Highlighther: Shining the Spotlight on Female Entrepreneurs

Jenny Herman
  • 4.8 (4)
  • Entrepreneurship

Do you love learning from and cheering on savvy businesswomen? Then this podcast is for you! Behind every successful business is a story. The HighlightHer Podcast shares real conversations with women entrepreneurs about how they built their businesses--the risks they took, the challenges they faced, and the lessons they learned along the way. Each episode delivers real stories, priceless inspiration, and practical action for anyone wanting to build something meaningful. From local founders to entrepreneurs around the world, HighlightHer celebrates women who turned ideas into thriving ventures. Hosted by Jenny Herman, creator of the HighlightHer Network. Because her story might inspire your next step!

  1. 3d ago

    From Rejection Letters to Self-Publishing: Author Jannis DeGraw Buhr's Creative Journey

    Send Fan Mail! Every creative journey has twists and turns. This week, I sit down with Michigan author Jan Buhr to talk about writing, publishing, creative courage, and how pain makes you a better creator. In this candid conversation, we discuss technology and writingdeciding to pause her pursuitfamily support and the difference it makesand moreConnect with Jan Follow her on Facebook to keep up with events and news Follow her author page on Amazon Fun in the HighlightHer community: Join HighlightHer over on Patreon with a limited-time free trial! Jenny and guests continue the conversation after the episode ends and expand on topics related to life and entrepreneurship. Claim your gift Advice, Encouragement & Lessons from 10 Female Entrepreneurs and also get each podcast episode delivered. Join the fun with over 500 other HighlightHer Network fans on Facebook! Be sure to follow the HighlightHer podcast so you can hear each episode. After all, you never know when her story will inspire your next step. Know someone who should be a guest on the HighlightHer podcast? Nominate her here! Want to start your own podcast? BuzzSprout simplifies it for you! Use my referral code, and we each get a $20 credit! Need a place to create and store QR codes? QR Tiger to the rescue! Their dynamic QR codes make it easy to change out links should you want your code’s job to change. Use this referral link and we both get a gift. Credits: Editing: Greg Herman Music: “Corporate Inspiration” track - by Oleksandr Savochka at Pixabay

    31 min
  2. From Single Mom to Salon Owner: Lisa's 27-Year Entrepreneur Journey

    5d ago

    From Single Mom to Salon Owner: Lisa's 27-Year Entrepreneur Journey

    Send Fan Mail! What happens when a side job turns into a 27-year career? In this episode of HighlightHer, I sit down with Lisa of Posh Nail Studio to talk about her journey from beauty school student and single mom to successful salon owner with strong community ties. Lisa shares the ups and downs of building a business, including closing her first salon, rebuilding her clientele, pivoting when life required it, and ultimately creating a thriving business built on relationships, referrals, and consistency. Listen in, and you will discover how much Lisa genuinely loves connecting with people. Whether she's helping a client turn a bad day around with a bright new nail color, creating specialty spa experiences, or welcoming longtime customers who've been with her for decades, connection is at the heart of everything she does. In This Episode: ✨ How Lisa built a loyal client base over 27 years ✨ Making entrepreneurship work as a single mom ✨ Why pivoting isn't the same as giving up ✨ Advice for women considering starting a business ✨And more Every woman can learn something from Lisa! Connect with Lisa: Follow Posh Nail Studio on Facebook to discover current specials and events! Visit her salon in Wyandotte, MI. Fun in the HighlightHer community: Join HighlightHer over on Patreon. Jenny and guests continue the conversation after the episode ends and expand on topics related to life and entrepreneurship. Claim your gift Advice, Encouragement & Lessons from 10 Female Entrepreneurs and also get each podcast episode delivered. Join the fun with over 500 other HighlightHer Network fans on Facebook! Be sure to follow the HighlightHer podcast so you can hear each episode. After all, you never know when her story will inspire your next step. Know someone who should be a guest on the HighlightHer podcast? Nominate her here! Want to start your own podcast? BuzzSprout simplifies it for you! Use my referral code, and we each get a $20 credit! Need a place to create and store QR codes? QR Tiger to the rescue! Their dynamic QR codes make it easy to change out links should you want your code’s job to change. Use this referral link and we both get a gift. Credits: Editing: Greg Herman Music: “Corporate Inspiration” track - by Oleksandr Savochka at Pixabay

    23 min
  3. What If Resilience Is Your Superpower? A Conversation with Miranda of Celebrate MI Life, Mental Health NonProfit

    Jun 19

    What If Resilience Is Your Superpower? A Conversation with Miranda of Celebrate MI Life, Mental Health NonProfit

    Send Fan Mail! What happens when a one-time event turns into a mission? This week, I sit down with Miranda, founder of Celebrate Mi Life, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting mental wellness, resilience, connection, and suicide prevention throughout Downriver and Southeast Michigan. Miranda shares how a simple idea to bring people together grew into an organization that hosts community events, support programs, and unique non-alcoholic social gatherings designed to help people connect without the need for alcohol. In this episode, we discuss: ✨ The surprising story behind how Celebrate MI Life began ✨ Why resilience is at the heart of everything Miranda does ✨ Creating welcoming spaces where people can simply be themselves ✨ Lessons learned from building a nonprofit while working a full-time job ✨ Why "failure" isn't really failure if you keep going, and more One of the best moments was hearing Miranda talk about looking around one of their events and realizing that even a smaller crowd can have a huge impact. Sometimes success isn't measured by numbers—it's measured by the laughter, connection, and encouragement happening right in front of you. If you've ever felt called to start something meaningful, struggled with perfectionism, or needed a reminder that small steps matter, I think you'll enjoy this conversation. And if you want even MORE conversation, head over to After the Highlight on Patreon. We dive deeper into a couple of topics there. Connect with Celebrate MI Life: 🌐 Website: CelebrateMILife.org 📱 Follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and LinkedIn 📅 Follow on Facebook to stay up to date on upcoming events, including their popular non-alcoholic social nights. Fun in the HighlightHer community: Claim your gift Advice, Encouragement & Lessons from 10 Female Entrepreneurs and also get each podcast episode delivered Join the fun with HighlightHer Network on Facebook! Be sure to follow the HighlightHer podcast so you can hear each episode. After all, you never know when her story will inspire your next step. Know someone who should be a guest on the HighlightHer podcast? Nominate her here! Want to start your own podcast? BuzzSprout simplifies it for you! Use my referral code, and we each get a $20 credit! Need a place to create and store QR codes? QR Tiger to the rescue! Their dynamic QR codes make it easy to change out links should you want your code’s job to change. Use this referral link and we both get a gift. Credits: Editing: Greg Herman Music: “Corporate Inspiration” track - by Oleksandr Savochka at Pixabay

    29 min
  4. Making a Difference When It Matters Most | Emma Weaver of Downriver Doula

    Jun 5

    Making a Difference When It Matters Most | Emma Weaver of Downriver Doula

    Send Fan Mail! What happens when you combine compassion, courage, and a willingness to jump in before you feel fully ready? In this episode of HighlightHer, Jenny sits down with Emma Weaver, founder of Downriver Doula, for a thoughtful conversation about birth work, entrepreneurship, motherhood, and supporting women through some of the most vulnerable and powerful moments of their lives. Jenny has had the unique privilege of watching Emma grow from a college student at church into a wife, mom, and business owner — making this conversation feel especially full circle. Emma shares how her own childbirth experience sparked an interest in becoming a doula, how one unexpected opportunity confirmed she was on the right path, and how she adapted to be able to run a business and take care of her own family. Together, Jenny and Emma talk about:  Starting before you feel fully qualified  Building a business through relationships and trust  Balancing entrepreneurship with family life  Partnering with the “right” people in business and more!Emma also gives listeners a beautiful behind-the-scenes look at what doulas actually do — from prenatal meetings and labor support to postpartum visits sprinkled with personal touches. One of the themes woven throughout this episode is something HighlightHer listeners know well: sometimes the most meaningful businesses are built simply by noticing a need and deciding to show up for people. Connect with Emma: Learn more about Emma and her services at Downriver Doula Follow Emma on Facebook and Instagram Fun in the HighlightHer community: Claim your gift Advice, Encouragement & Lessons from 10 Female Entrepreneurs and also get each podcast episode delivered Join the fun with HighlightHer Network on Facebook! Be sure to follow the HighlightHer podcast so you can hear each episode. After all, you never know when her story will inspire your next step. Know someone who should be a guest on the HighlightHer podcast? Nominate her here! Want to start your own podcast? BuzzSprout simplifies it for you! Use my referral code, and we each get a $20 credit! Need a place to create and store QR codes? QR Tiger to the rescue! Their dynamic QR codes make it easy to change out links should you want your code’s job to change. Use this referral link and we both get a gift. Credits: Editing: Greg Herman Music: “Corporate Inspiration” track - by Oleksandr Savochka at Pixabay

    27 min
  5. Financial Professional by Day, Women's Leadership Mentor by Night | Urmi Hossain's Story

    Jun 5

    Financial Professional by Day, Women's Leadership Mentor by Night | Urmi Hossain's Story

    Send Fan Mail! In this episode of HighlightHer, Jenny chats with Urmi Hossain — a finance professional by day and community-builder, mentor, writer, and podcast host by night. They talk about identity, purpose, women’s leadership, and creating a life that truly feels like your own. Born in Italy to Bangladeshi parents and now living in Montreal, Urmi shares what it was like growing up between cultures, moving from place to place, and trying to figure out where she belonged. Over time, she realized the very things that once felt confusing became some of her greatest strengths. Jenny and Urmi discuss balancing a traditional career with meaningful passion projects such as building community through Women in Leadership, mentoring women from multicultural backgrounds, and learning to purposefully choose what deserves your time and energy. They also discuss:  self-publishing a book in just six weeks  building a personal brand rooted in authenticity  the power of curiosity and long-term commitment  finding confidence in your story You’ll also hear about Urmi’s podcast Stories Beyond Borders, her love of running and boxing, and the “female Superman” comparison that perfectly describes her 9-to-5 and 5-to-9 world. Connect with Urmi Discover her book Discovering Your Identity: a Rebirth from Interracial Struggle Follow Urmi on social media and read her articles Fun in the HighlightHer community: Claim your gift Advice, Encouragement & Lessons from 10 Female Entrepreneurs Join the fun with HighlightHer Network on Facebook! Be sure to follow the HighlightHer podcast so you can hear each episode. After all, you never know when her story will inspire your next step. Know someone who should be a guest on the HighlightHer podcast? Nominate her here! Want to start your own podcast? BuzzSprout simplifies it for you! Use my referral code, and we each get a $20 credit! Need a place to create and store QR codes? QR Tiger to the rescue! Their dynamic QR codes make it easy to change out links should you want your code’s job to change. Use this referral link and we both get a gift. Credits Editing: Greg Herman Music: “Corporate Inspiration” track - by Oleksandr Savochka at Pixabay

    29 min
  6. She Rejected Corporate Culture & Built Her Own | Emily Wezner-Stepaniak of The Therapy Collective

    May 29

    She Rejected Corporate Culture & Built Her Own | Emily Wezner-Stepaniak of The Therapy Collective

    Send Fan Mail! If you've ever wanted to leave behind the traditional "corporate America" and venture out on your own, this episode is for you! Listen in as Emily shares her story and inspires you on your business journey. What you’ll hear: Why you would want to limit the amount of people on your teamThings to do to create a less-corporate structureA shift in mindset regarding competitionAnd more!Emily Wezner-Stepaniak created The Therapy Collective in Southgate, Michigan, to meet her need for human connection. She went a step further and created a specific culture for her team. Connect with Emily: On Instagram On Facebook On LinkedIn At the Therapy Collective website At AuraLuxConsulting.com Discover the next Uncorked & Unfiltered event Interact with HighlightHer: Join the fun with HighlightHer Network on Facebook and Instagram! Be sure to follow the HighlightHer podcast so you can hear each episode. After all, you never know when her story will inspire your next step. If you want to get each episode sent to your inbox, sign up here. Credits Editing: Greg Herman Music: “Corporate Inspiration” track - by Oleksandr Savochka at Pixabay

    31 min
  7. Behind the Mic: Flipping the Script | Melissa Asks the Questions

    May 21 ·  Bonus

    Behind the Mic: Flipping the Script | Melissa Asks the Questions

    Send Fan Mail! For this special bonus episode, we’re doing things a little differently. HighlightHer listener (and superfan) Melissa stepped into the host chair and turned the mic around on me. She was the host and I answered listener questions submitted from across the U.S. — and even Australia! Together, we talked about the journey behind HighlightHer, the life happenings that shaped me, what I’ve learned from entrepreneurship, and the heart behind this podcast community. In this episode, we discuss: How long HighlightHer lived as an idea before becoming a real podcastWhat I’ve loved most about podcasting so farThe life experiences that shaped my encouraging and people-focused approachHow I choose guests for HighlightHerThe common threads I see among women entrepreneursThoughts on networking, social media, and growing a businessTips for building stronger interpersonal skills and becoming a better connectorAnd more!Questions featured from: Donna in IndianaMelissa in MichiganMonica in UtahJan in MichiganChristina in AustraliaThank you for listening, encouraging, sharing episodes, and helping make Season 1 so special. I’m excited for what’s ahead in Season 2. Want more conversations like this? Join the HighlightHer community and I’ll send new episodes, encouragement, and behind-the-scenes updates your way. Curious about my e-book The Power of One? Find it on Amazon. Connect with HighlightHer: Join the fun with HighlightHer Network on Facebook! Be sure to follow the HighlightHer podcast so you can hear each episode. After all, you never know when her story will inspire your next step. Know someone who should be a guest on the HighlightHer podcast? Nominate them here! Want to start your own podcast? BuzzSprout simplifies it for you! Use my referral code, and we each get a $20 credit! Need a place to create and store QR codes? QR Tiger to the rescue! Their dynamic QR codes make it easy to change out links should you want your code’s job to change. Use this referral link and we both get a gift. Credits Editing: Greg Herman Music: “Corporate Inspiration” track - by Oleksandr Savochka at Pixabay

    31 min

  8. May 15

    Autism Mom Creates Etsy Business That Ships Worldwide | Monica McDonald of The Fine Lime

    Send Fan Mail! When your child has extra needs that limit your work options, sometimes you have to get creative on how to bring in an income for your family. Monica McDonald has three boys with autism. She couldn't work a traditional outside-the-home job, so she decided to sell items on Etsy. That wasn't sustainable long-term; however, through that experience, she created a business fifteen years strong! In this episode you'll hear: It's ok to make mistakes if you do this...How entrepreneurship changed MonicaOne of THE best things to do before starting a businessWhy supporting other small businesses is important for your businessAnd moreMonica McDonald is the savvy entrepreneur behind The Fine Lime artisan yarn shop. She took a skill learned in childhood and turned it into a business that ships worldwide. Interact with Monica On Instagram and  Facebook At YouTube Shop her website Connect with HighlightHer Join the fun with HighlightHer Network on Facebook and Instagram! Love supporting small businesses and hearing great stories?  Sign up here for the podcast newsletter, The Scoop! Enjoyed the podcast? Tap that follow button! Credits Editing: Greg Herman Music: “Corporate Inspiration” track - by Oleksandr Savochka at Pixabay

    27 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Do you love learning from and cheering on savvy businesswomen? Then this podcast is for you! Behind every successful business is a story. The HighlightHer Podcast shares real conversations with women entrepreneurs about how they built their businesses--the risks they took, the challenges they faced, and the lessons they learned along the way. Each episode delivers real stories, priceless inspiration, and practical action for anyone wanting to build something meaningful. From local founders to entrepreneurs around the world, HighlightHer celebrates women who turned ideas into thriving ventures. Hosted by Jenny Herman, creator of the HighlightHer Network. Because her story might inspire your next step!

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