Reflections from Inspiring Women Entrepreneurs: The Real Journey to Success in Business
- Michelle Carlen
- Apr 16
- 3 min read
During Women's History Month in March, I had the chance to interview three outstanding women business owners. My aim was to showcase women achieving success daily and to inspire others on their entrepreneurial paths, whether they're just starting or have established businesses.
On April 10th, I brought these remarkable women together: Elizabeth Caragay Watts-Russell of SiteSelectionStrategist LLC, Lisa Schoenthal of Breath of Freedom Experiences, and Laurel Pendle of LPBC Services LLC in a virtual panel discussion that energized everyone in attendance, which was precisely the outcome I intended by engaging these women in a lively discussion. Their honesty and insights revealed what it truly means to thrive as an entrepreneur. Their advice was both deeply personal and professionally grounded, shaped by years of experience, determination, and resilience.
Initially, I wanted to hear what they feel it truly takes to be a successful business owner. The responses from the three ladies differed, but they all highlighted the essential qualities of grit, commitment, and passion. Elizabeth mentioned that confidence should be coupled with the readiness to pivot. Lisa underscored the importance of revisiting and owning your "why." Laurel emphasized adaptability and intentionality. Reinvention emerged as crucial; releasing what no longer fits lets you pursue new, more rewarding opportunities. Together, these traits enable entrepreneurs to endure uncertainty and turn setbacks into growth opportunities.
On a professional level, we talked about what is necessary to establish a strong brand and how to stand out in a crowded and noisy market. They suggested diversifying your business, creating a genuine community, and learning to delegate tasks that weigh you down. They agreed that these steps are crucial for sustainable growth. And, consistent, fully engaged work, coupled with top-shelf service, helps build both professional reputation and personal satisfaction.
Our conversation also touched on mental health, focusing on the anxieties that many individuals experience but rarely discuss openly. They noted that between one and three women aged 40 to 65 take medication for anxiety. Laurel has directed her consulting and coaching businesses towards this issue, acknowledging the significant demands entrepreneurship places on people. Her certification in mental health and wellness has been crucial in her work with executive clients. For Lisa, her travel experiences enhance an experiential wellness approach, offering her clients a path for personal discovery into what energizes them. They mentioned the loneliness that can accompany entrepreneurship for those working solo. To address this, it is essential to set aside "me time" and honor what energizes you. Serving yourself, showing up authentically, and engaging in activities that feel good—with intention—creates balance and fulfillment in both work and life.
When I asked them quite seriously whether they’d ever thought of quitting, each responded with honesty—yes, the idea had surfaced during challenging times. Elizabeth's openness in particular made it clear "if you haven't felt that way, you haven't really risked it enough - doubts are part of the entrepreneurial path." Collectively, they agreed that considering quitting is not a sign of weakness, but an invitation to reflect, pause, and sometimes reinvent yourself. As one shared, “If you haven’t felt that way, you haven’t really risked enough.” Their takeaway: embrace vulnerability and engage advisors or accountability partners.
In the end, their narratives illustrate that entrepreneurship is a blend of peaks, valleys, and all that lies in between. Remaining dedicated, self-assured, and authentic—both personally and professionally—leads not only to building a thriving business but also to crafting a fulfilling life. I encourage you to listen to the entire discussion in the full recording.
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