In this debut episode of Her Business Bootcamp, host I sit down with Melissa Jagessar, founder of Cali Meets NYC, a home and body fragrance brand rooted in healing, heritage, and hustle. Melissa shares her raw and inspiring journey from childhood curiosity with candles to battling depression after the loss of her grandmother, to launching a brand that not only honors her roots but helps others reconnect with scent and memory.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How Melissa turned grief into growth during the 2020 pandemic

• Her grandmother’s legacy as a Black business owner in the Bronx in the 1960s

• The creation of Cali Meets NYC and how love and design inspired the brand

• How custom zip code candles became her signature product

• Overcoming self-doubt to launch a YouTube channel and show up for her business

• That unforgettable moment Tabitha Brown featured her candle

• The importance of having a community

• The challenges and joys of being a solopreneur

• Finding balance with Pilates and prioritizing mental wellness

• Her plans for expanding the brand with perfumes and more body care

Resources & Mentions:

• Cali Meets NYC website

• Black Candlemakers Club

• Very Good Mondays with Tabitha Brown

✨ Tune and listen to Sistahs Connect Radio, your home for throwback Neo Soul, R&B and a touch of inspiration 24/7! Download the Live365 app, search for Sistahs Connect Radio, and save it as your favorite. Support Black women entrepreneurs and voices in media.

Her Business Blueprint officially launches in January 2025.

Welcome to Her Business Blueprint, the podcast for women entrepreneurs ready to shift their mindsets and embrace the unique realities of building a purpose-driven business as solopreneurs. In this episode, host Kimberly Sumpter, founder of Podcast to Inspire, dives into the heart of what it means to wear every hat in your business—from CEO to strategist to bookkeeper—and still push forward toward success.

Join Kimberly as she shares honest reflections on her journey, alongside candid conversations with inspiring women solopreneurs who have turned their passions into profitable businesses. Together, they discuss the wins, missteps, and lessons learned, offering real-world insights, motivation, and a supportive space to grow and thrive.

Whether you’re navigating setbacks or celebrating victories, this episode will remind you that while you may run your business solo, you’re never truly alone on this journey. Hit that follow button and start building your blueprint for greatness today!

Ready to build your blueprint for success with authenticity and intention? Hit that follow button, and let’s get started!

Instagram: Her Business Blueprint

Thinking about starting your own podcast but not sure where to begin? I’ve got you covered! In just six weeks, I’ll guide you step-by-step to turn your inspiring message into a podcast that connects, motivates, and resonates. Let's connect!

Business Website: Podcast To Inspire®
Business Email: kimberly@podcasttoinspire.com
Business IG: @podcasttoinspire

Looking for more inspiration? Tune into KImberly's first podcast, Sistahs Connect®, where she highlights conversations with Black women she has met throughout her life journey, who she admires, and who inspire her.

Sistahs Connect Website: Sistahs Connect®
Sistahs Connect on IG: @sistahsconnect