Wellness Marketing 101

Episode 27: From Competitive Swimming to Entrepreneurship: Lessons in Mindset and Mentorship

In this solo episode, I share a personal story from my early college days that shaped the way I think about growth, mentorship, and resilience in business.
 
I wasn’t a competitive swimmer when I moved from Bulgaria to attend Saint Peter’s University, but somehow, I ended up on the Division 1 swim team. What followed was a four-year journey of learning, failing, overtraining, adjusting, and ultimately finding my stride.
 
The lessons I learned in the pool apply to entrepreneurship more than I ever expected. From self-sabotage to breakthroughs, this episode is a reminder that no one succeeds alone! The right coach, the right fit, and the right mindset can change everything!
 
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
 
Why doing more isn’t always the answer
How self-doubt can sabotage your performance
The importance of finding the right coach or mentor, not just any coach
Why personalized strategies outperform one-size-fits-all every time
How to move forward even if your past results weren’t great
 
Key Takeaways:
 
Your past doesn’t define your future but you have to let go off what went wrong before!
 
The right strategy, mindset, and support system can lead to your breakthrough, just like it did for me.
 
Connect with Me:
Instagram: @blackseams
Website: blackseams.com
Email: Boryana@blackseaams.com
 
If this episode has brought you any value, insight, or even just a moment of inspiration, I’d be so grateful if you could take a minute to leave a review. Your feedback not only helps others find the show but also keeps me motivated to keep creating. Thank you!

Episode 26: From Communist Poland to Capturing Yoga’s Beauty — An Inspiring Conversation with Yoga Photographer Wanda Bogata Plucinska

When you look at a stunning yoga photo, you might think it’s all about the pose. But in this conversation with photographer Wanda, we learn it’s about so much more — the journey, the story, and the emotion behind the shot.
 
Wanda’s path started far from the yoga studio. Growing up in communist Poland, she and her family escaped to Austria and eventually immigrated to the United States with the sponsorship of the Catholic Church. Starting with no English, no connections, and no safety net, she rebuilt her life and eventually discovered two passions that would shape her career: yoga and photography.
In this episode, we talk about:
 
Wanda’s escape from communist Poland and how her family started over in America
Why yoga became her sanctuary for physical, mental, and emotional healing
How photographing her first yoga teacher set Wanda on a new career path
The unique challenges and rewards of yoga photography, and why it’s “tough love” in the best way
Why headshots are often harder than yoga poses (and how she gets authenticity in every frame)
The importance of being prepared for opportunities before they arrive
Behind-the-scenes of our own photo shoot — complete with kids, building blocks, and plenty of patience!
 
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to blend personal passion with creative business, or why a professional photo can be a turning point in your brand, this episode will inspire you.
 
Connect with Wanda
📸 Instagram: @wanda.photography🌐 Website: https://www.wandaphotography.com/
 
If this episode has brought you any value, insight, or even just a moment of inspiration, I’d be so grateful if you could take a minute to leave a review. Your feedback not only helps others find the show but also keeps me motivated to keep creating. Thank you!
 

Episode 25: Designing for Everyone: Accessibility, Inclusion, and Why It’s Smart Business with Grace Ambroze

What if you’re unintentionally excluding potential customers, just because of your store layout or how your website is designed or your social media posts aren’t considering people with disabilities?
 
In this episode of Wellness Marketing 101, I’m joined by Grace Ambroze, a certified occupational therapist and accessibility specialist, who shares how accessibility goes far beyond ramps and elevators. Grace walks us through how small changes—from social media alt text to the way a store entrance is designed—can create a more inclusive world and a more profitable business.
 
We discuss:
 
The 3 types of disability: permanent, temporary, and situational
What “inclusive design” really means (and why it’s not just about regulatory compliance)
How businesses unintentionally push customers away with poor accessibility
Free, simple ways entrepreneurs can make their digital and physical spaces more welcoming as well as things to consider for communication touchpoints, whether this it is their social media, blog, podcast, etc.
The global differences in how we define disability
What situational disability is and why it affects all of us
Real-life examples from store design to website design and communication touchpoints
Grace’s message is clear: when you design for disability, everyone benefits.
Connect with Grace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/graceambroze/
 
If this episode has brought you any value, insight, or even just a moment of inspiration, I’d be so grateful if you could take a minute to leave a review. Your feedback not only helps others find the show but also keeps me motivated to keep creating. Thank you!

Episode 24: From CPA to Empowerment Coach: Building a Business with Heart and Strategy

Episode 24: From CPA to Empowerment Coach: Building a Business with Heart and Strategy
 
In this episode of Wellness Marketing 101, I reconnect with my longtime yoga friend, Francesca Zampaglione, a former CPA who made a bold pivot from the accounting world into entrepreneurship. From crunching numbers at Deloitte and the CPA Association to launching Dressed Smart and becoming a professional speaker and empowerment coach, Francesca shares her incredible journey of reinvention.
 
We dive into:
 
How immigrant roots and childhood experiences shaped her love for accounting
Why she founded Dressed Smart to teach young professionals how to show up with confidenceThe connection between personal presentation (how you dress) and mindset
How she overcame a childhood speech impediment to become a sought-after speaker
What small businesses need to know about cash flow, accounting basics, and getting help before it's too late
The real cost of uncomfortable shoes (yes, we went there!)
How she now supports remote teams with coaching that keeps employees feeling seen, heard, and cared for
Why your tribe is just as important as your product when you’re starting out
The business lesson that changed everything: “Do what you do best and outsource the rest”
Why taking on the wrong client can hurt more than help
How to approach hiring and team-building: “Hire slow, fire fast”
Whether you're an entrepreneur trying to make sense of your numbers, a founder struggling to support your remote team, or someone thinking about making a career shift, Francesca’s story will inspire you to trust your instincts, invest in your growth, and never underestimate the power of being seen.
 
Connect with Francesca:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tofrancesca/Website: https://francescazampaglione.com/
Website: https://dressedsmart.com/
Instagram: @_francesca_zampaglione
Podcast: Office Flip Flops — 115 evergreen episodes of empowerment, leadership, and real-world insight
 
Quote to Remember:
"Time is money and money is time. Don’t take on a client who drains your energy. You won’t have anything left for the ones who deserve it." 
 
If this episode has brought you any value, insight, or even just a moment of inspiration, I’d be so grateful if you could take a minute to leave a review. Your feedback not only helps others find the show but also keeps me motivated to keep creating. Thank you!

Episode 23: Leave Your Ego at the Door: Lessons from Jiu-Jitsu, Yoga & Business

In this solo episode, I share honest reflections on how ego can get in the way of growth—whether in jiu-jitsu, yoga, or business. Drawing from personal stories as a martial artist, mom of three, entrepreneur, and marketing professor, I explore how letting go of pride and embracing feedback can open the door to real progress. This is a vulnerable, practical reminder to slow down, listen to your body, and stay open to learning from anyone—students, peers, or mentors.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
How my ego led to two avoidable jiu-jitsu injuries
A humbling hot yoga experience and the power of resting when needed
Why feedback, especially uncomfortable feedback, is essential for growth
Lessons from teaching and learning with students and PhD colleagues
How ego can sabotage your business, and how to stay coachable
Key Quote:
"When our ego gets in the way, progress stops, or significantly slows down."
Love the show?
Please rate, review, and share Wellness Marketing 101 with someone who needs to hear this message.
Have feedback or want to say "Hi"? DM @blackseaams on Instagram or reach out via email - blackseaams2023@gmail.com.

Episode 22: From Syria to South Florida – Building a Purpose-Driven Jiu-Jitsu School with Basel Syrawan

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Basel Syrawan, a Gracie University–certified instructor and founder of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Boca Raton, to talk about his journey from Damascus to Philadelphia to South Florida, both as an immigrant and an entrepreneur.
 
Basel shares how losing his father to deportation at a young age forced him into adulthood early, shaped his mindset, and instilled the work ethic that now powers his business. We talk about how his love for jiu-jitsu became more than a passion—it became a tool for empowerment and healing, especially for children.
 
Whether you’re a wellness business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or someone who believes in the power of movement and mindset, this episode is for you.
 
We talk about:
Growing up in Philly after immigrating from Syria
The role of mentors, mindset, and mission in staying the course
How his school stands out in a saturated market full of world champions
What made Basel realize he had to build something of his own
Why he walked away from other industries (restaurants, film, architecture)
How jiu-jitsu taught him how to breathe under pressure—on the mat and in life
Building a business rooted in purpose, not just profit
Working with Gracie University and starting a Certified Training Center as a purple belt in jiu-jitsu
Why kids are at the heart of his teaching philosophy
What entrepreneurship looks like when you lead with intention, patience, and faith
Advice for anyone scared to take the leap into business
Mentioned in this episode:
Rener and Ryron Gracie (and Victoria Gracie, Ryron’s wife), who are two of the most well-known members of the Gracie family - the family that helped bring Brazilian jiujitsu to global prominence.
Rener and Ryron are the sons of Rorion Gracie (one of the founders of the UFC) and grandsons of Helio Gracie (one of the original creators of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, which focuses on self-defense). Both Rener and Ryron are black belts and co-head instructors at the Gracie University headquarters in Torrance, California.
Learn more here:
https://www.gracieuniversity.com/
Connect with Basel:
Website: https://graciejiujitsubocaraton.com/
IG: @graciejiujitsubocaraton
 
If this episode has brought you any value, insight, or even just a moment of inspiration, I’d be so grateful if you could take a minute to leave a review. Your feedback not only helps others find the show but also keeps me motivated to keep creating. Thank you!
 

Episode 21: The Right Way to Do Influencer Marketing: Strategy, SEO & Legal Tips with Rachel Vandernick

In this episode of Wellness Marketing 101, I sit down with digital marketing consultant and influencer strategist Rachel Vandernick whose resume includes top brands in beauty, travel, and beverage. From political communication to running her own business, Rachel shares the real behind-the-scenes of growing brand visibility through thoughtful influencer partnerships and performance-driven content.
 
We talk about:
 
Rachel’s winding path from agency life to entrepreneurship
How she found her niche in the “look good, feel good, have fun” industry
What most brands get wrong about influencer partnerships
Why influencer marketing and SEO should work together
How influencer content can power paid ads, search strategy, and long-term brand equity
The 3 musts when choosing the right influencer for your brand: cost, audience, and POV
Common legal mistakes brands and creators make and how to avoid trouble with the Federal Trade Commission as an influencer and a brand
How Rachel built a 95% referral-based business and what that says about trust and results
Rachel’s best advice for navigating the lonely road of entrepreneurship
 
This episode is for you if:
 
You’re trying to grow brand visibility through influencer marketing
You want to avoid legal or ethical mistakes when working with content creators
You’re a freelancer or an entrepreneur building your business from the ground up
You care about doing things right and not just doing them fast
 
Connect with Rachel:
 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelvandernick/
Website: https://www.thevandergroup.com/
TikTok: @rachelvandernick
IG: @thevandergroup
 
If this episode has brought you any value, insight, or even just a moment of inspiration, I’d be so grateful if you could take a minute to leave a review. Your feedback not only helps others find the show but also keeps me motivated to keep creating. Thank you!

Episode 20: From Philly Blogger to Nano Influencer: Content Creation and Community Building with Camille Mola

In this episode, I sit down with Philly-based lifestyle content creator and social media professional Camille Mola. Camille shares her journey from blogging in the early days of social media to becoming a trusted voice in the Philadelphia lifestyle and food scene.
 
We dive into:
 
How Camille turned her passion for writing into a personal brand
The power of networking and putting yourself out there (yes, even if you’re nervous!)
Building authentic relationships with local businesses as an influencer
Behind the scenes of her viral “Cheese Roll Day” event

How she balances a full-time marketing job with freelance projects and content creation
Why authenticity always wins over perfection in social media marketing

How she handles burnout and sets boundaries when creating content

Practical advice for business owners who feel awkward on camera or fear posting
 
This episode is for you if:
 
You’re a small business owner considering influencer collaborations
You’re a new content creator figuring out how to start
You struggle with consistency, confidence, or camera fear
You want real talk about balancing 9-to-5 jobs with creative side projects
 
Connect with Camille:
 
Instagram: @milliephanatic
TikTok: @themilliephanatic
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camillemariemola
Blog: https://positivepublicityblog.com/
 
If this episode has brought you any value, insight, or even just a moment of inspiration, I’d be so grateful if you could take a minute to leave a review. Your feedback not only helps others find the show but also keeps me motivated to keep creating. Thank you!

Episode 19: Boundaries, Burnout, and Being You: Marketing Lessons from Sarah DeGeorge

In this episode, I sit down with digital marketing specialist and entrepreneur Sarah DeGeorge, who shares her candid journey from burnout to boundaries and why authenticity is the secret sauce in small business marketing.
 
We discuss:
Why knowing yourself is the foundation for good marketing
The hidden marketing power in your personality and story (yes, this includes YOU!)
How Sarah helps clients uncover their unique selling proposition (USP)
The importance of starting with a strategy audit (and why skipping it is a huge mistake)

Red flags she looks for when choosing clients and how she enforces her non-negotiables
The dangers of copying competitors and why your audience wants the real YOU
How to avoid spreading yourself too thin across social media platforms
The mindset shift entrepreneurs need when facing rejection, setbacks, or slow periods
Connect with Sarah:
Website: www.sarahdegeorge.com
Instagram: @sardgeorge
LinkedIn: Sarah DeGeorge
 
If this episode has brought you any value, insight, or even just a moment of inspiration, I’d be so grateful if you could take a minute to leave a review. Your feedback not only helps others find the show but also keeps me motivated to keep creating. Thank you!

Episode 18: Growing Your Business: Lessons from Kevin McCarthy of Legacy Wardrobes

In this episode of Wellness Marketing 101, I sit down with Kevin McCarthy, a former carpenter turned business owner, who shares his journey from side gigs to running Legacy Wardrobes, a full-fledged family-run custom storage solutions company.
 
We dive into:
 
Kevin’s transition from tradesman to entrepreneur—and how that shift changed his mindset
The mission behind Legacy Wardrobes: solving real-life problems in row homes through custom closet and pantry builds
Working with family: the joys and growing pains of turning a business into a shared legacy
Why Kevin sees jiu jitsu as essential for mental clarity and work-life balance
While referrals are great to bring new customers in, they don’t always provide enough new customers to hit ambitious growth goals.
Hiring & scaling: moving from “doing it all” to leading a team, and the challenge of building standards of operations from scratch
How Kevin hopes to be seen as a trusted local business—part of the community, not just a service provider
As a marketing professor and business owner myself, I related to the difficulty of letting go and delegating. Having a coach helped me grow faster by giving guidance and accountability, something every independent entrepreneur can benefit from.
Kevin and I both agree it’s tough for control-driven entrepreneurs to trust others with their “baby,” but letting go is essential to avoid burnout and accelerate growth. Mistakes will happen, but they’re part of the learning journey.
 
Connect with Kevin:
Website: https://legacywardrobes.com/
IG: @legacywardrobes
 
If this episode has brought you any value, insight, or even just a moment of inspiration, I’d be so grateful if you could take a minute to leave a review. Your feedback not only helps others find the show but also keeps me motivated to keep creating. Thank you!