Jiselle, our featured interviewee, is a multifaceted personality based in Virginia. Balancing life as a mother and educator, she has extended her talents into the entrepreneurial realm by founding Sueños Coffee Co. This innovative company stands out as a marketplace and subscription service, uniquely promoting and supporting women-owned coffee brands. Jiselle's entrepreneurial spirit is deeply intertwined with her commitment to women's empowerment, making her a perfect fit for 'The Muze', which celebrates ambitious and impactful women leaders.

Questions and Topics Covered:

• Introduction and Jiselle's background.
• The inception and growth of Sueños Coffee Co.
• Overcoming challenges as a woman entrepreneur.
• Jiselle's approach to balancing multiple roles.
• The importance of supporting women-owned businesses.
• Personal insights and advice for aspiring female entrepreneurs.

Full Transcript:

Alexis Fox:

"Hello, and welcome. Today, we're diving into a conversation about women's empowerment. Jiselle, tell us about yourself and your company."

Jiselle:

"Hi Alexis, I'm Jiselle from Virginia. In my day job, I work in education. Outside of that, I've launched Sueños Coffee Co., a platform spotlighting women in the coffee industry through a unique marketplace and subscription service."

Alexis Fox:

"Your entrepreneurial journey aligns perfectly with our mission at The Muze. Was this always your plan?"

Jiselle:

"Not exactly. It developed over time. My creative side always sought extra activities. During the 2020 lockdown, I decided to create something of my own, leading to Sueños Coffee Co."

Alexis Fox:

"How did the idea of Sueños Coffee Co emerge?"

Jiselle:

"While brainstorming, my eureka moment came over a coffee session with my son. Discovering my passion for coffee, I researched and found a gap in promoting women-owned coffee brands, which led to Sueños."

Alexis Fox:

"Can you talk about building connections in the coffee industry?"

Jiselle:

"I started by reaching out to women-owned brands. Their positive responses encouraged me and played a crucial role in my entrepreneurial journey."

Alexis Fox:

"Juggling motherhood, a full-time job, and your business must be challenging."

Jiselle:

"It involves constant balancing. I focus on prioritizing and scheduling, along with being kind to myself. It's about embracing the process and finding joy in it."

Alexis Fox:

"What's been the most challenging aspect?"

Jiselle:

"Time management, combating self-doubt, and the technicalities of running a part-time business are my biggest challenges."

Alexis Fox:

"What resources or support have been crucial?"

Jiselle:

"A strong support network, including industry professionals, a therapist, and a business coach, has been invaluable."

Alexis Fox:

"Share a highlight from your experience with Sueños."

Jiselle:

"Meeting extraordinary women in the industry and learning their stories has been incredibly rewarding, like connecting with a family-run farm in Guatemala."

Alexis Fox:

"What advice would you give to your younger self or someone starting out?"

Jiselle:

"Follow your heart, even if it's unconventional. Prioritize happiness and self-love. Trusting your path is key, especially if it brings you joy and fulfillment."

Alexis Fox:

"Why should we specifically support women-owned businesses?"

Jiselle:

"Women tend to reinvest in their communities, driving growth and progress. Supporting women-owned businesses means uplifting whole communities."

Alexis Fox:

"Thank you, Jiselle, for sharing your journey. Your insights are invaluable to our listeners and align perfectly with the spirit of The Muze."