The CEO Sisters' Road Trip

Liz Szporn and Sarah Trueman
  • 5.0 (2)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Sisters and founders, Liz Szporn and Sarah Trueman are on a road trip where they talk about business, family, sisterhood, friendship and growing through all of it. Join them as they share, laugh and sometimes cry about all the joy, challenges, hiccups, and drama that come with this journey.    Liz is a business coach and consultant who loves supporting small business owners. Sarah is a creator who started her pottery business just a year ago. This podcast will provide strategic business insights to grow your business as well as relatable stories of being mothers, wives, sisters and bad ass business ladies.  They've been through it all together, so why wouldn't they share this CEO journey together too?

  1. 2D AGO

    Ep. 18 - Picture Perfect with Valerie Thomas

    Summary In this episode, Valerie Thomas shares her inspiring journey from a competitive figure skater to a full-service family photographer, highlighting her evolution, business growth, and the importance of creating lasting memories for families. Discover her unique approach to pampering and really serving clients with an exceptional photography and studio experience. Key  topics Valerie's transition from figure skating to photography The evolution of Valerie's business and services Creating a full-service, memorable experience for families The importance of tangible family heirlooms and art Valerie's future goals and vision for growth Action  items & Take aways -Where can you invest in a full-service experience for clients? -Where can you create tangible family heirlooms with your service or art? -Planning future goals for studio expansion and team growth through steady growth and refinement. Chapters 05:37 Welcoming Valerie Thomas 11:06 Valerie's Journey as a Photographer 19:49 Evolving as a Business Owner 20:25 Navigating Motherhood and Business 27:02 The Intersection of Ice Skating and Photography 34:11 Creating a Unique Client Experience 47:14 Future Aspirations and Goals Resources Valerie Maria Photography - https://valeriemaria.com Atomic Habits by James Clear - https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-James-Clear/dp/0735211299 Guest links Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/valeriemariaphotography/ Website - https://valeriemaria.com Keywords family photography, motherhood, business growth, legacy, service excellence, photography tips, entrepreneur journey Want to learn more about what working with Liz looks like?  Head to Your Business Matters to schedule a Discovery call with her

    38 min

  2. MAR 15

    E. 21 - Ditch the Script - Leading with Authenticity

    Ep. 21 - Ditch the Script: Leading with AuthenticitySummary In a world of polished LinkedIn profiles and AI-generated corporate speak, many female founders feel they have to "act" like a CEO to be one. In this episode, Liz and Sarah dismantle the "Performance of Leadership" and explore why your "you-ness" is actually your greatest competitive advantage. They discuss the exhaustion of wearing a "CEO costume," how unconditional support leads to business fearlessness, and why integrity is the ultimate ROI. Key Topics Fearless Foundations: How the unconditional love of their father, John Stark McCall Jr., fueled their entrepreneurial grit.The "Pottery Apron" Breakthrough: Sarah’s journey from feeling like an imposter to owning her "loud" and colorful brand.The ROI of Being Real: Why authenticity is the shortest path to team loyalty and high-aligned clients.Leading Without a Manual: Navigating the "messy middle" of business with values-driven presence.Takeaways Ditch the Costume: Running a business in a "mask" leads to founder burnout; the seams will eventually rip.Values as a Filter: Authenticity isn't a buzz word—it’s a decision-making matrix that helps you say "no" to the wrong clients and "yes" to your worth.Vulnerability is a Bridge: Sharing your "why" and your struggles creates a deeper connection with your audience than a polished script ever could.The Leadership Audit: Success happens when you stop trying to please everyone and start leading through your own unique voice.Chapters 00:00 - Introduction: Synergy, Blazers, and the CEO Costume01:25 - A Tribute to John Stark McCall Jr.: The Root of Fearlessness03:45 - The Whiskey Toast: Honoring the Past to Fuel the Future08:12 - Why the "Seams Rip": The Physical Toll of Performing Leadership13:45 - Earth Tones vs. Neon: Sarah’s Story of Owning Her Style20:30 - The ROI of Being Real: Attracting Aligned Clients28:15 - Values vs. Habits: How to Identify Your Core Decision Filter33:50 - Owning Your "Superpower": Transitioning from Hobbyist to Empire Builder38:35 - Action Item: Introducing the Leadership Style AuditResources Leadership Style Audit – WorksheetSarah Jane Pottery – Visit the ShopYour Business Matters Coaching – Work with LizConnect with us! Liz Szporn LinkedIn - Connect with LizCEO Sisters Instagram - @ceosistersroadtripSarah Jane Pottery Instagram - @sarahjanepotteryKeywords authentic leadership, female founders, CEO mindset, business values, personal branding, entrepreneurship, leadership audit, women in business, growth mindset Want to learn more about what working with Liz looks like?  Head to Your Business Matters to schedule a Discovery call with her

    41 min

  3. MAR 6

    Ep. 20 - The Power of the Passenger Seat - Why Every CEO Needs a Co-Pilot

    Summary This episode explores the power of community and accountability in business success. Liz and Sarah discuss how surrounding yourself with the right people can skyrocket your chances of success from 10% to 95%, and share practical tips for building effective support networks. Key  topics The impact of community and accountability on business successDifferent types of community: front porch friends vs. board of advisorsSigns of going it alone for too long in businessHow to transition from surface-level to deep business relationshipsThe importance of intentionality in building support networksTakeaways Having a community increases success chances from 10% to 95%Two types of community: casual friends and strategic advisorsSigns you're isolated: stagnant revenue and surface conversationsBe intentional in building deeper, meaningful business relationshipsReframe accountability as investment in yourself, not punishmentChapters 00:00 Introduction to Community and Accountability 02:40 The Importance of Community in Business 05:22 Identifying Signs of Isolation in Business 08:15 Transitioning from Personal to Professional Relationships 10:00 Intentional Networking and Building Connections 12:55 Overcoming Fear of Accountability 15:50 Reframing Accountability as Support 18:38 Teaching Younger Generations about Accountability 21:26 Encouragement and Support from Others 24:17 Viewing Accountability as a GPS for Success 35:35 CEO Sister’s Road Trip Video Outro - 60 seconds v2.mp4 Resources American Society of Training and Development - https://www.astd.org/Montessori Education Model - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montessori_methoConnect with us! Liz Szporn LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethszporn/CEO Sisters - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ceosistersroadtrip/ Your Business Matters - https://www.yourbusinessmatters.dev/Sarah Jane Pottery - https://www.sarahjanepottery.shop/Keywords business community, accountability, entrepreneurial success, peer groups, mentorship, women entrepreneurs, business growth, networking, support systems Want to learn more about what working with Liz looks like?  Head to Your Business Matters to schedule a Discovery call with her

    37 min

  4. FEB 27

    Ep. 15 - Millionaire Mindset - Positioning Yourself for the Future

    Summary In this episode, Liz and Sarah explore the journey of transitioning from maker to CEO, emphasizing the importance of intentional positioning, measuring progress backwards, and managing the tension of business growth. They share personal stories, practical strategies, and insights to help entrepreneurs scale with clarity and confidence. Key  topics Transitioning from maker to CEOThe concept of positioning and campaignsMeasuring progress backwards (AMB)The transformation journey and mindset shiftsSeasonal and campaign-based positioningChapters 00:00 Snowmageddon and Personal Updates 02:48 Transitioning from Maker to CEO 06:10 Imposter Syndrome and the Bicycle Face 08:46 The Hero's Journey in Business 11:59 The Journey of Transformation 14:49 Positioning and the Four P's 24:01 Intentionality in Business Positioning 25:48 The Importance of Reflection and Measuring Progress 26:56 Business Therapy: The Emotional Side of Entrepreneurship 27:50 Creating an Ideal Work Week 32:57 Setting Clear Goals and Vision 33:54 The Cost of Staying in the Production Space 36:43 Defining Success: A Year from Now 39:12 The Power of Measuring Backwards 43:59 Key Takeaways and Reflections Resources Reshma Saujani's Bicycle Face Speech - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exampleThe Transformation Economy by Joe Pine - https://www.amazon.com/Transformation-Economy-Experience-Design-Value/dp/1633694684The Gap and the Gain, Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy - https://www.amazon.com/Gap-Gain-Achievers-Happiness-Confidence/dp/1401964362www.yourbusinessmatters.devwww.sarahjanepottery.shophttps://www.instagram.com/sarahjanepotteryKeywords business growth, CEO mindset, positioning, transformation, entrepreneurship, maker to CEO, business strategy, mindset, productivity, scaling Want to learn more about what working with Liz looks like?  Head to Your Business Matters to schedule a Discovery call with her

    39 min

  5. FEB 20

    Ep.19 From Strombolis to CEO Sisters - Childhood Business Adventures

    Summary In this week’s episode, sisters, Liz and Sarah share their unique experiences growing up in a family of entrepreneurs. They reflect on their childhood adventures, the lessons learned from their parents' various businesses. They think through the skills they developed along the way.  The discussion touches on the challenges of leadership, the importance of community, and the financial lessons that shaped their understanding of money. They also explore the dynamics of partnerships and the significance of maintaining relationships while navigating the complexities of business.  Through laughter and nostalgia, the sisters emphasize the value of learning from every experience and the importance of having a supportive co-pilot in the entrepreneurial journey. Takeaways Every experience is a learning opportunity.Having a co-pilot in business is essential.Community support can alleviate the loneliness of entrepreneurship.Financial education is crucial for young adults.Navigating partnerships requires clear communication and boundaries.Understanding personal strengths and weaknesses enhances collaboration.Embracing failure is part of the entrepreneurial journey.Chapters 00:00 Sisterly Greetings and Introduction 03:03 Childhood Adventures in Entrepreneurship 05:54 Lessons from the Family Business 08:57 The Gas Station Experience 12:03 Cryogenic Freezing: A Unique Business Venture 21:01 Reflections on Success and Failure 24:59 The Loneliness of Leadership 28:52 Financial Lessons Learned 32:59 Navigating Partnerships 40:00 Maintaining Relationships in Business Keywords sisterhood, entrepreneurship, family business, childhood memories, business lessons, partnerships, financial education, loneliness in leadership, cryogenic freezing, gas station experience Want to learn more about what working with Liz looks like?  Head to Your Business Matters to schedule a Discovery call with her

    35 min

  6. FEB 13

    Ep. 17 From Corporate Training to Stained Glass: Jill Huentelman's Inspirational Journey

    Liz and Sarah have a great conversation with a guest who straddles the coaching and creative world in an incredibly beautiful way.  Join us in this captivating episode as Jill Huentelman of Huentelglas shares how she transitioned from building a successful corporate training company to embracing her passion for stained glass art. Discover her insights on building beauty, community, and belief while growing a thriving creative business. In this episode: Jill's early career in corporate training and the successful sale of Lernia Training SolutionsHer pivot into stained glass art after 20 years, reigniting her passionBuilding a studio dedicated to craft, community, and connectionThe importance of listening to your audience and clients to guide product offeringsHer "three promises": building beauty, business, and beliefStrategies for intentional growth, experimenting with small launches, and pricingHow she manages multiple passions without burnout through time blocking and partnershipsThe emotional journey of closing her previous business and trusting the processPractical steps for entrepreneurs considering a career pivot or adding creative pursuitsTimestamps: (00:00) - Introduction & Jill's background in corporate training(02:07) - Transition from corporate to creative entrepreneurship(04:16) - Building her stained glass studio & community(09:56) - How her business model evolved over time(15:41) - The significance of her "three promises"(20:21) - Listening to clients and creating meaningful connections(24:33) - Transitioning from a successful business and the emotional process(29:32) - The power of incremental pricing & testing products(36:39) - The importance of partnerships & automating systems(43:50) - Advice for entrepreneurs balancing multiple passionsResources & Links: Huentelglas WebsiteThe Lean Startup by Eric RiesUpwork (for hiring digital partners)The Lean Start Up, Eric RiesConnect with Jill Huentelman: Instagram - HuentelglasFacebook - HuentelglasNewtown Square, PennsylvaniaWant to learn more about what working with Liz looks like?  Head to Your Business Matters to schedule a Discovery call with her

    41 min

  7. FEB 8

    Ep. 16 Laura Angress - An Artists Journey: from Rome to Jersey, with Love

    Summary In this episode of the CEO Sisters Road Trip, Liz and Sarah explore the intersection of creativity and business with New Jersey artist, Laura Angress of Murals By Laura. Laura shares her journey from the corporate world to becoming a successful muralist and fine artist, inspired by her experiences in the Sistine Chapel. The conversation delves into the challenges and triumphs of building a sustainable art business, finding inspiration in personal experiences, and navigating the art world as an emerging artist. In this conversation, Laura Angress shares her journey as an artist, detailing her experiences from her first art show to building a successful art business. She emphasizes the importance of community connections, finding a unique voice in her art, and balancing passion with profitability. Laura discusses the challenges of pricing her work, the significance of networking, and the strategies she employs to scale her business. She also offers valuable advice for aspiring artists, encouraging them to trust their instincts and pursue their passions. Takeaways The journey from corporate life to pursuing art can be fulfilling and transformative.The importance of listening.  Listening to yourself, your customers and your support network is crucial.Building a sustainable brand requires both artistic vision and business acumen.Finding a niche, such as beach-themed art, can lead to business success.Artists should embrace their unique stories and backgrounds in their work.Community connections significantly impact an artist's journey.Finding a unique voice in art is essential for success.Balancing passion and profit is possible. Pricing art can be complex and requires a thoughtful approach.Scaling an art business involves understanding market demands.Protecting creative time is crucial for artistic growth.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the CEO Sisters Road Trip 03:07 Meet Laura Angress: Artist and Entrepreneur 06:00 The Journey of Building a Creative Business 12:01 The Importance of Art in Everyday Life 17:41 The Epiphany at the Sistine Chapel 20:36 Transitioning to Art: A Personal Journey 22:09 The Evolution of an Artist 23:42 Creating Memories Through Art 24:12 Finding Inspiration in Local Landmarks 29:38 Building a Community Through Art 35:09 Balancing Passion and Market Demand 40:11 Finding Balance in Art and Business 41:09 The Art of Pricing: Valuing Your Work 43:21 Understanding Art: Overcoming Sticker Shock 45:43 Building Connections: The Joy of Art Shows 46:52 Scaling Your Art Business: Tips for Success 49:22 The Power of Persistence: Stories of Opportunity 51:31 Creating Limited Editions: The Print Process 54:43 Balancing Life and Creativity: Time Management 58:20 Pursuing Passion: Advice for Aspiring Artists Resources Murals By Laura: https://muralsbylaura.com/ Want to learn more about what working with Liz looks like?  Head to Your Business Matters to schedule a Discovery call with her

    38 min

  8. JAN 30

    Ep. 14 - The Price of Power - Moving from Survival to Thriving

    Summary In this engaging conversation, CEO Sisters, Liz Szporn and Sarah Trueman explore the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs, particularly around pricing and self-worth. They discuss the alarming statistic that less than 18% of women business owners pay themselves a salary consistent with industry standards, highlighting the need for a shift in mindset towards valuing their work. The duo delves into the concept of the 'worth gap', the importance of understanding invisible work, and the transition from hourly billing to value-based pricing. They emphasize the significance of knowing one's costs, the dangers of scope creep, and the necessity of creating opportunity buckets for passion projects. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to respect their businesses through appropriate pricing strategies and to take actionable steps towards growth. Takeaways Less than 18% of women business owners pay themselves a salary consistent with industry standards.Most  entrepreneurs reinvest profits back into their businesses instead of paying themselves.Charging what you're worth is one of the scariest things for entrepreneurs.Invisible work often goes unaccounted for in pricing strategies.Billing by the hour commoditizes your expertise and undervalues your work.The transformation economy focuses on the change you provide, not just the service.Understanding your costs is crucial for setting prices that allow for growth.If everyone is saying yes to your prices, you may be underpricing your services.Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 03:38 The Worth Gap: Understanding Female Entrepreneurs' Salaries 06:31 Pricing Mindset: The Fear of Charging What You're Worth 12:09 Invisible Work: Accounting for Time and Effort 14:57 Transitioning from Hourly Billing to Value-Based Pricing 21:05 Survival vs. Thriving: Calculating True Business Costs 26:00 The Fear of Rejection: Pricing to Avoid No 30:37 Non-Negotiables in Pricing Physical Goods 36:00 Hidden Discounts: The Cost of Scope Creep 41:53 Opportunity Buckets: Balancing Passion Projects and Profit 44:59 Mindset Check: Respecting Your Business Through Pricing 46:50 Action Steps for Growth: Evaluating Your Pricing Strategy SOURCES The Polsky Center at the University of Chicago (2024): This is the source for the "18% of women vs 42% of men" stat. It highlights that even in high-growth incubators, women significantly underpay themselves compared to their male counterparts.Intuit QuickBooks "State of Small Business Cash Flow": This study found that 61% of small businesses struggle with cash flow, and 32% specifically reported that they cannot pay themselves or their employees because of it.The "Gender Pay Gap" in Self-Employment (IPSE/HoneyBook): Research often shows the gap is actually wider for the self-employed (often around 30-40%) than it is for traditional employees, largely because women tend to "negotiate themselves down" before even sending a quote.The Gender pay gap for FreelancersThe Transformational economy by, Joe Pine   Want to learn more about what working with Liz looks like?  Head to Your Business Matters to schedule a Discovery call with her

    42 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Sisters and founders, Liz Szporn and Sarah Trueman are on a road trip where they talk about business, family, sisterhood, friendship and growing through all of it. Join them as they share, laugh and sometimes cry about all the joy, challenges, hiccups, and drama that come with this journey.    Liz is a business coach and consultant who loves supporting small business owners. Sarah is a creator who started her pottery business just a year ago. This podcast will provide strategic business insights to grow your business as well as relatable stories of being mothers, wives, sisters and bad ass business ladies.  They've been through it all together, so why wouldn't they share this CEO journey together too?

Information

  • Creator
    Liz Szporn and Sarah Trueman
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The CEO Sisters' Road Trip
  • Show Website
    The CEO Sisters' Road Trip