Explore every episode of the podcast Feminist Founders: Building Profitable People-First Businesses
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
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| Reclaiming Yourself Through Retreats and Radical Self-Trust with Heather Vickery | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:36:15 | |
In this raw and resonant conversation, transformation coach Heather Vickery joins Becky to talk about burnout, invisible labor, and why choosing yourself is a radical act of resistance. They unpack the emotional and physical toll of carrying the weight of the world—especially for women and non-binary folks socialized to perform and produce. Heather shares how retreats (from solo hotel stays to facilitated group gatherings) can serve as powerful tools for reconnection, rest, and radical reclamation.
Heather Vickery’s website: vickeryandco.com 📝 Discussed in this Episode
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| When the Weight is Invisible: Faith Clarke on Labor, Leadership, and Letting Go | 02 Jul 2025 | 00:24:57 | |
In this powerful solo episode of Feminist Founders, Faith Clarke shares a deeply personal reflection on what it means to carry invisible labor as a woman, especially as a solo parent, a nonprofit consultant, and a woman of color navigating systemic inequity. From her lived experience of parenting through hypervigilance to her professional insights into underfunded organizations and the cost of over-functioning, Faith names what so often goes unnamed—and offers a call to reimagine leadership and community care. She examines the praise women receive for being the ones who “carry it all” and challenges us to question why we accept that role in the first place. She doesn’t just talk about asking for help—she explores what it would take to build systems of collective leadership and shared responsibility. This is an unfiltered, heart-led exploration of burnout, vigilance, scarcity, and liberation. If you’ve ever felt like Atlas with the world on your shoulders, this episode is your permission slip to set it down. Discussed in this episode:
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| Burnout, Invisible Labor & the Feminist Fight to Rest with Nicole Havelka | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:46:56 | |
In this candid conversation, burnout coach Nicole Havelka joins Becky Mollenkamp to explore the systemic roots of burnout, especially for women, mothers, and caregivers. They discuss why rest is more than sleep, how women’s invisible labor adds up, and why the “just get a new job” advice is bullshit in a culture designed to drain us dry. Nicole brings a trauma-informed, embodied approach to healing burnout—one that doesn’t start with productivity hacks but with reclaiming your nervous system, your spaciousness, and your humanity. This episode is part of our special Feminist Founders summer series focused on women’s labor. Nicole Havelka's Website | Newsletter
📚 Resources Mentioned
🎧 This show is part of the Feminist Podcast Collective, a community of progressive creators reclaiming media through storytelling and solidarity. | |||
| The Crushing Weight of Women’s Labor (how we're easing our load) | 16 Jun 2025 | 00:22:52 | |
In this candid conversation, Becky Mollenkamp and Faith Clarke kick off their summer series exploring women’s labor—visible, invisible, paid, unpaid, emotional, and generational. They dive into what’s been stirring beneath the surface: the overwhelm of trying to do it all, the cultural myths of "having it all," and the shame and guilt baked into simply needing rest.
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| How to Build a Values-Aligned Business (Without Burnout or BS) | 24 Apr 2025 | 00:32:34 | |
What does it really take to build a business rooted in your values—without burning out, selling out, or sacrificing your sanity?
This episode is full of real talk about building a values-aligned, human-first business in a world that’s obsessed with productivity, hustle, and hierarchy.
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| What Integration Really Looks Like: Applying Feminist Business Principles Day-to-Day | 21 Apr 2025 | 00:35:17 | |
In the final episode of this five-part series on the Feminist Founders framework, Becky Mollenkamp and Faith Clarke explore what happens after the strategy sessions are over. This conversation is about the often-overlooked work of integration—how to actually live your values in the everyday reality of your business.
Listen in to learn:
Spoiler: The real magic isn't in the vision—it’s in the practice. And the practice will be messy.
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| Conflict Isn’t the Enemy: How Feminist Founders Can Navigate Discomfort and Disruption | 17 Apr 2025 | 00:34:05 | |
In this episode of Feminist Founders, Becky Mollenkamp and Faith Clarke dive deep into what might be the most critical (and most avoided) part of feminist entrepreneurship: conflict and disruption. This conversation will help you reframe discomfort not as failure—but as proof that you’re doing something different. Becky and Faith explore why conflict is inevitable in values-aligned businesses, how to meet it with compassion, and why traditional conflict-avoidance strategies (hello, white lady niceness) just don’t cut it anymore.
Disruption deserves its own seat at the feminist business framework table—because this is where real change begins. 🎧 Next week’s episode wraps the series with how to implement all five parts of the Feminist Founders framework. Subscribe now so you don’t miss it! | |||
| Decolonizing Business Systems: How Feminist Entrepreneurs Can Build with Integrity | 14 Apr 2025 | 00:33:24 | |
In this episode of Feminist Founders, Becky Mollenkamp and Faith Clarke break down what it really means to build systems in your business that align with your feminist, anti-capitalist, and anti-supremacist values. From automation overwhelm to resisting empire-thinking in tech tools, they unpack why most systems weren’t built for you—and how to challenge that by designing your own. They explore:
If you’ve ever felt like your business systems were “a mess” or wondered why nothing out there fits what you’re trying to build—you’re not broken. You’re trying to do things differently. This episode is your permission slip to keep doing just that.
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| How to Build a Feminist Business Culture (Even as a Solopreneur) | 10 Apr 2025 | 00:30:38 | |
🎙️ In this episode of Feminist Founders, Becky Mollenkamp and Faith Clarke dive into the third pillar of their business framework: Culture. What does it mean to build a culture rooted in equity and care—especially when you’re not in the room? Whether you have a team or work solo, culture emerges. The question is: Are you shaping it intentionally or letting systems of urgency, hierarchy, and supremacy do it for you? Becky and Faith explore how to move from aspirational values to embodied cultural practices, how to build habits that reflect your beliefs, and how to address the difficult truth that your actions reveal what you truly value (even if you wish they didn’t). 💡 If you’re ready to design a trust-filled business that reflects your values, this episode offers both philosophical insight and practical starting points. | |||
| Rethinking Leadership Through a Feminist Lens | 09 Apr 2025 | 00:30:36 | |
🎙️ In this episode of Feminist Founders, Becky Mollenkamp and Faith Clarke take on the second pillar in their 5-part framework for running a justice-focused business: Leadership. Leadership isn’t just about having a team or managing others—it’s about how you lead yourself. In this conversation, they explore why self-accountability is crucial, how internalized hustle culture shows up even when we “know better,” and what it really means to invite clients, collaborators, and contractors into your vision. They also unpack what vulnerability in leadership looks like, how to avoid replicating hierarchical systems, and why building community is essential to sustaining value-aligned leadership. 💡 Don’t just consume the ideas—live them. Get support inside the Feminist Founders community: https://feministfounders.substack.com/ | |||
| Ground Your Business in Vision, Not Capitalist Chaos | 03 Apr 2025 | 00:35:22 | |
🎙️ This week on Feminist Founders, Becky Mollenkamp and Faith Clarke take a deep dive into the first pillar of their feminist business framework: Vision. You’ll learn why starting with a clear, values-aligned vision is essential for building a business that supports justice, equity, and liberation. Becky and Faith walk through how to clarify your feminist priorities, define your desired impact, and identify one small but powerful practice you can use to align your business more fully with your values. They also unpack what it looks like to navigate disruption, honor imperfection, and use your privilege responsibly—all while building a business that feels nourishing to your whole self. 💡 Subscribe to the Feminist Founders newsletter to keep doing this work in community: https://feministfounders.substack.com/ | |||
| Building an Anti-Capitalist Business: Our New Feminist Framework | 31 Mar 2025 | 00:23:09 | |
🎙️ In this episode of Feminist Founders, Becky Mollenkamp is joined by her new partner, Faith Clarke, to unveil the 5-part framework they developed to help liberation-minded entrepreneurs grow businesses rooted in justice.
If you're tired of one-size-fits-all frameworks rooted in hustle culture and hierarchy, this is the model you’ve been waiting for. Whether you're a solo founder or leading a small team, this episode lays the foundation for building an anti-capitalist, people-first business.
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| Winter Break: Becky Mollenkamp on Women Making Moves | 23 Jan 2025 | 00:34:05 | |
Becky Mollenkamp is an intersectional feminist - unapologetically and never uses blame or shame as tools, AND white feminism is not ok. She is an accountability coach for high performing business owners. Becky shares incredible insight around how feminism is a trigger for more people than just men and what that means, what we can do, and how to improve by small degrees each day. She hosts a new podcast called "Feminist Founders" that are disrupting the way feminism is perceived and feared - to create how we will continue making change for the future. Follow Women Making Moves by clicking subscribe/follow or rate on your favorite platform and follow along on Instagram and follow Unlock the Magic or visit https://unlockthemagic.org | |||
| Unmasking Ourselves: Fear, Violence, and Building Safe Communities | 17 Dec 2024 | 00:33:53 | |
This special sneak peek episode offers a glimpse of what’s coming to Feminist Founders in 2025 as Faith Clarke officially joins Becky Mollenkamp as a partner. Together, they share their honest, behind-the-scenes thoughts about their new partnership, how they’re building this business collaboratively, and the real-time challenges and insights at the intersection of business and feminism. In this episode, Becky and Faith dig deep into:
This is just the beginning of many conversations like this. Starting in 2025, paid subscribers will get access to monthly private podcast episodes where Becky and Faith share real-time reflections, tough questions, and behind-the-scenes details about their partnership and business journey. What’s coming for paid members in 2025:
If you want to be part of these conversations, now’s the time to upgrade your membership before the end of the year. Rates will increase in 2025 as this partnership officially gets underway, so lock in your access now! UPGRADE NOW AT: https://feministfounders.substack.com/ | |||
| Building a Business Without Social Media: Values-Driven Visibility with Amelia Hruby | 09 Dec 2024 | 00:36:45 | |
In this episode of Feminist Founders, Becky Mollenkamp sits down with Amelia Hruby, feminist philosopher, podcaster, and founder of Softer Sounds, to discuss the radical act of leaving social media and building values-aligned businesses. Amelia shares her journey from academia to entrepreneurship, how she created a feminist podcast studio, and the intentionality behind slowing down and prioritizing a human-first approach to work. Together, they dive into the challenges of resisting hustle culture, the ethics of using platforms like Substack, and the power of cultivating community outside of algorithm-driven spaces. Whether you're contemplating leaving social media or seeking inspiration for running a feminist business, this episode is full of practical insights and heartfelt wisdom. Amelia Hruby (she/her) is a writer, educator and podcaster with a PhD in philosophy. She is the founder of Softer Sounds, a feminist podcast studio for entrepreneurs and creatives. And she’s the host of Off the Grid, a podcast about leaving social media without losing all your clients.
If you’ve been grappling with how to align your business with your values or wondering whether leaving social media could work for you, this episode is a must-listen! | |||
| Visibility Engineering: Branding for Underrecognized Communities with N. Chloé Nwangwu | 02 Dec 2024 | 01:03:38 | |
In this insightful episode of Feminist Founders, Becky Mollenkamp talks with brand scientist N. Chloé Nwangwu about the unique challenges of building brand visibility for underrepresented and marginalized communities. Chloe brings her rich background in conflict mediation and international politics to her work in visibility engineering, helping brands influence behavior while honoring their identities and values. She and Becky dive into the concept of visibility as a complex, non-neutral force shaped by societal biases and systemic barriers. Together, they unpack key concepts like the ambition penalty, reciprocity gap, and validation paradox, exploring how these invisible forces affect women, people of color, and other under-recognized groups in the branding space. Chloe shares her methodology for creating an “ecosystem of influence” and her unique approach to visibility engineering that helps brands stand out authentically, despite systemic hurdles. This conversation is a must-listen for entrepreneurs committed to building brands that reflect their true values and vision for a more inclusive world. N. Chloé Nwangwu (she/her) is the director of NobiWorks, a brand visibility consultancy rooted in behavioral science. She unabashedly believes brands and visibility strategies not built with power dynamics and biases in mind should consider disappearing from this plane of existence. NobiWorks equips underrecognized brands with visibility strategies and systems scientifically formulated to help them neutralize visibility biases while commanding — and keeping— attention in an increasingly crowded marketplace. Everything you do to be better seen, heard and understood should work. Full stop. And it is her personal mission to make that so. Website | Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Breaking Barriers with Caleb Thomas: A Male Photographer’s Take on Empowering Women | 25 Nov 2024 | 00:50:39 | |
In this episode of Feminist Founders, Becky Mollenkamp chats with Caleb Thomas, a male boudoir photographer, about his journey into empowerment photography and how he uses his work to challenge societal norms. Caleb shares how his boudoir photography, focused on body diversity, self-love, and reclaiming body agency, creates inclusive spaces for plus-size women, LGBTQ individuals, and people with disabilities. They also explore his experiences navigating power imbalances as a cishet male photographer, his TikTok success, and the challenges of social media censorship, as well as his advocacy for Oregon LGBTQ rights. Caleb Thomas (he/him) is a boudoir photographer based in Bend, Oregon, specializing in empowering, creative boudoir sessions that help folks (particularly women) reclaim their agency, identity, and sensuality. Before being a full time photographer (as well as the de facto stay at home parent of his 5 year old) he worked in tourism marketing, manufacturing marketing, and, most interestingly, (considering his current line of work) was the Media Director for a Megachurch for 5 years. After deconstructing his faith over the course of a decade, Caleb left the church. Caleb lives in Bend, Oregon with his Pastry Chef wife, their 5 year old kiddo, as well as their pup & cat. Website | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube Discussed in this episode:
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| Multi-Stakeholder Cooperatives Are the Future of Ethical Book Publishing with Zia Dione | 18 Nov 2024 | 00:57:11 | |
In this episode of Feminist Founders, Becky Mollenkamp chats with Zia Dione about her unique journey through feminism and how her views evolved into womanism. Zia shares her thoughts on the differences between Feminism vs. Womanism, exploring the importance of intersectionality in business and how her personal experiences shaped her passion for creating a cooperative business model. They dive deep into Zia’s mission to disrupt traditional publishing with her self-publishing cooperative, "Trunk of My Car," which offers a community-based and ethical alternative to platforms like Amazon KDP. Zia also explains how the multi-stakeholder cooperative structure can create a fairer system for authors, editors, designers, and readers, while reflecting her commitment to Black feminism and feminist entrepreneurship. Zia Dione (she/her) is an emerging writer focused on healing intergenerational trauma & building/supporting solidarity & sustainable economies. Zia is certified in permaculture design, has a law degree from the University of Baltimore & is currently pursuing an MFA in Creative Nonfiction at Pacific University. Yes, she chose a new name.
Resources Mentioned: Make sure to subscribe to the Feminist Founders newsletter for bonus content from this episode! | |||
| Amplifying Black Feminist Voices: The Story Behind the Free Black Women’s Library with Olaronke Akinmowo | 11 Nov 2024 | 01:10:21 | |
In this episode of Feminist Founders, Becky Mollenkamp interviews Ola Akimowo, the visionary behind the Free Black Women’s Library in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn. They discuss Ola’s journey of creating a grassroots, community-driven space dedicated to amplifying the voices of Black women and Black non-binary writers through literature, art, and mutual aid initiatives. From the library's unique book swap system to its role as a Black feminist archive and community care space, Ola shares how this social art project fosters activism and intergenerational connections while fighting gentrification. Together, they explore the importance of Black feminism, intersectionality, and the powerful stories that shape this transformative library. Olaronke Akinmowo (she/her) is an interdisciplinary artist, writer, librarian and cultural worker. She is also the Creator and Director of The Free Black Women’s Library, a literary hub, community care space and social art project located in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn. This grassroots space features over 5000 books written by Black women and Black non-binary folks, a free store, a period pantry, a backyard garden, a reading club and a wide range of free public programs, mutual aid initiatives and creative workshops. The library offers people of all ages, races and genders a space to read, write, work, rest, dream and connect. She is also a proud mom, union member, set decorator, busy body, book fairy, plant fiend, and dance machine. She grows and thrives in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn.
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| Worthiness and White Supremacy: A Holistic Healing Journey with Caroline Sumlin | 04 Nov 2024 | 00:47:52 | |
In this episode, Becky Mollenkamp speaks with Caroline J. Sumlin, author of We’ll All Be Free, about the deep connections between trauma, systemic oppression, and self-worth. Caroline shares her personal journey as a Black woman navigating imposter syndrome, unworthiness, and societal conditioning. The conversation explores how white supremacy, capitalism, and patriarchal trauma affect self-worth, particularly for women and marginalized communities. Caroline highlights the importance of holistic healing and personal liberation, emphasizing that worthiness is inherent and healing is a lifelong journey. Tune in for an empowering discussion on reclaiming self-worth, healing from societal and personal trauma, and navigating motherhood, race, and feminism. Caroline J. Sumlin (she/her) is a writer, speaker, and educator with a passion for helping all people reclaim their self-worth and their humanity. A former foster child turned adoptee, Caroline brings awareness, healing, and liberation to the topics of toxic white supremacy culture, systemic injustice, mental health, faith reconstruction, and bold, purposeful living to her growing audience. Prior to writing full-time, Caroline served as a special education teacher in the DC area for five years. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Howard University. Caroline resides with her husband and two daughters in Northern Virginia. Discussed in this episode:
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| From Hyper-Independence to Collective Healing with Erica Courdae | 28 Oct 2024 | 00:57:53 | |
Erica Courdae joins Becky Mollenkamp for an eye-opening conversation on collective healing, interdependence, and the intersections of feminism. They dive into the difference between equity and equality, explore the power of shadow work for personal and collective liberation, and unpack the toxic culture of hyper-independence in society and business. Erica shares her journey from the beauty industry into coaching and DEI work, highlighting the importance of values-based leadership and the need to foster truly interdependent communities. Together, they challenge mainstream narratives, discuss the ongoing challenges of practicing imperfect allyship, and explore how individuals can cultivate intuition and connection as part of their leadership. Erica Courdae Coté (she/her) is committed to shifting focus, power, and resources to support individual healing to foster a thriving community collective. She takes action through being an author coach, mentor, speaker, and 25+ year beauty industry veteran. Erica believes imperfect action is necessary as a pivotal part of evolution and growth. In 2018, Erica co-founded the Pause on the Play Podcast, which also expanded to include a consultancy. She has provided training for established businesses such as Blue Cross Blue Shield, Martha Beck Incorporated, and Paul Mitchell School. Website | Instagram | Threads Discussed in this Episode:
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| A New Vision for the Music Industry with Sean Adams | 21 Oct 2024 | 00:56:27 | |
In this episode of Feminist Founders, Becky Mollenkamp interviews Sean Adams, founder of Drowned in Sound and music industry expert, to discuss the complexities of feminism in the music industry. They explore the challenges for female musicians, the barriers to equality in music, and how allyship plays a crucial role in creating ethical and empowering spaces. Sean shares his insights on toxic masculinity in music, the importance of safe spaces for women in live music, and what it means to promote an inclusive, values-driven business model in the music world. This conversation dives deep into how the music industry can better support marginalized artists, combat sexism and misogyny, and work towards equality in every facet of the industry. Sean Adams (he/him) founded the music community and music publication Drowned in Sound in 2000. It grew to be a record label that launched the careers of artists such as Kaiser Chiefs and Bat for Lashes, as well as pioneering with an award-winning podcast back in 2005, developing groundbreaking playlist features, and launched spin-off websites like The Quietus. Alongside running the media organization, Sean has also managed various musicians including Charlotte Church, Ed Harcourt, and The Anchoress. Outside of music, he’s a member of The Movement Forward political group alongside the likes of Carol Vorderman and was the launch producer for The Trawl podcast hosted by Marina Purkiss & Jemma Forte.
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| Sales Done Differently: Ethical Techniques for Feminist Entrepreneurs with Allison Davis | 14 Oct 2024 | 01:14:29 | |
In this episode of Feminist Founders, Becky Mollenkamp sits down with Allison Davis to explore how to do sales differently, centering ethics, empathy, and human connection. They discuss how traditional sales techniques, often dominated by white male voices, have perpetuated harmful practices, and how feminist business owners can shift to more values-aligned approaches. From compassionate sales tactics to consent-based selling, this conversation dives deep into how business owners can thrive while staying true to their principles. Whether you're navigating B2B sales strategies, focusing on service-based business growth, or just looking for more ethical sales techniques, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Allison Davis (she/her) is the founder of Sales Done Differently, a consultancy focused on founder-led sales. Drawing from her 20 years of sales experience at companies like National Geographic and Time Out North America, Allison helps her clients leverage their strengths into consistent revenue-generating systems. In the past year alone, Allison’s clients have sold millions of dollars in services to organizations like Charles Schwab, Gartner, Planned Parenthood, Levi’s, Hulu, ACLU and more. Discussed in this episode:
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| Money and Identity: Confronting Systemic Barriers to Financial Success with Jacquette Timmons | 10 Oct 2024 | 01:00:19 | |
In this episode of Feminist Founders, host Becky Mollenkamp sits down with financial coach Jacquette M. Timmons to dig into the complex and deeply personal relationship we all have with money. From examining the intersection of feminism and finance to addressing how systemic inequality shapes our financial experiences, Jacquette brings her wealth of experience and insight into the conversation. Together, they break down why focusing only on the math of money isn’t enough, and why understanding the emotional, cultural, and systemic aspects is crucial for true financial empowerment. This episode is a must-listen for women entrepreneurs who are ready to confront financial trauma, reclaim their money narratives, and build businesses aligned with their values. Becky and Jacquette also discuss how wealth inequality impacts women and marginalized communities and share actionable steps for overcoming money shame and creating a healthier relationship with finances. Whether you’re a business owner struggling with your pricing or someone who’s feeling the weight of systemic financial inequality, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, empowered, and ready to tackle the human side of money. For three decades, Jacquette M. Timmons (she/her) has been advancing the culture of financial well-being. Helping people decrease their financial stress and increase their financial health and wealth by getting them to focus on both sides of the money equation - the numbers, along with the psychology and emotions of money. She does this by helping people focus on their relationship with money. Because this relationship influences every swipe, every deposit, every fiscal choice you make. She's the author of, "Financial Intimacy: How to Create a Healthy Relationship with Your Money and Your Mate;" a frequent blogger; creator & trademark holder of "Pricing Made Human®; host of the podcast, "More Than Money," and a staunch advocate for getting people to focus on the human side of money. Website | Instagram | LinkedIn Discussed in this episode:
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| Breaking the Cycle of Exclusion: Funding for Women-Owned Businesses with Erika Lucas | 07 Oct 2024 | 01:04:04 | |
In this episode, Becky Mollenkamp sits down with Erika Lucas, a trailblazing entrepreneur and advocate for women-led businesses and entrepreneurs of color. Erika shares her journey from growing up in a family of bootstrap entrepreneurs in Mexico to navigating traditional corporate environments in the U.S. before breaking free to co-found Stitch Crew and Vest. Erika candidly discusses the systemic barriers for women in business, including challenges in raising venture capital, and how these obstacles disproportionately affect women of color. She also highlights the realities of venture capital inequality, the lack of women in private equity, and the importance of inclusive workspaces for women. Together, they dive into how entrepreneurship for women of color is essential to breaking the cycle of inequality and creating real, lasting change in business. This conversation touches on funding for women-owned businesses, addressing microaggressions in corporate America, and finding non-dilutive funding for startups. Erika Lucas (she/her) is the Founder of StitchCrew, an organization providing capital and resources to the New Majority entrepreneurs. Erika also founded VEST, a peer network for women professionals and investment fund investing in women-led companies building solutions for the intersection of the Care Economy and Future of Work. Erika is a thought leader, sought-after speaker and LinkedIn Top Voice on Venture Capital and Entrepreneurship. She is on the Board of Arvest Bank, the Diversion Hub and the Oklahoma City County Health Department, as well as a member of the Latino Corporate Directors Association, Familia VC and Somos VC. Prior to StitchCrew and VEST, Erika was a Partner at a Private Equity firm investing in Aerospace & Defense. Before that she was Global Director at the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. Website | LinkedIn | Threads | Instagram | TikTok Discussed in this episode:
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| New! Empowered & Embodied podcast | 04 Oct 2024 | 00:02:18 | |
Take a moment to learn about Empowered & Embodied, another show in the Feminist Podcasters Collective. If you love Feminist Founders, you'll probably love this awesome show, too. (And, Becky Mollenkamp will be a guest on Empowered & Embodied soon.) Listen on this pod app or on YouTube. | |||
| Small Business, Big Impact: Creating a Greener Future with Gwenn Nolan | 03 Oct 2024 | 01:03:18 | |
In this episode of Feminist Founders, Becky Mollenkamp chats with Gwenn Nolan, the founder of Mother Compost, about her journey from working in finance to starting a composting business focused on reducing food waste and creating sustainable change. Gwenn shares how her passion for environmentalism and feminism intersect, leading her to create a business that tackles the environmental impact of food waste while also challenging the norms of traditional business models. They discuss the challenges and rewards of running a small business that prioritizes both social impact and profitability, as well as the importance of educating communities about the benefits of composting. If you’ve ever wondered about the composting vs landfill debate, how composting helps the environment, or how feminist perspectives can influence business practices, this episode is for you. Gwenn Nolan (she/her) is the founder of Mother Compost, an organics recycling organization that helps people and businesses transform their food scraps into fertilizer. Mother Compost began operation on the Main Line of Philadelphia in 2018 and now serves over 1,400 residents and over 20 local businesses in the area. Their mission is to make composting easy to encourage more people to join the composting movement. When not driving the truck or operating the business, Gwenn spends time speaking at schools & local organizations to spread the word about the benefits of composting as well as teaching practical composting basics to help home composters. Discussed in this Episode:
Resources Mentioned: Tune in to learn more about how to reduce food waste at home, the business opportunities in composting, and how feminism and sustainable business practices can go hand-in-hand to create lasting change! | |||
| Feminist Astrology with Babs Cheung: Using the Stars to Empower Women Entrepreneurs and Drive Personal Growth | 30 Sep 2024 | 01:00:48 | |
In this episode, Becky Mollenkamp chats with astrologer and feminist activist Babs Cheung about the powerful ways astrology can be used by business owners, especially women and non-binary entrepreneurs. They explore the intersection of feminism and astrology and how feminist astrology readings can help entrepreneurs avoid burnout, create sustainable businesses, and align their values with their business decisions. Babs explains the practical applications of astrology planning tools and how understanding your astrological chart can help you plan your business cycles and fiscal quarters.
Babs Cheung (she/her) is an astrologer, award winning writer, feminist thought leader and digital activist. Her forthcoming book details ways in which astrological transits mark an end to patriarchy (and other vehicles of oppression) through acts of activism (that don't cause burnout) tailored to your star sign. Additionally, she won't shut up about Mercury Retrograde and how it's the best time "to get good at something you suck at [doing]." and is obsessed with teaching clients how to plan their fiscal quarters according to their birth chart. Website | Instagram | LinkedIn Discussed in this episode:
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| Why 'Imposter Syndrome' Is a Lie: Understanding the Trailblazer Complex with Tanya Geisler | 26 Sep 2024 | 01:00:16 | |
In this episode, Becky Mollenkamp sits down with Tanya Geisler to explore the nuances of Imposter Complex, how it differs from Imposter Syndrome, and why understanding this distinction is crucial for anyone looking to overcome feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy. Tanya introduces the concept of the Trailblazer Complex, which shifts the narrative from self-blame to empowerment, particularly for those navigating spaces not traditionally built for them—such as women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals. Together, they discuss how intersectional feminism coaching can provide valuable tools to confront perfectionism and imposter feelings, and the importance of claiming your space in leadership roles. This episode offers a refreshing, intersectional perspective on leadership, coaching, and personal development, making it a must-listen for feminist business owners, coaches, and anyone looking to thrive in a world that wasn’t designed with them in mind. Tanya Geisler (she/her) is a certified Leadership Coach, in-demand international TEDxWomen speaker, and writer who teaches leaders how to combat their Imposter Complex and lead with ICONIC impact so they can achieve their ultimate goals. Her clients include best-selling authors, heads of industries, MPs, public speakers, leaders, movement makers, founders, entrepreneurs and legendary motivators.
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| Overcoming People-Pleasing and Setting Boundaries with Amy Green Smith | 23 Sep 2024 | 01:01:48 | |
In this episode of Feminist Founders, Becky Mollenkamp sits down with personal empowerment coach Amy Green Smith to discuss the pervasive issues of people-pleasing, fear, and assertive communication in both business and personal life. Amy, an expert in emotional intelligence and leadership, breaks down the difference between feeling "not enough" and believing it, and how this impacts our boundaries and vulnerability in the workplace. Together, they tackle the critical conversation about how women, especially those with marginalized identities, can break free from the trauma response of people-pleasing and reclaim their voice. Amy shares valuable insights into overcoming fear and stepping into assertive communication without crossing the line into aggression. This empowering conversation is full of practical advice for anyone struggling with boundaries in professional relationships, self-worth, and the ever-present challenges of balancing vulnerability and strength in the workplace. Amy Green Smith (she/her) is a certified and credentialed life coach and hypnotherapist, masterful speaker, and personal empowerment expert. Amy uses her roles as coach, writer, podcaster, and speaker to move individuals to a place of radical personal empowerment and self-worth. With acute focus on helping people “find their voice”, she is highly sought after for her uncommon style of irreverence, wisdom, and humor and has been a featured expert in Inspired Coach Magazine and on Fox 5 San Diego. Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn Discussed in this episode:
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| Feminism and Womanism: Taina Brown's Intersectional Approach to Liberation | 19 Sep 2024 | 01:08:20 | |
NOTE: Feminist Founders is a listener-funded podcast. Your contributions enable us to continue bringing you these important conversations. To support the mission and to receive bonus content from this episode, sign up for a subscription: https://feministfounders.substack.com/
Taina Brown (she/hers) is an elder millennial, Jeopardy enthusiast, and dog mom to doggy influencers. She is a life and career coach for busy and burned out millennials and a DEI educator and facilitator. In her spare time and with the help of her community, she's building a world where people don't feel the need to live busy and burned out lives, laugh in the face of imposter syndrome, and generally stick it to the man. You can find her ranting (sometimes) and raving (mostly) on Instagram and in her email newsletter to her community. Website | Instagram | LinkedIn
Bonus Content: For more on Taina Brown's work and her perspective on LGBTQ+ identities within feminism, make sure to subscribe to Becky’s newsletter where exclusive bonus content is available. The link is in the show notes. | |||
| Empowering Teenage Girls and Healing Your Inner Teenager with Chelsey Goodan | 16 Sep 2024 | 01:05:47 | |
Chelsey Goodan (she/her) is the author of the USA Today national bestseller, “Underestimated: The Power and Wisdom of Teenage Girls” (Gallery Books), which has been endorsed by Oprah's Book Club, saying: “If you have a teenage girl in your life, you need to read this.” Amazon's Editorial Director chose “Underestimated” as her "Editor's Pick, Best Nonfiction,” featuring it on CBS Mornings, and when Chelsey was on TODAY with Hoda & Jenna, they exclaimed: "We couldn't stop talking about your book." Website | Instagram | TikTok | LinkedIn
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| Summer Break: Visibility & Body Liberation with Sophia Apostol with Sophia Apostol | 03 Sep 2024 | 00:34:56 | |
In this special summer-break episode of Feminist Founders, Becky Mollenkamp sits down with Sophia Apostol, host of the Fat Joy podcast and Fat Joy on Substack, to explore the intersections of visibility, body image, and safety in a world that often marginalizes certain bodies. This deep and insightful conversation touches on the challenges of being visible in a society that prizes thinness, the journey from body neutrality to fat joy, and the critical importance of psychological safety for business owners and leaders. Sophia shares her own journey towards body liberation and the creation of her impactful work, offering listeners a hopeful and empowering perspective on how to navigate these complex issues. Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Sophia Apostol: Support Feminist Founders: Feminist Founders is a listener-funded podcast. Your contributions enable Becky to continue bringing you these important conversations without corporate advertising. To support the mission, visit feministfounderspodcast.com and sign up for a paid subscription. | |||
| Summer Break: Collaboration Over Competition (Forum) | 26 Aug 2024 | 00:23:30 | |
Feminist coach Becky Mollenkamp moderates a panel discussion on how to create win-win collaborations for your business with experts Michele Price and Babs Cheung. | |||
| Summer Break: Eat the Rich (Forum) | 19 Aug 2024 | 00:30:54 | |
Feminist coach Becky Mollenkamp moderates a panel discussion on wealth and equity with financial experts Natalie Bullen and Meg Wheeler. | |||
| Summer Break: Breaking Up with Hustle Culture (Forum) | 12 Aug 2024 | 00:31:43 | |
Becky Mollenkamp is joined by Erica Courdae and Mai-kee Tsang to discuss hustle culture for Feminist Founders Forum. | |||
| Summer Break: All About Love (Forum) | 05 Aug 2024 | 00:37:50 | |
Feminist coach Becky Mollenkamp moderates a panel discussion on love in its various forms and how it affects business owners with experts Faith Clarke and Jay Asooli. | |||
| Introducing Joy in the Breakthrough | 01 Aug 2024 | 00:01:51 | |
Just launched! Check out Joy in the Breakthrough, a new podcast by Chicago leaders Connie Lindsey & Anna Valencia (and part of the Feminist Podcasters Collective). This show explores the peaks and valleys of life through cross-generational conversations with diverse leaders who have learned the power of being broken open in order to break through. | |||
| Summer Break: Breaking Business Norms (Forum) | 31 Jul 2024 | 00:30:42 | |
A panel discussion about breaking capitalist norms as business owners with Becky Mollenkamp, Andrea Jones, Jordan Maney, and Rachel Formaro. | |||
| Summer Break: Values-Based Business | 24 Jul 2024 | 00:53:12 | |
Feminist Founders is on summer break between seasons. But we're not leaving dead air. Please enjoy this episode of Reaching Abundance with Virginia Elder in which Becky Mollenkamp shares how she approaches aligning a podcast marketing strategy with your values. Mentioned in the intro: "Don't Be Like Sticker Mule" post on Substack | |||
| Summer Break: Values-Aligned Marketing | 17 Jul 2024 | 00:36:27 | |
Feminist Founders is on summer break between seasons. But we're not leaving dead air. Please enjoy this episode of Listeners to Leads with Alesia Galati in which Becky Mollenkamp shares how she approaches aligning a podcast marketing strategy with your values. | |||
| Summer Break: Success on Substack | 10 Jul 2024 | 00:49:34 | |
Please take a listen to this episode of The Mindful Marketing Podcast with Andréa Jones in which Becky Mollenkamp, Kathleen Oh, and Tara McMullin discuss how they are using Substack in their businesses. | |||
| Summer Break: Rethinking Burnout | 03 Jul 2024 | 00:39:10 | |
Rest coach Jordan Maney recently joined Becky Mollenkamp for a discussion about burnout. Maney’s work specifically addresses the connection between burnout and apathy, particularly for empathetic individuals who care about making a difference. This powerful conversation emphasizes the need to recognize and value invisible labor, critiques the current solutions offered for burnout, and calls for a more comprehensive approach to recovery. Becky and Jordan also highlight the societal conditioning that discourages individuals, especially women, from seeking support and setting boundaries., and the need for collective approaches to address burnout. Key Points:
Highlights: 0:00 - Introduction and the Individualistic View of Burnout 2:50 - Invisible Labor and the Need to Value It 5:43 - The Ineffectiveness of Traditional Self-Care Approaches 8:51 - The Time and Effort Required for Burnout Recovery 10:56 - The Challenge of Letting Go and Setting Boundaries 16:25 - The Importance of Collective Support and Community 22:03 - Confronting Identity and Shifting Perspectives 26:35 - Redefining Self-Care as Self-Management and Self-Advocacy 28:32 - The Need for Comprehensive Change and Systemic Solutions 32:31 - The Slow Roast of Burnout Recovery 35:21 - The Role of a Lighthouse in Guiding Burnout Recovery 36:39 - Conclusion and Call to Action | |||
| Introducing Messy Liberation | 01 Jul 2024 | 00:01:37 | |
The journey toward liberation is messy AF, and Taina Brown and Becky Mollenkamp are here for it! 💥 Join them for the Messy Liberation, a podcast about current events, politics, pop culture, and business through an intersectional feminist lens. Taina and Becky aren’t perfect activists or allies, so don’t expect polished and perfectly formulated conversations with 3-step solutions (that’s toxic capitalist BS anyway). 📣 Instead, listen in on their real-time, messy thoughts as they make sense of the world around them. If you’re sick of superficial approaches to business and personal challenges, then you’ll love the nuance they bring to every discussion. Messy Liberation will get you thinking, help you feel less alone in the mess of personal development and systems liberation, and educate and inspire you, no matter where you are on the journey. If you also want to create a more equitable world, check out Messy Liberation, available wherever you listen to podcasts, including Apple, Spotify, and YouTube. 🎧 LEARN MORE: | |||
| Summer Break: Public Speaking for Introverted Founders | 26 Jun 2024 | 00:27:45 | |
In this conversation, Mahlena-Rae Johnson joins Becky Mollenkamp to discuss public speaking for introverted CEOs. Mahlena-Rae emphasizes the importance of understanding introversion, and dispels the misconception that introverts are shy. She outlines a three-step process for introverted CEOs to excel in public speaking (relax, relate, and release). She also highlights the need for introverted CEOs to prioritize self-care and recovery after speaking engagements. Connect with Mahlena on LinkedIn Key takeaways:
Highlights: 0:00 - Introduction and Background 2:51 - Public Speaking for Introverted CEOs 5:30 - Overcoming Shyness and Managing Vulnerability 8:45 - Dealing with Perfectionism 11:40 - The Importance of Recovery for Introverts 14:47 - Imposter Syndrome and Introverted CEOs 20:50 - Creating Accessible Speaking Environments 23:38 - Providing Support and Guidance for Speaker | |||
| Summer Break: Ask a Feminist Coach | 19 Jun 2024 | 00:33:48 | |
SUMMER BREAK: Season 3 of Feminist Founders is coming in September featuring new interviews with more inspiring leaders. During the summer I'm bringing you some special content, starting with this conversation with my friend, feminist life coach Taina Brown. She asked a few months ago if I’d be game for “Ask a Feminist Coach” as a series for Feminist Founders. Of course I said, “hell yes!” So we asked for some questions, and jumped right in to tackle three of the questions. Then we decided we liked it so much that we are going to turn it into something even bigger and better — a brand new podcast called Messy Liberation (coming out in July 2024). Until then, I hope you’ll enjoy this conversation (or the transcript below). | |||
| Doing Business Differently with Becky Mollenkamp | 12 Jun 2024 | 01:09:54 | |
NOTE: Feminist Founders is a listener-funded podcast. Your contributions enable me to continue bringing you these important conversations. To support the mission, sign up for a paid Substack subscription at https://feministfounders.substack.com/ In this special episode of Feminist Founders, host Becky Mollenkamp switches roles and is interviewed by her friend and communication strategist, Arden Evenson. Arden dives deep into Becky’s transformative approach to business coaching, including breaking down capitalist, patriarchal structures and building businesses that support your values and the people who work with you. Becky Mollenkamp (she/they) is a feminist business coach who helps entrepreneurs make the leap from "small business owner" to CEO without acting out of alignment with their values.
Learn more about accountability coaching with host Becky Mollenkamp at https://beckymollenkamp.com | |||
| Representing Change with Bianca Jordan | 05 Jun 2024 | 01:03:24 | |
NOTE: Feminist Founders is a listener-funded podcast. Your contributions enable me to continue bringing you these important conversations. To support the mission, sign up for a paid Substack subscription at https://feministfounders.substack.com/ SUMMARY: In this episode, Bianca Jordan, founder of Rebel Immigration, shares her journey from disillusionment with feminism to entrepreneurship. She discusses the impact of the pink pussy hat movement, her unconventional path from an MBA and JD to homelessness, and John Adams' influence on her legal career. Bianca delves into the necessity and tenacity driving her ventures, challenges in the legal industry, and misconceptions about immigration. She highlights racism in the immigration process and offers insights on how business owners can support immigrants. Additionally, she introduces her resources and approach to leadership. ----- Bianca Jordan (she/her) is the founder and CEO of Rebel Immigration, a legal education and consulting company that provides marketing and growth strategy to solo attorneys. Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Threads Discussed in this episode:
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| Advocating for Workers with Navruz Avloni | 29 May 2024 | 00:54:23 | |
NOTE: Feminist Founders is a listener-funded podcast. Your contributions enable me to continue bringing you these important conversations. To support the mission, sign up for a paid Substack subscription at https://feministfounders.substack.com/ SUMMARY: Navruz Avloni, a formidable attorney defending civil rights across California, discusses her path from a childhood in communist Uzbekistan to litigating high-profile cases like Diaz v. Tesla, advocating passionately for victims of workplace discrimination. She shares insights on leaving a partnership to start her own firm, navigating a male-dominated industry with feminist values, and the complex impacts of the #MeToo movement on legal practices. Navruz's story is not only inspiring but also a powerful call to challenge systemic injustices and transform the legal landscape. ----- Navruz Avloni (she/her) is a committed attorney and advocate who fights vigorously for important civil rights in courts throughout California. She is recognized for her ability to see the big picture in every case she litigates and for being a tenacious and passionate litigator for victims of sexual assault and wronged employees. She has a proven track record of obtaining favorable results for her clients in race discrimination, disability discrimination, sexual harassment, and whistleblower cases. In her over a decade of litigation experience, Navruz has represented clients in high-profile cases such as Kepnach, et al v. Four Barrel Coffee, Diaz v. Tesla, and Vaughn v. Tesla. Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn Discussed in this episode:
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| Fighting for Accessibility with Nichole Beiner Powell-Newman | 22 May 2024 | 01:06:45 | |
SUMMARY: Nichole Beiner Powell-Newman, an unwavering advocate for intersectional wellness and CEO of Nichole Gabrielle and Co., LLC. shares her transformative journey from law to leadership consulting, and back to blogging. We delve into the challenges of disability in traditional workspaces, visionary steps towards truly inclusive workplaces, and creating liberatory communities. Nichole challenges us to consider how ableism might infiltrate our business practices and invites us to turn our professed values into actionable, everyday guides. Join us for a conversation that redefines community and courage in leadership. Nichole Alcántara Beiner Powell-Newman (she/her) is an intersectional wellness advocate, speaker and consultant. She seeks equity, belonging and liberation at the crossroads of race, gender, and (dis)ability, through courageous conversations about lived truths, collective healing/care, and through community-centered action. She enjoys creating spaces that allow vulnerable explorations of unbridled joy for those who hold multiple marginalized identities and cultivating communities committed to intersectional belonging. Nichole serves as the CEO and Co-Founder of Nichole Gabrielle and Co., LLC, a Leadership and Culture Consultancy focused on creating cultures of belonging for people with marginalized identities. Using the skills she's gained from years of facilitation work, legal practice, and her own experiences as a disabled and chronically ill Afro-Latina, Nichole is able to help companies tackle systemic inequities, have hard conversations, and create spaces where people feel safe and confident that they can be their full selves. When she’s not spending time in community, Nichole enjoys reading, spending time with her husband, Vince, and learning about new foods and places. Lately, you can find her reconnecting with her roots in food anthropology, studying yoga philosophy, or planning out the big, beautiful life she believes we’re all deserving of. Website | Instagram | TikTok | LinkedIn Discussed in this episode:
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