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“But it's also like a rising tide lifts all boats. And I mean that not only from moral support and collaboration, but it also is the gap in women starting businesses, growing businesses, but clearly staying in business.”
In this special episode of Startups and Stilettos, co-hosts Ingrid Zapata-Read and Carlyn Bushman turn the mic inward to share the stories, philosophies, and messy middle moments that shaped who they are as entrepreneurs—and why this podcast exists in the first place.From nonlinear career paths and building businesses that actually make money, to progress over perfection, pricing with confidence, and why consistency beats hustle every time, this conversation is equal parts insightful, honest, and refreshingly unfiltered.
Carlyn opens up about the creation of POP Academy, the gaps she saw for women founders, and why understanding your numbers isn’t optional if you want to stay in business. Ingrid brings the curiosity, energy, and real-talk questions that make this episode feel like a conversation with your smartest business besties.
What we talked about:
Getting to Know Carlyn [2:22]
Desire in Education [6:29]
Changing With AI Technology [10:52]
Understanding the Cost [14:12]
Working With Ingrid [19:11]
Join hundreds of ambitious, purpose-driven founders at The PGA National Resort for a life-changing weekend of inspiration, motivation, and transformation for the 2026 Founders Weekend!
Connect with Carlyn:
@carlynbushmanconsulting on Instagram
Carlyn Bushman on LinkedIn
Connect with Ingrid:
@itsingridsworld on Instagram
Ingrid Zapata-Read on Linkedin
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Get Featured on Startups in Stilettos
Want a chance to be featured on Startups in Stilettos? We’re currently accepting applications from our Entreprenista League members to be featured on the show! Think of the Entreprenista League as your team members in what can be a lonely startup founder’s journey. You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded female startup founders who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on ourwebsite,social channels – and, of course, the Startups in Stilettos podcast – and so much MORE!
Grow Your Startup with Startups in Stilettos
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Guests
Hosts
Carlyn Bushman
Carlyn Bushman is a seasoned business consultant, entrepreneur, and advocate for female founders. She founded POP Business Academy to empower women entrepreneurs with tools for building sustainable, profitable businesses. As CEO of Carlyn Bushman Consulting, she specializes in helping product- and service-based business owners navigate financials, marketing, and growth strategies. With extensive corporate experience, Carlyn, a mom in a blended family and lifelong learner, has been featured on Good Morning America and in Times Square. She's here to help you make money and stay in business.
Ingrid Zapata Read
Grow With Community
Ingrid Zapata Read is a community strategist and founder of Grow With Community. She helps businesses get closer to the people they serve and build stronger, more intentional relationships around their mission.
After building a global community for moms of over 200,000 members, and through her experience in sales, startups, and customer experience, Ingrid brings a people-first perspective to growth across industries. She’s known for her thoughtful, practical approach and believes community building should be a part of every business strategy.
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