The Soul-Led Sessions

Leandra Sweet
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Entrepreneurship

Real conversations with soul-led business owners diving into what it really took for them to build a life and business they truly love — rooted in purpose, passion, and aligned success.

Episodes

  1. Aug 5

    12 - How Three Siblings Built Sunrise Brew Coffee from the Ground Up

    Send us Fan Mail Just steps from the beach in St. Augustine, Tessa, Maggie & Mitchell of Sunrise Brew Coffee are proving that great coffee has the power to bring people together. As siblings building a business side by side, they've created far more than a neighborhood café—they've built a welcoming community where meaningful connection comes first. Originally from Utah, they quickly fell in love with St. Augustine and its incredible support for locally owned businesses, making it the perfect place to bring their vision to life. From cozy craft nights and seasonal themed events to plans for adding beer and wine, they're continually creating new ways for people to gather, connect, and enjoy a true "third space" beyond home and work. This inspiring conversation explores entrepreneurship, family business, leadership, work-life balance, and the courage to start before you feel completely ready. Tessa, Maggie, and Mitchell share what it's like building a business as siblings, opening their café sooner than expected, and learning every step of entrepreneurship along the way. Drawing from previous jobs, managers, and life experiences, they've intentionally created a culture built on kindness, genuine hospitality, and mutual respect—striving to be the kind of leaders they always wanted to work for while empowering their team to make every guest feel like family. It's a heartfelt reminder that success isn't just about building a business—it's about creating a place where employees feel valued, customers feel welcomed, and community always comes first. Check out Sunrise Brew Coffee on Instagram: @SunriseBrewCoffee And on their website: https://sunrisebrewcoffee.com 00:00 Welcome to Sunrise Brew Coffee  00:35 The Story Behind Sunrise Brew Coffee  03:10 Dreaming of Opening a Coffee Shop  04:50 From Coffee Truck to Café  06:35 Taking the Leap into Entrepreneurship  10:20 Why St. Augustine Felt Like Home  12:00 Building a Business as Siblings  14:10 Why St. Augustine Supports Small Businesses  17:00 Creating Community Through Coffee  19:30 Working with Family & Spouses  22:00 Building a Culture of Kindness  24:00 Learning Entrepreneurship as You Go  29:15 Creating a True Community Gathering Place  31:30 Balancing Multiple Businesses  34:20 The Vision for Sunrise Brew's Future  39:00 Morning Routines & Entrepreneur Life  42:00 Advice to Their Younger Selves  46:30 Where to Find Sunrise Brew Coffee Connect with Host Leandra Sweet: @TheSoulLedSessions

  2. Jul 22

    11 - The Story Behind Sunny TV: Inspiring a Community Through Connection

    Send us Fan Mail Inspired by the vibrant spirit of St. Augustine, Sunny TV was born from an unexpected turning point. After losing his broadcasting job, Davey had just 30 days to figure out what came next. Instead of walking away from the career he loved, he took a leap of faith on an idea that had been living in his heart—a positive, community-driven variety show. Drawing on a lifetime of experiences in broadcasting, the art world, luxury retail, and even competitive athletics, he turned uncertainty into opportunity with the support of a tight-knit team that believed in the vision from day one and helped bring it to life. Today, Sunny TV shines a light on the people who make the nation's oldest city so special. More than just a variety show, it's a platform where local businesses, community leaders, and nonprofits can share their stories, expand their reach, and receive professional content to continue promoting their organizations long after filming wraps. Built on friendship, collaboration, and a genuine love for the community, Sunny TV proves that when passionate people come together around a shared purpose, they can create something that truly makes a difference. Check out SunnyTV on Instagram: @SunnyTV Chapters 00:00 The Birth of Sunny TV 02:54 Creating a Positive Community 06:12 Empowering Nonprofits 09:14 The Art of Interviewing 12:00 Building a Supportive Team 15:00 The Power of Resilience 17:59 Connecting History and Culture 20:54 The Journey of a Dream 24:06 Lessons from Life Experiences 30:33 Navigating Grief and Growth 32:14 The Artistic Journey 34:49 Words as Art: The Power of Affirmations 36:28 Building Community Through Shared Experiences 38:25 Documentary Aspirations and Storytelling 41:32 The Importance of Connection and Compliments 46:02 Living the Dream in St. Augustine 51:02 Sustaining Joy Through Sponsorships and Community Support Connect with Host Leandra Sweet: @TheSoulLedSessions

  3. Jul 15

    10 - Building More Than a Bakery: The Crème de la Cocoa Story with Nils & Bailey Rowland

    Send us Fan Mail Tucked away in the heart of St. Augustine, Nils & Bailey Rowland have transformed Crème de la Cocoa into far more than a neighborhood bakery—they've created a place where life's sweetest memories are made. From the enchanting bakery filled with handcrafted pastries, custom cakes, and house-made ice cream to their desserts featured at many of St. Augustine's favorite restaurants, venues, and local businesses, every detail reflects their commitment to quality and community. Bailey shares how a college dream became reality, while Nils recalls watching Alton Brown on the Food Network as a kid, convinced he'd become a chef one day—never imagining his path would lead him to becoming an award-winning pastry chef. This inspiring conversation explores entrepreneurship, hospitality, leadership, work-life balance, delegation, and building a thriving family business. Nils and Bailey reflect on taking risks, growing alongside St. Augustine, creating opportunities for their team, and discovering they're not simply in the bakery business—they're in the memory-making business. Their story is a heartfelt reminder that sometimes the best careers aren't carefully planned—they're discovered by following your strengths, embracing community, and saying yes to unexpected opportunities. Explore Creme De La Cocoa online www.crememdelacocoa.com or on Instagram: @CremeDeLaCocoa Chapters 00:00 The Dream of a Bakery 03:07 Creating Memories Through Pastry 06:04 Building a Strong Team 08:57 Balancing Work and Home Life 11:45 The Importance of Delegation 15:00 Inspiring the Next Generation 21:44 The Legacy of Entrepreneurship 24:35 Discovering Passion in Pastry 28:10 Building a Business from the Ground Up 32:05 Daily Routines of Successful Entrepreneurs 33:58 Collaborations and Community Engagement 36:43 Living the Dream: Reflections on Success Connect with Host Leandra Sweet: @TheSoulLedSessions

  4. Jul 8

    9 - The Power of Community for Women Entrepreneurs with Laura Whalley

    Send us Fan Mail Set against the backdrop of historic St. Augustine, Laura Whalley created Hatch Creatives to bring women entrepreneurs, creatives, and dreamers together through the power of community. What began as a simple idea to encourage women to pursue their passions has grown into a thriving network where collaboration, education, and meaningful connections inspire business owners to take the next step with confidence. Laura shares how Hatch Creatives was born from recognizing the need for support, accountability, and authentic relationships, proving that sometimes all it takes is one encouraging voice to help someone finally chase the dream they've been holding onto. This inspiring conversation explores entrepreneurship, creative business, women in business, branding, collaboration, motherhood, community, and overcoming self-doubt. Laura Whalley opens up about balancing family life with entrepreneurship, embracing imperfect beginnings, building a purpose-driven business, and why community is one of the greatest assets an entrepreneur can have. Whether you're launching your first business, growing a creative passion, or simply looking for a community that believes in you, this episode is a powerful reminder that you don't have to build your dream alone. Learn More: @Hatch_Creatives Filmed on location at the AC Hotel in St. Augustine. Thank you for your kindness & hospitality, AC Hotel St. Augustine! AC Hotel St. Augustine: @achotelstaugustine Chapters 00:00 The Birth of Hatch Creatives 02:56 Building Community Through Collaboration 06:10 Empowering Women in Business 09:05 Navigating Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome 11:59 Finding Purpose in Motherhood and Creativity 15:00 The Importance of Support Networks 17:55 Upcoming Events and Workshops 20:59 Maintaining Momentum and Organization 25:31 Harnessing the Power of Positivity 27:24 Redefining Creativity Beyond Traditional Boundaries 30:52 The Journey of Entrepreneurship: Embracing Imperfection 32:51 The Importance of Community and Accountability 36:00 Mentorship and Guidance for the Next Generation 39:13 Finding Joy in the Journey of Life 44:15 Embracing Failure as a Stepping Stone to Growth 48:52 Building a Personal Brand with Authenticity Connect with Host Leandra Sweet: @TheSoulLedSessions

  5. Jul 1

    8 - Building Hope One Handbag at a Time with Cathlene Miner

    Send us Fan Mail Rooted in the heart of St. Augustine, Cathlene Miner founded Hopefull Handbags with a simple yet powerful mission: to help survivors of domestic abuse rebuild their lives with dignity, confidence, and hope. Inspired by her grandmother, who never went anywhere without her handbag and cherished picking out a new one every six months, Cathlene transformed a childhood memory into a symbol of hope. What began as collecting handbags filled with carefully selected essentials has grown into an international nonprofit dedicated to guiding survivors and their children toward long-term safety, wellness, and financial independence. Every handbag is thoughtfully packed, carefully tagged to ensure recipients know its contents have been intentionally prepared, and designed to be shared discreetly with others who may be experiencing abuse—helping connect more survivors with life-changing resources. This heartfelt conversation explores entrepreneurship, nonprofit leadership, domestic violence awareness, resilience, personal growth, and the power of creating lasting change. Cathlene Miner shares why Hopefull Handbags focuses first on building a strong foundation—helping survivors meet their immediate needs, restore their self-perception, and create stability before working through the rest of their circumstances. Through personalized mentorship, financial guidance, practical life skills, and unwavering support, Cathlene and her team are empowering women and their children to move beyond crisis toward lasting independence. A powerful conversation for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, advocates, and anyone inspired by stories of courage, healing, and hope. Connect with Cathlene Miner on Instagram: @Hopefull_Handbags_Global and https://hopefullhandbags.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hopeful Handbags 02:32 The Mission Behind Hopeful Handbags 10:02 The Importance of Self-Perception 20:04 Building Long-Term Sustainability 27:01 Global Expansion and Cultural Adaptation 29:02 Community Support and Local Impact 32:14 Empowering Through Education and Self-Defense 35:18 Building Confidence and Overcoming Challenges 39:31 The Importance of Morning Routines 42:42 Guidance and Mentorship in Recovery 46:11 Creating Sustainable Change 52:45 Transformative Stories of Survival and Growth Connect with Host Leandra Sweet: @TheSoulLedSessions

  6. Jun 18

    7 - How Jenny Sanzo Turned a 13-Year Dream Into Get Lit Boutique

    Send us Fan Mail Tucked along the charming streets of historic St. Augustine, Get Lit Boutique is where fashion, literature, and entrepreneurship beautifully collide. Jenny Sanzo shares the story behind her unique bookish boutique and the 13-year dream that lived quietly in the background before finally becoming a reality. From fashion blogging and personal styling to building multiple businesses and curating a one-of-a-kind retail experience, Jenny's journey is a testament to trusting your passions, embracing unexpected opportunities, and having the courage to take the leap when the timing is right. This conversation explores entrepreneurship, personal growth, resilience, work-life balance, social media, motherhood, and navigating life's unexpected challenges. Jenny opens up about building a business from the ground up, overcoming a breast cancer diagnosis just months after opening her storefront, and learning to prioritize health, family, and authenticity along the way. A heartfelt and inspiring episode for entrepreneurs, dreamers, book lovers, and anyone who has ever carried a vision in their heart waiting for the right season to bring it to life. Chapters 00:00 From Dream to Reality: The Birth of Get Lit Boutique 03:03 Navigating Life Changes: Moving and Starting Anew 05:57 The Journey of Entrepreneurship: Building a Business 08:52 Overcoming Challenges: Health and Business 11:55 Authenticity in Business: Embracing Realness 14:58 Social Media Struggles: Finding Balance and Authenticity 18:10 Prioritizing Health: Lessons Learned from Adversity 20:45 Empowerment Through Sharing: The Power of Community 23:33 Rejuvenation and Nature's Embrace 25:50 Motivation and the Power of Deadlines 27:29 Work-Life Balance: Seasons of Life 28:47 Community Support and Engagement 30:44 The Impact of Organic Marketing 32:42 Dreams of Design and Entrepreneurship 34:49 Navigating New Platforms and Selling Strategies 36:40 Literary Inspirations and Personal Growth Connect with Jenny Sanzo on Instagram: @JennySanzo and www.getlitboutique.com Connect with Host Leandra Sweet: @TheSoulLedSessions

  7. Jun 10

    6 - Building a Business Around Family & Freedom: Annie Hock Photography

    Send us Fan Mail Nestled in the heart of St. Augustine, Annie Hock Photography captures more than beautiful images—she preserves stories, milestones, and memories that last for generations. Annie shares her journey from a graphic design background and homeschooling mother to building a thriving photography business spanning California, South Carolina, and Florida. What began as a creative outlet photographing her own children organically evolved into a successful career rooted in connection, authenticity, and artistic expression. This conversation explores entrepreneurship, motherhood, faith, creativity, work-life balance, and the courage to pursue a passion that doesn't always follow a traditional path. Annie opens up about building a business while raising a family, navigating burnout, finding mentors, trusting God's direction, and creating a life that feels aligned with her values. A heartfelt episode for entrepreneurs, creatives, photographers, and anyone seeking the confidence to follow their calling and build a life beyond their dreams. Connect with Annie Hock on Instagram: @AnnieHockPhotography Chapters 00:00 The Journey Begins: From Hobby to Profession 05:59 Transitioning to South Carolina: A New Market 12:06 Finding Balance: Creativity vs. Business 17:20 The Power of Collaboration 20:54 Navigating the Photography Business 25:10 The Journey of Entrepreneurship 29:37 The Art of Letting Go 30:58 Capturing Moments: The Art of Photography 32:02 Transitioning Businesses: From California to South Carolina 33:27 Adapting to New Markets: The Photography Business 34:53 The Importance of Personal Branding in Photography 36:03 Building Human Connections Through Social Media 38:00 Finding Your Passion: The Journey of Self-Discovery 40:08 The Role of Education in Career Choices 41:53 Breaking Free from Traditional Career Paths 43:59 Encouragement for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 47:20 The Importance of Encouragement 48:16 Finding Your Passion and Avoiding Burnout 49:14 Understanding Yourself Through Personality Tests 50:23 The Unexpected Transformations of Business 51:23 Creating Family Connections Through Meals 52:17 Inspiration from Balanced Women 53:22 Faith and Trust in Life's Journey 54:19 Handling Challenges with Grace 55:25 Defining Accomplishments in Life and Business 56:14 Advice for New Entrepreneurs 57:21 The Value of Mentorship 58:17 Living Your Dream Life 59:21 Advice for Those Struggling in Business Connect with Host Leandra Sweet: @TheSoulLedSessions

  8. Jun 3

    5 - Living a Colorful Life Through Art & Entrepreneurship with Vanessa Hajje

    Send us Fan Mail Nestled within the vibrant arts community of St. Augustine, mixed media artist Vanessa Hajje is creating a world where color, texture, and creativity come alive. In this inspiring conversation, Vanessa shares her journey from massage therapist and acupuncturist to full-time artist, revealing how art became both a creative outlet and a path to personal freedom. Through layers of paint, collage, nature, and intuition, she has built a business rooted in courage, self-expression, and the belief that creativity belongs to everyone. This episode explores entrepreneurship, artistic vulnerability, overcoming self-doubt, raising creative children, and the importance of play in both life and business. Vanessa opens up about taking risks, trusting the creative process, building a successful art career later in life, and why she believes every person is inherently creative. A beautiful conversation for artists, entrepreneurs, dreamers, and anyone seeking the courage to create a life that feels truly their own. Connect with Vanessa Hajje: @VanessaHajjeArt 00:00 – Welcome to Vanessa Hajje’s Art Studio 01:15 – Mixed Media Art & Finding Joy Through Creativity 03:32 – Becoming a Professional Artist at 45 05:04 – Why Art Became Therapy and a Lifeline 07:09 – Creating a Vivid Dream World Through Color 08:27 – Courage, Creativity & Taking Artistic Risks 14:19 – Why St. Augustine Feels Like Home 19:03 – Morning Routines, Inspiration & Creative Flow 23:16 – Entrepreneurship, Freedom & Living Creatively 38:16 – Advice for Artists: Courage Over Fear Connect with Host Leandra Sweet: @TheSoulLedSessions

  9. May 27

    4 - How Following Her Passion Changed Nichole Clark’s Life

    Send us Fan Mail Nestled in the heart of North Florida, Clean & Curly Salon is more than a hair salon — it’s a calming space where women are encouraged to embrace their natural beauty and feel confident in their curls. Nichole Clark shares her inspiring journey from social work and therapy to becoming a curly hair specialist and entrepreneur, building a business rooted in authenticity, clean beauty, wellness, and genuine connection. This conversation explores entrepreneurship, motherhood, personal growth, and the courage it takes to leave behind a career that no longer aligns. Nichole opens up about building a purpose-driven business, creating a serene experience for her clients, and why “sometimes pain is necessary for growth.” A heartfelt episode for entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone learning to trust themselves and follow what truly lights them up. Connect with Nichole Clark: @SalonCleanCurly This episode's Founding Sponsor: www.anastasiadesigngroup.com and find them on social media:  IG @AnastasiaDesignGroup and on FB @AnastasiaDesignGroup Chapters 00:00 – Welcome to Clean & Curly Salon 01:05 – From Social Work to the Hair Industry 02:47 – Leaving a Career That No Longer Felt Aligned 04:21 – Discovering a Passion for Curly Hair 09:20 – Becoming a Business Owner Unexpectedly 14:32 – Building a Salon Focused on Comfort & Connection 18:17 – Motherhood, Entrepreneurship & Flexibility 22:43 – Morning Routines, Family Life & Balance 33:28 – Clean Beauty, Non-Toxic Products & Healthy Hair 43:11 – Mantras, Growth & Following Your Purpose Connect with Host Leandra Sweet: @TheSoulLedSessions

  10. May 20

    3 - Fuel Your Passion: The Story Behind Maracuya by Llama

    Send us Fan Mail Tucked along West King in the heart of St. Augustine, Maracuya by Llama was created by Staci Cleveland and Marcel Vizcarra as a vibrant extension of their love for flavor, creativity, and community. Inspired by travels through Costa Rica and Marcel’s Peruvian culinary roots, the couple transformed a historic former brothel into a colorful coffee and dessert shop centered around exotic flavors, thoughtful details, and genuine connection. Along the way, they learned how to balance entrepreneurship, creativity, partnership, and community while building a space completely outside the traditional mold. What they created is more than a café — Maracuya has become a welcoming gathering place filled with passion fruit-inspired creations, inventive lattes, intimate dinner experiences, and a sense of freedom that encourages people to slow down, connect, and fully express themselves. Connect with Marcella and Staci: @MaracuyaByLlama This episode's Founding Sponsor: www.anastasiadesigngroup.com and find them on social media:  IG @AnastasiaDesignGroup and on FB @AnastasiaDesignGroup Chapters 00:00 – The Story Behind Maracuya by Llama 02:00 – Bringing Exotic Flavors & Passion Fruit to St. Augustine 05:36 – Opening Day Chaos & Building the Team 09:12 – “Fuel Your Passion” & Baking During COVID 11:29 – Leaving the Corporate Grind & Starting a Business 13:39 – The Historic Building & Unique Atmosphere 17:01 – Culinary Inspiration, Travel & Creative Collaboration 18:26 – Intimate Wine Pairing Dinners & Storytelling Through Food 20:31 – Entrepreneurship, Community & Serving the Locals 28:24 – Collaboration, Creativity & Living the Dream Life Connect with Host Leandra Sweet: @TheSoulLedSessions

  11. May 20

    2 - The Art & Heart of Entrepreneurship: Inside Anastasia Design Group

    Send us Fan Mail Tucked inside one of St. Augustine’s most respected creative spaces, Anastasia Design Group has become a reflection of artistry, resilience, and decades of entrepreneurial grit. Valerie and Natalie share the realities of building a successful interior design business from the ground up — navigating creativity, construction, cash flow, partnerships, motherhood, and the emotional weight that often comes with entrepreneurship. Their conversation explores the beauty of designing homes that truly reflect the people living in them, the importance of intuition and authenticity in business, and the lessons learned through years of trusting themselves, adapting through uncertainty, and creating a life rooted in both freedom and purpose. Connect with Founding Sponsor Anastasia Design Group:  www.anastasiadesigngroup.com and find them on social media: IG @AnastasiaDesignGroup and on FB @AnastasiaDesignGroup Chapters 00:00 – The Story Behind Anastasia Design Group  01:42 – Starting a Design Career Through a Cold Call  05:06 – The Reality of Running a Creative Business  07:55 – Navigating Entrepreneurship, Risk & Uncertainty  10:39 – Authenticity, Integrity & Designing Without Ego  14:23 – Discovering a Client’s True Style  18:04 – Freedom vs. Responsibility as a Business Owner  20:06 – Delegation, Teamwork & Letting Go of Control  25:17 – Inside Furniture Market & Industry Trends  29:31 – Multiple Income Streams & Financial Survival  42:00 – Evolving From Mentor & Assistant to Creative Partners  51:57 – Entrepreneurship, Self-Awareness & Building a Creative Life Connect with Host Leandra Sweet: @TheSoulLedSessions

  12. May 20

    1 - From Corporate Life to Cookiebird: Building a Sweet Little Dream in St. Augustine

    Send us Fan Mail Tucked into the heart of Uptown St. Augustine, Cookiebird Ice Cream Bar was born from a dream Mike and Kate Alfieri never imagined would fully come to life. With no formal restaurant background and years spent in corporate careers, creative work, and family life, the couple took a leap into entrepreneurship fueled mostly by instinct, passion, and a love for community. Along the way, they learned everything from staffing and customer service to soft serve recipes, machine repairs, and the delicate balance of running a family business together. What they created is more than an ice cream shop — Cookiebird has become a nostalgic gathering place rooted in connection, wellness, creativity, and the simple joy of slowing down for something sweet. Follow Mike and Kate: @Cookiebird_IceCreamBar This episodes Founding Sponsor: www.anastasiadesigngroup.com and find them on social media: IG @AnastasiaDesignGroup and on FB @AnastasiaDesignGroup Chapters  00:00 – Behind the Scenes & Starting Over  00:44 – The Dream Behind Cookie Bird Ice Cream  02:51 – From Corporate Careers to Entrepreneurship  05:04 – Learning to Lead, Pivot & Build a Team  07:30 – Why St. Augustine Inspired the Business  09:48 – Creating Clean, Nostalgic Soft Serve for the Community  12:08 – Building a Local Gathering Place & Family Memories  16:09 – Entrepreneurship, Personal Growth & Morning Routines  23:05 – Balancing Marriage, Parenthood & Business Ownership  39:12 – Advice for Young Entrepreneurs & Dreaming Bigger Connect with Host Leandra Sweet: @TheSoulLedSessions

  • 12 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Real conversations with soul-led business owners diving into what it really took for them to build a life and business they truly love — rooted in purpose, passion, and aligned success.

Information

  • Creator
    Leandra Sweet
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Soul-Led Sessions
  • Show Website
    The Soul-Led Sessions