Center for Women Entrepreneurs Podcast

Center for Women Entrepreneurs

The CWE Podcast is where entrepreneurs come to learn, connect, and grow. Through inspiring conversations and practical insights from business leaders, industry experts, and fellow entrepreneurs, we provide the tools and inspiration to help you scale and expand your business.

Episodes

  1. 1d ago

    Episode 8: The Power of Connection: Building a Thriving Entrepreneurial Community

    What does it take to build more than a business? Sometimes, it starts with creating a space where people can connect, collaborate, and grow. In this episode of the CWE Podcast, we’re joined by Heather Gregory, Owner & Executive Director of Stoke Denton, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, community, and the power of creating meaningful spaces. Heather shares her journey as an entrepreneur, ecosystem builder, and community organizer, along with the vision behind Stoke Denton and its growth over the past 10 years. From coworking and creative collaboration to educational programming, events, mentorship, and strategic partnerships, this conversation explores how strong communities can create new opportunities for entrepreneurs. We also discuss the importance of connection, creativity, and collaboration—and how bringing the right people together can strengthen both individual businesses and the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. Whether you're looking for community, new connections, or inspiration for your next step, this episode is a reminder that entrepreneurship doesn't have to be a journey you take alone. Tune in and discover how community, connection, and purposeful spaces can help entrepreneurs thrive. Heather Gregory Bio: Heather Gregory is an ecosystem builder, placemaker, community organizer, and entrepreneur based in Denton, TX. Heather has served as the Director of Stoke Coworking since January 2017 and as owner since 2020 making use of her multifaceted background in entrepreneurship, architectural design, nonprofit management, event planning, and program development.  In her time at Stoke, she has launched programs and events that help entrepreneurs connect with the people, knowledge, and resources they need to grow their businesses. Stay up to date with Heather: Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook: @stokedenton

    Episode 8: The Power of Connection:  Building a Thriving Entrepreneurial Community
  2. Oct 28

    Episode 7: Making Space for Change: Innovation, Resilience, and Entrepreneurship

    What happens when a personal challenge becomes the inspiration for a business designed to create change? In this episode of the CWE Podcast, we’re joined by Kelli Mumphrey, CEO and founder of MilkSpace®, for a conversation about resilience, innovation, and building a business from lived experience. Kelli shares the story behind MilkSpace®, which began after her own experience highlighted the need for more accessible and supportive lactation spaces in public. From a simple pop-up canopy to developing a mobile, climate-controlled lactation trailer, Kelli has continued to grow her vision despite setbacks, including the challenges of COVID-19. We also explore the role of pitch competitions, grants, mentorship, and community support in her entrepreneurial journey, along with her recent acceptance into TikTok’s SOAR Veteran Business Accelerator and the continued growth of MilkSpace® through community partnerships and events. Kelli’s story is a powerful reminder that one personal challenge can lead to a solution that helps an entire community. Tune in for a conversation about purpose, perseverance, innovation, and building a business that creates meaningful impact. Kelli Mumphrey Bio: Kelli Mumphrey is a U.S. Navy veteran, wife, mother, and resilient entrepreneur whose journey embodies perseverance and purpose. Newly courthouse-married, she and her husband drove 24 hours from Virginia to Texas in a packed 2013 Chevy Equinox with a baby under one, only to have his job rescinded upon arrival. Starting at the bottom, they rebuilt their lives from scratch while Kelli held multiple federal positions and pursued entrepreneurship.  In 2018, she founded MilkSpace®, born from her own frustration with the lack of adequate lactation spaces in public, starting with a $100 pink pop-up canopy tent. Despite COVID-19 halting her business development, Kelli has won multiple pitch competitions and grants, proving that even after countless no’s, she continues to move forward with purpose and resilience.

    Episode 7: Making Space for Change:  Innovation, Resilience, and Entrepreneurship
  3. Oct 14

    Episode 6: Choosing What’s Next: The Journey From Corporate to Entrepreneurship

    What happens when you realize the path you’re on no longer aligns with the life you want to build? In this episode of the CWE Podcast, we’re joined by Susan Tresatti and Alex Murray, co-hosts of Breaking Up with Corporate, for a conversation about leaving the corporate world, stepping into entrepreneurship, and finding the courage to pursue something different. Susan and Alex share their individual journeys, the experiences that led them to entrepreneurship, and how a chance meeting through the North Texas entrepreneurial community sparked the idea for their podcast.  Together, they discuss why they felt there was a need for more honest conversations about what happens after leaving a traditional career—the uncertainty, the pivots, the growth, and the opportunities that come with building something of your own. The conversation also explores how entrepreneurship can become more than simply being your own boss. It can be an opportunity to build a business and a life that align with your values, purpose, and vision for what comes next. Whether you're considering a career change, navigating your entrepreneurial journey, or simply wondering if there could be something more for you, this episode is a reminder that taking a new path does not mean you have to take it alone. Tune in and join the conversation about courage, purpose, entrepreneurship, and building what’s next. Alex Murray Bio: Alex Murray is the founder of Unleash You Coaching, where she helps first-time and early-stage entrepreneurs build the systems and the right mindset to build a successful business of their own.  She's also the co-host of Breaking Up with Corporate, a podcast featuring the stories of people who walked away from corporate careers to pursue entrepreneurship. Alex serves as Chairman of the Board and President of the Denton chapter of LEAP Business Networking Group, the largest seat-exclusive group in Denton.  After a decade-long career in corporate healthcare marketing, she turned her dream of helping others into a coaching practice, and now she helps other entrepreneurs do the same.  Susan Tresatti Bio:  Susan is the owner of Dragonfly Realty LLC and a licensed real estate agent with Texas Premier Realty LLC, serving sellers, buyers, and renters throughout the DFW area while also managing properties. She also volunteers her time teaching English as a Second Language, giving back to the community she serves. She co-hosts the podcast "Breaking Up with Corporate" with Alex Murray, where they talk with entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs about walking away from the corporate grind to build something of their own. They just wrapped the show's first season and loves swapping stories about that leap.

  4. Sep 30

    Episode 5: The Power of Growth: Preparing Your Business to Scale

    What’s Next? Preparing Your Business to Grow and Scale What does it really take to prepare your business for its next stage of growth? In this episode of the CWE Podcast, we’re joined by Holly Burrow for a conversation about intentional growth, strategic planning, and preparing your business to scale. Holly shares insight into what it means to grow smarter—not simply faster, including the importance of strong systems, continuous learning, mentorship, and surrounding yourself with the right community. We also explore how accelerator programs can help entrepreneurs gain knowledge, build confidence, create meaningful connections, and move from where their business is today toward where they want it to go. Whether you're just getting started or preparing to take your business to the next level, this episode offers practical encouragement to help you think about what’s next for your business—and how to prepare for it. 🎧 Tune in and take the next step in your entrepreneurial journey. Stay up to date with Holly & EQALL: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eqallbusinesssolutions/ Website: https://eqall.co/ Holly Burrow Bio: Holly Burrow is the founder of EQALL Business Solutions, an organization dedicated to empowering business support organizations, economic development teams, and non-profits.  A serial entrepreneur, Holly has built many businesses from scratch, scaling concepts and managing chaos. Despite her grit and vision, she often encountered systems that didn't meet her needs, prompting her to create EQALL in 2021. EQALL provides real-world, founder-first solutions with no fluff. Holly focuses on growing community engagement, guiding entrepreneurs to capital and business development, and opening doors for start-ups.  She has leveraged her experience to build EQALL into an organization that improves the founder experience through access to resources and connections.

  5. Sep 16

    Episode 4: The Power of Storytelling: Building a Brand People Remember

    What makes a brand memorable? For Hannah McGinty, CEO of Heart Media DFW, it starts with a story. In this episode of the CWE Podcast, Hannah shares her entrepreneurial journey and how she transformed her passion for creativity and visual storytelling into an award-winning creative agency. From building Heart Media around relationships, purpose, and community to helping businesses communicate their missions with clarity, Hannah offers insight into what it takes to build a brand people can connect with and trust. Hannah also reflects on being named New Small Business of the Year by the Denton Chamber of Commerce, receiving the Lillie Knox Award Pitch, and earning Videographer of the Year (2025) from the Society of Wedding Professionals. She shares how these opportunities have fueled Heart Media's growth, including the launch of its mobile podcast studio. Whether you're building a brand, creating content, or simply trying to tell your business story with more confidence, this conversation offers practical insight and inspiration for entrepreneurs at every stage. Listen in as Hannah reminds us that your story can be one of your most powerful business tools. Stay up to date with Hannah & Heart Media: LinkedIn: Heart Media DFW Instagram: @heart.media.dfw Website: https://www.heart.media/ Hannah McGinty Bio: Hannah McGinty is the owner of Heart Media, a creative agency she built from the ground up using nothing but great work and strategic social media. As a freelance videographer, she grew her wedding videography business to nearly $200K a year using content, consistency, and a system that converts.  Now she's applying that same playbook to scale Heart Media into a full-service creative agency. Hannah is passionate about helping commercial filmmakers and creative professionals stop undercharging, start showing up, and build businesses that support their way of life.

    Episode 4: The Power of Storytelling: Building a Brand People Remember
  6. Sep 2

    Episode 3: Building a Business That Lasts: Growth, Relationships, and Opportunity

    What does business development really look like, and how does it create opportunities for entrepreneurs? In this episode of the Center for Women Entrepreneurs (CWE) Podcast, we're joined by Lourdes Ramboa, Associate Director of Business Development, to share her journey to CWE and the work she's doing to expand resources and strengthen connections for entrepreneurs across Texas. Lourdes discusses the launch of the FastTrac en Español CWE Accelerator, why the program was created, and how it is helping meet the growing demand for Spanish-language business resources. She also shares how meaningful partnerships and intentional networking continue to shape the future of the entrepreneurial community, making resources more accessible to entrepreneurs from all backgrounds. In this episode, you'll learn: Lourdes' journey to the Center for Women EntrepreneursWhat business development looks like at CWEThe vision behind the FastTrac en Español CWE AcceleratorWhy expanding access to business resources mattersHow building relationships and community creates new opportunities for entrepreneursPodcast Guest Bio: Lourdes Ramboa Associate Director of Business Development TWU Center for Women Entrepreneurs Lourdes M. Ramboa is the Associate Director of Business Development at the Center for Women Entrepreneurs, where she provides technical assistance, business advisement, and program development to support the growth of women-owned businesses across Texas.  With over 20 years of experience in entrepreneurship education and small business consulting, she has led innovative curriculum design, launched successful venture programs, and advised countless entrepreneurs from idea to execution.   In her consulting practice, Lourdes has also worked with organizations of all sizes to develop strategic business plans, workforce solutions, and leadership training. She holds an MBA from California Polytechnic University and brings a bilingual, inclusive approach to her work, empowering clients to define success on their own terms. Whether you're looking to grow your network, discover new business resources, or learn how community can fuel entrepreneurial success, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration. 🎧 Listen now and discover how meaningful connections can open doors, strengthen communities, and help entrepreneurs thrive.

    Episode 3: Building a Business That Lasts: Growth, Relationships, and Opportunity
  7. Aug 19

    Episode 2: From Experience to Entrepreneurship: Building a Business That Makes People Smile

    What does it take to turn decades of experience into a thriving business? In this episode of the Center for Women Entrepreneurs (CWE) Podcast, we're joined by Heather Walker, founder of Brite Smiles by Heather, to discuss her journey from more than 30 years in the dental industry to building an award-winning business rooted in trust, community, and exceptional customer care. Heather shares the inspiration behind launching her business, the importance of creating meaningful customer experiences, and how embracing opportunities—from local pitch competitions to community leadership—has fueled her entrepreneurial growth. Whether you're just starting your business or looking for encouragement to take the next step, Heather's story is a reminder that your experience, passion, and willingness to serve can become your greatest strengths. In this episode, you'll learn: How to turn professional experience into a successful businessWhy trust and customer relationships are the foundation of long-term growthThe value of networking and community involvementLessons learned from entrepreneurship, business competitions, and leadershipPractical advice for entrepreneurs ready to take the next stepIf you've ever wondered whether your skills and experience could become something bigger, this conversation is for you. Stay up to date with Heather Walker: Socials:  FB:  facebook.com/BSbyheather      IG:   instagram.com/britesmilesbyheather      TikTok: @heaher.walker52      LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/heather-walker-559439275/ Website: www.smilesbyheather.com Podcast Guest Bio: Heather Walker has been in Dentistry for 30+ years. She wanted to offer teeth whitening in a more relaxed environment and make teeth whitening affordable for all budgets. Heather is very involved in the Denton community and loves to give back. Listen now and discover how building relationships, serving your community, and believing in your vision can open doors to new opportunities.

    Episode 2: From Experience to Entrepreneurship: Building a Business That Makes People Smile
  8. Aug 5

    Episode 1: Welcome to the CWE Podcast

    Welcome to the very first episode of the Center for Women Entrepreneurs (CWE) Podcast! 🎙️ We're excited to launch a new platform dedicated to inspiring, educating, and empowering entrepreneurs through meaningful conversations and real-world business insights. In this debut episode, you'll learn about the mission behind the CWE Podcast, what inspired its creation, and what you can expect from future episodes. From conversations with successful entrepreneurs and industry experts to practical strategies for growing and scaling a business, this podcast is designed to support entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey. Whether you're just getting started or looking for fresh ideas to move your business forward, we're glad you're here. Subscribe and join us as we explore the stories, lessons, and resources that help entrepreneurs build thriving businesses and stronger communities. In this episode, you'll discover: - The vision behind the CWE Podcast - What listeners can expect from future episodes - How the podcast will support entrepreneurs throughout their business journey - Why storytelling and community matter in entrepreneurship Thank you for listening, and welcome to the CWE Podcast—we're excited to grow with you. Connect with the Center for Women Entrepreneurs: Follow us for upcoming episodes, educational programs, networking opportunities, grants, workshops, and business resources designed to help entrepreneurs grow, scale, and expand their businesses. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe YouTube - Center For Women Entrepreneurs Podcast Spotify - Center For Women Entrepreneurs Podcast Apple Podcasts - Center For Women Entrepreneurs Podcast Buzzsprout - Center For Women Entrepreneurs Podcast

About

The CWE Podcast is where entrepreneurs come to learn, connect, and grow. Through inspiring conversations and practical insights from business leaders, industry experts, and fellow entrepreneurs, we provide the tools and inspiration to help you scale and expand your business.