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It was another incredible year of interviews on the Pgh Dreamer’s Pod! We spoke to 20 women-owned businesses in the Burgh.

Anastasia Barr-Whiteman, owner of Pretzels Plus with an Amish Touch, kicked us off with a lesson in taking risks and working hard for the pay off. Twisted Fitness owners Crystal Smith and Shelby Durbin told us the story of their longstanding friendship and starting a business based on their love of moving their bodies. Bethany Carolus of Swift Shine Cleaning shared how her side hustle of cleaning turned into her full time gig. Stephanie Jurik, owner of Organize by Nature, explained how she plans to go beyond organizing to home concierge services. And Stephanie Samolovitch, used her resilience after battling leukemia, to start the Young Adult Survivors United, which does big things for young adults who experienced cancer.

Sarah McDavis of Wonder Creek Media spoke to us about her love of teaching kids yoga and creating fun adventures through her book writing. Nicole Trombley, founder of Marvel Ministries, rebranded herself this year as an empowerment coach, spiritual teacher, speaker, and more. Colleen Paulson, owner of Ageless Careers, told us about her goal of helping Gen X and Baby Boomers find great jobs faster. Leo and Lynn Jewelry creator, Summer Rothrock, shared with us her passion for hand stamping and creating casual jewelry designs for everyday wear. And Speech Simplified founder, Amanda LaValle, told us how being a serial entrepreneur has allowed her to be available to her family all while building successful businesses.

Heather Daerr of Lazy Dreamer Farms shared her love of microgreens and cold-press juices and how nutritious food needs a place at our tables. Shana Lohr, owner of Inclusive Aesthetics, dazzled us with her love of making people look and feel their best. Genevieve Barbee-Turner, creator of Killerpancake Illustration, revealed how her love of history has inspired her custom art and taro card decks. Founder of The Modern Steward, Kimberly Hairston-Neal, explained how her move management company has helped people easily transition into new locations and jobs. And Laura Stewart, owner of Whole Rooted Wellness, shared her holistic approach to encouraging the body to naturally heal itself.

Marisa Quattrone, pediatrician at Zest Pediatrics, explained her network of direct care/concierge medicine practices for children, the first of its kind in the US! Erica Tamburo, a multiple exposure photographer, told us how she uses her technical background and artistic passion to stay balanced and inspired. Alecia Otto, founder of The Auto Body Shop, provided education on her mobile bodily autonomy and community care services. Lauren Zeznanski, Chestnut Ridge Drama Club Director, shared her love of teaching and training the next generation of theater lovers. And Nicole Bukosky, owner of Evergreen Stitched Goods, told us about her crocheted products and how they bring a sense of cozy coastal grandma vibes.

We are so appreciative of the women who shared their stories with us this year and look forward to more motivating journeys as we embark on a new year with new guests! Have a women-owned business that you love? Send us some interview recs!