In this episode of Leadership Talks, Dr. Kate Vawter delves into the melodious journey of International Reggae Recording Artist and Legend, Norma Fraser. Many know her as the original voice behind the international reggae sensation, “FIRST CUT IS THE DEEPEST,” but there's so much more to her story than meets the ear. From making her first record at the tender age of 16, Norma's journey in music has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Tune in to this episode as Norma Fraser talks about:
 * The driving forces and influences behind her musical journey
 * The evolution of her music and what inspires her tunes
 * The unique challenges she has faced in the music industry, especially as a woman
 * Her deep-rooted connection to her birthplace, Jamaica, and how it has shaped her
 * The mentors and icons she's met along the way, and the influence they've had on her career
Norma Fraser's journey in music began in the heart of Jamaica, in St. Andrews, where she was born and later attended Merle Grove High School. While her younger self was enamored by the beats and melodies that surrounded her, she never truly envisioned herself as a part of that musical tapestry. It wasn't ambition or dreams that revealed her gift but a simple, spontaneous moment. She recalls, "One day, amidst the steam and echo of the shower, I thought, ‘Let’s see if I can sing.’ When I opened my mouth, it was as if the universe answered back, ‘Wow man! I can sing! I truly can sing!’" From those humble revelations in Jamaica, Norma eventually transitioned to a new chapter of her life in the Midwest, finding a home in Kansas.
Learn more about Norma Fraser:
 * Visit Norma’s website: http://www.normafraser.net
 * Listen to and download Norma’s music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/norma-fraser/4398981
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About the Leadership Talks Podcast:
In the Leadership Talks Podcast, Kate Vawter speaks with successful leaders across industries — real people and local leaders. In each episode, the conversations explore different people's leadership styles, how people achieve unbelievable success, how a few become the best in the world, and how overcoming challenges can lead to success.
Subscribe to the Leadership Talks Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leadership-talks/id1690609428
Subscribe to the Leadership Talks Video Series on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@leadershiptalks6061
Connect with Dr. Kate Vawter
Website:  https://ascentsolutions.net/
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkatevawter/

In this episode of Leadership Talks, Dr. Kate Vawter sits down with Alex McEntire, the dynamic Owner and Chief Donut Officer of Chin Up Donuts. Launching her delectable venture in North Scottsdale in November 2020, Alex delves into her academic journey in Tempe where she honed her skills in design, business, and communications. Uncover how Alex's blend of creativity and academic background in design, business, and communications led to the creation of a beloved donut destination.

Tune in to this episode as Alex McEntire delves into:

 * The Birth of Chin Up Donuts: Alex's life prior to her donut venture, exploring her traditional career, and what prompted her to embrace the role of a passionate business owner.

 * The "Aha" Moment: A dive into that crucial turning point in Alex's life: was there a singular, transformative experience that channeled her energy and passion into the donut world?

 * From Seattle's Mists to Arizona's Sun: Understand how Alex maneuvered the logistical and emotional challenges of shifting her business base from the cool climes of Seattle to the vibrant landscapes of Arizona.

 * Growth of Chin Up Donuts: From Solo Shop to Expanding Enterprise, the narrative behind Chin Up Donuts' growth trajectory — how it started with a single shop and the journey to opening a second, touching upon both the hurdles and the high points.

 * The Business Blueprint: Challenges, Inspirations, and Guidance — a comprehensive look at the challenges Alex faced while launching and managing a small business, the driving force behind Chin Up Donuts, her pearls of wisdom for budding entrepreneurs, and the intrinsic rewards of entrepreneurship.

Engage with us in this riveting discussion as we unravel Alex McEntire's inspiring story, her business acumen, and the love-infused world of Chin Up Donuts.

To know more about Alex McEntire and her sweet venture:

 * Connect with Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-mcentire-190a2920/

 * Follow Chin Up Donuts on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chin-up-donuts/

 * Follow Chin Up Donuts on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chinupdonuts/

 * For a delightful treat or more on her story, visit Chin Up Donut’s website: https://www.chinupdonuts.com/

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About the Leadership Talks Podcast:

In the Leadership Talks Podcast, Kate Vawter speaks with successful leaders across industries — real people and local leaders. In each episode, the conversations explore different people's leadership styles, how people achieve unbelievable success, how a few become the best in the world, and how overcoming challenges can lead to success. 

Subscribe to the Leadership Talks Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leadership-talks/id1690609428 

Subscribe to the Leadership Talks Video Series on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@leadershiptalks6061 

Connect with Dr. Kate Vawter 

Website:  https://ascentsolutions.net/ 

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkatevawter/ 

In this episode of the Leadership Talks Podcast, Dr. Kate Vawter speaks with Stephanie Sims, Founder of Finance-Ability®. Stephanie Sims is a capital strategist, startup advisor, and author of Funding Your Business Without Selling Your Soul.
As the founder of Finance-Ability®, Stephanie demystifies business finances so that founders can tell economic stories that make dollars…and sense.
After nearly a decade in investment banking working with Goldman, Lehman, and CSFB on over $5B (BV) of transactions, Stephanie successfully rode the high-tech start-up roller coaster in Europe - complete with angels, venture capitalists, and the coveted exit to a publicly traded company.
Stephanie educates and mentors early-stage entrepreneurs at various accelerators, serves as a judge at startup competitions and is a frequent speaker about venture capital, angel investment, and alternative sources of financing.
Tune in to this episode as Stephanie Sims talks about:
 * Helping businesses and start-ups conquer their fear of numbers and finance
 * The difference between Angel Investors and Venture Capitalists
 * Business scaling and expansion and common growing pains related to growth
 * Financial statements and which one is the most important
 * How to ask the right questions to the financial professionals in your business
 * Opportunities for those who want to break into venture capitalism
Learn more about Stephanie Sims:
 * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniejsims/
 * Website: http://www.stephaniesims.com
 * Twitter: https://twitter.com/Finance_ability
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About the Leadership Talks Podcast:
In the Leadership Talks Podcast, Kate Vawter speaks with successful leaders across industries — real people and local leaders. In each episode, the conversations explore different people's leadership styles, how people achieve unbelievable success, how a few become the best in the world, and how overcoming challenges can lead to success.
Subscribe to the Leadership Talks Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leadership-talks/id1690609428
Subscribe to the Leadership Talks Video Series on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@leadershiptalks6061
Connect with Dr. Kate Vawter
Website:  https://ascentsolutions.net/
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkatevawter/