Mara Smith: From Stay-at-Home Mom to Tequila Founder | Reinvention, Risk & Starting Over

In this episode of Owning Your Legacy, we sit down with Mara Smith, founder of Inspiro Tequila, to talk about what it really looks like to start over and build something meaningful on your own terms.After stepping away from her career for 16 years to raise her family, Mara re-entered the workforce with no traditional roadmap, no network, and plenty of self-doubt. What followed was not a return to what she once knew, but a bold pivot into entrepreneurship.From her background in law and corporate strategy to launching Inspiro Tequila in a male-dominated industry, Mara shares the mindset shifts, risks, and decisions that shaped her journey. This conversation explores confidence, imposter syndrome, motherhood as leadership training, and why being an outsider can be a powerful advantage.This is not just a founder story. It is a story about reinvention, purpose, and building a legacy that extends beyond business.In this episode, we cover:✔ Mara Smith’s journey from stay-at-home mom to founder of Inspiro Tequila✔ Reinventing your career after time away from the workforce✔ How motherhood builds leadership, resilience, and adaptability✔ Navigating imposter syndrome and earning credibility in a new industry✔ Why being an outsider can drive innovation✔ Building a purpose-driven brand in a competitive market✔ The importance of community, mentorship, and showing upIf this conversation resonates, share it with someone who is thinking about starting over. #MaraSmith #InspiroTequila #OwningYourLegacy #WomenInBusiness #Entrepreneurship #CareerPivot #Leadership #PersonalGrowth #FounderStoryIf you enjoyed the episode please share it with others, and rate, review, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. To learn more about me and how I am Owning My Legacy, you can find me on Instagram @LauretteRondenet and online at lauretterondenet.com. 

In this episode of Owning Your Legacy, host Laurette Rondenet sits down with Katrina Markoff, founder of Violet Flame Chocolate and the original creator of the globally renowned chocolate brand Vosges Haut-Chocolat.Katrina shares the remarkable journey that took her from studying chemistry and psychology at Vanderbilt to culinary training in Paris and eventually building one of the most innovative chocolate companies in the world. Her entrepreneurial path was guided by creativity, curiosity, and a willingness to follow intuition even when it meant taking risks others would not. But success did not come without challenges.After years of building her company, Katrina experienced profound personal and professional setbacks and ultimately lost control of the business she created. Rather than giving up, she chose to rebuild. Now, as the founder of Violet Flame Chocolate, Katrina is creating a new vision for chocolate. Her new venture blends luxury craftsmanship, ritual, and creativity while encouraging people to reconnect with their inner voice and imagination.This conversation explores entrepreneurship, resilience, intuition, and the power of starting again.📲 Like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations about leadership, entrepreneurship, and legacy.In this episode:✅ The rise of Vosges Haut-Chocolat✅ What it feels like to lose the company you built✅ How intuition shapes entrepreneurial decisions✅ The inspiration behind Violet Flame Chocolate✅ Rebuilding identity, creativity, and purpose after adversityCreditsIG: @rishi.productionsIG: @gosiasimprintIf you enjoyed the episode please share it with others, and rate, review, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. To learn more about me and how I am Owning My Legacy, you can find me on Instagram @LauretteRondenet and online at lauretterondenet.com.

In this episode of Owning Your Legacy, host Laurette Rondenet sits down with Dr. Gertrude Lyons, author of Rewrite the Mother Code, for a transformative conversation on motherhood, identity, intuition, and the hidden cultural narratives that shape women’s lives.Dr. Lyons shares her personal awakening, from navigating fertility through a holistic lens to questioning deeply ingrained expectations around pregnancy, birth, and what it truly means to be a “good mother.” Together, they unpack the invisible “mother codes” that drive guilt, self-sacrifice, perfectionism, and burnout.This episode explores how women can rewrite outdated narratives and reclaim their power by integrating both masculine and feminine values, balancing productivity with process, structure with intuition, and achievement with self-nurturing.Dr. Lyons also discusses:✅ Why self-mothering is essential, not selfish✅ The myth of putting yourself last to be a “good mom”✅ How guilt is culturally conditioned✅ Feminine leadership in work and family life✅ The importance of community, modeling, and support✅ Rewriting your own personal Mother CodeWhether you are raising children, building a career, leading a team, or nurturing a vision, this conversation will challenge you to examine the codes you are living by, and decide which ones need to be rewritten. 🌐 Learn more about Dr. Gertrude Lyons: https://www.drgertrudelyons.com/🎧 Listen to the Rewrite the Mother Code Podcast: https://www.drgertrudelyons.com/podcast📲 Follow Dr. Gertrude Lyons on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drgertrudelyons/🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms📲 Like, comment, and subscribe for conversations on leadership, love, and legacyVideo and Photo Credits:IG: @rishi.productionsIG: @gosiasimprint#RewriteTheMotherCode #DrGertrudeLyons #Motherhood #FeminineLeadership #WomenInLeadership #IntentionalParenting #SelfMothering #LeadershipDevelopment #OwningYourLegacy #PersonalGrowthIf you enjoyed the episode please share it with others, and rate, review, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. To learn more about me and how I am Owning My Legacy, you can find me on Instagram @LauretteRondenet and online at lauretterondenet.com. 

In this episode of Owning Your Legacy, host Laurette Rondenet sits down with Brittani Mack, host of Tech Me As I Am, for a powerful conversation on authentic leadership, personal branding, emotional intelligence, and staying grounded in the age of AI.Brittani shares the transformational moment that shifted her life after watching The Call to Courage by Brené Brown. What began as a wake-up call about vulnerability became a deep journey into self-love, identity work, and courageous authenticity. From navigating corporate leadership and corporate culture to building meaningful client relationships, Brittani explains how doing the inner work reshaped her leadership style, her parenting, and her purpose.This episode dives into how leaders can create psychologically safe workplace cultures, why personal branding is rooted in character rather than job titles, and how neurodivergence and ADHD can be leadership strengths rather than limitations. Brittani also speaks candidly about raising four boys, supporting men’s mental health, navigating modern masculinity, and breaking generational trauma through emotional awareness, vulnerability, and intentional parenting. The conversation also explores how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the workplace, why fear around emerging technology is natural, and how human connection, emotional intelligence, and core values remain irreplaceable in an increasingly digital world. Topics covered in this episode include:✅ Authentic leadership and vulnerability in the workplace✅ Personal branding beyond your job title✅ Emotional intelligence and psychological safety at work✅ AI, fear of technology, and staying grounded in a digital world✅ Neurodivergence, ADHD, and creativity as leadership strengths✅ Raising emotionally healthy boys and supporting men’s mental health✅ Breaking generational patterns through inner child work✅ Building trust, connection, and influence in corporate environments✅ Human connection as a competitive advantage in the AI eraWhether you are a corporate executive, entrepreneur, sales leader, working professional, parent, or someone navigating identity and career growth, this conversation offers practical leadership insights and mindset strategies for owning who you are — unapologetically.🌐 Learn more about Tech Me As I Am: https://www.techmeasiam.com/🎧 Listen to the Tech Me As I Am Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@UCBxKJXlmMzqJZOABuG2vbIg 📲 Follow Brittani for updates on her executive branding agency launching in 2026: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittanimack/If you enjoyed the episode please share it with others, and rate, review, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. To learn more about me and how I am Owning My Legacy, you can find me on Instagram @LauretteRondenet and online at lauretterondenet.com. 

In this episode of Owning Your Legacy, host Laurette Rondenet sits down with Bela Gandhi, founder of Smart Dating Academy, for a powerful conversation on modern dating, emotional intelligence, and how to build healthy relationships at any stage of life.Bela shares her personal journey from heartbreak to global corporate leadership, and the pivotal decision to leave a successful career in finance and manufacturing to pursue her purpose: helping people date with clarity, confidence, and intention. Drawing on neuroscience, behavioral patterns, and real-world coaching experience, Bela explains why so many people repeat unhealthy relationship cycles and how to break them for good.This episode dives deep into dating advice for women and men navigating love after heartbreak, divorce, or long-term singleness. Bela explains why chemistry alone is not enough, how attachment hormones like oxytocin influence decision-making, and why emotional safety matters more than surface-level attraction.Topics covered in this episode include: ✅ Modern dating challenges and repeating relationship patterns ✅ Dating advice for women and men over 30, 40, 50+ ✅ Emotional safety and healthy conflict resolution ✅ Narcissism, gaslighting, and love bombing explained ✅ Why chemistry can be misleading in dating ✅ How to avoid losing yourself in relationships ✅ Attachment styles, oxytocin, and emotional bonding ✅ What makes love last long-term ✅ Building confidence, clarity, and self-awareness in datingWhether you are single, dating, married, divorced, or starting over later in life, this conversation offers grounded, practical guidance for building relationships rooted in respect, trust, and long-term compatibility.🌐 Learn more about Smart Dating Academy: https://www.smartdatingacademy.com 🎧 Listen to the Smart Dating Academy Podcast 📲 Follow on Instagram: @smartdatingacademy🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms 📲 Like, comment, and subscribe for conversations on leadership, love, and legacyVideo and Photo Credits: IG: @rishi.productions IG: @gosiasimprintIf you enjoyed the episode please share it with others, and rate, review, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. To learn more about me and how I am Owning My Legacy, you can find me on Instagram @LauretteRondenet and online at lauretterondenet.com. 

Teresa Ging, founder and CEO of Sugar Bliss, returns to Owning Your Legacy for a timely and values-driven conversation about growth, courage, and leading with integrity in uncertain times. From national retail expansion to sports concessions and airport locations, Teresa shares how Sugar Bliss has evolved while staying rooted in purpose.In this episode, Teresa reflects on the realities of scaling a consumer brand, navigating volatile markets, and making difficult decisions that test both leadership and values. She speaks candidly about the changing DEI landscape, the responsibility of women-owned businesses to lead by example, and the moment she chose to walk away from a major retail opportunity that no longer aligned with her company’s mission. Throughout the conversation, Teresa emphasizes mentorship, financial literacy, and the importance of knowing every facet of your business—even when growth pulls you away from the day-to-day.In this episode, you will learn: ✅ How Sugar Bliss expanded into national retailers, sports venues, and airports ✅ Why knowing your numbers is essential at every stage of growth ✅ How shifting DEI policies are impacting women- and minority-owned businesses ✅ What it means to walk away from opportunity when values are compromised ✅ Why mentorship and sponsorship are critical to closing the revenue gap for women-owned companies ✅ How leadership requires adaptability, clarity, and long-term vision ✅ Why legacy is built through consistency, courage, and collective upliftWhether you are building a brand, navigating ethical decisions in business, or mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs, this episode offers a grounded, honest look at what it means to grow with purpose—and to lead without losing sight of what matters most.🌐 Explore Sugar Bliss: https://www.sugarblisscakes.comIf you enjoyed the episode please share it with others, and rate, review, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. To learn more about me and how I am Owning My Legacy, you can find me on Instagram @LauretteRondenet and online at lauretterondenet.com. 

Ayra Mudessir, TEDx speaker, three-time author, youth advocate, and neuroscience student, joins Laurette Rondenet on Owning Your Legacy for an insightful conversation about confidence, representation, and the power of intentional leadership at any age. At just 21 years old, Ayra reflects on the moments and influences that shaped her commitment to youth empowerment, education, and meaningful social impact.In this episode, Ayra introduces the multiplier effect—the idea that one voice, one decision, or one act of courage can create waves of change far beyond the individual. She explains how representation reshapes belief at a neurological level, why confidence must come before skill, and how micro-leadership allows people to lead without titles, permission, or perfection. Ayra also speaks candidly about navigating unhealthy friendships, the impact of social media on motivation and self-worth, and the importance of mindset in breaking cycles of limitation.In this episode, you will learn:✅ What inspired Ayra’s TEDx talk and her mission in youth advocacy✅ How the multiplier effect transforms individual action into collective change✅ Why representation rewires belief and expands what feels possible✅ Why confidence is foundational to skill development and growth✅ How micro-leadership creates momentum without waiting for perfection✅ How to recognize relationships that limit growth rather than support it✅ Why mindset shapes long-term success more than credentials aloneWhether you are mentoring emerging leaders, questioning traditional paths to success, or seeking a grounded approach to confidence and self-belief, this conversation offers clarity, perspective, and a powerful reminder that legacy begins with the courage to take the first step.🌐 Explore Ayra Mudessir’s work: https://www.ayramudessir.comIf you enjoyed the episode please share it with others, and rate, review, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. To learn more about me and how I am Owning My Legacy, you can find me on Instagram @LauretteRondenet and online at lauretterondenet.com. 

Ahmed Darwish, founder of The Living Organism Project, joins Laurette Rondenet on Owning Your Legacy for a powerful exploration of healing, authenticity, and human transformation. From leaving law school to embracing a long career in clinical psychology, Ahmed describes the turning points that shaped his desire to help people understand themselves and move toward a more aligned and meaningful life.In this episode, Ahmed shares how a vivid dream inspired his mission to bring emotional truth and self leadership to a broader audience. He explains why authenticity is one of the highest expressions of human potential, how shame and self-protection shape our behavior, and why learning to pause and reconnect with our bodies can guide us toward deeper clarity. Ahmed also discusses the shift he sees happening in society today, the rising influence of feminine energy, and his belief that we are entering a new era that values individuality and shared human potential. In this episode, you will learn:✅ What led to the creation of The Living Organism Project and its purpose in the world✅ How aligning your actions with your inner truths supports authentic living✅ Why identifying patterns of shame can reveal themes that influence your choices✅ How to distinguish growth discomfort from misalignment✅ How feminine energy and emotional presence contribute to healing divisions✅ Why individuality encourages connection and generosity rather than separation✅ How a single person acting with intention can create a wave of possibilityWhether you are reflecting on your own path, guiding others through change, or searching for a more grounded way to lead, this conversation offers clarity, insight, and a hopeful vision for what personal and collective growth can look like.🌐 Explore The Living Organism Project: https://www.thelivingorganismproject.org/If you enjoyed the episode please share it with others, and rate, review, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. To learn more about me and how I am Owning My Legacy, you can find me on Instagram @LauretteRondenet and online at lauretterondenet.com. 

How do grace, resilience, and purpose shape the kind of leader you become?  In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, Laurette Rondenet sits down once again with Michael Byron—author of The Grace Effect: From Brooklyn to Boise—to explore how faith, humility, and heart can transform both business and life.  From his humble beginnings in Brooklyn to his trailblazing corporate leadership roles at Albertsons and Walmart, Michael’s story is a testament to what’s possible when you lead with authenticity and grace.💡 In this episode, you’ll discover:• How The Grace Effect was born—and what inspired Michael to share his story• The lessons his mother taught him about kindness, discernment, and resilience• How he navigated bias and built bridges in business and community life• The leadership philosophy that helped him exceed Walmart’s $20B women-owned sourcing goal• The incredible story behind the McBride Sisters Wine Company and how Michael used his influence to help them succeed• What “leading with heart” really means—and why it’s often a leader’s greatest strength• How grace and humility continue to guide Michael’s “third act” as an author, mentor, and advisor“People don’t remember what you said or did—they remember how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou, quoted by Michael ByronThis episode is more than a reflection on leadership—it’s a reminder that grace and authenticity can change how we show up, lead others, and live our legacy.👉 Learn more about Michael Byron’s book: The Grace Effect: From Brooklyn to Boise — available now on Amazon: https://a.co/d/hqfSsT8🎥 Watch Michael’s previous interview on Owning Your Legacy:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wm41ut8v8iE 🔗 Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-a-byron-1b15995/🌐 Connect with Laurette Rondenet: https://www.lauretterondenet.com🛎️ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations about purpose-driven leadership and legacy building.If you enjoyed the episode please share it with others, and rate, review, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. To learn more about me and how I am Owning My Legacy, you can find me on Instagram @LauretteRondenet and online at lauretterondenet.com. 

How do you turn a college side hustle into two thriving businesses that bring joy to thousands? In this inspiring episode, Jasmine Gonzalez, founder of Hype Productions and Loft 21 Events, joins Laurette Rondenet to share her fearless journey from D1 athlete to award-winning entrepreneur and mentor.From stepping in as one of the first female MCs in the industry to building one of Chicagoland’s most innovative event venues, Jasmine proves that leadership built on heart, hustle, and hope can turn every obstacle into opportunity.💡 In this episode, you’ll discover:• How Jasmine turned a “fluke” college job into a lifelong career in entertainment• The moment she shattered barriers as one of the first female MCs in the field• How Hype Productions and Loft 21 grew into two powerhouse brands• Lessons in resilience and reinvention through the COVID-19 shutdown• The role sports play in shaping confidence, teamwork, and leadership• Why she’s creating the Christian Athletes Alliance to mentor the next generation• How to balance motherhood, entrepreneurship, and mentorship with grace• The mindset shifts that help women “juggle it all” and lead fearlesslyThis is a story about more than business—it’s about faith, family, and fierce determination. Whether you’re building a brand, leading a team, or raising the next generation of changemakers, Jasmine’s journey reminds us that success is measured not just in wins, but in how you lift others along the way.👉 Learn more: https://hypeproductionsinc.com | https://loft21events.comIf you enjoyed the episode please share it with others, and rate, review, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. To learn more about me and how I am Owning My Legacy, you can find me on Instagram @LauretteRondenet and online at lauretterondenet.com.