Podcast Show Notes for The Small Business Journey Show

Episode Title:

Finding Your Brand Through the Lens with Vanessa Ronowski, Branding & Lifestyle Photographer

Episode Description:

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, I sit down with my friend Vanessa—an incredibly talented personal branding and lifestyle family photographer. Vanessa shares her creative journey from discovering photography in high school to building a business that empowers women and small businesses through powerful, intentional imagery.

We talk about how impactful photography is when it comes to shaping brand identity, building client trust, and standing out in a saturated market. Vanessa also takes us behind the scenes of her client process—from vision boards to photoshoot day—and explains why branding photography is so much more than just a headshot.

Whether you’re a maker, a service provider, or just starting your small business journey, this episode will encourage you to show up confidently and authentically in your brand. Get ready to fall in love with branding photography and the thoughtful art Vanessa brings to every frame.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• How Vanessa found photography as her creative outlet
• Her journey from film photography to full-time brand photographer
• The story behind her passion project in the NICU
• Why branding photography matters for small businesses
• The emotional impact of strong, intentional imagery
• A real-life example of how one scroll-stopping photo led to a business-changing experience
• Behind the scenes of her branding photography process
• Why showing personality is more powerful than the perfect headshot
• How Vanessa empowers her clients (especially women) to feel confident on camera
• Insights into Chanla's Small Business Retreat she attended

Links & Resources:

• Follow Vanessa on Instagram: @vanessa_ronowski_photo
• Learn more about her work: Vanessa Ronowski Photography
• The Small Business Retreat: www.thesmallbusinessretreat.com

Connect with the Show:

• Follow The Small Business Journey Show on Instagram: @smallbusinessretreat
• Learn more about my business: www.thesmallbusinessretreat.com

Leave a Review:

If you loved this episode, share it with a friend and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! It helps more small business owners find the show and feel less alone in the journey.

Welcome to Episode 2 of The Small Business Journey Show! Your go-to podcast for practical advice, heartfelt stories, and inspiration tailored to small business owners and busy individuals. Each week, I explore topics that help you grow personally and professionally, proving that progress—not perfection—is the key to success.

I’m Chanla Fredrickson, your guide on this small business adventure, bringing authenticity and warmth to every episode. As a skincare founder, mom of two, and someone who has navigated the chaos of entrepreneurship, I’m here to share my real-life experiences—imperfections and all.

In this episode, I’m diving into the power of morning routines and how they can transform your day, week, and even your year. Whether you’re a small business owner or simply looking to bring more peace and productivity into your life, this episode is packed with relatable insights and actionable tips.

I’ll be sharing my personal journey—from chaotic mornings with young kids to a more intentional routine that fills my cup before the day begins. No matter how busy life gets, you’ll hear practical ideas to create a routine that works for you. I’ll also highlight the importance of self-care for small business owners and busy women who often pour so much into others.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How a simple morning routine can set the tone for a more successful day.
• Why perfection isn’t the goal—showing up consistently is what truly counts.
• Practical morning routine ideas, from a quick 5-minute tea-and-scripture ritual to longer, sensory-filled self-care processes.
• The science-backed benefits of grounding (and how you can try it barefoot in your backyard).
• Tips for structuring your day to maximize productivity and energy, tailored to your unique schedule.
• How small acts—like making your bed or savoring a cup of coffee—can boost your mood and momentum.

This Episode Is For:

• Small Business Owners: Learn how to prioritize yourself amidst the hustle to avoid burnout.
• Busy Parents: Discover flexible routine ideas that fit your season of life.
• Women Entrepreneurs: Find inspiration to fill your cup before pouring into others.
• Anyone Seeking Balance: If you’re overwhelmed or looking for calm amid the storm, this episode is for you.

Loved this episode? I’d love to hear from you! Shoot me a DM with your favorite takeaway or share your own morning routine—I’d love to connect. For more resources and ways to stay in touch, check the links below.

Don’t forget to subscribe to The Small Business Journey Show so you never miss an episode—new content drops every week! See you next time for more tips to thrive on your small business journey.

Until next time!

Connect with me:

Website – chanlachaucosmetics.com

Instagram – Chanla.Chau.Cosmetics

Facebook – Chanla Chau Cosmetics

Welcome to The Small Business Journey Show!

I’m so excited to have you here for the very first episode! This podcast is all about real, unfiltered stories of entrepreneurship, the lessons learned, and the strategies that help small businesses grow. Whether you're just starting out or already running a business, you’ll find insights, practical tips, and inspiration to keep you moving forward.

I’m Chanla Fredrickson, your host—an esthetician with nearly two decades in the beauty industry. I formulate, create, and handcraft clean, natural skincare products, and I’ve built an award-winning skincare line from the ground up. Through the years, I’ve learned so much about running a business—both the highs and the hard lessons—and I’m here to share that knowledge with you!

In this debut episode, I’ll be sharing my personal journey—how I went from charging $15 for an eyebrow wax to launching my own skincare brand and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. You’ll hear about growth, resilience, and the key lessons I’ve learned along the way.

In future episodes, we’ll have:

• Behind-the-scenes insights into running a beauty business
• Tips on branding, marketing, and scaling your small business
• Honest conversations about the challenges (and rewards!) of entrepreneurship
• Inspiring interviews with fellow entrepreneurs and industry experts

If you're a small business owner, beauty entrepreneur, or someone dreaming of turning a passion into a business, this podcast is for you! Whether you're creating products, offering services, or just exploring the idea of entrepreneurship, my goal is to provide actionable insights and real talk to help you succeed.

Don’t forget to subscribe to The Small Business Journey Show so you never miss an episode! If you enjoy the show, please like, share, and spread the word—your support helps us grow and reach more small business owners like you.

Thanks for tuning in—I can't wait to go on this journey together!

Connect with me:

Website – chanlachaucosmetics.com

Instagram – Chanla.Chau.Cosmetics

Facebook – Chanla Chau Cosmetics