The entrepreneurial world is witnessing a significant shift with the rise of female entrepreneurs who are redefining success in various industries. Their stories underscore the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the unique challenges and triumphs they face.
Marisa Fuller: Embracing Change and Community Growth
Marisa Fuller’s story is a remarkable example of career transformation. After two decades in advertising sales, Marisa pursued her passion for Pilates, founding Marisa In Motion (MIM) and later opening three Pilates studios. Her first studio, Studio Pilates Cobble Hill, reflects her commitment to providing a luxurious and focused workout environment. The studio’s aesthetic, complete with polished hardwood floors and a signature chandelier, creates an ambiance that allows clients to focus wholly on their workout.
Marisa’s journey was fueled by her adaptability during the pandemic. She shifted her focus to the Pilates community, creating an apparel and accessory business that also aids studio owners in generating additional revenue. This endeavor has received positive feedback, demonstrating Marisa’s keen understanding of her market’s needs.
Studio Pilates Cobble Hill offers a variety of class packs, with no lock-in contracts, reflecting Marisa’s client-centered approach. Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and community focus, making her a standout figure in the wellness and fitness industry.
Kaylee Philbrick-Theuerkauf: Redefining Business Planning and Affordability
Kaylee Philbrick-Theuerkauf’s entrepreneurial spirit was evident from childhood. Her venture, The Exceptional Plan, stems from her desire to assist entrepreneurs in creating comprehensive business models and plans affordably. This service is particularly valuable for those who might otherwise be deterred by the high costs typically associated with such services.
The Exceptional Plan has made a significant impact on the entrepreneurial community, helping numerous business owners secure funding and add value to their businesses. Kaylee’s approach is distinguished by its focus on personalized solutions and strategic planning, tailored to the unique goals of each client.
Her dedication to making high-quality business planning accessible to all is a notable contribution to the entrepreneurial landscape. Her story is an inspiration to aspiring business owners and a shining example of how innovative thinking can lead to substantial success.
Kristin Slanina: Pioneering Sustainable Mobility and Mentorship in STEM
Kristin Slanina’s journey in the realm of sustainable mobility and electric vehicles (EVs) is marked by her deep-rooted passion for innovation and commitment to environmental stewardship. From her early days as the co-captain of the MIT solar car team to her current role as Chief Innovation Officer at ParkMyFleet, Kristin has been a driving force in the advancement of sustainable transportation solutions.
With a career spanning over three decades, Kristin has become a recognized thought-leader in the automotive industry. Her tenure at EY as the Executive Director of Automotive Transportation Mobility saw her rapidly scale the company’s future of mobility business, remarkably boosting revenue from zero to $20 million globally in the first year. Her expertise in integrating blockchain with automotive technologies has positioned her at the forefront of cutting-edge innovations.
At ParkMyFleet, Kristin’s leadership is instrumental in enhancing the adoption and performance of electric vehicles. Her focus on assessing current infrastructure, identifying consumer adoption barriers, and improving the efficiency and durability of EVs has significantly contributed to the industry’s growth. ParkMyFleet, under her guidance, provides comprehensive managed services for fleets, from in-fleeting to de-fleeting, ensuring that fleets are not just operational but also sustainable.
Michelle Schaffer: Empowering Women Through Collaboration
Michelle Schaffer’s 17-year career in network marketing has culminated in the founding of Girl Power Alliance, a platform dedicated to the personal and professional development of women. This community focuses on collaboration, challenging the traditional notion of competition among women. Michelle’s belief in the strength of aligned women is evident in the services and programs offered by Girl Power Alliance.
The organization provides training and development opportunities, with an emphasis on growth and wealth creation. Since its inception, Girl Power Alliance has grown rapidly, demonstrating Michelle’s impact in empowering women. The affiliate program, in particular, has seen significant success, with over 100 affiliates joining since 2022.
Michelle’s approach to female empowerment and entrepreneurship is both refreshing and impactful, offering a unique blend of personal growth and professional development.
Kathryn Landis: Coaching Leaders Through Change and Growth
Kathryn Landis brings a wealth of experience from leading Fortune 500 companies to her consulting firm, Kathryn Landis Consulting. She specializes in executive and team coaching, helping leaders navigate the complexities of modern business landscapes. Her approach is grounded in creating environments that foster team effort, quality work strategies, and optimal use of knowledge and skills.
Kathryn’s diverse educational background, including an MBA from Northwestern University and certifications in coaching and diversity, informs her holistic approach to leadership. She emphasizes the importance of resource allocation, mission alignment, and sound structure in team dynamics.
Her firm, Kathryn Landis Consulting, offers a range of services that empower leaders to inspire their teams and maximize their potential. Kathryn’s work is an essential resource for leaders seeking to make a positive, lasting impact in their organizations.
Their journeys are not just stories of individual success, but powerful testaments to the broader capabilities of women in business and technology. Each, in their unique way, has broken barriers, challenged norms, and paved new pathways for innovation, sustainability, and mentorship.
