Business Over Cocktails - Behind the Business - Real Talk with Female Entrepreneurs

Lauren Najar, Business Coach
  • 5.0 (7)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Welcome to Business Over Cocktails — the podcast where female entrepreneurs, founder stories, and soulful business growth take center stage.  Hosted by business strategist and community builder Lauren Najar, this show dives into the “why” behind the business, the real stories behind entrepreneurship, and the pivotal moments that shape women-led brands. Expect candid interviews with creative entrepreneurs, behind-the-scenes reflections on small business growth, and bite-sized solo episodes inside The Business Chaser — where we explore authentic visibility, organic marketing, and building a business that actually feels good. Whether you're scaling a service-based business, navigating a pivot, or craving real talk for entrepreneurs, this is your spot. Pull up a seat. Pour your favorite drink. Let’s talk business.

  1. Networking Strategy: Turn Events Into Clients

    23H AGO

    Networking Strategy: Turn Events Into Clients

    In this educational Business Over Cocktails episode, marketing strategist and community builder Michelle Thames breaks down a repeatable approach to community building and networking that helps entrepreneurs grow a magnetic personal brand and increase visibility online and in the room. You’ll learn how to choose the right networking events, connect with decision-makers, and make yourself memorable so relationships actually turn into opportunities. Michelle also shares what to do after the event—how to follow up, book coffee chats, connect on Instagram, and stay consistent with content so new connections become clients, collaborators, and community members. If you’ve been relying on social media alone, this episode gives you a practical networking strategy you can plug into your business immediately. Episode Highlights: A practical networking strategy to build community and grow a magnetic personal brandWhat to do before, during, and after events (follow-up + coffee chats that convert)How to leverage Instagram + consistent content to stay top of mind after meeting people Chapters: 00:01 — Why community building + networking are the foundation 02:31 — Post-event strategy: coffee chats, tracking, and follow-up 03:15 — Instagram as the networking connector + staying top of mind 05:00 — Event content strategy + using ChatGPT for stories/reels 06:05 — Finding the right events (Eventbrite/Meetup) + action plan Connect with Michelle Thames: Website - http://www.michellethames.com/ Let’s Stay Connected: → Follow Lauren on Instagram: www.instagram.com/laurennajar → Learn more or work with me: www.laurennajar.com → Follow Business Over Cocktails on IG: www.instagram.com/businessovercocktails → Attend Growth & Connect retreats & events: www.instagram.com/growthandconnect 🎧 Subscribe & Review: Love the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend who needs a business boost and a good chat over a cocktail.

    10 min
  2. The Day I Got Fired and Built My Dream Business

    4D AGO

    The Day I Got Fired and Built My Dream Business

    Michelle Thames went to work one day in 2016 and walked out fired from her healthcare compliance job. What felt like an ending became the pivot that changed everything. In this episode of Business Over Cocktails, Michelle shares how she leaned on the blog she’d been building since 2009, taught herself marketing through real-world reps, and turned a career curveball into a thriving path as a marketing strategist, community builder, and boutique agency owner. We talk about what it really takes to build trust online, why relationship-based marketing still wins, and how intentional community building (especially through in-person events) can accelerate your visibility, confidence, and client growth faster than social media alone. You’ll also hear Michelle’s honest take on early business setbacks, boundaries with social media, and what it means to create a truly “magnetic” brand—one that attracts the right-fit people and opportunities. Plus, she shares details on her book, From Fired to Featured, a practical guide to personal branding with purpose. Episode Highlights: Michelle’s 2016 firing that sparked her entrepreneurial pivotFrom blogger to brand-builder: learning marketing through real experienceBehind the scenes of scaling fast in 2020 and choosing a boutique modelWhat “magnetic” means: attracting the right-fit people and protecting the roomWhy in-person community and intentional invitations sell out events faster Chapters: 00:01 — Meet Michelle Thames + community-building vibe 00:50 — 2016 layoff story: healthcare compliance to pivot 02:55 — Falling back on her blog + landing MyAlle Organics 04:51 — Starting the agency + shifting into community + events 18:23 — Early setbacks: scaling in 2020, hiring, going boutique 23:14 — “Magnetic” branding + curating the right room 39:42 — Her book From Fired to Featured + closing + where to connect Connect with Michelle Thames: Website - http://www.michellethames.com/ Let’s Stay Connected: → Follow Lauren on Instagram: www.instagram.com/laurennajar → Learn more or work with me: www.laurennajar.com → Follow Business Over Cocktails on IG: www.instagram.com/businessovercocktails → Attend Growth & Connect retreats & events: www.instagram.com/growthandconnect 🎧 Subscribe & Review: Love the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend who needs a business boost and a good chat over a cocktail.

    41 min
  3. How to Date Consciously & Choose with Purpose

    FEB 20

    How to Date Consciously & Choose with Purpose

    Dating doesn’t have to feel like a guessing game or a grind. In this Business Chaser episode, dating coach Lauren Fondriest shares a grounded, empowering framework for high-achieving women who are ready to shift from casual dating to consciously attracting a partner who matches their values, lifestyle, and ambitions. You’ll learn three actionable steps to approach dating with self-worth, clarity, and intention—starting with how you show up in your own life today. If you're done waiting to be chosen and ready to choose with purpose, this episode is your blueprint. Episode Highlights: The mindset shift from waiting to be chosen to choosing with purpose How to embody relationship values before meeting your partner Building self-worth as the foundation for conscious dating Chapters: [00:00] Conscious Dating for Ambitious Women[00:40] Shifting from Casual to Intentional Dating[01:50] Step 1: Build a Rock Solid Sense of Self[03:00] Step 2: Get Clear on How You Want to Feel[04:00] Step 3: Embody Those Feelings Daily Connect with Lauren Fondriest: Connect with Lauren on Instagram: https://instagram.com/laurenfondriest Learn about dating coaching: https://laurenfondriest.com/ Where do I meet quality, single men? - Get the ultimate guide to meeting quality single men - without collecting pen pals or settling for less than you deserve. Let’s Stay Connected: → Follow Lauren on Instagram: www.instagram.com/laurennajar → Learn more or work with me: www.laurennajar.com → Follow Business Over Cocktails on IG: www.instagram.com/businessovercocktails → Attend Growth & Connect retreats & events: www.instagram.com/growthandconnect 🎧 Subscribe & Review: Love the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend who needs a business boost and a good chat over a cocktail.

    9 min
  4. How She Turned Dating Struggles Into a Calling

    FEB 16

    How She Turned Dating Struggles Into a Calling

    What happens when a high-achieving corporate coach realizes the deepest transformation she’s ever had wasn’t in the boardroom—but in her love life? In this soulful conversation, Lauren sits down with Lauren Fondriest, a leadership coach turned women's dating coach, to unpack the personal reckoning that shifted everything. From years of dating struggles and shrinking herself in relationships to building a business rooted in self-worth and conscious love, Lauren shares how peeling back layers of conditioning led her to a life—and career—she finally feels aligned with. They explore the quiet burnout ambitious women face in both love and leadership, the parallels between corporate coaching and romantic connection, and how learning to receive can change everything. If you’ve ever felt like you have to choose between being powerful and being loved, this episode is your reminder that you don’t. Episode Highlights: The journey from corporate leadership coaching to dating coaching Why ambitious women often struggle in romantic relationships How dating became a mirror for self-worth and healing The importance of learning to receive love and support Building a values-based, intentional dating framework Chapters: [00:00] Origin Story: From Networking to Podcasting [00:40] Becoming a Coach: The Corporate to Coaching Path [03:00] Choosing Dating as a Niche [06:50] Leadership and Love: The Surprising Parallels [10:45] Who She Coaches: The High-Achieving Woman [20:45] Mindset Shifts for Dating with Self-Worth [32:15] Transformation Stories and Next-Level Confidence Let’s Stay Connected: → Follow Lauren on Instagram: www.instagram.com/laurennajar → Learn more or work with me: www.laurennajar.com → Follow Business Over Cocktails on IG: www.instagram.com/businessovercocktails → Attend Growth & Connect retreats & events: www.instagram.com/growthandconnect 🎧 Subscribe & Review: Love the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend who needs a business boost and a good chat over a cocktail.

    45 min
  5. The PR Myth That’s Holding You Back from Visibility

    FEB 13

    The PR Myth That’s Holding You Back from Visibility

    Think PR is only for celebrities and big brands? Think again. In this quick myth-busting episode, Lilian Sue breaks down the biggest misconception in public relations—and shares what you actually need to start building visibility through interviews and media features. No massive budget, no millions of followers—just clarity on your story, your goals, and your audience. Perfect for entrepreneurs who are ready to be seen, heard, and remembered. Episode Highlights: Why PR doesn’t require a massive audience or budget The story–goals–audience framework for visibility How interviews build long-term authority Chapters: 00:01 – Busting the Celebrity PR Myth 00:54 – What You Actually Need for PR Success 02:07 – Setting Strategic PR Goals 02:58 – Identifying Your True Audience 03:57 – Measuring PR Impact Without a Big Budget Connect with Lilian Sue: Website: www.inretrospectwritingservices.com IG: www.instagram.com/liliansueprcoach  LI: www.linkedin.com/in/liliansue FB group: www.facebook.com/groups/bookedfeaturedpaid  Let’s Stay Connected: → Follow Lauren on Instagram: www.instagram.com/laurennajar → Learn more or work with me: www.laurennajar.com → Follow Business Over Cocktails on IG: www.instagram.com/businessovercocktails → Attend Growth & Connect retreats & events: www.instagram.com/growthandconnect 🎧 Subscribe & Review: Love the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend who needs a business boost and a good chat over a cocktail.

    7 min
  6. The Courage to Share What Sets You Apart

    FEB 9

    The Courage to Share What Sets You Apart

    What if the story you’ve been hiding is the key to everything you’ve been working toward? In this deeply honest conversation, we explore the powerful intersection of creative storytelling, public visibility, and personal healing. Our guest Lilian Sue shares how a simple request—"Do you do PR?"—sparked a complete transformation from freelance copywriter to media authority amplifier. We talk about breaking generational silence, navigating the fear of being seen, and how to move from sanitized soundbites to soulful storytelling. There’s also a whole sidebar about horror movies, true crime, and why good storytelling haunts us—in the best way. This episode is for anyone who’s ever asked, “Why would anyone care about my story?” The answer might just surprise you. Episode Highlights: Why your story is your most powerful PR strategy Navigating entrepreneurship as a woman of color Letting go of control to embrace visibility The unexpected link between horror films and storytelling Turning personal healing into public impact Chapters: 00:00 – Opening & Guest Introduction 01:29 – Starting a Business from Necessity 02:58 – Entering the World of PR 07:49 – Discovering the Power of Storytelling 11:45 – Falling in Love with Horror PR 23:27 – Storytelling as Healing 46:43 – Building Visibility Without a Big Audience Connect with Lilian Sue: Website: www.inretrospectwritingservices.com IG: www.instagram.com/liliansueprcoach  LI: www.linkedin.com/in/liliansue FB group: www.facebook.com/groups/bookedfeaturedpaid  Let’s Stay Connected: → Follow Lauren on Instagram: www.instagram.com/laurennajar → Learn more or work with me: www.laurennajar.com → Follow Business Over Cocktails on IG: www.instagram.com/businessovercocktails → Attend Growth & Connect retreats & events: www.instagram.com/growthandconnect 🎧 Subscribe & Review: Love the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend who needs a business boost and a good chat over a cocktail.

    48 min
  7. How to Make Music Accessible For All Learners

    FEB 6

    How to Make Music Accessible For All Learners

    In this solo episode, music educator Cassie Williamson shares practical insights and real-life experiences from her work teaching students with disabilities. From adapting lessons for those with cerebral palsy and low motor function to working with blind, deaf, and non-verbal students, Cassie explores how music can be taught to every learner regardless of ability. Learn how she designs her own strategies, bridges the gap between music and speech therapy, and advocates for accessibility in an industry that often overlooks it. This episode is a powerful resource for educators, parents, and anyone who believes music is for everyone. Episode Highlights: Creative strategies for teaching music to students with disabilitiesHow Cassie blends music education with speech and motor therapy techniquesThe importance of advocacy and inclusive practices in music instruction Chapters: 00:00 – Why Music Should Be Accessible to Everyone 01:40 – Teaching a Student with Cerebral Palsy to Sing 03:35 – Music Lessons for Blind and Deaf Students 05:50 – Advocating for Students Left Out in Public Schools 07:55 – What Music Reveals About Memory, Focus, and Ability Connect with Cassie Williamson: Website: www.calumet region fine arts studio.com  IG: www.instagram.com/calumetregionfineartsstudio FB: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DCTohMj3F/?mibextid=wwXIfr Let’s Stay Connected: → Follow Lauren on Instagram: www.instagram.com/laurennajar → Learn more or work with me: www.laurennajar.com → Follow Business Over Cocktails on IG: www.instagram.com/businessovercocktails → Attend Growth & Connect retreats & events: www.instagram.com/growthandconnect 🎧 Subscribe & Review: Love the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend who needs a business boost and a good chat over a cocktail.

    9 min
  8. Lessons in Music, Life & Letting Go

    FEB 2

    Lessons in Music, Life & Letting Go

    Cassie Williamson didn’t set out to follow in her mother’s footsteps as a music teacher but life had its own tempo. From teaching piano in her childhood home to launching a thriving music studio of her own, Cassie shares how music, patience, and purpose intertwined to shape a career she never saw coming. In this conversation, we talk about what it means to build a business rooted in impact, the quiet power of one-on-one teaching, and how life’s detours (including a spinal injury and temporary blindness) led her exactly where she needed to be. Whether you're a creative, a parent, or a teacher, this episode will remind you that every skill—and every story—has a deeper note to play. Episode Highlights: How Cassie built a waitlisted music studio from scratchWhy she left public education to follow her own pathThe role of patience in both teaching and entrepreneurshipCassie’s story of overcoming blindness during collegeThe impact of teaching music to differently abled students Chapters: 00:00 – The Unfiltered Start: Behind the Podcast Mic 05:00 – Growing Up Surrounded by Music 10:30 – The Injury That Changed Everything 15:45 – Discovering the Power of Teaching and Special Education 22:30 – What Makes Her Music Studio Different 31:45 – Leaving Public Education to Build Her Own Business 46:30 – Purpose, Resilience, and Redefining Success Connect with Cassie Williamson: Website: www.calumet region fine arts studio.com  IG: www.instagram.com/calumetregionfineartsstudio FB: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DCTohMj3F/?mibextid=wwXIfr Let’s Stay Connected: → Follow Lauren on Instagram: www.instagram.com/laurennajar → Learn more or work with me: www.laurennajar.com → Follow Business Over Cocktails on IG: www.instagram.com/businessovercocktails → Attend Growth & Connect retreats & events: www.instagram.com/growthandconnect 🎧 Subscribe & Review: Love the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend who needs a business boost and a good chat over a cocktail.

    45 min
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About

Welcome to Business Over Cocktails — the podcast where female entrepreneurs, founder stories, and soulful business growth take center stage.  Hosted by business strategist and community builder Lauren Najar, this show dives into the “why” behind the business, the real stories behind entrepreneurship, and the pivotal moments that shape women-led brands. Expect candid interviews with creative entrepreneurs, behind-the-scenes reflections on small business growth, and bite-sized solo episodes inside The Business Chaser — where we explore authentic visibility, organic marketing, and building a business that actually feels good. Whether you're scaling a service-based business, navigating a pivot, or craving real talk for entrepreneurs, this is your spot. Pull up a seat. Pour your favorite drink. Let’s talk business.

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