In this episode of The Finance Cafe Podcast, Shannon sits down with Vanessa Aegirsdottir, internationally acclaimed jewelry designer, entrepreneur, and business coach, to discuss how women entrepreneurs can build resilience and scale their businesses with confidence. Vanessa is the co-founder and CEO of her award-winning brand, Vanessa Aegirsdottir, which specializes in premium fur jewelry that honors Indigenous traditions and ethical sourcing. Her designs have been featured in Vogue, Esquire, and Forbes, establishing her as a leader in sustainable luxury.

With over 30 years of entrepreneurial experience, Vanessa has helped women-owned product businesses grow with profitability and confidence. Through her coaching, she equips business owners with the tools to price for profit, navigate growth, and reach global audiences. In this episode, Vanessa shares how overcoming fear, embracing risks, and developing resilience were key to her success. She also dives into how she overcame imposter syndrome and learned to properly value her work and art.

If you're a business owner looking to scale with confidence, this conversation is a must-listen. Vanessa's approach to entrepreneurship is all about trusting yourself, taking risks, and building a strong foundation—both mentally and financially. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on how to break through barriers and reach your business’s full potential.

Website: https://www.aegirsdottir.com/
Instagram: @vanessa.aegirsdottir

In this episode of The Finance Cafe Podcast, Shannon is joined by Alicia Fowler, founder of MOD Accounting & Tax, to discuss how women entrepreneurs can navigate financial uncertainty. In an ever-changing economic climate, understanding your profit and cash flow is crucial to keeping your business on track.

Alicia brings nearly 20 years of experience in the accounting industry, holding a CPA, CA designation and a Master of Professional Accounting from the University of Saskatchewan. Originally from Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, she now calls Edmonton home. As a dedicated mom, entrepreneur, and community builder, Alicia believes in the power of financial wellness and supporting women in business. Her passion lies in helping entrepreneurs who are making a social impact and ensuring they have the knowledge and tools to succeed.

In this episode, Alicia and Shannon discuss how reading and analyzing financial statements can reveal what’s working in your business - and what needs to change. She emphasizes the importance of having an accountant on your side to ensure you're always aware of where your money is going, helping you avoid financial pitfalls and stay ahead of challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, make sure to tune into this episode to get some tips and tricks to navigate financial uncertainty with confidence.

Website: https://modaccountingtax.ca/

Linkedin

Instagram @alicia_fowler.cpa

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of sexual assault. Listener discretion is advised. If you need support, please consider reaching out to a trusted resource or support service.

In this episode of The Finance Cafe Podcast, host Shauna Frederick joins Christina Owczarek, founder of XhAle Brew Co., a brewing brand that creates provocative beer for conscious thinkers and drinkers. Christina’s journey is one of resilience, passion, and breaking barriers as an immigrant, an Australian expat, and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community.

Christina shares the highs and lows of launching and growing XhAle, navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the pivotal moments that shaped her approach to business. She opens up about the trials and triumphs of starting a brewery, how challenges have shaped her mindset and leadership style, and the financial habits that helped her build a sustainable business. She also discusses the importance of breaking barriers for immigrant women entrepreneurs and the LGBTQ+ community, emphasizing that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and have access to funding and opportunities.

This episode is a powerful reminder that resilience and adaptability are essential in business. Tune in to hear Christina’s inspiring story on entrepreneurship, finance, and making space for underrepresented voices in the industry.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-owczarek-9ab925193/

Instagram: @xhalebrewco

Facebook: @xhalebrewco

Bluesky: @xhalebrewco.bsky.social

Website: www.xhalebrewco.ca

If any listeners who are of diverse representation and are doing good work in their communities would like their brand, business, and/or organization featured they can fill out our Queen Bee Campaign form to apply to be featured on our socials to highlight and lift up other diverse leaders.

XhAle Brew Co. Queen Bee Campaign