BEAUTY
BUSINESS OWNER & AN ENTREPRENEUR THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A
Two years ago, issues and three iterations later,
We are celebrating the globally recognized Ico anniversary to US!! I started this magazine as a self ful girl's dream finally came to life after losing my social m expectations or result driven goals when I launched t able to say that I had published a magazine in innovation, the value and the quality of what we hav world by storm We mail issues all over the world a two million people globally There is a full time tea coveted resource for entrepreneurs where they ar iconic life and business It’s more than I ever imagined to each and every one of you who have supported a We are only getting started. This next year holds a some of the biggest moguls in the world as our cover f
I truly am in awe. Now I will go and celebrate
JEN SZPIGIEL, EDITOR -IN-CHIEF @BECOMINGICONIC
JENN HARPER
“At the beginning, I was working my full-time day job and spending evenings and weekends focused on my business. In those first two years, I read over 100 books about operating a business and Indigenous people. I read so many pieces of literature, deepening my understanding of my own culture and learning from examples of successful entrepreneurial journeys. The product I started with was not the formulation or packaging of my dreams. I had the opportunity to meet with Sephora Canada in 2018. They made it very clear they would never have private label products on their shelves, which is completely understandable. This was the moment I knew I needed to reach out to investors for funding. With my own money I hired a contract chemist, and we started by formulating a lipstick. New entrepreneurs often ask questions about obtaining funding. I am a firm believer it is all about timing and meeting the right person at the right time.”
READ THE FULL ARTICLE PG. 13-16
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Jen Szpigiel
ART DIRECTOR + GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Lo Galloway
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Whitney Radacina
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER
Jessica Klassen
is published in house by
No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the written consent of the publisher
PRINTED IN TORONTO, CANADA.
Iconic magazine
Becoming Iconic.
HARPER
pg 13-16
An award-winning social entrepreneur and international speaker, Jenn is the trailblazing founder and CEO of Cheekbone Beauty Cosmetics.
EDITORS
Iconic Magazine reaches its second anniversary!
THE ICONIC VOICEMAIL
Where you leave your business challenges and most curious questions after the tone and we support you in overcoming them.
THE B.LOUNGE
Build your first six figure year in a room where elegance, sophistication, professionalism and unexplainable results are not merely spoken about but lived
MARINA KATHERINE
Marina is a wedding and lifestyle content creator and social media manager based in Manhattan, New York.
Learn how to sell successfully from stage with Ashley
How
CHEEKBONE BEAUTY SCHOLARSHIP
The aim at Cheekbone Beauty has always been to make a difference in the lives of Indigenous youth 49
ICONIC
BLUME
Tune into the latest episodes of the Iconic Podcast. 51
Wellness rituals that fill up your cup! Literally + figuratively.
53
ICONIC PODCAST
On the Cover
Jenn Harper is not just a name in the beauty industry;
she's a revolution An award-winning social entrepreneur and international speaker, Jenn is the trailblazing founder and CEO of Cheekbone Beauty Cosmetics a brand that has gracefully painted the ideals of sustainability and inclusion onto a global canvas From its inception in 2015, Jenn has nurtured Cheekbone Beauty into a B Corp Certified force, now gracing the shelves of Sephora Canada and 550 JC Penney locations across the USA.
Marina Katherine
Marina is a wedding and lifestyle content creator and social
media manager for women in the wedding industry and beyond. She recently got married in September 2023 after documenting her wedding planning experience on social media. She lives in Manhattan with her husband and pup, loves to travel, explore new restaurants in NYC and tune into everything on Bravo
CONNECT WITH MARINA
Ashley
Deland
Ashley Deland is a Strategic Business Advisor for female founders
who specializes in marketing, branding, and business development. She is also the Founder and CEO of Maison De Land, a full-service creative design house that supports lifestyle brands and founders alike through comprehensive done-for-you services. With over a decade of experience, Ashley is a recognized expert in the field of business and has been featured in Forbes, INC, Entrepreneur, and currently sits on the Forbes Business Council for the third consecutive year She was the Business Elites “Top 40 Under 40” winner in 2022, was recognized by Business World Magazine as “20 Under 40: Inspiring Leaders To Watch in 2023,” nominated by The Women Empowerment Awards of Toronto for “Roger’s Entrepreneur Of The Year” 2023, won “Best Female Entrepreneur In Canada” at The 2023 Stevie Awards For Women In Business, was nominated for the YWCA “Women of Distinction” awards 2024, and more recently was the winner of “The Female Business Leader Award” from The Business Excellence Awards of Burlington
CONNECT WITH ASHLEY
Karen
Martell
Karen has over 35 years of experience in healthcare, business
management, coaching, counseling, and leadership. She holds a BScN, MBA, and Psy.D in Human Behavior. As a Master Trainer of NeuroLinguistic Programming, Quantum Time-Line, and Hypnosis, Karen brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her coaching practice. Her focus is on empowering executives, managers, professionals, entrepreneurs, teams, and individuals to transform their thinking patterns and achieve their desired goals Karen is dedicated to helping her clients alter their lifestyles to support success in all areas of life, including emotional and physical health, leadership excellence, business growth, and work-life balance
CONNECT WITH KAREN
Unyime
Oguta
In a world that rewards self-sacrifice and upholds standards of
injustice, Unyime believes that thriving as a woman is a radical act. Unyime empowers women to thrive in all areas of life. As a working mom of three, she believes that having it all comes from daily empowered decisions. Combining her expertise in project management, health, leadership, and coaching, she helps clients reclaim their voice and power Unyime’s transformative coaching creates lasting fulfillment and a legacy of empowerment She offers bespoke, trauma-responsive, and antiracist coaching experiences focused on guiding clients to gain time, energy, and space for pursuing their goals and desires outside of motherhood.
CONNECT WITH UNYIME
Jenn Harper
Trailblazing founder and CEO of Cheekbone Beauty Cosmetics—a brand that has gracefully painted the ideals of sustainability and inclusion onto a global canvas. From its inception in 2015, Jenn has nurtured Cheekbone Beauty into a B. Corp Certified force, now gracing the shelves of Sephora Canada and 550 JC Penney locations across the USA.
A PHILANTHROPIC BRAND THAT IMPACTS THE INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY
Jenn Harper, the visionary of Cheekbone Beauty, has pioneered a philanthropic brand that impacts the Indigenous community around the word In this interview with Editor in Chief, Jen Szpigiel, she shares the financial risks of her product-based business, obtaining funding, meeting with Sephora, and her compassion-driven aspirations for the future
J.S. As someone who operated a product-based business and has a background in the beauty industry, I would love to know the roots of Cheekbone Beauty. How did you begin?
JH I did not take the traditional path into entrepreneurship The idea of my business was sparked by a middle of the night dream, a vivid image of three native little girls with brown skin and rosy cheeks giggling and laughing because they had made a mess with lip gloss. I was selling seafood at the time. My background is in food distribution, so it is crazy to think about my path leading into the beauty industry. I have always loved beauty, skincare, makeup, and hair products, but I was not someone with career experience inside the world of beauty Many brands that are scaling rapidly have founders with at least a decade of experience in a conglomerate such as L’Oréal, Estée Lauder, or LVMH Thankfully the internet opened a whole new world of product marketing to the masses Social media allowed us to have a real audience relatively quickly
JS There was something special about this dream if it left such an impression upon you. It activated you to do something you ' ve never even considered before
JH Truth be told, I was at a pivotal intersection of my life I was newly sober after battling alcoholism for many years. This was also when North America, including Canada, was learning about the Residential School System and how it impacted Indigenous, First Nations, Métis and Inuit cultures. This large-scale moment of understanding was not only about my grandparents’ story but recognizing my own personal traumas Discovering this history was a big part of my personal healing journey When I had my dream, I was driven to start a business because of a deeper understanding of past pain and a stronger sense of purpose
J.S. The greatest ideas are sparked out of the personal journeys we have to take. Through those journeys, we are chiseled into the best version of ourselves. After your dream , was the brand name , Cheekbone Beauty first or was the product first?
JH Dreams are always vague and spotty after the fact Immediately after I woke up, I wrote down the idea of creating a lip gloss and using a portion of the profits to do something to support my Indigenous community That was the initial mission statement and foundation of the business I am such a fan of TOMS shoes, Patagonia products, and brands that have a social impact behind them. I had never heard of anyone in the beauty industry doing this. The idea of doing business and doing good at the same time really mattered to me personally.
At the beginning, I was working my full-time day job and spending evenings and weekends focused on my business In those first two years, I read over 100 books about operating a business and Indigenous people I read so many pieces of literature, deepening my understanding of my own culture and learning from examples of successful entrepreneurial journeys The product I started with was not the formulation or packaging of my dreams. I had the opportunity to meet with Sephora Canada in 2018. They made it very clear they would never have private label products on their shelves, which is completely understandable. This was the moment I knew I needed to reach out to investors for funding With my own money I hired a contract chemist, and we started by formulating a lipstick New entrepreneurs often ask questions about obtaining funding I am a firm believer it is all about timing and meeting the right person at the right time
When I had my dream, I was driven to start a business because of a deeper understanding of past pain and a stronger sense of purpose.
J.S. I imagine that took audacity and bravery to walk into that room. Your choice afterwards , to not be defeated but to be inspired, says volumes about you
J.H. I researched how much money I would need for innovative packaging and formulations that will belong to Cheekbone Beauty. Raven Capital and I had been communicating for six months and they offered $350,000 in convertible debt, meaning the debt could be equity at some point later It was a great offer They wanted to see what I could accomplish with this amount I quit my job in August of 2019 and then an episode aired in September of 2019 where Cheekbone Beauty was on Dragons Den Canadian Television. Two beauty editors also interviewed me as a guest on their podcast. Everything happened fast, and it was a huge growth moment for the brand The appetite for a brand is the litmus test Does the world want this brand to exist? You discover the answer when people buy your products and come back to buy more products
J.S. I work with a lot of servicebased businesses now , but I come from a product-based background. In a service-based business , there is not a lot of equity required at the forefront to provide the service , whereas with the product-based business there is inventory to consider , chemists , and engineering. With a product-based business there is equity invested before you even sell a product. There are a lot of people who fear investing in their business and making their next big move. They want to make money first before they invest , but I imagine in your career you had to step out on that skinny branch. You had to make investments before you saw profits.
JH In many ways it was a risk My husband and I have a conversation often about the difference between a business owner and an entrepreneur He believes a real entrepreneur is someone who takes risks We certainly fall into that category because our house is on the line You are right, a product-based business is very cost heavy upfront There is always the risk that something could go wrong I chose to go down this path because I firmly believe this brand deserves to exist and have space on shelves in stores around the world I believe it is a brand that is making a difference We do things differently when it comes to packaging, raw ingredients, caring about people and protecting the planet
J.S. What would be your recommendation for someone who is thinking about starting a product-based business?
J.H. You have to believe in your products and have a clear path to understanding how you are going to sell them. Using my background in food distribution, I would break our inventory down and calculate how many individual units I could realistically sell It was a ton of effort on the front end If you do not know exactly how much inventory you are sitting on, you will never have a clear picture from a financial standpoint of how you are operating
J.S. That is great advice. What happened when you went back to Sephora for a second meeting?
J.H. I kept the e-mail addresses of everyone I met during my first meeting with Sephora. One of those people happened to be the VP of Merchandising for Canada. After I met with a chemist to develop our own formulation of lipstick, I sent samples for feedback I would receive honest answers like “this is not good” or “there was too much lip pull” At one point, I did not hear back from anyone for a long time Then in January of 2021 they emailed and said they wanted to list us in September of 2021
Thankfully, I had met an experienced beauty insider at a networking event, and he joined our board He had collaborated with Sephora in the past, he knew their language, and how they operate. Having that information was so helpful because it is nerve-racking when you are waiting for those big moments to happen. I used to be very firmly set on our product list and what we offer, but I learned that if we do not launch something new every two months, we lose customers Customers have been trained by the industry to frequently want new products I had to learn to work with the flow of industry and realize everything cannot be the way I want
J.S. If you could paint the perfect vision for the future of Cheekbone Beauty, what does it look like in five , ten , or twenty years from now?
J.H. I want to be a global brand. I have always wanted that from the beginning. I have never wanted Cheekbone Beauty to be small. I want Indigenous people around the world to recognize that an Indigenous woman has built a recognizable brand That goal will help us execute our mission for social impact Our scholarship fund launches every year and the bigger we get, the more opportunities we can offer to our community I am proud that culturally, our idea of success is not what we attain for ourselves Houses and cars are a western view of success As Indigenous people, we believe success is giving back
J.S. Your focus on philanthropy is setting an example for the beauty industry. Buying from Cheekbone Beauty is an enriching experience because of your gorgeous products and generous spirit. I encourage everyone to visit Cheekbone Beauty’s website and explore ways to contribute to their scholarships.
Where can we purchase your products?
J.H. They are available now to purchase through Sephora and are also available at JC Penny in the U.S.
JS Thank you so much, Jenn, for your audacity, grit, and your impactful leadership Raven Capital and I had been communicating for six months and they offered $350,000 in convertible debt, meaning the debt could be equity at some point later. It was a great offer.
"I HAVE A VERY FULL SCHEDULE BUT I WANT TO GROW"
In this episode of The Iconic Voicemail, Jen addresses the challenge of having a full schedule while still wanting to grow your business. She offers insights on balancing a demanding career, family responsibilities, and a passion project, emphasizing the importance of community and efficient, actionable learning
"I JUST DON'T THINK I CAN AFFORD IT"
In this episode of The Iconic Voicemail, Jen tackles the common financial concerns that hold many back from joining transformative programs like B Lounge. She shares her personal journey from being $100,000 in debt to achieving financial freedom by making bold, resourceful decisions
“DO I HIRE A TEAM FIRST OR DO I HIRE A MENTOR?”
In this episode of The Iconic Voicemail, Jen addresses the common dilemma of whether to hire a team or a mentor first. She shares a powerful analogy of navigating a boat through the ocean to emphasize the importance of mentorship as a guiding light before building a team.
“HOW IS THIS DIFFERENT THAN OTHER PROGRAMS OUT THERE?”
In this episode of The Iconic Voicemail, Jen tackles the question of how the B Lounge differs from other programs. She emphasizes the unique approach, experience, and generosity that sets B Lounge apart, highlighting her 18 years of expertise and the tangible, ongoing support provided
Continue
Stop,Start
As we head into Q4, let's fine-tune our strategies for a strong finish. We're playing the "Stop, Start, Continue" game to help you identify what's not serving you, what’s working, and what new actions to take. This focused approach will set you up for success and ensure you end the year on a high note
Reflect on one habit or activity that's not serving you What is it, and how does it hold you back? Write about your plan to stop this behavior and the positive impact it will have
02.
Think about one new habit or action that could significantly change your trajectory for the rest of the year What is it, and why is it important? Outline the steps you will take to start this new practice
03.
Identify something that you are currently doing well How has this contributed to your growth and success? Describe how you plan to continue and possibly enhance this positive aspect of your life
Ipray over every idea, dream, contemplation and vision that every person reading this has for themselves That we boldly believe and trust in ourselves to spark our dreams into our reality That we don’t wait, delay or bury our dreams but seize every opportunity to birth our wildest and most fulfilling lives I pray over this magazine A true testament to sparking something that didn’t make sense and certainly wasn’t convenient. I pray that it continues to be a source of inspiration to all we are able to touch. I trust it will gain bigger wings to spread around the world and that it will be of service to millions. I also hope it proves to be an example of what is possible to the dreamers who become doers. Let the ones reading this now generate more personal trust, responsibility and confidence in their vision Help them to rise to their occasion and build a business that will make a difference and impact those they will surely bless It’s too easy to stay the same Please make the discomfort of that enough that they decide to step into their greatness For themselves, their families and those they haven't even met yet
Amen
BUILDYOURFIRST
6-figure year
How do you generate more income, create more time freedom and become visible to your dream clients?
The B.Lounge is an immersive 12 month experience for the entrepreneur who is committed to building their business to a six figure year Over $35+ Million of collective sales and hundreds of six figure businesses have been co created with Jen Szpigiel, the CEO of Becoming Iconic
Your all in one solution where you get to have it all while mingling with like minded entrepreneurs who are making big moves in their life and business
Iconic Connections
J E N U I N E C O N N E C T I O N
Amonthly heart-centered article written by the Editor in Chief and Founder of Becoming Iconic, Jen Szpigiel. Jen has a reputation for being profoundly impactful for how she is able to blend vision, transparency and passion while leading and guiding others. Enjoy
her personal journal entries through the Jenuine Connection that host perspectives, insights and realizations that are only shared here within Iconic Magazine.
.
Why you shouldn’t
“retire”
Wyourhusband
hen I first achieved the milestone of having my husband home full-time,
it felt like a pinnacle of success. We had dreamed of this lifestyle where we could both be present for our children and enjoy the freedom of entrepreneurship. Initially, it was exhilarating. We traveled whenever we wanted, attended every school event, and spent countless moments together as a family The ability to design our days without the constraints of a traditional job was liberating
However, beneath the surface, there were challenges I hadn't anticipated One of the most profound lessons we learned was the importance of purpose I remember a moment when my husband, feeling lost and frustrated, told me, “All I do is change diapers, make meals, and clean.” This resonated deeply with me because I remembered feeling the same way when I was a stay-athome mom. Purpose is vital for everyone, and when one partner leaves their career, they must have something meaningful to pursue Whether it’s a new business, a hobby, or further education, having a purpose beyond being home is essential
Resentment is another significant challenge we faced. Despite my gratitude for our lifestyle, there were times when I felt overwhelmed and envious of my husband’s seemingly easier role.
Open communication and addressing these feelings are crucial to prevent resentment from damaging the relationship. Both partners need to discuss their roles and responsibilities honestly and frequently to maintain balance and mutual respect
Having my husband home full-time also affected our energy dynamics Often, I would carry my masculine, business-focused energy into our home, which would cause my husband to drop into his feminine energy This imbalance led to frustration and affected our intimacy and decision-making. Understanding and balancing these energy dynamics is vital for a healthy relationship. We need to create spaces where both partners can express their true selves and support each other’s growth.
As my husband returns to work, I’m optimistic about the new chapter ahead. This shift will help us balance our energies better and allow us both to pursue our passions fully. I look forward to the dynamic of welcoming him home and being more present in our shared life.
Retiring your husband shouldn’t be about proving your success or gaining validation It should be about creating a balanced partnership where both individuals can thrive and support each other’s dreams Ensure your partner has a meaningful purpose, communicate openly to prevent resentment, and navigate your energy dynamics thoughtfully By doing this, you can create a harmonious and fulfilling life together.
This journey of balancing entrepreneurial ambitions with personal relationships has taught me that the goal isn’t to achieve a picture-perfect life but to create one that is authentically fulfilling for both partners. Building a business that allows for freedom and flexibility is a beautiful thing, but it should never come at the expense of mutual respect and purpose
As I reflect on the last 11 years, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons learned and the strength gained The choice to have my husband home was not just about financial freedom but about redefining our family dynamic and creating a life that supports both our dreams. Moving forward, I am excited to embrace this new chapter with a deeper understanding of what true partnership looks like.
For those of you considering this path, I encourage you to think deeply about what you want for your family and how you can support each other’s growth It’s not just about retiring your husband; it’s about building a life where both partners can thrive and find fulfillment Let’s honor each other’s journeys and create a legacy of love, purpose, and mutual respect
In the end, it’s not about who brings in the income but how we support each other in becoming our best selves. Here’s to creating a life and business that are truly iconic.
Iconic Contributors
Meet the heart-led visionaries and industry leaders gracing the pages of Becoming Iconic Magazine. Each month, we feature a diverse ensemble of extraordinary men and women who share their insights and wisdom, enriching our magazine with transformative ideas and
authentic narratives Their contributions embody the spirit of innovation and empowerment, resonating deeply with our readers and exemplifying the ethos of Becoming Iconic.
Marina
Written By: Marina Katherine | www.marinakatherinecreative.com
Photography By: Olivia Steur @olivia.steuer Katherine
Building the
Dream Job
Over the last few years I’ve navigated a career with roles in PR, wedding,
and fashion spaces, which ultimately lead to me starting my own social media business with many full circle moments along the way. After graduating from The University of Pittsburgh in 2015, I started my first job as a marketing and events coordinator for an award-winning wedding venue and catering company in Westchester, NY. I would use that experience as a stepping stone in discovering my dream career Since then I worked in roles spanning a PR firm in New York City, a department supervisor at Anthropologie, and what I considered my dream job on paper an assistant buyer at Bloomingdale’s
When 2020 happened and I found myself furloughed and eventually laid off from what I believed at the time was my “dream job”, I went back to my roots in the wedding industry. I blame quarantine for the amount of time I spent on social media but it led me to my next big thing starting my online business (something I honestly never saw for myself). I tapped into some of my past contacts in the wedding world, established real connections on Instagram and quickly saw my virtual assistant business take off It didn’t take long for me to realize that wedding vendors needed a personalized approach to high-impact social media strategies and that I was uniquely equipped to offer just that
In less than I year, I went from a virtual assistant to a social media manager partnering with incredible clients from New York to Belgium, Spain, and beyond. I’ve molded my business to grow and adapt with the everchanging shifts not only within the social media landscape but also within my own life.
2022 was a pivotal year for me I got engaged to my best friend and experienced another full circle moment becoming a bride to be and seeing the wedding industry in a whole new light as I planned my own dream wedding With my years of experience in the industry working both in person and bts on wedding days to helping clients market their own wedding businesses on socials I knew I had a unique perspective as a bride. So after a few months of enjoying our engagement-bliss, I started documenting my wedding planning experience on TikTok. I shared everything from trying on wedding dresses, selecting our vendors, DIY wedding projects, the list goes on and on At the time I thought it would be a fun, creative outlet to share ideas, connect with other brides and most importantly document a super special and fleeting chapter of my life What I didn’t realize is that it would lead to the expansion of my business, brand partnerships and countless other opportunities
Since then, I’ve created an incredible community of wedding vendors, brides and newlyweds and worked with some dream brands like Zola, Artifact Uprising, and Anthropologie Weddings (another full circle moment!)
If these last few years have taught me anything, it’s the power of social media and that a “dream job” can be ever-evolving.
-Marina
Written By: Ashley Deland
AshleyDeland
Photography By: Victoria Schwarzl, After All Photography
Selling from the Stage
As a female founder, I’ve navigated a complex landscape of opportunities
and challenges throughout my decade (plus) of service While the digital age has undoubtedly opened up endless avenues for marketing and sales, I will boldly say that there remains one unparalleled power in growing your business and elevating your success levels and that’s through face-to-face interactions. Let’s call it the good old magic of human interaction. As a business advisor, it’s easy for me to suggest “getting in the right rooms ” or focusing on building up relationship capital, but beyond that, one of the most impactful ways to foster connection and build authority is by selling from the stage
This might seem obvious, yet it often lands flat or is sidelined by fear for many, so today, I’m going to tap into why you need to sell yourself and your brand from the stage - now.
Create Transformational Connections
In an era dominated by virtual interactions, the value of in-person connections is often (severely) underestimated However, today I’m going to challenge you to refine your view of what “selling from the stage” actually looks like to you Instead of viewing the stage as a platform to push products or sell services which is an old-school approach I encourage you to see it as a chance to do more than just deliver a message
Consider it an opportunity to create a memorable and engaging experience for your audience This shift transforms your perspective of the stage into a space where genuine connections are made and meaningful interactions take place, instead of a selling platform Let me ask you: how many times have you attended a live event where they tapped into all your senses and delivered such a powerful and captivating story that it left you walking away on a high? That exhilarating feeling - that’s what matters the most… not your direct sales pitch.When you refocus your energy on creating a unique, memorable, valuefilled experience for your listeners instead of “selling” you instantly elevate your impact They leave inspired, motivated and ready for action - not because you sold them something, but because you made them feel something profound
“Ultimately, stepping onto the stage is an act of service. It’s about sharing your knowledge, experiences, and insights to help others on their journeys. It’s about giving back to your community and supporting the next generation of female leaders.”
Foster Deeper Relationships
When you stand before an audience, you have the unique opportunity to connect with them in a way that no digital medium can replicate. Your passion, energy, and authenticity can shine through, allowing you to build trust and rapport with your audience. This trust then forms the foundation for lasting relationships that can eventually translate into loyal customers, brand advocates and collaborative partners For example, at a recent event where I discussed strategic branding, several attendees approached me after my talk not just to express their appreciation, but to seek advice on their own branding challenges This immediate feedback and interaction was invaluable, because they provided real-time insights into that demographic’s needs and how I can best serve them moving forward These kinds of interactions and feedback are among the most rewarding aspects of speaking engagements They allow you to see the immediate impact of your words and foster deeper relationships, enhancing both your influence and your understanding of your audience.
Amplify Visibility & Impact
Visibility is crucial for any business, but especially for female founders eager to carve their mark in competitive industries Speaking engagements provide a dynamic platform not just for showcasing your expertise but also for sharing your personal journey and the tangible impact of your work By reaching a level of genuine authenticity and crafting captivating stories that create " me too" and "aha" moments with your listeners, you not only capture the audience's attention, but also their hearts Each time you speak, you have the opportunity to influence and inspire; your story, insights, and advice can spark ideas, motivate change, and drive action. This influence also has the opportunity to extend far beyond the immediate audience. It can impact their networks, communities and far beyond those four walls you served your message in. That ripple of exposure then turns into attracting more than just clients it opens doors to media coverage, strategic partnerships, and more speaking opportunities It also compels others to seek your guidance, potentially expanding your business into areas like coaching or advisory services Ultimately, taking the stage creates a powerful ripple effect, showcasing your value, wisdom, and expertise, and solidifying your status as a respected leader
Overcome & Embrace the Fear of Risk
Playing it safe might keep you comfortable, but it won’t propel you to new heights The moments that make you want to throw up the ones that push you out of your comfort zone are precisely where you need to be These are the moments where real growth happens Reflecting on my journey, I remember the first time I was invited to speak at a major industry conference The thought of addressing hundreds of seasoned professionals was daunting to say the least (here’s a secret: I actually did throw up the first time I did a keynote and I was mic'd up). However, I chose to keep embracing the challenge, focusing on the potential impact rather than the fear. The experience was transformative to say the least, not just for my career but for my personal growth as well. By confronting and overcoming the fear of risk, you set an example for others and inspire them to take bold steps in their own journeys Your courage becomes a beacon, encouraging other women to step into their power and pursue opportunities that scare them
Being of Service
Ultimately, stepping onto the stage is an act of service It’s about sharing your knowledge, experiences, and insights to help others on their journeys It’s about giving back to your community and supporting the next generation of female leaders When you speak, you have the opportunity to address challenges, provide solutions, and inspire hope. You become a source of guidance and support, fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual growth. This commitment to service not only enriches your professional life and enhances your personal fulfillment, but also fundamentally transforms you making you a better human for it. So really, what do you have to lose?
In conclusion
Embracing the stage is not merely about sharing information; it's about inspiring change, building deep connections, and leading with courage It represents an act of service to your audience and a commitment to your deepest values As you share your knowledge and experiences, you not only contribute to others' growth, but also enhance your own professional and personal fulfillment Remember, the influence you wield from the stage has the power to transform lives, including your own So step up, speak out, and let your voice inspire and lead this and future generations of women, making a profound and significant impact in the world.
Written By: Karen Martell
Karen
Martell
I am for me
Breaking Barriers to Help Executive Women Finds Happiness.
She dropped to her knees crying and saying “I can’t do this anymore ” She knew she had to do something let me tell you what got her to that point! I remember the day she walked into my office. She was not the first one, there have been so many before. She was well dressed, confident and seemed like she had it all together. She was a professional, influential to many, successful in business, managing and leading others, and respected by those she worked with, and yet, when the façade fell away, the story changed
She was also mom Her life was dedicated to make sure her family and home was taken care of, at the same time balancing her career, and yet her heart was broken No one would ever believe her relationship was toxic She spent many hours crying alone wondering how she got to this point and wondered would her life ever get better.
In the earlier days, life was good. Her relationship was happy, her partner was also a professional and together their life from the outside was perfect As the children came along, her life became busier, and she saw a change in the man she married In the community, he was looked up to, and yet behind closed doors, that person changed She often walked on eggshells when he was around He would constantly tell her what she was doing wrong, criticized her, often raging and yet expected her to be loving to him. She worked hard to please him, justifying that she knew he worked hard, and he was only saying these things because he was tired. She told her self- “he does love me, and in time life will get better.” Over the years, the normal ups and downs of relationships became more volatile and aggressive Her confidence was not what it used it be She made excuses for why she pulled away from her friends and colleagues, as it was easier to say no to friends than deal with his accusations and emotional attacks when she came home He would often become mad and ignored her for no reason
She started to question her own sanity. On the outside, no one knew what was really going on. She became exhausted managing everyone, had constant anxiety, and when she tried to take time for herself, he accused her of being selfish. The cracks in the relationship were becoming more and more obvious
Her story presented the picture of abuse For her it was not physical, as many think abuse is, it was psychological, which can be even more damaging The more she did personally and professionally, the angrier and more abusive he became
When she tried to communicate, he would turn it on her, again making her feel like she must be the problem Threats to leave her and to have an affair became frequent He started to spend longer hours at work, and when she asked why, he became angry saying “I have to pay for this life you are living!” He would tell her she was too sensitive, over dramatic and that she needed help! She started to feel she was going crazy. It was thenshe sought help.
Her story is more common than many think - people often assume that abuse stems from lower socio-economic conditions and lack of education It's surprising to know how many people are in toxic relationships that are educated, successful professionals with a high-income status, however few reach out for help From the outside world it may seem that is because of money and status. Really, it's because those women are like every other woman who has been emotionally beaten down, feeling worthless, and feeling trapped, have no way to navigate a plan for a better life. When financial abuse is in the mix, they are often left without resources, bank accounts are blocked, thus no way to access housing or legal support which compounds the abuse The legal system often creates more challenges that amplifies the abuse unknowingly
The toxic relationship dance has a purpose - to keep you there Many know intrinsically that they are in a toxic relationship, however they continue to make excuses thinking that the relationship will improve. The cycle of abuse creates dissonance in a woman ' s mind resulting a trauma bond. The classic abuse cycle starts with tension causing an incident takes place (which makes no senses), makeup (the one abused apologies), calmness and happiness, then repeat
The abuse creates the trauma bond and presents with lack of self-esteem, peacekeeping, being the one who always initiates the make-up Abuse presents as physical, emotional, psychological, financial and sexual as well Women who stay often feel that they will never find another relationship or worse- lose everything including children, family and friends and even their career.
Over the years in my personal and professional life, it has become obvious, that only talking about the problem there is little to no change. When listening to women struggling, it is easy to tell them to just leave or some other suggestion, yet it often does not help Women are brilliant and resourceful however when there has been trauma, many cannot see options, so they stay in the relationship out of fear
To change how one feels and acts, change must take place at the unconscious level, more specifically, traumas and triggers must be processed to change the emotional response by reprogramming the mind to create the life you want.
There are high level 4 points to create changes in any area of your life.
1
2
3
4
Decision- to change your life There must be a Huge WHY to make a change Even if you are a victim of abuse, you must decide to want a better life before change can happen
Decide it is possible- even if you do are not convinced you can This is not a wishthis is dedicated decision to make a change Find others that accomplished the change you want
Be specific and plan action. Yes, you must act for change to happen By waiting – no change will happen – remember the toxic relationship dance has a purpose - to keep you there
Work with someone who can assist you to reprogram your mind so that change is possible
To get to action and take back your power, change must take place in your mind I AM For Me is designed to inspire women like you, to reprogram the mind, create unlimited confidence, step into your Feminine power, be your best version, achieve many successes in your life, find yourself, use your voice, tap into your inner power and declare to yourself everyday. “I Am 4 Me.” Whether you are an executive or a stay-at-home Mom, if you are struggling in one area, all areas of your life will be affected. You deserve to be you… that amazing woman you are! Together we can create a roadmap for massive action that is possible It is not who you are or where you come from, it is who you deserve to be Are you ready to live your best life?
Karen Martell. MBA, Psy.D with 35 years in business, healthcare and coaching, she supports women to step into their best version of themselves and creating the life they want Change is possible!
Unyime Oguta
Written By: Unyime Oguta
Photography By: Matt Jacques
From Fear to Pride
NAVIGATING SEASONS OF MOTHERHOOD & ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Fall feels like new year to me. I’m a September baby and
I love it. For me, fall is an invitation to contemplation. The weather feels just right, with the warm midday sun peering through the window and a cool breeze in the evenings kissing summer goodbye and welcoming the cold winter months While most dive into the hustle and bustle of backto-school and end-of-year planning and execution, I want to invite you to pause and contemplate One thing we often miss during this pivotal moment is the silent transition of power that occurs. Moms return to work and attempt to catch a break before the end of year busyness without intention and focus. It is in these moments that I invite myself to sit down and mull over who I want to be going into the season I invite you to grab your journal and let’s do it together I’m a mompreneur navigating business, a 9-5, and raising my family – and I won’t have it any other way I wish I could tell you that this journey is easy That would be a lie Rather, I want to take you on a journey and let you in on three principles that help me thrive while wearing multiple hats in business and life, especially as we live into the end of the year.
Principle1:BefriendYourFears
First, let’s talk about fear – you ’ re going to need it People talk about fear like it’s a bad thing I’ve come to appreciate fear because that is how coaching found me A little over 10 years ago, I was diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), only it wasn’t IBS but chronic stress that presented with symptoms of IBS (I later learned this was burnout) My fear of getting a colonoscopy to confirm the diagnosis led me down a path of reflection and making the hard decision to decide who I wanted to be as a woman, wife, and mom. Up until that moment I was doing everything I was told to do, so that I could be a good wife and mom. I also wanted more than just the wife and mom titles. I wanted to pursue my passion of speaking, coaching, and helping people in a work environment but I was scared to disrupt life as I was told it should be. I read all the books and listened to any ‘expert’ who seemed to have all the answers for balancing it all. Nevertheless, I never felt like I had enough time in the day to connect with my husband and daughter, take care of myself, and be happy like the experts prescribed. That left me feeling like a failure and resenting my husband for having it easy I remember praying so hard to just figure this whole thing out and then one morning, I heard a gentle whisper in my heart –“who did you decide you would be before the world told you who you should be?” Of course, I hadn’t decided yet who I wanted to be! Now, this gets to be a foundational question for all my private clients who crave the time, energy, and space to pursue their own dreams and passions
It is also my invitation to you If you haven’t ever thought of it, now ’ s your chance This question will keep you focused and grounded in the essence of who you are Write it down, frame it, put it on a sticky note and look at it until it becomes a default point of reflection for you.
“Who did you decide you would be before the world told you who you should be?”
Principle2:BethePeaceinChaos
With September comes what I call the season of holding our breath. Maybe you can relate Children are back in school, traffic feels a lot more rushed, people act a little less patient, and it feels like you can barely get your holiday shopping in It’s easy to fall into the trap of overwhelm and busy because things seem chaotic We feel tempted to hold our breath and close our eyes until January comes so that we can start all over One thing that I’ve learned through my journey is, to be the peace in the chaos that being a mom while wearing multiple hats can often present. Before burnout, I thought that chaos meant that I was drowning under the weight of my life when really, I had failed to step into the posture to receive the life that I prayed for. I had to make the choice to choose peace no matter how chaotic life looked That meant that I had to decide what peace meant for me and embody peace Peace to me is ensuring that my standards for living support a life of ease and simplicity Things like getting enough restful sleep, nourishing my body with foods that energize me and tickle my senses, pleasurable experiences alone and with the people that I love, and leveraging support as I desire
Rather than drown under its weight, where can you realign your crown, pull your shoulders back, and step into the posture of leadership that your life is asking of you? What standards are you being invited to embrace and where are you holding yourself back because of fear? A quick tip for you – start to notice your feelings of resentment Every time resentment shows up, you ’ re being shown where you ’ re choosing performance over your peace That’s an invitation to re-evaluate your standard in that area of your life It’s going to be a little crunchy to navigate but you can do it
Principle3:NormalizeFeelingProud–
Publicly
The topic of pride in the way that it has been taught makes me want to pull my hair out Women have been taught to downplay their achievements and outsource their feelings of pride to other people, yet parents are told to let their children know how proud of them they are all the
time How absurd is that?As a woman with people-pleasing tendencies who is learning to let go of performative humility, I will tell you that no one wins when you hide feeling proud of yourself as a woman We don’t get many opportunities to win just for us, and this is why so many of us struggle with lack of confidence and imposter syndrome We have learned to discount our efforts and belittle our accomplishments in exchange for feeling loved and accepted. I don’t stand for that, and I don’t believe that is what God wants for any of us. For most of my life, I thought my mom worked hard with no reward but as I’ve grown as a mom, I realized that my mother had so many things she could’ve been proud of She had just learned to stay quiet and outsource the pride to my father I am committed to changing this for my daughters When we learn to feel proud of and acknowledge our accomplishments, we get to see the beauty in our strengths and diversity We feel more content and willing to support others on their journey too because we recognize that their success amplifies our collective success as women and humans
My invitation to you as we wrap up this moment of contemplation is to normalize feeling proud and letting other people know about it. As you reflect on what you ’ re proud of, remember the woman who took that leap, enforced the boundary with her knees shaking, and asked for the sale while sweating from every crevice
What did it take for her to step into that posture? What lessons can you glean and implement moving forward? Don’t miss it That woman came She saw She conquered She deserves her flowers Give them to her and let the world know. You never know who is watching.
As we step into this new season, let’s embrace our fears, find peace in the chaos, and celebrate our achievements. Together, we can thrive and inspire those around us to do the same
Iconic Lifestyle
The way to invite an opulent lifestyle into your world is through the intentionality of elevating all of your senses. Luxury is found within the details. esSENSE is here to inspire you to create experiences that turn moments into gorgeous memories. Learn about the most iconic
places, products, sounds, tastes and sights to immediately raise your standards of excellence within your life and business.
Capsule Wardrobe
Leopard
IN A NON- TACKY WAY!
Love it or hate it – we ’ re firmly on team love! – leopard print is roaring back into fashion this year After making headlines all spring and summer, this timeless pattern is dominating the fall 2024 runway Brands like Mango and Zara are offering affordable, must-have leopard pieces for your wardrobe.
If this fall trend feels a bit daunting (which is totally understandable), start small! A leopard print midi skirt or printed jeans are great options These versatile bottoms can be dressed up or down with essentials like knit cardigans and chic blazers Neutral tops and accessories are perfect complements, allowing the leopard print to stand out.
HELLO 90'S GRUNGE ERA
Plaid is poised to make a major comeback this fall, reminiscent of the ’90s grunge era when it last dominated the fashion scene. This timeless print, from classic tartans and bold buffalo checks to sophisticated windowpane and houndstooth patterns, is set to reclaim its spot in the fashion spotlight. Fall 2024 is all about bringing a touch of nostalgia with a fresh twist, making plaid an essential part of your wardrobe
Plaid
For fall 2024, belts are a key accessory, with wide statement belts, chain belts, and corset belts leading the trends Wide belts add structure and emphasize the waist, perfect for cinching dresses, blazers, and coats Chain belts bring a nostalgic '90s vibe, adding sparkle and sophistication to casual and dressy looks alike. Corset belts offer dramatic flair, cinching the waist for a striking hourglass shape and making bold fashion statements over shirts, dresses, and chunky sweaters. These styles will elevate any outfit this season.
THE SHAWL
coat
$1370 net-a-porter.com
$1150 toteme.com
Following the success of Toteme’s scarf coat last fall, outerwear featuring integrated neck accessories has become a must-have for fashion enthusiasts. This trend persists into fall 2024, with new variations on the concept emerging. In today's world, we anticipate our investment pieces and our wardrobes to offer exceptional value & versatility.
$1,500 helsa.com
scarf-detailed cashmere coat $11,500 therow.com
mytheresa.com
Rohe Convertible wool scarf coat
Notte
Embroidered wool-blend scarf jacket
Helsa Oversized Coat
Marant Etoile $1025
Cheekbone BeautyScholarship
Before the launch of Cheekbone Beauty in 2016, Jenn had a dream that changed her life in 2015. This dream entailed these little Native girls laughing and playing, covered in lip gloss, exuding pure joy despite having made a complete mess of themselves This dream made Jenn jump out of bed in the middle of the night and she began drafting what is now known as the Cheekbone Beauty business plan
The one thing from this business plan that truly demonstrates the power of manifestation is that Jenn had written down that she would start a scholarship fund in her grandmother’s name Jenn’s grandmother, Emily Paul, was a residential school survivor
Many Indigenous communities continue to experience intergenerational trauma rooted in the practices of residential schools, but the educational gap from these harmful practices has never resolved either.
According to the Canadian Federation of Students Ontario, only 11% of Ontario’s entire Indigenous population has a university degree. Further, the United Nations has also commented on the educational funding gap that Indigenous communities experience and has stated that one way to understand the educational gap is that it is deeply rooted in a lack of respect and a lack of resources from those who can truly close the gap
Cheekbone Beauty launched its first ever Scholarship Fund in 2021 Our recipient, Jodi Hancheroff, used these funds to assist her during her third and final year of law school in Saskatoon, SK To date, sixteen Indigenous youth have been supported by our Indigenous Scholarship Fund Now, in our 4th year of giving back, we anticipate supporting up to 20 more Indigenous youth in their pursuit of post-secondary education, further allowing for Indigenous youth to see themselves in more places and spaces and become the change-makers of their generation.
“To date, sixteen Indigenous youth have been supported by our Indigenous Scholarship Fund. Now, in our 4th year of giving back, we anticipate supporting up to 20 more Indigenous youth”
Iconic Thought
en has built multi seven figure businesses globally as well as supporting her clients to create over thirty-five million dollars in sales through her wisdom, experience and leadership. Her strategic and energetic approach matched with her leadership expertise is unmatched within the marketplace. cquire business advice, new
insights and contemplations through Jen’s monthly Iconic Thought that will support your next level growth within business.
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IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BLUME
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Join Jen Szpigiel, CEO and Editor in Chief of Becoming Iconic and Iconic Magazine weekly as she interviews industry moguls to provide you with the inspiration, insights and lessons for how to grow an iconic life and business for your-
self. Each episode will feature actionable steps, expert advice and personal stories to support you to spark, grow and scale your business as an entrepreneur. This podcast is for the visionary leaders who are committed to creating their legacy, pursuing their dreams and achieving their goals beyond their current circumstance. The Iconic Podcast sets itself apart through Jen’s unparalleled interview style, genuine curiosity and commitment to having women rise to their potential Formally known as the Becoming Iconic Podcast, this new iteration is dedicated to providing you with the most potent and powerful conversations with those who have overcome, prevailed and built their lives and businesses into the incredible success we see today. Subscribe now and leave a review to be a part of this Iconic movement. Don’t forget to also check out this month’s magazine where we deep dive with the guests who are interviewed here.
THE ICONIC PODCAST BY JEN SZPIGIEL
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