On the Up & Up is a podcast created to encourage critical conversations in the startup ecosystem, amplify the untold stories and achievements of the underrepresented and underestimated, and inspire visionaries to take the next step into entrepreneurship. The three core pillars are representation, conversation, and education.
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24. The Privilege Divide: Launching Without a Financial Safety Net with Agnieszka Walorska
Season 3 · Episode 7
Sunday, November 24, 2024 • Duration 54:14
Hey there Risers & Thrivers,
In this episode of On the Up & Up, host Janine sits down with Agnieszka Walorska, a two-time founder, Ironman finisher, and the visionary behind Mika—an AI co-pilot designed to simplify accounting and tax management for entrepreneurs. Together, they tackle the profound impact of socioeconomic privilege on entrepreneurial journeys, drawing from Agnieszka's personal experiences overcoming significant financial and bureaucratic hurdles in Germany.
The conversation explores:
The resilience required to overcome financial and bureaucratic barriers
The challenges of starting a business in Germany
The realities of navigating without a financial safety net
Agnieszka also shares her unique perspective on fundraising as a solo, migrant, and female founder, offering valuable insights for underprivileged entrepreneurs and advocating for a more inclusive startup ecosystem.
This episode is a must-listen for aspiring founders, particularly those starting with limited resources, as it sheds light on the grit and strategies needed to succeed against the odds.
02:09 Challenges of Socioeconomic Privilege in Founding
05:21 Personal Background and Early Struggles
07:40 Starting the First Company
11:38 Navigating Bureaucracy and Taxation
19:41 Building Mika: An AI Co-Pilot for Accounting
24:41 Fundraising as a Solo Founder
30:11 Challenges of Funding for Founders
30:49 The Reality of Entrepreneurial Risks
32:24 Navigating Health Insurance as an Entrepreneur
33:40 Personal Experiences and Coping Mechanisms
39:46 The Importance of Conviction in Founding
41:27 Addressing Privilege and Diverse Founders
52:21 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Founders
23. The “Keith” to Success: How a Fake Male Co-Founder Changed the Game!
Season 3 · Episode 6
Sunday, November 3, 2024 • Duration 34:59
Hey there, Risers & Thrivers!
In this episode, Janine sits down with Conny to unpack the unique challenges that female founders encounter in the startup landscape. We dive into the compelling story of Penelope Gazin and Kate Dwyer, who, back in 2016, invented a male co-founder named "Keith Mann" to navigate gender biases that often blocked their pathwhile building Witchsy. With "Keith" in the mix, they saw firsthand how doors that were previously closed to them suddenly opened, and respect came more readily.
We discuss:
The obstacles Penelope and Kate faced and how the invention of "Keith" helped them level the playing field
Insights from Janine’s own research and interviews with other founders about creative strategies to combat bias
Practical tips and tools for women entrepreneurs to help navigate and mitigate bias in their journeys
This episode is a powerful reminder of the resilience required of underrepresented founders and the urgent need for systemic change in the business world.
14: A Heart-to-Heart with My Mom: Forgiveness, Our Very Different 20's, and Joint Struggles
Season 2 · Episode 7
Sunday, May 12, 2024 • Duration 41:53
Stay in touch & up-to-date via our social: https://linkin.bio/ontheupandup-io
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Hey there Risers & Thrivers,
In this special Mother's Day episode of "On the Up & Up," host Janine Vanessa Heinrich engages in a heartfelt conversation with her mother, Sussie. They delve into various topics that showcase their unique mother-daughter relationship. Sussie shares her experiences growing up in Ghana, her journey to American citizenship, and her personal views on motherhood, illustrating the stark contrasts between her life in her 20s and Janine's current experiences. The episode highlights:
Themes of forgiveness
The influence of parental support on personal development
The power of maintaining a positive outlook through life's challenges
Throughout the episode, Janine and Sussie explore their similarities and differences, shedding light on the enduring bond and mutual respect that define their relationship. Curious about their relationship? Listen to their conversation now for all the tea ☕
00:00- 07:35- Happy Mother’s Day and Introduction to Janine’s Mom, Sussie
13: Hazardous Hair: The Toxic Truth Behind Hair Extensions & Cosima’s Sustainable Stands of Change
Season 2 · Episode 6
Sunday, April 28, 2024 • Duration 51:35
Stay in touch & up-to-date via our social: https://linkin.bio/ontheupandup-io
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Hey there Risers and Thrivers,
In this episode, we take a deep dive with Cosima Richardson, a pioneer in the hair and beauty industry, who is transforming the way we think about and use synthetic hair extensions. Cosima discusses the alarming presence of toxic chemicals in traditional hair products and shares her journey towards creating Kynd Hair, Europe's first plant-based, skin-friendly, and biodegradable hair extension brand. Through her story, listeners will uncover:
The risks associated with common beauty products and learn about the innovative solutions that promise a healthier, more sustainable future for hair care
Personal anecdotes about embracing our natural hair, underscoring the cultural and emotional connections to braids
Insights into Cosima’s transition from a "side-preneur" to a full-time solopreneur, highlighting her journey to develop a scientifically-backed, eco-friendly product
This episode is a must-listen for hair enthusiasts, (aspiring) entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in beauty, health, and environmental sustainability. Tune in now and join the conversation! Happy Listening!
12: Eyes Closed, Head First: How Daniel Hanemann's 'Yes' Mindset Catapulted Him to CFO at 23 and Beyond
Season 2 · Episode 5
Sunday, April 21, 2024 • Duration 47:16
Stay in touch & up-to-date via our social: https://linkin.bio/ontheupandup-io
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Hey there Risers and Thrivers,
Meet Daniel Hanemann, a growth-driven entrepreneur and business angel. A graduate of WHU, he is currently the CEO of wundertax, the tech startup he co-founded in 2016 and returned to as CEO in 2022. wundertax is an online tax tool to submit your German tax return easily!
In this episode, Daniel takes us on a journey forged by a series of “yes man” decisions, starting from trying out a finance role, which saw him become a CFO at just 23, and later founding and building fast-growing ventures in six countries.
Here’s what we cover:
Importance of resilience and saying "yes" to new opportunities
Privilege and its role in shaping entrepreneurial paths
Dynamics of co-founder relationships and challenges of co-founder splits
Building and maintaining relationships in the entrepreneurial journey
The discussion also touches on the personal aspects of entrepreneurship, such as dealing with transitions, the role of privilege and mindset, as well as the importance of building and maintaining relationships. Daniel’s story is a testament to the power of embracing opportunities with an open heart and mind, which ultimately shaped his successful career as an entrepreneur and business leader.
11: From Constraints to Creativity: Charting the Path from Corporate Employee to Entrepreneur | Darya Kamkalova
Season 2 · Episode 4
Sunday, March 31, 2024 • Duration 48:24
Stay in touch & up-to-date via our social: https://linkin.bio/ontheupandup-io
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Hey there Risers and Thrivers,
In this episode, Darya Kamkalova, the founder of the Venturing Woman Lab and Venturing Women Podcast, an incubator for women aspiring to delve into entrepreneurship. Darya, a tech enthusiast and angel investor, discusses her journey from feeling stuck in her corporate career to launching an initiative aimed at supporting women in tech entrepreneurship. The conversation covers:
The challenges and misconceptions surrounding women's roles in the entrepreneurial landscape,
Highlights the importance of self-belief, clarity, and creating supportive environments for success, and
Her personal experience, the development of her incubator, and her commitment to empowering women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams, emphasizing the need for both a business and personal development plan
We touch on themes of creative freedom, the fallacy of job security in employment, and the transformative mindset shift required when transitioning from an employee to an entrepreneur.
Enjoy the episode and let us know what you think! Happy Listening!
10: Increasing Your Luck Surface Area & Odds for Entrepreneurial Success | Sufyan Osamah
Season 2 · Episode 3
Sunday, March 17, 2024 • Duration 58:32
Stay in touch & up-to-date via our social: https://linkin.bio/ontheupandup-io
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Hey there Risers & Thrivers,
In this episode, we’re diving into a journey of discipline and intention with Sufyan Osamah, the Co-Founder and Managing Director of HonestDog. Born in Pakistan, Sufyan moved to the UK at the age of 11 and then back to Pakistan at 15. In 2016, he moved to Germany, where he completed a bachelors at ESB Business School, and masters at our alma mater WHU- Otto Beisheim School of Management. Over the years, he has gained a ton of experience in fast-growing start-ups, consulting, corporate, and venture capital, such as Amazon, McKinsey, and Picus Capital.
During our conversation, we:
Explored the notion of increasing ones “luck surface area” through intentional planning and delayed gratification
Debate the importance of education versus experience
Discuss Sufyan’s entrepreneurial journey from problem exploration and overcoming rejection to the key to securing a “yes” (hint: it isn’t necessarily being mission driven)
Listeners will learn tactics for increasing odds for luck and enjoy an inspiring story of determination.
Happy Listening!
9: Overcoming adversity to championing change: A raw conversation about workplace DEI and Mental Health | Omena Ukeleghe
Season 2 · Episode 1
Sunday, March 3, 2024 • Duration 55:23
Stay in touch & up-to-date via our social: https://linkin.bio/ontheupandup-io
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Hey there Risers & Thrivers,
On this episode, we’re sitting down for an inspiring conversation with DEI expert and founder of Creative Jam Session, Omena Ukeleghe. We discussed:
Omena’s upbringing in a Nigerian household and the example her mother set advocating for herself in the workplace
Her personal experience navigating racism and discrimination at work, as well as her mental health journey and how she overcame adversity and channeled it to champion change
Where companies are going wrong with DEI strategies and the importance of long-term strategies, involving employee groups, and starting diversity effort early
Janine and Omega also get real about the impacts of microaggressions, generational trauma, and the need for companies to do more than performative allyship. This raw and revealing episode provides valuable insights for organizations and individuals alike.
7: Embracing “Only”, Self Advocacy, and Taking a Bet on Yourself | Archita Fritz
Season 1 · Episode 7
Sunday, December 17, 2023 • Duration 54:18
Stay in touch & up-to-date via our social: https://linkin.bio/ontheupandup-io
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Hey there Risers and Thrivers!
Welcome to the last episode of season one and I couldn't be happier to introduce you to our outstanding guest, Archita Fritz! She is a formidable force in the business world with over two decades of experience steering Fortune 500 companiesand founding experience through endeavors such as Ready Set Bold, The Embracing Only Podcast, and the Speak Out Revolution. In this episode, we discussed:
Her outstanding career that started back in the USA as an Electrical Engineering Intern to Director of Global Market
Her challenges with workplace bullying and being an "only" to embracing her only journey by finding her voice and advocating for herself and other
Her decision to take a bet on herself by leaving the workforce to concentrate on her entrepreneurial pursuits
Also, if you're considering leaving the workforce to pursue your own endeavors, take a look at her guide, Empowered Transitions. Want to get in touch with Archita? Reach out to her via LinkedIn!
Enjoy the episode and be sure to share what you think!
Discussion of a meeting where a female CEO was overlooked, setting the stage for gender bias in entrepreneurship.
The Witchsy Story (00:01:32)
Conny reflects on the significant events of 2016 and introduces Keith Man, a fictional male co-founder created by female entrepreneurs to navigate biases.
Challenges Faced by Witchsy’s Founders (00:07:16)
Exploration of the challenges faced by Keith’s co-founders, such as how external partners often dismissed the female founders due to their gender.
Bittersweet Triumph (00:18:40)
The success of the platform is overshadowed by the need for a male figure to gain respect.
Research Insights on Gender Bias (00:21:13)
Janine shares insights from her research and narratives of female founders facing biases during investor meetings and their coping strategies.
Understanding Prevention vs. Promotion Questions (00:26:58)
Explanation of different types of questions and strategies for female founders to navigate them.
The Importance of Leaning into Strengths (00:28:47)
Encouragement for women to embrace their unique strengths and assertiveness in professional settings.
Closing Remarks and Future Topics (00:33:45)
Teasing future discussions on unconventional fundraising methods for women founders.
07:36-20:00- Sussie shares insights into her young adult years, her marriage, the struggles of motherhood, and working for the first time at 35 years old
21:22- 32:00- Exploring the challenges of balancing making ends meet and single parenthood in a foreign country
32:30-41:00- Reflecting on our regrets, changes over the years, and hopes for the years to come
(00:00- 06:42) Meet Cosima Richardson, founder of Kynd Hair! Cosima and Janine discuss their childhood experiences with hair, highlighting the challenges and emotions related to hair care for people of color.
(06:42-16:27) Discover the harmful effects of synthetic hair products, dive into the disproportionate impact of beauty products on people of color, explore the lack of innovation in the hair extension market and the absence of sustainable alternatives
(16:27-24:13) Understanding synthetic hair vs. human hair, usage, and the global market potential and the cultural significance of braids.
(24:14- 36:15) Cosima shares her journey of developing Kynd Hair and the sense of obligation to those who trust in the venture
(36:15- 42:41) Discussion about the emotional challenges and pressures of being a solopreneur. Acknowledging personal milestones and the importance of celebrating achievements.
(42:41- 49:59) Building a community around Kynd Hair, Cosima's vision for Kynd Hair in the next five years and ways for listeners to support Kynd Hair
Getting Started with wundertax (00:01:22) Daniel talks about the origins of wundertax, starting with student tax returns and its viral success.
Early Entrepreneurial Influences (00:06:07) Daniel's upbringing in Hong Kong and the influence of innovation and technology on his early entrepreneurial interests.
Moving to Germany for Studies (00:07:32) Daniel's decision to move to Germany for studies and the cultural and personal factors influencing the choice.
Pivotal Moments in Career (00:14:47) Daniel reflects on pivotal moments in his career, including saying "yes" to opportunities and the impact of early work experiences.
Taking on Finance Role at FoodPanda (00:18:31) Daniel's experience of taking on a finance role at FoodPanda and the opportunities that followed at a young age.
Becoming CFO at FoodPanda (00:19:14) Daniel's rapid rise to CFO position at a young age and the chaotic but fun experience at FoodPanda.
Privilege and Safety Nets in Germany (00:21:25) Discussion on privilege, safety nets, and government support in Germany for entrepreneurs, and the impact of privilege on mindset.
Starting Wonder Tax (00:27:24) Daniel's decision to start wundertax and the initial stages of the company's development.
Co-Founder Split and Moving On (00:31:46) Daniel's departure from wundertax, the amicable split with his co-founder, and the commonality of co-founder splits.
Transition to a New Venture (00:35:04) Daniel's quick transition to a new venture after leaving wundertax and the urgency of the decision.
Maintaining Momentum and Passion for Learning (00:36:18) Daniel's approach to keeping momentum, his fascination with learning new things, and the excitement of understanding new business models.
Scaling Spaces and Temporary Move to Amsterdam (00:38:54) Discussion on the challenges of scaling physical spaces and a temporary move to Amsterdam for a new business opportunity.
Transition to Freelancing and Reconnecting with Investors (00:42:10) Transitioning to freelancing, reconnecting with old investors, and the eventual return to wundertax.
Bringing Wonder Tax Back and Reuniting the Team (00:44:39) Reuniting with former colleagues, reviving wundertax, and the excitement of restarting the business with the original team.
Building and Maintaining Relationships (00:45:30) Reflecting on the importance of building and maintaining relationships in business and personal success.
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Timestamps
Introduction and Overview (00:17 - 01:16): Introduction to the podcast and guest Darya Kamkalova, focusing on her mission with the Venturing Woman Lab and podcast.
Concept and Inspiration Behind Venturing Woman (01:16 - 02:08): Kamkalova discusses the foundation of Venturing Woman Lab as an incubator for aspiring female tech entrepreneurs, sparked by her own experiences and the Venturing Woman podcast.
Personal Journey to Entrepreneurship (02:29 - 04:11): Darya shares her transition from a fulfilling career in the tech industry to recognizing the need for change and aspiring towards entrepreneurship.
Challenges in the Corporate Environment (04:11 - 08:19): Discussion on limitations within corporate structures, including creative freedom, career progression, and the pursuit of personal growth.
Power, Responsibility, and Entrepreneurial Catalysts (08:19 - 12:37): Exploration of motivations behind seeking entrepreneurial ventures, including desires for creative freedom, impact, and confronting the reality of corporate limitations.
Transitioning to Entrepreneurship: Financial and Personal Considerations (14:19 - 20:06): Kamkalova talks about the financial and psychological aspects of leaving a secure job for entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of trust in oneself and planning.
Entrepreneurship vs. Employment: Risks and Realities (20:06 - 26:42): A comparison between the perceived security of employment and the actual risks and rewards of entrepreneurship.
Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Social Conditioning (28:00 - 30:48): Addressing the societal and internal barriers that deter women from embracing entrepreneurship.
Creating a Supportive Environment and Community (37:11 - 39:20): The importance of crafting a conducive work environment and the role of communities in supporting aspiring entrepreneurs.
Mindset Shift and the Path Forward (43:55 - 46:37): Reflections on the necessary mindset shifts for successful entrepreneurship, and how to connect with Venturing Woman Lab for support.
0:00-10:00 - Introduction to Omena's background and founding Creative Jam Sessions
10:00-20:00 - Lack of awareness around racism and microaggressions growing up. Omena's experience with workplace discrimination and bullying that impacted their mental health.
20:00-30:00 - How Omena navigated workplace dynamics and became a diversity advocate. Issues with performative diversity initiatives in companies.
30:00-40:00 - The importance of long-term strategies and leadership buy-in for DEI. Involving Employee Resource Groups for meaningful representation.
40:00-50:00 - Best corporate DEI practices & discussion around quotes
50:00-60:00 - Omena's experience with mental health and desire to help others. Reflections on personal growth and looking to the future of DEI efforts.
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References
Why I'm No Longer Talking to White People About Race by Reni Eddo-Lodge
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