Episode Focus: Finding the courage to push forward when everything feels impossible

Episode Timeline

[00:00] Welcome & Introduction: Heavy heart episode on courage
[02:22] Real talk: Courage isn't the absence of fear - it's showing up anyway
[04:36] Personal story: The day I almost quit and started job hunting
[06:23] Daughter's revelation: "I'm going to be an entrepreneur like my mom"
[08:44] Why playing it safe doesn't change our family's narrative
[10:42] Finding your personal why: The Gun Hill Road interview story
[12:56] Reframing failure and building your courage network
[15:07] Conference speaking story: Building courage muscles over time
[17:25] Grandmother's legacy: From CNA to Howard University at 50
[19:11] Teaching courage to our children through modeling
[21:17] Weekly assignments and call to action

Episode Summary

In this deeply personal episode, Femi Lewis addresses the courage required to continue the entrepreneurial journey when everything feels impossible. She shares vulnerable moments from her own business journey, including the day she almost quit to return to traditional employment, and how her daughter's words reminded her of the generational impact of her courage. The episode explores practical strategies for building courage while emphasizing how Black mompreneurs are modeling resilience and possibility for their children and communities.

Key Topics Covered

Understanding Courage in Entrepreneurship

• Courage as showing up despite fear, not the absence of fear
• The daily decisions entrepreneurs must make alone
• How Black women operate on "expert level with no cheat codes"
• The difference between survival and creating new family narratives

Personal Stories of Courage

• The Almost-Quit Moment: Revising resume and job hunting during business struggles
• Daughter's Google Search: The moment that solidified why courage matters
• The Gun Hill Road Interview: Conducting business from the side of the road
• Conference Speaking: Building from small acts to speaking to 500 people

Building Your Courage Muscle

• Find Your Deep Why: The soul-level reason that makes you ugly cry
• Reframe Failure: See failure as data, not defeat
• Build Your Network: Surround yourself with people who understand your challenges
• Practice Small Acts: Start with manageable courage-building exercises
• Document Your Journey: Keep proof of your victories and growth

Key Insights & Quotes

• "Courage isn't the absence of fear. It's showing up anyway."
• "We're not just betting on ourselves, we're betting on our children's futures."
• "Playing it safe doesn't change our family's narrative."
• "Every time we choose courage over comfort, we're showing them that it's okay to dream big."
• "Your courage isn't just changing your life. It's changing your children's lives, your community, and the trajectory of generations to come."

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Release Schedule:

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER

The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional business, financial, or legal advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making business decisions. Individual results may vary.