Women & The Businesses They Own w/ Shari K. Hooper

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What does it take to walk away from a familiar career and build a business that reflects your personal values?

Jessy VanGessel, founder of Nourish Total Health, joins Shari K. Hooper to share her journey from family medicine nurse practitioner to entrepreneur.

Jessy's story begins long before opening her practice. From her education at Grand Valley State University and Duke University to her brother's health experiences and her own personal health challenges, each chapter helped shape her perspective on...

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What happens when you leave a successful corporate career, sell your home, and pursue a business you've never tried before?

Rachel Barnard, co-owner of Heartwood Ciders in Traverse City, Michigan, shares the remarkable journey that took her family from corporate careers at Target to building a cidery in Northern Michigan.

Alongside her husband, David, and with the support of their parents, Rachel stepped into an unfamiliar industry with a shared vision of creating a family-owned business and a different...

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From bedside nurse to cancer patient to business founder, Chantel Grant's journey is a story of resilience, faith, and finding purpose through life's unexpected turns.

In this episode of Women & The Businesses They Own, Shari Hooper welcomes Chantel, founder of Mitten Home Infusion, a Michigan-based business providing specialized home infusion nursing services.

With more than 25 years of nursing experience, Chantel built her company around a simple idea: helping patients receive specialized care in the comfort of their own homes.

Since founding the business in 2023, she has grown...

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Know Your Value, Find Your Voice You Must — Tracy Faulkner

What begins as a conversation about wine, entrepreneurship and an unexpected journey to vineyard ownership becomes something much deeper.

Tracy Faulkner, owner of Willow Winery & Vineyards in Suttons Bay, Michigan, joins Shari to talk about creating memorable customer experiences, building businesses around people, family, philanthropy and the experiences that have shaped the woman and entrepreneur she is today.

Tracy shares the story of how picking grapes eventually led to owning a winery, why she believes ma...

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What does it look like to build a business without believing you have to risk everything to make it successful?

Nicole Albertson, founder of TOP’T Superfood Blends, joins Shari Hooper for an honest conversation about food, entrepreneurship, motherhood, ambition, rejection — and defining success on your own terms.

Nicole began with a simple goal: fuel her own body better.

A longtime vegetarian and student of integrative nutrition, she began experimenting with seeds and nutrient-dense ingredients that could simply be spri...

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Photographer Heather Mahoney has built a career around helping other people feel comfortable enough to step in front of the camera and truly be seen.

But through her work—and the creation of Rising Together—Heather discovered that even confident, accomplished women can struggle to see themselves the way others see them.

In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, Heather joins Shari Hooper for a conversation about photography, entrepreneurship, family, vulnerability, imposter syndrome and...

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What if the greatest value of travel isn't where you go—but who you become along the way?

Julie Ilbrink, owner of The Curious Turtle Travel Advisors, joins Shari Hooper to discuss travel, retirement, family, curiosity, and why life's greatest investments are often the memories we create.

This conversation is about much more than vacations. It's about choosing experiences over excuses, embracing curiosity, and making the most of the time we've been given.

If you've ever said, "We'll do that someday," this episode is for you.

...

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Your Voice, Lost It? Find It Again with Katie Wysocki

One conversation can change the way you think about yourself.

In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, host Shari Hooper welcomes licensed counselor and entrepreneur Katie Wysocki, founder of State of Mind Counseling, for a meaningful conversation about confidence, communication, emotional wellness, and finding your authentic voice.

Together they explore healthy boundaries, overcoming...

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Some women collect stories. Some collect wisdom. Catherine Brown seems to have done both.

Before becoming a shamanic practitioner, Catherine lived a life full of movement, adventure, and courage. She was a travel writer, writing for magazines and books while exploring places around the world. She raised her three children on a small farm in the mountains of Patagonia, Argentina. And today, she brings that same grounded, curious, joy-filled spirit into her work with shamanic healing, Akashic Records readings, family constellations, workshops, coaching, and one-on-one sessions.

In this episode...

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What happens when personal pain becomes a mission to help others?

In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, Shari sits down with Kristen Nitz, Co-Founder of The Salus Collective, an organization dedicated to providing connection, resources, education, and hope to those experiencing or supporting someone through a mental health crisis.

Kristen shares the deeply personal journey that led her to this work and the powerful lessons she has learned about resilience, community, compassion, and the importance of...

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What if getting dressed each morning was about more than clothing?

In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, Shari sits down with personal stylist, wardrobe expert, and image consultant Stephanie McNamara to explore the powerful connection between style, confidence, and authenticity.

With more than 30 years of experience helping women discover their personal style, Stephanie shares how the way we present ourselves can influence not only how others see us, but how we see...

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Episode 27: Energy, Alignment & Following Your Calling with Courtney Yarch

In this episode of Women and the Businesses They Own, I sat down with Courtney Yarch of Harmonic Egg & Wellness GR for one of the most unique and uplifting conversations we’ve had on the podcast so far.

We talked about frequencies, light, sound, energy, intuition, healing, and the incredible experience people describe after spending time inside the Harmonic Egg.

What resonated with me most was Courtney’s pass...

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One year later… and what a meaningful conversation this became.

In this special anniversary episode of Women and the Businesses They Own, I welcomed back my very first guest, Lori LaClair of Natural Northern Foods.

Over the last year, Lori has continued growing her business, expanding her products, navigating challenges, and remaining deeply grounded in gratitude through it all.

One of the most powerful moments from our conversation came when Lori shared that success is not built on...

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Episode 25 is a little different—and very special.

For the first time, I stepped into the guest seat for Women and the Businesses They Own, with April Wells graciously taking over as host. What unfolded was not just a conversation about business, but a reflection on purpose, calling, and the heart behind the work I feel so blessed to do each day.

We talked about:
• The journey into financial advising and what shaped my path
• The deeper “why” beh...

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What does success really look like—over time?

In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, I sit down with Patty Riva, owner of Riva Marketing and Events, to talk about a life built not just on career success, but on faith, family, and intention.

With over 25 years of experience in marketing, communications, and helping organizations grow, Patty shares how her journey has evolved—and how her definition of success has changed along the way...

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What does it really mean to find your voice—and trust it?

In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, I sit down with speaking coach Zoe Carmichael to explore the power of communication, confidence, and showing up fully in who you are. Whether you’re leading a business, navigating conversations, or simply learning to express yourself more clearly, your voice plays a bigger role than you may realize.

Zoe shares her journey into spea...

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In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, I had the honor of sitting down with Carol Robinson, founder of So We May Know—a company dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate one of life’s most important, yet often avoided, conversations.

Carol’s work goes far beyond traditional documents like a Health Care Power of Attorney. She helps clients thoughtfully communicate their personal wishes, choose the right advocate, and create clarity for their loved ones during life’s...

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In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, I sit down with Dr. Amy Todd, a naturopath (ND, CNHP) here in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Amy’s journey into naturopathic medicine wasn’t just professional — it was deeply personal. After navigating her own health challenges and walking through significant health concerns with her daughter, she began digging deeper for answers. That search for solutions ultimately led her down the path of becoming a naturopathic doctor.

We talk about:
• Advocati...

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Welcome to the first Golden Nuggets episode of Women & the Businesses They Own.

This special solo series is designed to gather and reflect on the most powerful themes emerging from recent guest conversations.

In this episode, I share three consistent truths I've heard from women across industries:

• Mentorship Matters
• Confidence can be Built
• Mindset Determines Longevity in Business and in Life

These reflections are about more than business. They’re about...

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Podcast Disclosure: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, legal, or tax advice.
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Episode 20 | Jenna Smith – Vitality at Home

In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, I sit down with Jenna Smith, founder of Vitality at Home, a physical therapy practice that began organically during the uncertainty of COVID and is now celebrating its sixth year of serving clients in the comfort of their own h...

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Podcast Disclosure: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, legal, or tax advice.
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Episode 19 – Teresa Boichot

In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, I sit down with Teresa Boichot for a thoughtful and meaningful conversation about leadership, growth, and staying rooted in purpose as both a business owner and a human being.

Teresa shares her journey, the lessons she’s learned along the way...

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In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, Shari Hooper is joined by Brenda Bolin, a travel agent and Disney specialist who has built a business centered on experience, connection, and trust.

Brenda shares her journey of growing a travel agency while navigating marriage, family life, and now the joy of grandchildren. Together, they explore how travel creates emotional connections, why firsthand experience matters in business, and what it means to build something meaningful across different seasons of...

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Women & the Businesses They Own – Episode 17 | Danielle Rogers

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In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, Shari Hooper sits down with Donaylle Rogers for a thoughtful and uplifting conversation about mindset, emotional well-being, and the incredible power of our minds.

Donaylle shares insight into how our thoughts and inner dialogue shape the way we show up — not only in business, but in life. Together, they explore the importance of slowing down...

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In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, I sit down with Kim Voss, founder of HomeWorks Interiors., an interior design firm serving both homes and businesses across Michigan.

Kim shares her journey of building a design business from the ground up while raising four children (including twins), running a storefront in Traverse City, and commuting weekly from Grand Rapids. We talk about creativity, resilience, motherhood, multitasking, and what it truly takes to balance family life with entrepreneurship.<...

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In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, I sit down with Mary Gunther, Founder & CEO of The Social G Co. — a West Michigan social media and content strategist helping brands create real connections through strategy, creativity, and content that truly stops the scroll.

Mary shares the behind-the-scenes realities of entrepreneurship, leadership, and motherhood — plus the deeper lessons that come from showing up publicly, building trust, and staying authentic in a noisy online world.

We talk abou...

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In this episode, I sit down with Courtney Schutt, President & CEO of Resource Communications, a marketing and branding leader who helps organizations find their voice and elevate their message.

Courtney’s journey blends creativity, clarity, and courage — and her insights on leadership, storytelling, and balancing life as a stepmom and business owner offer a refreshing and inspiring perspective.

We talk about:

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Join me for a deeply personal and inspiring conversation with Jen Koffman, founder of Grand Rapids Elderly Care.

Jen turned her own journey of caring for her parents into a mission to help others. After losing her mom nine years ago and supporting her dad through recovery and transition, she saw the need for guidance, compassion, and real advocacy for families navigating senior care.

Her heart for others shines through every story — and every placement. She reminds us...

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In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, Shari Hooper talks with Holly Young, an IT professional and educator who helps seniors build confidence in using technology. 

Holly shares how patience, purpose, and perseverance have shaped her journey as a woman in tech and a business owner dedicated to bridging generations through learning. 

It’s an inspiring look at how connection — both human and digital — can change lives.

She came. She spoke. She inspired.

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Kristle was born and raised in Kentwood, Michigan, and her roots in this community run deep. After graduating from East Kentwood High School and earning her degree at Grand Valley State University, she stepped into the legal world and never looked back. Over the last 20 years, Kristle has worn many hats—litigator, advisor, mentor, and now business owner—building a practice that helps families and businesses plan for the future with confidence.

But beyond her legal expertise, Kristle is a...

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Susie, a professional organizer who helps people clear more than just their homes—she helps them reclaim their peace of mind.

We talk about the lessons that live inside everyday messes, what it takes to rebuild after health challenges, and why success sometimes starts with letting go.
A powerful episode about resilience, renewal, and redefining what “put together” really means. 

#WomenEntrepreneurs #Leadership #PodcastLaunch #ProfessionalOrganizer #WomenInBusiness #SummitWealthPartners

www.susiesorganizationsolutions.com

616-5...

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Jessica grew up in the charming town of Niles, Michigan, famous for its apple festival and history as the hometown of Aaron Montgomery Ward, founder of Montgomery Wards. After attending Grand Valley College—before it became a university—Jessica built her life in West Michigan, raising three amazing kids who are now thriving adults. She loves cheering them on as they take risks, grow, and create adventures of their own.

Beyond family, Jessica followed her passion into interior desi...

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In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Lara Baatenburg, founder of Concierge Medicine of West Michigan, which opened its doors in September 2024. Dr. Baatenburg brings an incredible academic background, with degrees from Calvin University, Wayne State University, and Michigan State University.

We dive into her inspiring journey as a physician and entrepreneur, why she chose to step into concierge medicine, and how she’s reshaping patient care by combining Western Medicine with Integrated Medicine — including Chinese medicine, nutrition, and...

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In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, I sit down with Melanie Willis, founder of Willis Bookkeeping Services – Clear Biz Clutter.

Melanie spent decades in the world of accounting, building expertise, trust, and deep industry knowledge. A few years ago, she made a bold and courageous decision — stepping away from the security of a steady role to launch her own business and serve clients on her own terms.

In our conversation, Melanie shares:

What...

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In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, I’m joined by Courtney Lorenz, founder of Cultured Kombucha — a wellness brand she began building more than a decade ago.

At just 34 years old, Courtney is already 10 years into entrepreneurship, redefining what wellness drinks can be by blending flavor, function, and intention. What started as a passion for gut health and clean ingredients has grown into a brand that helps people eat well, live well, and truly enjoy what they...

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In this episode, I had the honor of having Jennifer Kok, owner of Next Wave Business Coaching, for a thoughtful and engaging conversation about leadership, growth, and what it truly takes to build a sustainable business.

Jennifer brings a grounded, real-world approach to coaching business owners through transition, clarity, and momentum. Together, we explored the challenges women face as they grow their businesses, the importance of intentional decision-making, and how confidence, strategy, and values intersect over time.

...

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In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, I sit down with Laura Kelso, founder of Kelso Homes and creator of the GR Savvy Seniors series, for a conversation that is both inspiring and refreshingly real.

Laura’s journey began in the early days of Pampered Chef, where she learned the foundations of relationship-based business, consistency, and service. Those lessons eventually led her into real estate, where she carved out a meaningful niche working with seniors and their fa...

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In this episode of Women & the Businesses They Own, Shari Hooper sits down with April Wells, a leader whose work is changing lives in one of the most meaningful industries—home care.

April is part of Gauthier Family Home Care, where compassion, advocacy, and results intersect every day. In this conversation, April shares her journey, the realities of working in the caregiving space, and the bias that often exists around both aging and home care—and...

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In this episode, I sit down with a truly inspiring woman Kelly Poll Syren whose journey in health and Medicare insurance Voyage Benefits, LLC is filled with purpose, passion, and hard-earned wisdom. We talk about building a business that serves, finding courage in transitions, and how women are redefining success on their own terms.

✨ Whether you're dreaming, building, or expanding, this conversation is full of insight and heart. Tune in, reflect, and be reminded that you’re not alone on t...

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Just Launched: Episode 1 of the Women & the Businesses They Own Podcast!  My guest Lori LaClair from Natural Northern Foods.

After months of vision, planning, and passion, I'm proud to share the first episode of a podcast dedicated to amplifying the voices of women entrepreneurs. 

This episode dives into Lori's grit, her mentor and where she is today and offers real, unfiltered stories from women who are building businesses, breaking barriers, and redefining success on their ow...