Hustle + Heart: Finding Success on Your Own Terms

Ep12: Start Messy, Speak Up: What Happens When You Stop Waiting to Feel Ready

What if the only thing standing between you and the life you want… is the belief that you’re not ready yet?
In this solo episode of Hustle + Heart, I’m getting real about what it took to stop hiding behind perfection and actually start this podcast. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t confidence, fancy equipment, or having it all figured out. It was fear. Self-doubt. A messy first step. And a whole lot of shaky courage.
This one’s for the dreamer who's tired of waiting. Tired of researching and preparing and second-guessing. You don’t need to be fearless—you just need to be brave enough to begin.
I’ll walk you through the exact mindset shift (and framework) that helped me go from “who’s gonna listen to me?” to hitting record anyway.
In this episode, we’ll talk about: ☕ The truth about waiting to “feel ready” ☕ What starting messy really looks like (hint: it’s not pretty, but it’s powerful) ☕ The fears that hold us back—imposter syndrome, judgment, and perfectionism ☕ A 5-step gentle-but-real plan to help you take that first scary step ☕ Why your most imperfect work might actually be your most impactful
Let this episode be your permission slip. Your reminder. Your nudge.
Start messy. Speak up. The world needs your voice—just as it is.

Ep11: Owning Your Confidence & Building an Impactful Fashion Brand with Solimar Williams

In this episode, I sit down with Solimar “Sol” Williams, founder of Unbothered, a fashion brand rooted in quality, confidence, and self-expression. Sol’s journey is nothing short of inspiring—she moved from the Dominican Republic to New York at 17 to chase her dream of working in fashion, only to later build a brand that redefines comfort and sustainability in the industry.
We dive deep into the challenges of launching a fashion brand, staying true to your vision, and faking confidence until you make confidence. Whether you're dreaming of starting your own business, struggling with self-doubt, or just need a boost of motivation—this episode is for you!
By the end of the episode, you’ll walk away with insights on: ✨ How Solimar turned her love for fashion into a thriving brand ✨ The biggest lessons she learned from working multiple jobs before launching Unbothered ✨ Why confidence (even when faked) can open doors for your success ✨ The power of pivoting and evolving in your business journey ✨ How to create fashion that blends style, quality, and sustainability
Meet Solimar Williams
Solimar Williams is the founder of Unbothered, a fashion brand that prioritizes comfort, confidence, and longevity. After working in production and sourcing for years, she recognized the gap between cheap fast fashion and high-end unaffordable pieces—and decided to bridge it. Solimar believes fashion should feel like a safe space, where everyone, no matter their identity, can express themselves.
Her goal? To create timeless, high-quality pieces that last—because real style isn’t about trends, it’s about confidence.
Key Topics Discussed:
💡 How working in different industries helped her prepare for launching a brand 💡 The real behind-the-scenes of sourcing materials and production 💡 Learning to fake confidence until it becomes real 💡 The importance of pricing, quality, and sustainability in fashion 💡 The future of Unbothered and what’s next for Sol
🎧 Tune in now, and don’t forget to DM @hustle.and.heart.pod on Instagram or @Hustleandheartpod on Facebook with your biggest takeaway!
🔗 Connect with Sol & Shop Unbothered:
🌎 Website: UNBTHRD Fashion 📸 Instagram: @solpaulino / @unbthrdfashion 📹 TikTok: @solwillia
Join the Hustle & Heart Community:
📌 Facebook: Hustle and Heart Pod 📌 Instagram: @hustle.and.heart.pod 📌 Online Community: vmbcreativeco.com/hustle-and-heart-podcast
💬 Tag us in your takeaways, and let’s keep this conversation going! 🚀💖

Ep10: Why Expectations Hold You Back—And How Standards Set You Free

In this episode, we’re diving into the powerful difference between standards and expectations—and why understanding this distinction is essential for both personal growth and success. Too often, we set high expectations for others or specific outcomes, only to feel frustrated and let down. But what if the key to fulfillment isn’t in expectations at all, but in the standards we set for ourselves?
I’ll break down how expectations create disappointment, while strong personal standards lead to self-respect, boundaries, and success. You’ll learn how to shift from waiting for others to meet your expectations to creating a life that aligns with your deepest values.
By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with a clear understanding of how to set empowering standards, let go of unrealistic expectations, and build a mindset that fosters confidence, peace, and fulfillment.
Key Topics Discussed:
The difference between standards and expectations
How expectations can lead to disappointment and frustration
Why setting strong personal standards attracts success
How to stop relying on others for validation
The role of boundaries in maintaining high standards
How shifting your mindset can change your relationships and career
Actionable steps to redefine your standards and elevate your life
🎧 Tune in now, and don’t forget to DM @hustle.and.heart.pod on Instagram or @Hustleandheartpod on Facebook with your biggest takeaway!
💡 Join our Online Community: www.vmbcreativeco.com/hustle-and-heart-podcast

Ep9: Small Business Money Management: Tax Planning Insights from EA Amorette Mason

In this candid conversation, I chat with my friend Amorette Mason, EA and founder of Innovative Capital Management, about the real financial challenges entrepreneurs face in 2025. If you've ever struggled with tax planning, business deductions, or financial organization, this episode delivers practical advice you can implement immediately.
Amorette shares her journey from the film industry to becoming a sought-after financial expert for small business owners. With her straightforward approach and over a decade of expertise in tax preparation and managerial accounting, she breaks down complex financial concepts into actionable steps for entrepreneurs at any stage.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
✨ Small Business Tax Planning - Strategic approaches to minimize tax liability legally 
✨ Business Deduction Truth Bombs - Which deductions are legitimate and which might trigger an audit 
✨ Entrepreneur Financial Management - Systems to track your business finances without the headache
 ✨ Social Media Tax Advice Reality Check - Why those TikTok tax hacks could be dangerous for your business 
✨ Year-Round Tax Strategies - Move beyond tax season panic with quarterly planning
 
Meet Amorette Mason 
Amorette Mason is the founder and principal EA at Innovative Capital Management, specializing in tax strategy for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Her expertise spans multiple industries, including real estate, creative businesses, and cannabis. Unlike traditional accountants, Amorette focuses on building financial literacy among her clients, empowering them to make confident money decisions year-round.
🎧 This conversation feels like eavesdropping on two friends talking money over coffee - practical, honest, and occasionally hilarious!
 
🔗 Connect with Amorette & Book a Consultation: 
Website: amorettemason.com 
Instagram: @innovative_amor
Book a Tax Strategy Session: https://www.amorettemason.com/tax-preparation-interest
💰 Ready to get your business finances in order? Book a session with Amorette to get expert guidance on taxes, bookkeeping, and strategic financial planning.
Join the Hustle & Heart Community: 
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Tag us in your takeaways and let’s keep this conversation going! 🚀💖

Ep8: Why Email Marketing Still Matters in 2025

Ever feel like you're shouting into the void on social media? In this episode, I'm sharing why email marketing continues to be my most reliable business-building tool—and how it can be yours too.
I'm taking you back to 2007 when I was working at Royal Caribbean, teaching travel agents (some who barely knew how to open their inbox!) how to use email to book more cruises. Those early lessons have evolved into strategies that still work today, regardless of industry changes and tech advancements.
What You'll Discover:
The "consistency creates trust" principle I learned at Royal Caribbean that transformed skeptical travel agents into email marketing believers
My embarrassing early email marketing mistake that led to a flood of unsubscribes (and what I did to fix it)
Why your email list is your "insurance policy" against unpredictable platform changes
Simple automation sequences that work while you sleep (without feeling robotic)
How to write subject lines that actually get opened—including the surprisingly simple one that got my highest open rate last year
If you've been putting off email marketing or aren't seeing results from your current strategy, this episode breaks everything down into manageable steps you can implement right away.
Key Topics Discussed:
Why email marketing outlasts trends and algorithms
The biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make with their email lists
How to craft compelling subject lines that get opened
The power of storytelling in email content
Automation secrets to save time and increase conversions
How to nurture your audience for long-term loyalty
My top email marketing tools and resources
The perfect balance between value and promotion
Join the Hustle & Heart Community: 📌 Facebook: Hustle and Heart Pod 📌 Instagram: @hustle.and.heart.pod 📌 Online Community: vmbcreativeco.com/hustle-and-heart-podcast
Ready to Dive Deeper? Join my FREE Email Marketing Workshop on March 20th at 12PM CST where we'll build on these concepts with live demonstrations and real examples: Register Here
Building an email list isn't just another marketing task…it's creating a direct line to the people who matter most to your business. Let's make it count!

Ep7: Finding Your North Star When Everything Feels Dark with Daisy Betance

In this episode, I sit down with Daisy Betance, founder of Little Buddha by Daisy, to explore her inspiring journey from the high-stress finance world to creating a thriving, eco-conscious skincare brand. Daisy shares her personal struggles with health, stress, and self-discovery, and how she transformed her challenges into a mission to help others heal from the inside out.
We dive deep into the power of trusting yourself, taking bold leaps in entrepreneurship, and embracing natural wellness. Whether you're thinking of leaving your 9-to-5, looking for holistic skincare solutions, or just in need of some major inspiration—this episode is for you!
By the end of the episode, you’ll walk away with insights on: ✨ How Daisy turned her personal health struggles into a booming business ✨ The pivotal moment she knew she had to leave her corporate job ✨ Scaling a handmade business and learning to trust others in the process ✨ Why skincare is more than just beauty—it’s about health and self-care ✨ Her new venture, From Scratch, and why making your own food is a game-changer
 
Meet Daisy Betance Daisy Betance is the founder of Little Buddha by Daisy, a brand dedicated to providing non-toxic, natural skincare products that nurture and heal. After years in a high-stress finance career, struggling with health issues that traditional medicine couldn't solve, Daisy took matters into her own hands. She discovered the power of clean ingredients, took a soap-making class, and never looked back. Now, she’s helping women prioritize their wellness through simple, effective skincare and mindful living practices.
Her latest project, From Scratch, is all about teaching people how to cook nourishing food with ease—because wellness starts from within.
 
Key Topics Discussed:
💡 Taking the leap: What it really takes to leave your corporate job 💡 Learning to delegate and grow a handmade business 💡 Why self-care isn’t just about skincare—it’s a whole lifestyle 💡 The impact of clean beauty and what to look for in your skincare products 💡 The launch of From Scratch: How Daisy is redefining home cooking and wellness
🎧 Tune in now, and don’t forget to DM @hustle.and.heart.pod on Instagram or @Hustleandheartpod on Facebook with your biggest takeaway!
🔗 Connect with Daisy & Shop Little Buddha by Daisy: Website: littlebuddhabydaisy.com Instagram for From Scratch: @daisy_betance Little Buddha on IG: @littlebuddhabydaisy
 
🌿 Ready to transform your self-care routine? Check out Daisy’s best-selling Calm Vibes Magnesium Body Butter and other holistic skincare must-haves!
Join the Hustle & Heart Community: 📌 Facebook: Hustle and Heart Pod 📌 Instagram: @hustle.and.heart.pod 📌 Online Community: vmbcreativeco.com/hustle-and-heart-podcast
Tag us in your takeaways and let’s keep this conversation going! 🚀💖

Ep.6 The Science of Gratitude: What Dr. Joe Dispenza Taught Me About Healing

In this episode, I share my learnings from Dr. Joe Dispenza about the transformative power of mindset and manifestation, exploring how to break free from limiting beliefs and truly step into your potential. I share practical strategies for cultivating an empowering mindset that fuels success and fulfillment. You’ll learn how to harness the power of positive thinking and reframe your narrative to manifest the life you desire.
By the end of the episode you’ll walk away with actionable steps for overcoming self-doubt, embracing abundance, and nurturing a growth mindset. This episode is packed with insights designed to inspire you to take bold action and build the life and career of your dreams.
Who is Dr. Joe Dispenza?
Dr. Joe Dispenza is a pioneer in the field of neuroscience and quantum physics, merging science with spirituality to empower individuals to rewire their brains and create new realities. His groundbreaking work on the connection between thought, emotion, and physical health has transformed countless lives. Through his teachings, he demonstrates how intentional thinking and meditation can reprogram your mind, allowing you to break free from old patterns and manifest a future aligned with your highest potential.
His approach resonates deeply because it’s not just about positive thinking—it's about scientifically backed methods that enable real, measurable transformation. Dr. Dispenza’s brilliance lies in his ability to bridge the gap between science and personal development, making the journey of self-discovery both accessible and revolutionary.
Key Topics Discussed:
The reason you're stuck isn't lack of willpower.
Your body is programmed by past experiences.
Being present allows for new possibilities.
Meditation and visualization can transform your mornings.
Practicing gratitude can lead to healing and opportunities.
Stress can become an addiction that hinders growth.
You can rewire your brain for success.
Feel the emotions of your future now.
Your actions align with your envisioned self.
You are the creator of your future, not a prisoner of your past.
 
🎧 Tune in now, and don’t forget to DM @hustle.and.heart.pod on Instagram or @Hustleandheartpod on Facebook with your biggest takeaway!
View the full interview with Dr. Joe Dispenza :https://youtu.be/R5xV9BTYXL4?si=K8ajiPH79hMD7_9_  
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Ep5: Breaking Cycles Entrepreneurship, Motherhood & Mental Health with Lisbeth Perdomo Part2

We are back for Part 2 of this engaging conversation with Lisbeth Perdomo who shares her transformative journey from music to entrepreneurship, detailing the challenges she faced in her marriage, mental health, and the birth of her business, Que Mami Inc. She discusses the importance of authenticity, the struggles of postpartum depression, and how fitness became a crucial part of her recovery and empowerment. Lisbeth emphasizes the significance of setting boundaries, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the power of vulnerability in building meaningful relationships and a successful career. In this conversation, Lisbeth Perdomo and Vanessa Betance explore the themes of transparency, personal growth, and the complexities of relationships and parenthood. They discuss the importance of communication, establishing boundaries, and the challenges faced in navigating roles as partners and parents. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of being true to oneself while supporting each other through life's transitions and challenges.
 
Takeaways
Lisbeth's journey is a testament to reinvention and resilience.
The decision to pursue entrepreneurship was driven by a deep personal need.
Building a supportive team was crucial for Lisbeth's success.
Postpartum challenges can significantly impact mental health and self-identity.
Fitness and wellness played a key role in Lizbeth's recovery from postpartum depression.
Authenticity is essential in navigating professional spaces as a woman.
Setting boundaries is vital to protect one's mental health and growth.
Imposter syndrome is a common struggle for many entrepreneurs.
Vulnerability can strengthen relationships and foster deeper connections.
Lisbeth's story highlights the importance of sharing one's truth.  Embracing transparency and honesty can lead to personal growth.
Navigating multiple roles can be overwhelming but manageable with self-acceptance.
Communication is key in overcoming challenges in relationships.
Establishing boundaries is crucial for healthy family dynamics.
Personal growth can change the dynamics of a relationship.
Support from partners is essential during challenging times.
Setbacks can be viewed as stepping stones to success.
Every individual has their own journey that deserves respect.
It's important to prioritize self-care while supporting family goals.
Building a strong foundation in marriage requires ongoing effort and communication.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Lisbeth's Journey
14:12 Navigating Postpartum Challenges
25:24 Finding Empowerment Through Fitness
30:31 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Embracing Authenticity
41:37 Embracing Transparency and Honesty
47:13 Challenges in Relationships and Parenthood
56:31 Establishing Boundaries and Communication
01:04:12 Balancing Individual and Family Goals
 
Connect & Follow Lisbeth Perdomo: 
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/quemami.inc/?hl=en
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/QueMamiInc
YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/@quemamipresents
 
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Ep4: From Spark to Strategy – Turning Inspiration into Real Change

Have you ever experienced that electric moment of inspiration, only to watch it slip away in the daily grind? In this powerful episode of The Hustle + Heart Podcast, Vanessa uncovers the secret sauce that transforms fleeting ideas into lasting change.
 
Key Topics Discussed:- Why inspiration often shows up as recognition first- How Human Design plays a role in decision-making and energy alignment- The difference between motivation and true transformation- Three practical steps to take inspired ideas from spark to strategy
 
Vanessa shares real-life experiences, including her own journey with Human Design and how learning to respond rather than initiate changed her approach to business and life. If you're ready to stop overthinking and start aligning your actions with what truly energizes you, this episode is for you.
 
🎧 Tune in now, and don’t forget to DM @hustle.and.heart.pod on Instagram or @Hustleandheartpod on Facebook with your biggest takeaway!
 
Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/Hustleandheartpod/
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Join Online Community: https://www.vmbcreativeco.com/hustle-and-heart-podcast
 

Ep3: Empowering Latina Entrepreneurs - The Journey of Lisbeth Perdomo

Episode Summary
In this powerful conversation, Dominican American entrepreneur Lisbeth Perdomo shares her transformative journey from being the youngest of five siblings to founding Que Mami, a revolutionary movement empowering Latina entrepreneurs. Through intimate storytelling, Lisbeth reveals how her Dominican heritage, musical background, and experience in community activism shaped her path to becoming a successful business leader and mentor.
 
Key Topics Discussed
- Dominican American entrepreneurship experiences
- Latina business leadership and mentorship
- Postpartum mental health and motherhood
- Community building and activism
- Personal branding and business development
- Cultural identity in entrepreneurship
- Work-life integration strategies
- Female empowerment in business
 
Connect & Follow
Link with Lisbeth:
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/lisbethperdomo14/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/QueMamiInc
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@quemamipresents
Website: http://www.quemami.com/
Store:https://www.unbthrdfashion.com/collections?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaa7buYC8gj1rQ68Z7cC0JumCAEV967K62FDsPg3UV1I2jUe6xOpsW25uPU_aem_Ba9TmfhybJsfoFnFYlmOtQ
Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/Hustleandheartpod/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hustle.and.heart.pod/
Join Online Community: https://www.vmbcreativeco.com/hustle-and-heart-podcast