ 🤘💛✨ This episode explores the journey of Natalie Franke, a bestselling author of “Gutsy,” community builder, neuroscience nerd, and “mama bear” for small businesses. As the Head of Community at Flodesk, she empowers tens of thousands of business owners worldwide. During her time at school to …
S2E11 Christy Carlson Romano: Exploring Beyond the Characters on the Entrepreneurial Journey from Voicing Disney Characters and Performing on Broadway to Her Evolution into Podcasting
In this episode, we have Christy Carlson Romano, actress, host, and co-founder of PodCo. From being a Disney icon and best known for her roles as Disney’s “Kim Possible,” and roles in “Even Stevens,” and “Cadet Kelly,” to bringing Disney princess Belle’ to life in the highly acclaimed Beauty and the Beast on Broadway, as well as ‘Kate Monster’ in …
S2E10 Marisa Garza: Embracing A New Frame and Navigating Corporation vs Entrepreneurship with Marisa, Founder of KEFI by MG
In this episode, we sit down with Marisa Garza, Founder of KEFI by MG. Fresh out of college as a UT Alum, Marisa found herself navigating the corporate landscape while simultaneously framing uniqueness. KEFI by MG is a unique and fashionable eyewear brand where Marisa fused her passion and profession together to create art for any wearer. The episode also …
S2E9 Fernanda Sampson-Gómez: How a Latina broke into the competitive CPG industry as a Fearless Entrepreneur and Agua Fresca Visionary With the Co-Founder and CEO of Celzo
A new episode is out now! This episode dives into the journey of Fernanda Sampson-Gómez, CEO of Celzo. Leading the way with the first vitamin-infused agua fresca in the USA, she’s an innovator and an equality advocate. Recognized with the Rising Star Award from Latino Leaders Magazine, Fernanda stands as a trailblazing Latina leader shaping the future. 🤘💛✨ Her determination, …
S2E8 Carla Taylor: Redefining Entrepreneurship through Non-Traditional Innovation in Beauty Photography and Makeup Artistry
In this episode, we sit down with Carla Taylor, Photographer, Entrepreneur, and Beauty MUA. We delve into Carla’s inspiring journey to becoming a makeup artist who doesn’t limit herself to conventional paths. Instead, she seamlessly combines her creative talents to reshape the landscape of entrepreneurship. 🤘💛✨ Carla emphasizes the values of creativity and uniqueness that have defined her entrepreneurial venture, …
S2E7 Adriana Carrig: Resiliently Spreading Kindness One Bracelet At a Time with Adriana, Founder & CEO of Little Words Project
A new episode is out now! In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Adriana Carrig, the Founder and CEO of Little Words Project, an incredible entrepreneur and advocate for kindness. Adriana shares her remarkable journey, starting from her struggles with childhood bullying and finding solace in crafting bracelets. Her story of resilience and determination unfolds as …
S2E6 Chelsea Kramer: The Inside Journey to Capsule Wardrobes and Women-Owned Success in the Fashion Industry with Chelsea, Founder and Designer of Parke
A new episode is out now! In this episode, we sit down with Chelsea Kramer, founder and designer of Parke. We delve into Chelsea’s inspiring journey of starting Parke, a woman-owned business that has a mission to create high-quality clothing that can elevate your closet, and live with you forever. Her company has been extremely successful and her clothing has …
S2E5 Rachel Lindsay: A Conversation of Mixing Law, Love, and Leading with Rachel Lindsay, Author, Media Personality, and Lawyer on Shaping Her Legacy for Better
A new episode is out now! In this episode, we sit down with Rachel Lindsay, author, attorney, media personality, podcaster, and speaker. We delve into Rachel’s inspiring journey, from initially pursuing a law degree, to making history as the first Black lead in the reality TV franchise, specifically on the thirteenth season of ABC’s “The Bachelorette”. She hasn’t stopped there; …
S2E4 Kristy Owens: Turning New Year Resolution into an Austin Business: The Journey of Following Your Heart with Kristy, Founder of 365 Things Austin
A new episode is out now! In this episode we sit down with Kristy Owens, the founder of 365 Things Austin, the trusted source for all things entertainment and events for Austinites. We delve into Kristy’s inspiring journey, from being an uninspired realtor to founding a brand that both businesses and consumers count on. Kristy shares her story of creating …
S2E3 Terry P. Mitchell: Importance of Equity, Community Work, Leadership, and Continued Education with Terry, Serial Entrepreneur and Community Servant
A new episode is out now! In today’s episode, we have such an inspirational speaker and true entrepreneur and community servant with expertise in all things business and a strive to empower and inspire those around her. Terry P. Mitchell is the founder of Austin Socialite and Black Leaders Collective, COO of E & Co. Tech, Co-Owner of Austin Woman …
S2E2 Ashley Raymond & Meagan Doyle: Graduating from Student to Startup with Co-Founders of Safely
A new episode is out now! In today’s episode, we dive into the journey of co-founders creating a project in their undergraduate class at UT Austin to being inspired to create a fully developed CPG company while juggling full-time jobs outside college. We talked to co-founders Ashley Raymond, CEO of Safely, and Maegan Doyle, CXO of Safely, a modern self-defense …
S2E1 KS WELI 101 With Your New Co-Hosts Priscilla & Sydney
Welcome to Season 2 of the Founding Fearless Podcast! We are so excited to have Priscilla and Sydney as our new co-hosts, and we can’t wait to hear from their guest speakers, who are all trailblazing women entrepreneurs and leaders. This first episode is for anyone who wants to know the ins and outs of KS WELI and really know …
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