Now that Annual tax day is in the rearview mirror, did you find it simple to get your tax documentation together? Or, was it a pain in the you-know-what? It can be a huge time suck going through a year’s worth of paperwork and transaction receipts. Did you have to file a tax extension? If you are tired of pulling your hair out when it comes to the back-office function of your business, today's guest shares her best advice on how to keep a positive attitude and simplify the entire back-office process. In this episode of the P.O.W.E.R. Plug Podcast, Host, Mary Foley, speaks with Candy Martin, ow ..read more

Have you figured out what you want to transpire in your business in 2022? Maybe you need some additional funds to make your vision a reality? No one wants a crazy high-interest rate or scary payback terms. Many women business owners are unsure what it takes to get a loan, or they have previously been turned down for a conventional bank loan. A loan from the Small Business Administration (SBA) might be the answer to help you grow your business. Want to know the details? Tune in. In this episode of the P.O.W.E.R. Plug Podcast, Host, Mary Foley, speaks with Shane Purvis, VP, and SBA Lending Progr ..read more

One benefit of the extended pandemic is that it has made us all consider what is personally important for us and our loved ones. As many businesses came to a halt, we realized we had been holding on to the idea of launching a passion project but got frustrated because we didn’t know how to start, or our schedule was so full we never imagined we would have the time to fit it all in. Today’s guest felt that way about her ‘someday’ project until some major life events made her say — enough is enough — and she decided to act. Her story will inspire you. In this episode of the P.O.W.E.R. Plug Podca ..read more

The business challenges and adverse market conditions of the last two years have, for some, made fulfilling their entrepreneurial dreams arduous. But, then we hear inspiring stories of how others have turned tragedy into triumph and it reminds us that realizing our dreams is important. Small businesses are the heart and soul of the New Orleans community, and supporting each other's endeavors during difficult times strengthens our resolve. Today’s guest knows all about this because she lives it every day. In this episode of the P.O.W.E.R. Plug Podcast Host, Mary Foley speaks with Keishia Devern ..read more

In 2021, what strategies did you implement to grow your business? Did you update your business website or revamp it completely? Did you beef up your social media marketing and clean up your customer and prospect email list? All of these approaches are important in a competitive virtual marketplace, but what else can you do to grow your business in 2022? Maybe, this is the year you level up to marketing automation. If you are not sure what marketing automation is and how it can increase your online marketing efforts, this discussion is for you. In this episode of the P.O.W.E.R. Plug Podcast Hos ..read more

When our body is sick we go to the doctor, right? Well, when our financial life isn't healthy shouldn’t we go to a money doctor? We don't always like to admit it but every business owner, every individual, and every family has had financial challenges. Then, add the impact of the pandemic, and money management has become even more challenging.  In this episode of the P.O.W.E.R. Plug Podcast Host, Mary Foley speaks with Mildred Dillon, a New Orleans CPA who helps small businesses, nonprofits, and individuals with money management, tax planning, bookkeeping, and more. In 1997, Mildred left ..read more

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women. In fact, according to breastcancer.org, 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer over the course of their lifetime. As a female business owner, what would you do if you discovered you were on the adverse side of this staggering statistic? In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness month, this conversation centers on a real-life, double mastectomy survivor whose optimistic approach to the ‘Big C’ is nothing less than inspirational.  In this episode of the P.O.W.E.R. Plug Podcast Host, Mary Foley speaks with mom ..read more

Do you enjoy going out to eat where you know the food is not just good, but really good like you can already taste it good? Do you know what makes the food and experience even better? Knowing about the chef, their story, their connection to their community, and why they are inspired by their chosen cuisine. You can just taste the love and richness. It’s a big reason why 19 million people visit New Orleans each year, even though the NOLA region is home to only 1.5 million.  Today’s guest is one of those kinds of chefs. Chef Dee Lavigne is a New Orleans native born and raised in the 9th war ..read more

Today we’re talking with Jolie Bernard, CEO of The Bernard Group, a full-service strategic branding and communications firm she started in 2010. She was on the podcast last June. and she’s back for a repeat visit because she was recently named the Fidelity Bank P.O.W.E.R. Woman of the Year at its inaugural awards ceremony!   Jolie received multiple nominations. Some of the words used to describe her included “champion,” “goal-oriented,” “solutions-driven,” “natural leader,” “passionate,” and “connector.” That is because she aligns herself with causes and non-profit organizations that are ..read more

Before the year ends, do you want to buy a new home or refinance an existing one? It can be exciting to look for a new home, especially if you're a first-time homebuyer. It is also exciting to refinance your home for a better rate, renovate your existing home, pay down debt, or anything else. However, it can also feel overwhelming and nerve-wracking, especially the financial part and especially in a rapidly changing New Orleans real estate market. In this episode of the P.O.W.E.R. Plug Podcast Host, Mary Foley speaks with Danielle Smith, Director of Operations for NOLA Lending. After nearly 20 ..read more