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[00:00:00.880 --> 00:00:05.680] Hey, Entrepreneurs, it's Steph here with a special invite just for you.
[00:00:05.680 --> 00:00:10.800] Do you want to experience what it's like to be part of our Entrepreneursa League community of founders?
[00:00:10.800 --> 00:00:12.400] Now is your chance.
[00:00:12.400 --> 00:00:21.360] You can join me this month at one of our upcoming Entrepreneursa League info sessions where I'm going to share with you all you're going to get access to when you join the community.
[00:00:21.360 --> 00:00:27.040] Plus, I'll be giving away some big bonuses that you will only be able to get access to when you attend live.
[00:00:27.040 --> 00:00:35.600] Head over to refer.entrepreneesa.com forward slash info session to join us at one of our virtual info sessions this month.
[00:00:35.600 --> 00:00:40.640] That's refer.entrepranista.com forward slash info session.
[00:00:40.640 --> 00:00:44.560] Or head over to the show notes right now and tap the link to join us.
[00:00:44.560 --> 00:00:49.200] I can't wait to meet you there and learn more about you and your business.
[00:00:49.840 --> 00:00:56.480] Connecting people is free and brings so much joy that I don't know why more people don't activate that.
[00:00:56.480 --> 00:01:00.400] Just activate your ability to connect people.
[00:01:08.480 --> 00:01:18.400] Catherine Gray is an entrepreneur, producer, and advocate for women's empowerment, known for her impactful work supporting entrepreneurs through media and funding platforms.
[00:01:18.400 --> 00:01:30.800] As the founder of She Angel Investors and the co-founder of the She Angels Foundation, Catherine bridges the funding gap for women by providing resources, education, and inspiration.
[00:01:30.800 --> 00:01:42.480] Catherine's passion for storytelling and advocacy led to her latest film project, the documentary, Show Her the Money, which highlights the challenges women face in securing venture capital.
[00:01:42.480 --> 00:01:47.440] Get ready to hear Catherine's story and her biggest business secrets.
[00:01:48.080 --> 00:01:54.400] Coming up, you'll hear how Catherine's experience inspired her mission to educate women entrepreneurs.
[00:01:54.400 --> 00:01:58.960] Catherine shares her strategies for raising awareness about venture capital.
[00:01:58.960 --> 00:02:05.240] You'll learn all about the impact of her grassroots campaigns in promoting venture capital education.
[00:02:05.240 --> 00:02:12.280] You'll find out her insights into the operational logistics of organizing a nationwide tour to promote her film.
[00:02:12.280 --> 00:02:17.880] Catherine shares her plans for expanding venture capital education for the next generation.
[00:02:18.840 --> 00:02:22.280] This is the Entrepreneursa Podcast presented by Socialfly.
[00:02:22.280 --> 00:02:33.000] It's the best business meeting you'll ever have with must-hear real-life looks at how leading women in business are getting it done and what it takes to build and grow a successful company.
[00:02:33.000 --> 00:02:39.000] It's beyond the Graham with no filters, no limits, and plenty of surprises.
[00:02:43.800 --> 00:02:48.680] Catherine, I am so thrilled to finally be recording this episode with you.
[00:02:48.680 --> 00:02:52.360] I feel like it has been years in the making.
[00:02:52.360 --> 00:03:02.200] I want to share with our whole community here how you and Courtney actually got to connect in person just a couple months ago at the Alibaba Co-Create event.
[00:03:02.200 --> 00:03:13.000] And you had a screening of your movie and you are just making such an impact for women entrepreneurs who are looking to raise capital and get access to capital for their business.
[00:03:13.000 --> 00:03:16.760] So thank you so much for taking the time to be here today, Catherine.
[00:03:16.760 --> 00:03:17.640] Thank you so much.
[00:03:17.640 --> 00:03:18.600] I'm honored.
[00:03:18.600 --> 00:03:30.440] Entrepreneurs is such an amazing organization and just so thrilled that we're collaborating on our movie, Show Her the Money, and going to be screening with you all here in the future.
[00:03:30.440 --> 00:03:32.120] And it's been exciting.
[00:03:32.120 --> 00:03:36.600] We've won awards at several, basically every film festival that we were at.
[00:03:36.600 --> 00:03:39.800] And then we just finished our 100 city tour.
[00:03:39.800 --> 00:03:41.720] And then the best news is U.S.
[00:03:41.720 --> 00:03:51.840] News and World Report just recognized Show Her the Money as one of the 11 best financial films of the decade, which blew us away.
[00:03:51.840 --> 00:03:55.120] And we are so excited that they felt that way about it.
[00:03:55.120 --> 00:04:03.840] And we've just been having a blast going all around the world with the film, meeting the most incredible women entrepreneurs on the planet.
[00:04:03.840 --> 00:04:08.560] And they are in every single city in this country and around the world.
[00:04:08.560 --> 00:04:11.600] And it's been great getting to meet them in person.
[00:04:11.600 --> 00:04:13.600] Well, it is so incredible all you've accomplished.
[00:04:13.600 --> 00:04:15.840] I just got the chills when you shared that.
[00:04:15.840 --> 00:04:16.960] And it is true.
[00:04:16.960 --> 00:04:31.280] Founders are in every single city, and we all have to be able to come together to support each other and make sure we are all getting access to capital so we can grow and scale our businesses because we're going to make the most impact in this world together when we all support each other.
[00:04:31.280 --> 00:04:43.920] But, Catherine, before we dive into the movie itself, because I have so many questions for you, I want to take a step back and hear more about your background and actually what led you to create this movie.
[00:04:44.080 --> 00:04:48.080] Stephanie, I have always been a big advocate for the underdog.
[00:04:48.080 --> 00:04:58.000] I've always felt like a calling to make films, create events, do my podcasts, anything that would help raise awareness.
[00:04:58.000 --> 00:05:02.960] So I'm a big believer it is film and television that helps change culture.
[00:05:02.960 --> 00:05:14.400] And so when I got wind of the fact that women were getting only 2% of venture capital, I was like, we're getting only 2% and men are getting 98%.
[00:05:14.400 --> 00:05:17.280] And by the way, what is venture capital?
[00:05:17.840 --> 00:05:24.560] And I found that all these really accomplished men and women really didn't know what venture capital was.
[00:05:24.560 --> 00:05:26.160] And I thought, why is that?
[00:05:26.160 --> 00:05:28.000] Why don't we know about it?
[00:05:28.000 --> 00:05:31.160] Why don't we know why there's this inequity?
[00:05:31.160 --> 00:05:34.120] Why don't we understand what venture capital is?
[00:05:34.120 --> 00:05:37.400] And really, it's been the best kept secret.
[00:05:37.400 --> 00:05:39.720] And women are just starting to discover it.
[00:05:39.720 --> 00:05:54.360] And it's so fun being able to have a film that helps people demystify it and learn about it and get excited about it and see how fascinating, how lucrative, how impactful it can be.
[00:05:54.360 --> 00:05:56.520] And why shouldn't we be a part of it?
[00:05:56.520 --> 00:05:58.760] And so that's been an exciting ride.
[00:05:58.760 --> 00:06:03.880] But my background has been in believing that there are films that need to be made.
[00:06:03.880 --> 00:06:08.280] Another one I did was called I Can't Marry You about same-sex marriage.
[00:06:08.280 --> 00:06:11.240] We did not have it at the time I made that movie.
[00:06:11.240 --> 00:06:17.640] I do believe it is, like I said, movies and television that raise awareness and change culture.
[00:06:17.640 --> 00:06:26.200] So along the way, decided that we needed to create this film and take it around the world and create what I call it's a movie and a movement.
[00:06:26.200 --> 00:06:27.800] So I call it a moviement.
[00:06:28.040 --> 00:06:29.400] Oh my gosh, I love that.
[00:06:29.400 --> 00:06:31.000] Did you trademark that?
[00:06:31.000 --> 00:06:32.360] No, I should.
[00:06:32.360 --> 00:06:33.960] You should definitely trademark that.
[00:06:33.960 --> 00:06:38.520] We have some incredible entrepreneurs in our community who are incredible trademark attorneys.
[00:06:38.520 --> 00:06:42.920] So definitely trademark that because when people listen to this podcast, they're going to be like, oh, that's a really good one.
[00:06:42.920 --> 00:06:44.680] So I know, I know.
[00:06:44.680 --> 00:06:46.920] We have trademarked show her the money.
[00:06:46.920 --> 00:06:51.720] And I think we feel really good about that title because we feel like it's empowering.
[00:06:51.720 --> 00:06:54.280] You know, that's what we need in this arena.
[00:06:54.280 --> 00:06:58.760] We need women all over the world to know that they are worthy of being empowered.
[00:06:58.760 --> 00:07:01.160] They are worthy of building their wealth.
[00:07:01.160 --> 00:07:03.560] They are worthy of getting funded.
[00:07:03.560 --> 00:07:16.880] And that's really, I know what your entity is about: empowering women and giving them a network of connections to allow them to accomplish what they think is their purpose on the planet.
[00:07:14.600 --> 00:07:18.960] And isn't that why we're all here?
[00:07:14.760 --> 00:07:19.520] Absolutely.
[00:07:19.760 --> 00:07:28.640] You just sharing that story of, you know, when you found out only 2% of women are getting venture funded every single year.
[00:07:28.640 --> 00:07:30.400] And like, how can this possibly be?
[00:07:30.400 --> 00:07:38.800] And how do, how is there not more awareness and education around venture capital reminded me of, now this is going back to really only 2019.
[00:07:38.800 --> 00:07:44.000] Courtney and I had been in business since 2011, 2012, when we first started our business.
[00:07:44.000 --> 00:07:50.640] And all that time from 2011 to 2019, we were in business growing our marketing agency.
[00:07:50.640 --> 00:07:52.320] We bootstrapped the business.
[00:07:52.320 --> 00:07:56.000] We didn't know about other forms of capital or what venture capital was.
[00:07:56.000 --> 00:07:58.240] Like that just wasn't in our worlds either.
[00:07:58.240 --> 00:08:07.040] And a friend of ours, Ben, he had, you know, started raising money for other businesses that were just starting out.
[00:08:07.040 --> 00:08:09.760] And I saw what he was doing and I was like, hey, can we meet for coffee?
[00:08:09.760 --> 00:08:11.600] Can you like explain to me what you're doing?
[00:08:11.600 --> 00:08:17.920] Like I saw what he was doing and I was like, I need to learn about this, but I had to seek it out to actually find out about it.
[00:08:17.920 --> 00:08:26.640] And I was like, wait a second, this is like this underground world where only certain people are getting access to these deals and only certain people know about this.
[00:08:26.640 --> 00:08:28.800] We need to get more awareness out there.
[00:08:28.800 --> 00:08:31.360] And it all starts with awareness and education.
[00:08:31.360 --> 00:08:36.800] And that was the moment that I realized Ben was like, look, we're doing these angel syndicates.
[00:08:36.800 --> 00:08:39.360] The best way to learn is to actually invest.
[00:08:39.360 --> 00:08:42.480] He's like, I'm doing a syndicate right now for this company.
[00:08:42.480 --> 00:08:44.480] Put in $1,000, put in $2,000.
[00:08:44.480 --> 00:08:45.840] This is how you're going to learn.
[00:08:45.840 --> 00:08:47.120] And I was like, okay.
[00:08:47.440 --> 00:08:52.800] And it's not like I had like a lot of money at that time, but I'm like, I'm going to just learn.
[00:08:52.800 --> 00:08:54.480] And that's how we learn.
[00:08:54.480 --> 00:09:05.480] And I think the movement that you have now started and created, where you're bringing this information to people at scale is so important because it hasn't been out there before the past couple of years.
[00:08:59.840 --> 00:09:06.520] It's true.
[00:09:06.840 --> 00:09:15.960] You know, when I started learning even about the women who were starting their own venture capital funds, I thought, wow, these women are really unsung heroes.
[00:09:15.960 --> 00:09:18.040] Nobody even knows about them.
[00:09:18.040 --> 00:09:21.400] Let's have the movie shine a light on them.
[00:09:21.400 --> 00:09:22.840] They deserve that.
[00:09:22.840 --> 00:09:28.840] And I have had those fund managers say, wow, for the first time, we're feeling seen and heard.
[00:09:28.840 --> 00:09:36.280] But there they are, you know, out there raising $25, $50, $100 million or more to invest in women.
[00:09:36.280 --> 00:09:45.880] And by the way, the women venture funds usually tend to invest in not just women, but also BIPOC and LGBTQ, all the overlook communities.
[00:09:46.200 --> 00:09:58.200] And the cool thing about that is, in the long run, all these women that are starting their own funds, which is many now, are going to be the real winners in this arena because, you know, women tend to be more profitable.
[00:09:58.200 --> 00:09:59.800] They tend to exit earlier.
[00:09:59.800 --> 00:10:04.440] They just have so much going for them that they're going to make great investments.
[00:10:04.440 --> 00:10:10.360] And in the long run, these funds are going to be more than likely very profitable.
[00:10:10.360 --> 00:10:14.440] And then men will be saying, oh, maybe I should be investing in women.
[00:10:14.440 --> 00:10:19.160] But we have to kind of take it upon ourselves to move that needle.
[00:10:19.160 --> 00:10:32.520] And that really is the purpose of the grassroots campaigns, Stephanie, is to alert people what is venture capital, how accessible it is, and how they would want to be a part of it and why.
[00:10:32.520 --> 00:10:39.720] Getting to learn about what are all the new innovations coming down the pike is very exciting space to be in.
[00:10:39.720 --> 00:10:44.280] Getting able to invest in them is even more exciting.
[00:10:44.280 --> 00:10:52.160] And so I always tell people, you know, by the time a stock reaches the public market, it's really seen billions of dollars in profit already.
[00:10:52.480 --> 00:11:05.280] It's why the average stock on the public market does an average of about 10% return, where in venture capital, it averages about 20% because it's between like 18 and 27%.
[00:11:05.280 --> 00:11:13.600] It's why people should consider putting a portion of their portfolio, even if it's 5%, into this asset class.
[00:11:13.600 --> 00:11:28.880] The problem is, especially for women, but men too, is that their wealth advisors usually don't recommend it because A, they don't know about it, and B, they probably won't benefit from it if their company doesn't offer that asset class.
[00:11:28.880 --> 00:11:38.000] And that's what we have to break out of and know that there are books, podcasts, workshops for us to learn about venture capital.
[00:11:38.000 --> 00:11:42.080] We do it on our website, showherthemoneymovie.com.
[00:11:42.080 --> 00:11:56.720] We have a whole resources page to learn about venture capital and why you would want to put part of your portfolio into that, even if your wealth advisor doesn't have that in their selection of options, if that makes sense.
[00:11:56.960 --> 00:12:03.040] We have to educate ourselves on it, and we're trying to provide that through the movie and these resources.
[00:12:03.040 --> 00:12:07.520] And I feel like for us as women, a lot of times we can be more risk averse.
[00:12:07.520 --> 00:12:23.920] Like unless we know all the information, it's harder for us to say, okay, I'm going to take that $1,000, $5,000, $10,000 and write that check if I don't understand the asset class itself, where a lot of times men will be like, oh, a friend says I need to invest in this, write the check, just do it.
[00:12:23.920 --> 00:12:26.880] And I think a lot of times that's just like how we're wired as women.
[00:12:26.880 --> 00:12:37.160] And that's okay because now we have all these opportunities to become educated so we can feel like we're empowered to make these choices of where to invest our money.
[00:12:37.400 --> 00:12:39.480] And yes, can it be riskier?
[00:12:39.480 --> 00:12:46.680] Sure, but there can be a lot bigger returns, and there's so much opportunity when we're all able to invest in each other.
[00:12:46.680 --> 00:12:47.880] But it does start with education.
[00:12:47.880 --> 00:12:50.360] So, Catherine, I want to talk about the movie right now.
[00:12:50.360 --> 00:12:56.920] Tell me about that moment that you realized this statistic and you were like, All right, I need to make this movie.
[00:12:56.920 --> 00:12:58.040] What was your first step?
[00:12:58.040 --> 00:13:00.280] What did you do to get it off the ground?
[00:13:00.440 --> 00:13:07.640] First, I thought, well, this is going to be interesting raising money for a movie about how hard it is to raise money.
[00:13:07.960 --> 00:13:10.360] I thought that's crazy right there.
[00:13:10.680 --> 00:13:17.800] But I knew there had to be an entertaining way to help women understand what venture capital is.
[00:13:17.800 --> 00:13:20.600] And what better way than through storytelling?
[00:13:20.600 --> 00:13:25.320] So, this isn't some documentary that's full of numbers and is going to bore you.
[00:13:25.320 --> 00:13:34.600] It actually is a moving movie about these entrepreneurs' journeys and what they go through to build their businesses.
[00:13:34.600 --> 00:13:42.200] And along the way, while you're being entertained by their stories, you're also learning about venture capital.
[00:13:42.200 --> 00:13:50.440] For instance, in the movie, we try to get rid of the idea that people think that it's inaccessible to them to invest in venture.
[00:13:50.440 --> 00:13:57.560] People have an idea that you have to have a million dollars, $10 million to invest in venture capital, that it's just for wealthy people.
[00:13:57.560 --> 00:13:59.400] But that's not the case.
[00:13:59.400 --> 00:14:07.960] You might take $25,000 from your IRA or $100,000 from your IRA and move it into this type of asset class.
[00:14:07.960 --> 00:14:19.040] It may be that you put in 25, but the venture fund might say, Oh, you only have to put in 10, and then during capital calls over the next year or two, you can put in the rest.
[00:14:19.360 --> 00:14:25.440] So people have to understand how bite-sized it can be, how accessible it can be.
[00:14:25.440 --> 00:14:34.080] The other part of the film was to let them know what an exciting opportunity it is to meet people who are innovating.
[00:14:34.080 --> 00:14:39.360] Maybe you're not an innovator yourself, but you can invest in people who are.
[00:14:39.360 --> 00:14:43.120] How exciting is that that you know the newest thing happening?
[00:14:43.120 --> 00:14:49.120] It could be, hey, there's on the horizon something that's going to detect lung cancer.
[00:14:49.120 --> 00:14:50.960] I know a woman that's working on that.
[00:14:50.960 --> 00:14:55.920] It could be something that has to do with improving women's health.
[00:14:55.920 --> 00:15:00.240] There's those new wearables that let you know how to minimize menopause.
[00:15:00.240 --> 00:15:05.440] You know, if we don't invest in women's health care products, men aren't going to.
[00:15:05.440 --> 00:15:07.840] They haven't been for the last couple of decades.
[00:15:07.840 --> 00:15:12.080] So, you know, I did a TED talk called Fund Women Save the World.
[00:15:12.080 --> 00:15:18.560] And in that, I talked about the research shows how people do tend to invest in people they identify with.
[00:15:18.560 --> 00:15:27.920] So it's very important that we have women investing in women through venture capital because otherwise nobody is.
[00:15:27.920 --> 00:15:29.440] That's why we get 2%.
[00:15:29.440 --> 00:15:37.760] When these women go and pitch, they're pitching to all old white men who don't even understand the product and certainly don't identify with the founder.
[00:15:37.760 --> 00:15:44.640] It's so important that we take this problem into our own hands and we solve it as women do.
[00:15:44.640 --> 00:16:17.800] And so I feel like on this 100-city tour around the world with the film, we've been educating people, lighting a match in each city, and creating a fire of excitement for women to understand: hey, I can be part of this movement and I can help create change and move that 2% needle by becoming an investor in venture capital in women-founded funds who are funding women's innovations that are game-changing and going to help change the future of what products and services we see.
[00:16:17.800 --> 00:16:24.600] You know, I always say women impact 80% of the buying decisions.
[00:16:24.600 --> 00:16:31.800] Why aren't we impacting that type of number of investment decisions?
[00:16:31.800 --> 00:16:35.640] Women are coming into trillions of dollars in the coming decade.
[00:16:35.640 --> 00:16:37.560] What are they going to do with it?
[00:16:37.560 --> 00:16:55.640] They need to know about venture capital, and collectively, we need to make a movement, which we are to change that 2% so that we get our fair share of investment dollars to create products and services that will not only benefit women, but will benefit the planet.
[00:16:55.640 --> 00:16:57.400] Yes, yes, and yes.
[00:16:57.400 --> 00:16:59.400] I wanted to be a little passionate about it.
[00:16:59.560 --> 00:17:00.600] I know, I am too.
[00:17:00.600 --> 00:17:01.240] So, I love it.
[00:17:01.800 --> 00:17:22.520] This is a very intense, passionate episode because both of our goals are to help more women founders grow and scale a business, build a business of your dreams, get access to funding, resources, support, and all of us have the opportunity if we want to be able to invest in each other and understand what we're investing in and what this incredible opportunity is going to be.
[00:17:22.520 --> 00:17:30.520] So, Catherine, I love this strategy that you came up with to be able to show this movie in different cities.
[00:17:30.520 --> 00:17:34.280] You've done a 100-city tour over the past year.
[00:17:34.280 --> 00:17:36.280] When I look at you, I'm like, How are you still standing?
[00:17:36.280 --> 00:17:39.800] That seems like the most exhausting but amazing thing ever.
[00:17:39.800 --> 00:17:46.480] Tell me how you decided on this strategy to be able to get the movie out there to reach as many people as possible.
[00:17:46.800 --> 00:17:54.880] Well, I did think from the get-go, it needed to be a grassroots tour where you can have conversations with people and then allow them a QA.
[00:17:54.880 --> 00:18:03.920] And even as we roll out our virtual, we have that same pattern where we're going to do a virtual panel so we can still engage people with the conversation.
[00:18:04.240 --> 00:18:06.000] Now you've expanded to virtual, which is amazing.
[00:18:06.000 --> 00:18:07.840] And we're so glad to be able to do this.
[00:18:07.840 --> 00:18:14.080] Yeah, as fun as it was to do in person, and it really was because you know how it is from your events.
[00:18:14.080 --> 00:18:23.280] When you get a lot of really high-powered, successful, energized women in a room together, there is a magic, right?
[00:18:23.600 --> 00:18:28.960] And so there's been a magic around the in-person screenings.
[00:18:28.960 --> 00:18:38.240] That being said, so many people have wanted to see it and couldn't see it because maybe it wasn't in their city or they weren't available at that day in time.
[00:18:38.240 --> 00:18:46.800] So, and that's why we're now rolling out for 2025 the virtual opportunity to reach groups like yours so we can reach more people.
[00:18:46.800 --> 00:18:50.560] They can buy a ticket, watch it over, you know, three to five days.
[00:18:50.560 --> 00:18:53.600] And then at the end of that, we have the virtual panel.
[00:18:53.600 --> 00:18:58.080] And this is a formula that so we can reach millions of women around the world.
[00:18:58.080 --> 00:19:00.720] Yeah, we're excited to get that started.
[00:19:00.720 --> 00:19:03.280] And that's why we're moving into that arena.
[00:19:03.280 --> 00:19:04.400] So here's the thing.
[00:19:04.400 --> 00:19:18.080] You can't just go and see it somewhere, but we are doing exclusive screenings with entities like Entrepreneurs so that they have an opportunity, like you said, to all see it and then all talk about it together at the same time.
[00:19:18.080 --> 00:19:21.600] And like you said, that engagement and that conversation is so important.
[00:19:21.600 --> 00:19:29.320] And this topic is so important that we can have that conversation around the actual fundamentals around venture capital.
[00:19:29.320 --> 00:19:36.280] Because, again, something I see all the time is like, if you don't know about this, you might feel like, oh, should I be asking this question?
[00:19:29.840 --> 00:19:38.600] And I hear people say all the time, like, oh, this is a silly question.
[00:19:38.680 --> 00:19:40.680] I'm like, no, there's no silly questions.
[00:19:40.680 --> 00:19:42.360] There's no stupid questions.
[00:19:42.360 --> 00:19:51.720] This is a safe space to come ask everything because most people do not know anything about this asset class, like nothing, even as founders.
[00:19:51.720 --> 00:19:53.240] Again, I just shared this before.
[00:19:53.240 --> 00:19:55.560] I knew nothing about venture capital.
[00:19:55.560 --> 00:20:00.040] I was already in business for many, many years before I learned about this.
[00:20:00.040 --> 00:20:01.400] And it was like a light bulb.
[00:20:01.400 --> 00:20:05.480] And I'm like, oh my gosh, how did I not know about this?
[00:20:05.480 --> 00:20:15.080] So we are here to educate everyone so you can have that information and then you decide whether it makes sense to start investing in this asset class.
[00:20:15.080 --> 00:20:16.360] But at least you know about it.
[00:20:16.360 --> 00:20:20.200] At least you have that information and you've learned something.
[00:20:20.200 --> 00:20:22.840] Yes, we have to educate ourselves on it.
[00:20:22.840 --> 00:20:36.840] It isn't for everybody, but it is for enough people that aren't taking advantage of it that it's worth us going out on the tour and talking to people about it, either as an investor or as someone looking to scale their business.
[00:20:36.840 --> 00:20:40.040] But we definitely should be making ourselves aware about it.
[00:20:40.040 --> 00:20:41.240] That's what we've done.
[00:20:41.240 --> 00:20:46.600] We've tried to do like in an engaging, fascinating, storytelling kind of way.
[00:20:46.600 --> 00:20:48.280] What is venture capital?
[00:20:48.280 --> 00:20:53.720] And, you know, people, when they leave the movie, they're like, wow, I didn't know it was so easy to understand.
[00:20:53.720 --> 00:20:56.040] I didn't know how accessible it was.
[00:20:56.040 --> 00:20:58.440] I didn't know how exciting it is.
[00:20:58.440 --> 00:21:00.680] And so that really was our goal.
[00:21:00.680 --> 00:21:04.920] We're thrilled that so many people are talking about it and wanting to see it.
[00:21:04.920 --> 00:21:09.960] And we are on a mission to get more people to be able to see it.
[00:21:09.960 --> 00:21:16.720] Catherine, what were some of your biggest challenges as you went out to raise capital to be able to produce this movie?
[00:21:17.040 --> 00:21:18.640] It's like anybody.
[00:21:18.640 --> 00:21:20.320] You have to take the time.
[00:21:20.320 --> 00:21:28.960] I'm a big believer in it is about connecting with people, you know, because people invest in people they believe in or, you know, are like-minded.
[00:21:28.960 --> 00:21:31.040] And so I had to go out and find the people.
[00:21:31.200 --> 00:21:37.520] You have to talk to hundreds of people and find those people that get it, that say, you know what, you're right.
[00:21:37.520 --> 00:21:39.840] This is what we need to help change this.
[00:21:39.840 --> 00:21:49.840] And so I was so fortunate to find a couple dozen people that believed in the fact that a film could raise awareness enough to help move the needle.
[00:21:49.840 --> 00:21:53.920] And it was important enough to them that they wanted to invest in it.
[00:21:53.920 --> 00:21:56.320] So yeah, really fortunate in that read up.
[00:21:56.320 --> 00:22:01.440] Really, and so many amazing women and two men invested in our film.
[00:22:01.440 --> 00:22:03.120] And we have a book coming out.
[00:22:03.120 --> 00:22:06.160] It's the same name as the movie, Show Her the Money.
[00:22:06.160 --> 00:22:13.680] And it's the people of the movie and the movement because each one of them had such an incredible story themselves.
[00:22:13.680 --> 00:22:16.080] I'm like, oh my gosh, this would make a great book.
[00:22:16.080 --> 00:22:20.880] So each chapter tells each of their stories and it's a really great read.
[00:22:20.880 --> 00:22:23.520] It'll be out in the next couple of weeks.
[00:22:23.520 --> 00:22:24.240] Amazing.
[00:22:24.240 --> 00:22:24.720] All right.
[00:22:24.720 --> 00:22:28.800] So I think by the time this episode airs, everyone head over to the show notes again right now.
[00:22:28.800 --> 00:22:33.360] If you want to get a copy of the book, we will link out to that book.
[00:22:33.360 --> 00:22:40.320] And if this episode is out before the book comes out, Catherine, just send us that link and we'll add it into the show notes so everyone can go find it.
[00:22:40.320 --> 00:22:45.680] Up next, you'll hear all about the strategies Catherine used to raise money for her film.
[00:22:52.720 --> 00:22:53.920] Hi, Entrepreneurs.
[00:22:53.920 --> 00:22:55.040] It's Steph here.
[00:22:55.040 --> 00:23:01.640] As a founder, I know firsthand that building a business can feel so lonely, but it doesn't have to.
[00:22:59.680 --> 00:23:06.120] And that's why we created our Entrepreneursa Founders Weekend Wealth and Wellness Retreat.
[00:23:06.280 --> 00:23:08.440] And I can't wait to meet you in person there.
[00:23:08.440 --> 00:23:22.680] So you're officially invited to join us from April 30th to May 3rd, 2026, at the stunning PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, for three transformative days of connection, collaboration, and real business growth.
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[00:23:24.760 --> 00:23:33.160] It is a curated retreat designed to help you build authentic, lasting relationships with women who truly understand your journey.
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[00:23:51.480 --> 00:23:59.800] That's entrepreneur.com forward slash foundersweekend, or head over to the show notes right now and tap the invitation to reserve your ticket.
[00:23:59.800 --> 00:24:01.240] I'll see you there.
[00:24:10.840 --> 00:24:15.640] Tell me, what are some of the biggest challenges and learning lessons from creating a movie and a book?
[00:24:15.640 --> 00:24:21.800] Because I know we have a lot of entrepreneurs, one, that definitely are in the process of writing a book and want to write a book.
[00:24:21.800 --> 00:24:25.320] And two, some that might want to create a movie one day.
[00:24:25.320 --> 00:24:27.240] What have you learned about the process?
[00:24:27.240 --> 00:24:32.520] You just have to find like-minded people that believe in whatever the movie's about.
[00:24:32.520 --> 00:24:47.200] You know, for a documentary, you're typically looking at, you know, it's about a topic and you're finding people that believe in that same topic that you do, whether it's about venture capital or about climate change or whatever that may be.
[00:24:44.840 --> 00:24:50.720] So for us, I tried to get creative and how we raised the money.
[00:24:51.120 --> 00:24:52.880] Really did three different things.
[00:24:52.880 --> 00:24:58.400] One is we did equi investment, so we created an LLC that people could invest in.
[00:24:58.560 --> 00:25:06.720] Second, I set up a fiscal sponsor with a 5013C and raised some of the money through donations.
[00:25:06.720 --> 00:25:18.800] And then the final part for me was getting a sponsor for our, which was originally a 50-city tour that turned into 100 cities, getting a corporate company to underwrite that.
[00:25:18.800 --> 00:25:21.040] And that was Wells Fargo for us.
[00:25:21.040 --> 00:25:27.840] It was a three-pronged way of raising over a million dollars to make the movie and then take it around the world.
[00:25:27.840 --> 00:25:32.080] What happened was I declared that we were going to take it to 50 cities.
[00:25:32.080 --> 00:25:37.920] I didn't really know how we were going to do that, but you know, I felt led to say that and do that.
[00:25:37.920 --> 00:25:44.800] And after we did our theatrical premiere in LA and New York, that got us the momentum.
[00:25:44.800 --> 00:25:50.800] So many people that attended those reached out to us to then schedule their screenings.
[00:25:50.800 --> 00:25:55.200] We've never actually pursued people screening it.
[00:25:55.200 --> 00:25:57.760] They have come to us and said, we want to screen it.
[00:25:57.760 --> 00:26:11.280] So we've been really lucky that it's been an organic demand and seems to continue to be into 2025 for both live screenings and for the new virtual screenings.
[00:26:11.280 --> 00:26:19.600] So there's just been a thirst and a hunger as people want to learn more about venture and how they can be a part of it.
[00:26:19.600 --> 00:26:23.600] And so, I guess, right place, right time, lucky.
[00:26:23.600 --> 00:26:24.080] Yeah.
[00:26:24.400 --> 00:26:33.400] Well, I always think, you know, luck comes by putting yourself out there and in the right rooms and the right places for that magic to just spark.
[00:26:33.560 --> 00:26:37.480] Like, you've worked really, really, really hard to get lucky, right?
[00:26:37.480 --> 00:26:39.080] Yes, yes, yes.
[00:26:39.080 --> 00:26:45.080] Catherine, I want to hear about maybe some of the operational logistics of the past year.
[00:26:45.080 --> 00:26:50.520] So, you've gone to so many cities, screened this a hundred times across the country.
[00:26:50.520 --> 00:26:58.600] So, you've been building this business on the back end of Show Her the Money while you've been literally running around the country.
[00:26:58.600 --> 00:27:05.320] How have you gone about growing your team and managing all of these events over the past year?
[00:27:05.320 --> 00:27:07.400] What are some of your secrets?
[00:27:07.560 --> 00:27:11.240] Phenomenal women, you know, on my team.
[00:27:11.560 --> 00:27:13.960] You obviously can't do it all yourself.
[00:27:13.960 --> 00:27:24.440] So, my tour coordinator, Michaela Kennedy, has been off the charts, amazing, booking all of the travel and the panels in each city.
[00:27:24.440 --> 00:27:32.760] And then, I have another assistant that also helps us with our Invest in Her podcast, as well as helping with the travel agendas and whatnot.
[00:27:32.760 --> 00:27:36.200] So, yeah, it does take a really great, dedicated team.
[00:27:36.200 --> 00:27:39.560] And I am super fortunate in that arena.
[00:27:39.880 --> 00:27:47.000] All the people that are involved in the film have been very active in the screening.
[00:27:47.000 --> 00:27:59.080] So, when you go to a screening, many of the people involved with the film who've invested in the film and are associate producers or executive producers will often come to the screenings and be on the panel.
[00:27:59.080 --> 00:28:07.400] So, they've been super excited not just to invest in the film, but to actually be in the film screenings.
[00:28:07.400 --> 00:28:08.360] They love it.
[00:28:08.360 --> 00:28:09.560] They're into it.
[00:28:09.560 --> 00:28:10.760] They're awesome.
[00:28:10.760 --> 00:28:14.040] I couldn't be luckier with the people that invested in the film.
[00:28:14.040 --> 00:28:18.080] It's why I'm excited about the book coming out and telling each of their stories.
[00:28:18.320 --> 00:28:30.160] But they have been electric and amazing as well, which has made it more fun because when I'm in the other cities with the other people from the film, it's even electric times 10.
[00:28:30.160 --> 00:28:31.200] Yes, no.
[00:28:31.200 --> 00:28:37.360] And I am so excited for our virtual event when we bring everyone together on Zoom together.
[00:28:37.360 --> 00:28:42.640] But I just know the energy of being in these rooms in person is truly magical.
[00:28:42.640 --> 00:28:49.520] Catherine, do you remember the first time when you had that very first screening and you brought everyone together watching the movie?
[00:28:49.520 --> 00:28:51.760] Like, what did that feel like for you?
[00:28:52.080 --> 00:28:52.880] I do.
[00:28:53.280 --> 00:28:57.520] So the very first screening was at the Soho House in West Hollywood.
[00:28:57.520 --> 00:28:58.880] It was not open to the public.
[00:28:58.880 --> 00:29:04.960] It was for everyone who had invested in the film and everybody involved in the film and everybody in the film.
[00:29:04.960 --> 00:29:09.200] And yeah, me and the director Kai Dickens, of course, we were nervous.
[00:29:09.200 --> 00:29:11.280] We're like, we hope they love it.
[00:29:11.280 --> 00:29:16.160] And so, yeah, it was really gratifying that they did embrace it and love it.
[00:29:16.160 --> 00:29:25.600] And then it was even more gratifying when we went to our first premiere at a film festival, which was the women's festival in Philadelphia.
[00:29:25.600 --> 00:29:36.480] And several hundred people in the theater, off the charts energy throughout the entire film, and then a big celebration afterwards.
[00:29:36.480 --> 00:29:40.960] And I thought, wow, is every city going to be like this?
[00:29:40.960 --> 00:29:42.640] This is crazy.
[00:29:42.640 --> 00:29:49.360] And it actually continued city after city with this enthusiasm and this magic.
[00:29:49.360 --> 00:29:52.560] And it hasn't, it's just been really incredible.
[00:29:52.560 --> 00:30:00.000] And so, yeah, it's been a lot of cities, I will admit, but I guess the reception of it has fueled me.
[00:30:00.440 --> 00:30:07.400] You know, when you know you're doing what you're meant to be doing, and there's a gratification and a joy in that.
[00:30:07.400 --> 00:30:09.960] And so, yeah, it's really been an amazing year.
[00:30:09.960 --> 00:30:10.840] No, it's incredible.
[00:30:10.840 --> 00:30:11.880] I know that feeling every day.
[00:30:11.880 --> 00:30:19.880] It's like when you're doing what you feel like you've worked your entire life for and like were born to do, and now it has just come to life, like there's nothing better.
[00:30:19.880 --> 00:30:26.920] Even when you feel like you're working so hard and sometimes around the clock and doing a million things, but you know, it's for the best purpose, nothing feels better.
[00:30:26.920 --> 00:30:28.600] And so, so relate to that.
[00:30:28.600 --> 00:30:38.200] And speaking of all this, while the film has been incredibly amazing, we do have other new things on the horizon besides just virtually streaming it.
[00:30:38.200 --> 00:31:05.000] So, we're working on a curriculum to go with the film because we had some universities ask us for this, so that we can roll out an educational program to high schools and colleges and universities so young people can learn about venture so that what happened to you and I doesn't happen to them, that that generation knows and understands venture as a career path, as an investment path, as a funding path.
[00:31:05.000 --> 00:31:06.520] Won't they have a leg up?
[00:31:06.520 --> 00:31:12.440] And so, we want to educate young women and men about venture at a younger age.
[00:31:12.440 --> 00:31:22.520] And so, looking for a corporate underwriter or foundation to help us do that, but that's the next plan to roll that out, feels like also very on purpose.
[00:31:22.520 --> 00:31:33.400] And then, we also have an opportunity looking for the corporate sponsor to team up with us on an opportunity we have to do a spin-off docuseries with entrepreneur media.
[00:31:33.400 --> 00:31:40.280] So, that's a couple of things on our agenda to expand what we're already doing with the film.
[00:31:40.280 --> 00:31:41.480] That's incredible.
[00:31:41.480 --> 00:31:42.680] I love that.
[00:31:42.680 --> 00:32:02.560] So, for our entrepreneurs who might also be building event companies or movies or nonprofits where they are also looking for corporate partners and sponsors, can you share some of your best tips and secrets on how you've gone about finding these corporate partners?
[00:32:02.560 --> 00:32:09.040] Once again, I go back to really, and this is something I talk about in the movie: it's connections.
[00:32:09.040 --> 00:32:15.200] It's all about connecting with people because people want to do business with people they like.
[00:32:15.200 --> 00:32:20.240] I always love the Maya Angelou saying, people don't remember what you say.
[00:32:20.240 --> 00:32:23.040] They remember how you made them feel, right?
[00:32:23.600 --> 00:32:25.600] I love that saying.
[00:32:25.600 --> 00:32:27.040] It's so true.
[00:32:27.040 --> 00:32:30.560] So we have to connect on a human level with people.
[00:32:30.560 --> 00:32:36.000] And then if you're like-minded, they're going to want to support your endeavor.
[00:32:36.000 --> 00:32:41.040] And someone working at a corporation is no different than you are as an entrepreneur.
[00:32:41.360 --> 00:32:43.680] They probably have a calling.
[00:32:43.680 --> 00:32:47.520] They want to be helping women, or you have to find the ones that are.
[00:32:47.520 --> 00:32:49.520] They are in those corporations.
[00:32:49.520 --> 00:32:58.240] And it's a matter of working in an environment like Entrepreneur, where you're helping each other to connect to company heads.
[00:32:58.240 --> 00:33:05.440] And that's where we have to deal with women in the C-suite who have that power to get behind projects like this.
[00:33:05.440 --> 00:33:14.320] And I was fortunate to meet some in the Wells Fargo entity that believed in our project, took it to the powers that be, and made that happen.
[00:33:14.320 --> 00:33:21.040] So I really applaud those women, Ruth Jackson, Judith Goldcrand, and Amy Bellarosa.
[00:33:21.040 --> 00:33:28.400] You need the champions in those entities to champion for you, but you need to connect with them.
[00:33:28.400 --> 00:33:30.760] And that's why you need to go to events like yours.
[00:33:29.840 --> 00:33:31.960] Yes, absolutely.
[00:33:29.920 --> 00:33:34.040] I always share with our community all of the time.
[00:33:34.360 --> 00:33:38.200] It's not about the two of us are connecting and can we do business together?
[00:33:38.200 --> 00:33:51.080] Like, sure, that's great, but it's like, who do we all know that we can introduce each other to and making sure that you're asking for those intros and connections because we all do want to help each other, but we're also not all mind readers.
[00:33:51.080 --> 00:33:54.600] So if you can be really clear in who you want to reach out to, right?
[00:33:54.600 --> 00:34:02.920] So Catherine, when you get in the Entrepreneur community platform and you share and they're like, hey, everyone, we're looking for more corporate sponsors or underwriters for this project.
[00:34:02.920 --> 00:34:06.840] Does anyone know someone who works at Insert Company Name Here?
[00:34:06.840 --> 00:34:09.400] And then someone in the community can connect you.
[00:34:09.400 --> 00:34:13.320] That's how we can all get ahead and really get to the right people.
[00:34:13.320 --> 00:34:15.480] And the same goes for fundraising as well, right?
[00:34:15.480 --> 00:34:21.960] It's really all about the network that we have and asking for those connections and introductions.
[00:34:21.960 --> 00:34:22.600] Yes.
[00:34:22.600 --> 00:34:40.440] And realizing that connecting should be fun and fundraising could be more fun if we realize that in connecting, we're going to be meeting other really brilliant, amazing women and not make it a chore, but make it an opportunity to meet some really awesome people.
[00:34:40.440 --> 00:34:41.080] Absolutely.
[00:34:41.080 --> 00:34:46.440] It's all about building those real authentic relationships and having fun along the way for sure.
[00:34:46.440 --> 00:34:47.480] 100%.
[00:34:47.480 --> 00:34:56.120] All right, Catherine, over the past year, I'm sure you have been navigating using different business tools on the back end of running and operating the business.
[00:34:56.120 --> 00:34:59.720] Are there any favorites that you have that you want to share with everyone?
[00:34:59.720 --> 00:35:02.280] Oh, I knew you were going to ask that question.
[00:35:02.280 --> 00:35:10.920] I am like the least tech savvy person out there, but I do have someone that works on my blog and I believe that they're using the AI to help with that.
[00:35:10.920 --> 00:35:17.360] AI, I think, is the inevitable tool and whatever shape, form, or capacity.
[00:35:17.680 --> 00:35:27.120] I know with our new Silicon Valley Women Founders Fund that we are very focused on finding women in tech who have AI-based solutions.
[00:35:27.120 --> 00:35:28.320] We do think that is.
[00:35:28.640 --> 00:35:39.040] crucial to the future and really looking for products that enhance what other technology companies are maybe missing and it could make it better.
[00:35:39.040 --> 00:35:53.760] So a lot of these large technology companies, they're not necessarily looking for a new product, but they're looking for some sort of product that will enhance what they're already doing to make them more competitive than their competitor.
[00:35:53.760 --> 00:35:55.920] And that's the kind of things we look for.
[00:35:55.920 --> 00:35:56.800] Yeah, absolutely.
[00:35:56.800 --> 00:36:04.400] So at our team meeting this week, we were talking about AI and I was telling our team, I'm like, a lot of us on our team are using different AI tools.
[00:36:04.400 --> 00:36:06.880] So like I use one called Perplexity.
[00:36:06.880 --> 00:36:08.560] I also use a tool called Cloud.
[00:36:08.560 --> 00:36:11.440] And I'm sure everyone knows about ChatGPT, right?
[00:36:11.440 --> 00:36:17.040] There's so many ways that we can be using these tools to just become more efficient.
[00:36:17.040 --> 00:36:22.880] And I don't think it's that these AI tools are going to replace humans doing work.
[00:36:22.880 --> 00:36:30.240] Like we still need, we're still needed, but we can become so much more efficient and we can do a lot more by using these tools.
[00:36:30.240 --> 00:36:41.920] So the companies that I feel like are going to get left behind and could have challenges are the companies that aren't embracing these technologies and tools using AI because everyone else is going to be using it.
[00:36:41.920 --> 00:36:48.960] So they're going to be light years ahead and they're going to be able to execute a lot more in their business than the companies that aren't embracing using these tools.
[00:36:48.960 --> 00:36:51.200] So that's how we're looking at it.
[00:36:51.200 --> 00:36:51.520] Yeah.
[00:36:51.520 --> 00:36:57.680] And, you know, the bottom line is any technology can be used for the good or the bad.
[00:36:57.680 --> 00:36:59.360] And how do you control that?
[00:36:59.360 --> 00:37:00.360] I don't know.
[00:37:00.600 --> 00:37:03.000] But I mean, that goes for social media too.
[00:36:59.840 --> 00:37:05.000] So obviously it goes for AI.
[00:37:05.320 --> 00:37:12.680] But yeah, there are definitely things that AI can do to create efficiencies that will be for the better.
[00:37:12.680 --> 00:37:14.200] Absolutely.
[00:37:18.680 --> 00:37:25.160] Founders are always asking us, what has been the secret to our success building multiple seven-figure businesses?
[00:37:25.160 --> 00:37:26.520] Do you want to know how?
[00:37:26.520 --> 00:37:28.200] It's our community.
[00:37:28.200 --> 00:37:35.800] We created the Entrepreneursa League for founders like you because the most successful entrepreneurs do not navigate business alone.
[00:37:35.800 --> 00:37:41.640] We navigate the challenges and opportunities with the support of people we know, love, and trust.
[00:37:41.640 --> 00:37:45.480] The relationships you build in business will be the key to your success.
[00:37:45.480 --> 00:37:47.640] Trust me, it's how we've done it.
[00:37:47.640 --> 00:37:53.320] And I'm giving you access to everything we've used to grow and scale our businesses over the past decade.
[00:37:53.320 --> 00:37:57.720] Plus, you're going to meet your new best friends in business right inside the community.
[00:37:57.720 --> 00:38:20.120] Our members have access to everything we've used to grow our businesses over the past 10 plus years, from in-person events to virtual events, business education, funding resources, office hours with myself and other top founders in your industry, press opportunities, and access to our community platform where you can instantly get all of your business questions answered.
[00:38:20.120 --> 00:38:26.840] You can join us in the community over at refer.entrepranista.com forward slash join us.
[00:38:26.840 --> 00:38:32.600] That's refer.entreprenista.com forward slash join us to join the community.
[00:38:32.600 --> 00:38:35.960] Or head to the show notes right now and tap the link to join.
[00:38:35.960 --> 00:38:38.200] I cannot wait to meet you.
[00:38:38.840 --> 00:38:43.160] All right, Catherine, I have to ask you, what is your biggest business secret?
[00:38:43.160 --> 00:38:53.440] I don't know if it's a secret, but I would just say that connecting people is free and brings so much joy that I don't know why more people don't activate that.
[00:38:53.440 --> 00:38:59.360] And so that would be my tip: to just activate your ability to connect people.
[00:38:59.360 --> 00:39:14.240] And what I mean by that is: let's say you meet someone at Entrepreneurista and they have some sort of product or service you don't necessarily need, you could still park it in the back of your mind so that when you meet somebody who does need that, you're like, oh, wait, I have that solution.
[00:39:14.240 --> 00:39:15.920] Let me connect you.
[00:39:15.920 --> 00:39:26.880] And I think it's super fun to connect people that it helps them, even if it doesn't benefit you, but it does give you such joy and satisfaction.
[00:39:26.880 --> 00:39:37.920] And I think we need to all be cultivating that connecting is a really superpower that we should be utilizing for the greater good.
[00:39:37.920 --> 00:39:38.640] Absolutely.
[00:39:38.640 --> 00:39:39.680] It is so important.
[00:39:39.680 --> 00:39:47.440] And I'm going to share everyone a tip that I have come to realize over the past few years about being a, for all of us, super connector.
[00:39:47.440 --> 00:39:56.160] Is one, we should all become super connectors, but two, the best way to become a super connector is to stay organized with all the people you connect with and meet.
[00:39:56.160 --> 00:40:01.280] So many years ago, when Courtney and I first started Social Fly, we had joined a networking group.
[00:40:01.280 --> 00:40:07.760] And also back then, 12 plus years ago, my memory was a lot better than it is now today at 40.
[00:40:07.760 --> 00:40:09.600] It's hard for me to remember everyone's name.
[00:40:09.600 --> 00:40:23.760] So I'm like, oh, I wish that even back then I had started a CRM, which is a customer relationship management tool or a people management relationship tool if you're using it just for everyone that you know, but somewhere to document like everyone that you're meeting.
[00:40:23.760 --> 00:40:30.000] Because think about if you're out and about at events or on podcasts or in business on LinkedIn, like you're meeting people all the time.
[00:40:30.600 --> 00:40:32.280] Have a place to document it.
[00:40:32.280 --> 00:40:35.320] So after an event, go put all of your notes and information in there.
[00:40:35.320 --> 00:40:43.400] Because then when you meet someone and they're like, oh, I really need to connect with a social media agency or a copywriter or I need a connection at this bank.
[00:40:43.400 --> 00:40:45.720] You're like, oh, let me introduce you to this person.
[00:40:45.720 --> 00:40:47.080] Now you have everyone listed there.
[00:40:47.080 --> 00:40:48.040] You have their email address.
[00:40:48.040 --> 00:40:49.800] You can make that intro a lot faster.
[00:40:49.800 --> 00:40:52.040] So start that people CRM today.
[00:40:52.040 --> 00:40:53.320] That's my tip.
[00:40:53.320 --> 00:40:53.880] Yeah.
[00:40:53.880 --> 00:40:56.280] Is there a tool that exists like that?
[00:40:56.280 --> 00:40:59.000] I mean, there's so many CRMs that are out there.
[00:40:59.000 --> 00:41:06.600] So I actually do a lot of this in the Google suite, like in the Google shared sheets, is where I have mine.
[00:41:06.600 --> 00:41:08.680] However, there's a lot of amazing tools out there.
[00:41:08.680 --> 00:41:11.000] We also use HubSpot CRM.
[00:41:11.000 --> 00:41:12.680] So we use that for the business itself.
[00:41:12.680 --> 00:41:20.280] So like we're managing all of our contacts in there for corporate, but for just like a regular CRM, like you don't really have to spend any money.
[00:41:20.280 --> 00:41:27.160] You can just have a shared Google Sheets and have different columns in there and just track everyone in there.
[00:41:27.160 --> 00:41:28.600] So super easy.
[00:41:28.600 --> 00:41:37.800] Okay, Stephanie, I want someone out there to create a solution that we are at an event, we talk into something, it records it.
[00:41:37.800 --> 00:41:44.440] We say what their name is, their email, their phone number, and what you talk to them about.
[00:41:44.440 --> 00:41:53.240] And then it magically appears in a document that we can go back by category or by city and find them.
[00:41:53.240 --> 00:41:54.920] Let's create that.
[00:41:54.920 --> 00:41:55.640] Let's do it.
[00:41:55.640 --> 00:41:58.040] If it doesn't already exist, because it might already exist, right?
[00:41:58.040 --> 00:41:59.720] But if it doesn't exist, let's create it.
[00:41:59.720 --> 00:42:03.800] It seems now with these AI tools and technology, it seems like it wouldn't be that hard to create.
[00:42:03.880 --> 00:42:07.960] Just speak into it, transcribes it, and sends it right into that CRM.
[00:42:07.960 --> 00:42:09.240] I love that.
[00:42:09.880 --> 00:42:11.480] Last question for you, Catherine.
[00:42:11.480 --> 00:42:14.040] What does being an entrepreneurista mean to you?
[00:42:14.040 --> 00:42:17.280] I've been a serial entrepreneur my entire life.
[00:42:17.600 --> 00:42:25.760] For me, you know, I think it lets you listen to your purpose and then create that idea or innovation.
[00:42:25.760 --> 00:42:27.440] I'm just an idea person.
[00:42:27.440 --> 00:42:28.480] I can't help myself.
[00:42:28.480 --> 00:42:29.760] I'm a Sagittarius.
[00:42:29.760 --> 00:42:38.480] In fact, I have to actually rein in all of my ideas and really pick the ones that I think are worth putting the time and energy into.
[00:42:38.480 --> 00:42:40.800] But it's exciting and interesting.
[00:42:41.120 --> 00:42:46.240] You know, you make your own day, even if it is a 20-hour day.
[00:42:46.560 --> 00:42:54.560] But yeah, I just love being an entrepreneur and glad that you have created a forum for everybody to come together.
[00:42:54.560 --> 00:42:56.160] I think that's so important.
[00:42:56.160 --> 00:42:58.720] And yeah, thanks for all you're doing.
[00:42:58.720 --> 00:43:07.520] Thank you for all you have done and are continuing to do to help so many women founders and bring everyone together and educate everyone.
[00:43:07.520 --> 00:43:10.000] Where can everyone find you and follow you?
[00:43:10.000 --> 00:43:14.400] And again, everyone, don't forget we are going to be linking out to everything Catherine shares right now in the show notes.
[00:43:14.400 --> 00:43:22.960] So go head over to the show notes right now because you're definitely going to want to come to our virtual screening and panel of Show Her the Money.
[00:43:22.960 --> 00:43:24.400] But Catherine, where can everyone find you?
[00:43:24.400 --> 00:43:25.200] Tell me.
[00:43:25.200 --> 00:43:27.680] Well, you can find me down at this nightclub.
[00:43:27.680 --> 00:43:28.960] No, I'm just kidding.
[00:43:30.240 --> 00:43:34.320] You can find me, of course, on LinkedIn, Catherine Gray.
[00:43:34.320 --> 00:43:38.560] We also have the showherthemoneymovie.com website.
[00:43:38.560 --> 00:43:44.800] And then for those interested in venture capital, learning more about it, we have workshops about that.
[00:43:44.800 --> 00:43:48.640] And we have the Silicon Valley Women Founders Fund.
[00:43:48.640 --> 00:43:53.440] So you can find that as well, womenfoundersfund.vc.
[00:43:53.440 --> 00:43:55.680] So yeah, lots of ways to find me.
[00:43:55.680 --> 00:43:56.960] Would love to connect.
[00:43:56.960 --> 00:44:11.960] And I appreciate this platform to share all about our movement and our endeavors and about women learning more about venture and how we together can move that needle and help change the world for the better.
[00:44:11.960 --> 00:44:14.760] So thank you for the conversation today.
[00:44:14.760 --> 00:44:17.480] Yes, Catherine, thank you again for being here.
[00:44:17.480 --> 00:44:22.040] I'm Stephanie and this is the best business meeting I've ever had.
[00:44:22.280 --> 00:44:31.800] Hi Entrepranistas, it's Steph here and I hope today's episode has left you feeling inspired and with some actionable tips that you can apply to your own business.
[00:44:31.800 --> 00:44:39.160] The way we've grown our community and resources is by sharing content like this for years and asking for help along the way.
[00:44:39.160 --> 00:44:44.680] So here's where we need your help so we can continue to make as much impact as possible together.
[00:44:44.680 --> 00:44:54.360] If you can leave us a five-star review and extra credit if you share this episode on Instagram, LinkedIn, or DM it to a founder friend who would benefit from hearing it.
[00:44:54.360 --> 00:45:01.720] Not only would it mean the world to us, but you sharing this episode is going to help someone who just may need to hear what we share today.
[00:45:01.720 --> 00:45:04.760] And you know I love nothing more than giveaways and prizes.
[00:45:04.760 --> 00:45:11.480] So every month I'll be giving away a one-on-one session with me to someone who has shared the episode and left a review.
[00:45:11.480 --> 00:45:19.240] So send me a personal DM over on Instagram at Steph Jill Carton once you've done it so you can be entered to win.
[00:45:19.240 --> 00:45:25.000] Wishing you a productive week ahead and stay tuned for another impactful episode next week.

Prompt 2: Key Takeaways

Now please extract the key takeaways from the transcript content I provided.

Extract the most important key takeaways from this part of the conversation. Use a single sentence statement (the key takeaway) rather than milquetoast descriptions like "the hosts discuss...". 

Limit the key takeaways to a maximum of 3. The key takeaways should be insightful and knowledge-additive. 

IMPORTANT: Return ONLY valid JSON, no explanations or markdown. Ensure:
- All strings are properly quoted and escaped
- No trailing commas
- All braces and brackets are balanced
Format: {"key_takeaways": ["takeaway 1", "takeaway 2"]}

Prompt 3: Segments

Now identify 2-4 distinct topical segments from this part of the conversation.

For each segment, identify:
- Descriptive title (3-6 words)  
- START timestamp when this topic begins (HH:MM:SS format)
- Double check that the timestamp is accurate - a timestamp will NEVER be greater than the total length of the audio
- Most important Key takeaway from that segment. Key takeaway must be specific and knowledge-additive.
- Brief summary of the discussion

IMPORTANT: The timestamp should mark when the topic/segment STARTS, not a range. Look for topic transitions and conversation shifts.

Return ONLY valid JSON. Ensure all strings are properly quoted, no trailing commas:
{
  "segments": [
    {
      "segment_title": "Topic Discussion", 
      "timestamp": "01:15:30",
      "key_takeaway": "main point from this segment",
      "segment_summary": "brief description of what was discussed"
    }
  ]
}

Timestamp format: HH:MM:SS (e.g., 00:05:30, 01:22:45) marking the START of each segment.

Prompt 4: Media Mentions

Now scan the transcript content I provided for ACTUAL mentions of specific media titles:

Find explicit mentions of:
- Books (with specific titles)
- Movies (with specific titles)  
- TV Shows (with specific titles)
- Music/Songs (with specific titles)

DO NOT include:
- Websites, URLs, or web services
- Other podcasts or podcast names

IMPORTANT: 
- Only include items explicitly mentioned by name. Do not invent titles.
- Valid categories are: "Book", "Movie", "TV Show", "Music"
- Include the exact phrase where each item was mentioned
- Find the nearest proximate timestamp where it appears in the conversation
- THE TIMESTAMP OF THE MEDIA MENTION IS IMPORTANT - DO NOT INVENT TIMESTAMPS AND DO NOT MISATTRIBUTE TIMESTAMPS
- Double check that the timestamp is accurate - a timestamp will NEVER be greater than the total length of the audio
- Timestamps are given as ranges, e.g. 01:13:42.520 --> 01:13:46.720. Use the EARLIER of the 2 timestamps in the range.

Return ONLY valid JSON. Ensure all strings are properly quoted and escaped, no trailing commas:
{
  "media_mentions": [
    {
      "title": "Exact Title as Mentioned",
      "category": "Book",
      "author_artist": "N/A",
      "context": "Brief context of why it was mentioned",
      "context_phrase": "The exact sentence or phrase where it was mentioned",
      "timestamp": "estimated time like 01:15:30"
    }
  ]
}

If no media is mentioned, return: {"media_mentions": []}

Full Transcript

[00:00:00.880 --> 00:00:05.680] Hey, Entrepreneurs, it's Steph here with a special invite just for you.
[00:00:05.680 --> 00:00:10.800] Do you want to experience what it's like to be part of our Entrepreneursa League community of founders?
[00:00:10.800 --> 00:00:12.400] Now is your chance.
[00:00:12.400 --> 00:00:21.360] You can join me this month at one of our upcoming Entrepreneursa League info sessions where I'm going to share with you all you're going to get access to when you join the community.
[00:00:21.360 --> 00:00:27.040] Plus, I'll be giving away some big bonuses that you will only be able to get access to when you attend live.
[00:00:27.040 --> 00:00:35.600] Head over to refer.entrepreneesa.com forward slash info session to join us at one of our virtual info sessions this month.
[00:00:35.600 --> 00:00:40.640] That's refer.entrepranista.com forward slash info session.
[00:00:40.640 --> 00:00:44.560] Or head over to the show notes right now and tap the link to join us.
[00:00:44.560 --> 00:00:49.200] I can't wait to meet you there and learn more about you and your business.
[00:00:49.840 --> 00:00:56.480] Connecting people is free and brings so much joy that I don't know why more people don't activate that.
[00:00:56.480 --> 00:01:00.400] Just activate your ability to connect people.
[00:01:08.480 --> 00:01:18.400] Catherine Gray is an entrepreneur, producer, and advocate for women's empowerment, known for her impactful work supporting entrepreneurs through media and funding platforms.
[00:01:18.400 --> 00:01:30.800] As the founder of She Angel Investors and the co-founder of the She Angels Foundation, Catherine bridges the funding gap for women by providing resources, education, and inspiration.
[00:01:30.800 --> 00:01:42.480] Catherine's passion for storytelling and advocacy led to her latest film project, the documentary, Show Her the Money, which highlights the challenges women face in securing venture capital.
[00:01:42.480 --> 00:01:47.440] Get ready to hear Catherine's story and her biggest business secrets.
[00:01:48.080 --> 00:01:54.400] Coming up, you'll hear how Catherine's experience inspired her mission to educate women entrepreneurs.
[00:01:54.400 --> 00:01:58.960] Catherine shares her strategies for raising awareness about venture capital.
[00:01:58.960 --> 00:02:05.240] You'll learn all about the impact of her grassroots campaigns in promoting venture capital education.
[00:02:05.240 --> 00:02:12.280] You'll find out her insights into the operational logistics of organizing a nationwide tour to promote her film.
[00:02:12.280 --> 00:02:17.880] Catherine shares her plans for expanding venture capital education for the next generation.
[00:02:18.840 --> 00:02:22.280] This is the Entrepreneursa Podcast presented by Socialfly.
[00:02:22.280 --> 00:02:33.000] It's the best business meeting you'll ever have with must-hear real-life looks at how leading women in business are getting it done and what it takes to build and grow a successful company.
[00:02:33.000 --> 00:02:39.000] It's beyond the Graham with no filters, no limits, and plenty of surprises.
[00:02:43.800 --> 00:02:48.680] Catherine, I am so thrilled to finally be recording this episode with you.
[00:02:48.680 --> 00:02:52.360] I feel like it has been years in the making.
[00:02:52.360 --> 00:03:02.200] I want to share with our whole community here how you and Courtney actually got to connect in person just a couple months ago at the Alibaba Co-Create event.
[00:03:02.200 --> 00:03:13.000] And you had a screening of your movie and you are just making such an impact for women entrepreneurs who are looking to raise capital and get access to capital for their business.
[00:03:13.000 --> 00:03:16.760] So thank you so much for taking the time to be here today, Catherine.
[00:03:16.760 --> 00:03:17.640] Thank you so much.
[00:03:17.640 --> 00:03:18.600] I'm honored.
[00:03:18.600 --> 00:03:30.440] Entrepreneurs is such an amazing organization and just so thrilled that we're collaborating on our movie, Show Her the Money, and going to be screening with you all here in the future.
[00:03:30.440 --> 00:03:32.120] And it's been exciting.
[00:03:32.120 --> 00:03:36.600] We've won awards at several, basically every film festival that we were at.
[00:03:36.600 --> 00:03:39.800] And then we just finished our 100 city tour.
[00:03:39.800 --> 00:03:41.720] And then the best news is U.S.
[00:03:41.720 --> 00:03:51.840] News and World Report just recognized Show Her the Money as one of the 11 best financial films of the decade, which blew us away.
[00:03:51.840 --> 00:03:55.120] And we are so excited that they felt that way about it.
[00:03:55.120 --> 00:04:03.840] And we've just been having a blast going all around the world with the film, meeting the most incredible women entrepreneurs on the planet.
[00:04:03.840 --> 00:04:08.560] And they are in every single city in this country and around the world.
[00:04:08.560 --> 00:04:11.600] And it's been great getting to meet them in person.
[00:04:11.600 --> 00:04:13.600] Well, it is so incredible all you've accomplished.
[00:04:13.600 --> 00:04:15.840] I just got the chills when you shared that.
[00:04:15.840 --> 00:04:16.960] And it is true.
[00:04:16.960 --> 00:04:31.280] Founders are in every single city, and we all have to be able to come together to support each other and make sure we are all getting access to capital so we can grow and scale our businesses because we're going to make the most impact in this world together when we all support each other.
[00:04:31.280 --> 00:04:43.920] But, Catherine, before we dive into the movie itself, because I have so many questions for you, I want to take a step back and hear more about your background and actually what led you to create this movie.
[00:04:44.080 --> 00:04:48.080] Stephanie, I have always been a big advocate for the underdog.
[00:04:48.080 --> 00:04:58.000] I've always felt like a calling to make films, create events, do my podcasts, anything that would help raise awareness.
[00:04:58.000 --> 00:05:02.960] So I'm a big believer it is film and television that helps change culture.
[00:05:02.960 --> 00:05:14.400] And so when I got wind of the fact that women were getting only 2% of venture capital, I was like, we're getting only 2% and men are getting 98%.
[00:05:14.400 --> 00:05:17.280] And by the way, what is venture capital?
[00:05:17.840 --> 00:05:24.560] And I found that all these really accomplished men and women really didn't know what venture capital was.
[00:05:24.560 --> 00:05:26.160] And I thought, why is that?
[00:05:26.160 --> 00:05:28.000] Why don't we know about it?
[00:05:28.000 --> 00:05:31.160] Why don't we know why there's this inequity?
[00:05:31.160 --> 00:05:34.120] Why don't we understand what venture capital is?
[00:05:34.120 --> 00:05:37.400] And really, it's been the best kept secret.
[00:05:37.400 --> 00:05:39.720] And women are just starting to discover it.
[00:05:39.720 --> 00:05:54.360] And it's so fun being able to have a film that helps people demystify it and learn about it and get excited about it and see how fascinating, how lucrative, how impactful it can be.
[00:05:54.360 --> 00:05:56.520] And why shouldn't we be a part of it?
[00:05:56.520 --> 00:05:58.760] And so that's been an exciting ride.
[00:05:58.760 --> 00:06:03.880] But my background has been in believing that there are films that need to be made.
[00:06:03.880 --> 00:06:08.280] Another one I did was called I Can't Marry You about same-sex marriage.
[00:06:08.280 --> 00:06:11.240] We did not have it at the time I made that movie.
[00:06:11.240 --> 00:06:17.640] I do believe it is, like I said, movies and television that raise awareness and change culture.
[00:06:17.640 --> 00:06:26.200] So along the way, decided that we needed to create this film and take it around the world and create what I call it's a movie and a movement.
[00:06:26.200 --> 00:06:27.800] So I call it a moviement.
[00:06:28.040 --> 00:06:29.400] Oh my gosh, I love that.
[00:06:29.400 --> 00:06:31.000] Did you trademark that?
[00:06:31.000 --> 00:06:32.360] No, I should.
[00:06:32.360 --> 00:06:33.960] You should definitely trademark that.
[00:06:33.960 --> 00:06:38.520] We have some incredible entrepreneurs in our community who are incredible trademark attorneys.
[00:06:38.520 --> 00:06:42.920] So definitely trademark that because when people listen to this podcast, they're going to be like, oh, that's a really good one.
[00:06:42.920 --> 00:06:44.680] So I know, I know.
[00:06:44.680 --> 00:06:46.920] We have trademarked show her the money.
[00:06:46.920 --> 00:06:51.720] And I think we feel really good about that title because we feel like it's empowering.
[00:06:51.720 --> 00:06:54.280] You know, that's what we need in this arena.
[00:06:54.280 --> 00:06:58.760] We need women all over the world to know that they are worthy of being empowered.
[00:06:58.760 --> 00:07:01.160] They are worthy of building their wealth.
[00:07:01.160 --> 00:07:03.560] They are worthy of getting funded.
[00:07:03.560 --> 00:07:16.880] And that's really, I know what your entity is about: empowering women and giving them a network of connections to allow them to accomplish what they think is their purpose on the planet.
[00:07:14.600 --> 00:07:18.960] And isn't that why we're all here?
[00:07:14.760 --> 00:07:19.520] Absolutely.
[00:07:19.760 --> 00:07:28.640] You just sharing that story of, you know, when you found out only 2% of women are getting venture funded every single year.
[00:07:28.640 --> 00:07:30.400] And like, how can this possibly be?
[00:07:30.400 --> 00:07:38.800] And how do, how is there not more awareness and education around venture capital reminded me of, now this is going back to really only 2019.
[00:07:38.800 --> 00:07:44.000] Courtney and I had been in business since 2011, 2012, when we first started our business.
[00:07:44.000 --> 00:07:50.640] And all that time from 2011 to 2019, we were in business growing our marketing agency.
[00:07:50.640 --> 00:07:52.320] We bootstrapped the business.
[00:07:52.320 --> 00:07:56.000] We didn't know about other forms of capital or what venture capital was.
[00:07:56.000 --> 00:07:58.240] Like that just wasn't in our worlds either.
[00:07:58.240 --> 00:08:07.040] And a friend of ours, Ben, he had, you know, started raising money for other businesses that were just starting out.
[00:08:07.040 --> 00:08:09.760] And I saw what he was doing and I was like, hey, can we meet for coffee?
[00:08:09.760 --> 00:08:11.600] Can you like explain to me what you're doing?
[00:08:11.600 --> 00:08:17.920] Like I saw what he was doing and I was like, I need to learn about this, but I had to seek it out to actually find out about it.
[00:08:17.920 --> 00:08:26.640] And I was like, wait a second, this is like this underground world where only certain people are getting access to these deals and only certain people know about this.
[00:08:26.640 --> 00:08:28.800] We need to get more awareness out there.
[00:08:28.800 --> 00:08:31.360] And it all starts with awareness and education.
[00:08:31.360 --> 00:08:36.800] And that was the moment that I realized Ben was like, look, we're doing these angel syndicates.
[00:08:36.800 --> 00:08:39.360] The best way to learn is to actually invest.
[00:08:39.360 --> 00:08:42.480] He's like, I'm doing a syndicate right now for this company.
[00:08:42.480 --> 00:08:44.480] Put in $1,000, put in $2,000.
[00:08:44.480 --> 00:08:45.840] This is how you're going to learn.
[00:08:45.840 --> 00:08:47.120] And I was like, okay.
[00:08:47.440 --> 00:08:52.800] And it's not like I had like a lot of money at that time, but I'm like, I'm going to just learn.
[00:08:52.800 --> 00:08:54.480] And that's how we learn.
[00:08:54.480 --> 00:09:05.480] And I think the movement that you have now started and created, where you're bringing this information to people at scale is so important because it hasn't been out there before the past couple of years.
[00:08:59.840 --> 00:09:06.520] It's true.
[00:09:06.840 --> 00:09:15.960] You know, when I started learning even about the women who were starting their own venture capital funds, I thought, wow, these women are really unsung heroes.
[00:09:15.960 --> 00:09:18.040] Nobody even knows about them.
[00:09:18.040 --> 00:09:21.400] Let's have the movie shine a light on them.
[00:09:21.400 --> 00:09:22.840] They deserve that.
[00:09:22.840 --> 00:09:28.840] And I have had those fund managers say, wow, for the first time, we're feeling seen and heard.
[00:09:28.840 --> 00:09:36.280] But there they are, you know, out there raising $25, $50, $100 million or more to invest in women.
[00:09:36.280 --> 00:09:45.880] And by the way, the women venture funds usually tend to invest in not just women, but also BIPOC and LGBTQ, all the overlook communities.
[00:09:46.200 --> 00:09:58.200] And the cool thing about that is, in the long run, all these women that are starting their own funds, which is many now, are going to be the real winners in this arena because, you know, women tend to be more profitable.
[00:09:58.200 --> 00:09:59.800] They tend to exit earlier.
[00:09:59.800 --> 00:10:04.440] They just have so much going for them that they're going to make great investments.
[00:10:04.440 --> 00:10:10.360] And in the long run, these funds are going to be more than likely very profitable.
[00:10:10.360 --> 00:10:14.440] And then men will be saying, oh, maybe I should be investing in women.
[00:10:14.440 --> 00:10:19.160] But we have to kind of take it upon ourselves to move that needle.
[00:10:19.160 --> 00:10:32.520] And that really is the purpose of the grassroots campaigns, Stephanie, is to alert people what is venture capital, how accessible it is, and how they would want to be a part of it and why.
[00:10:32.520 --> 00:10:39.720] Getting to learn about what are all the new innovations coming down the pike is very exciting space to be in.
[00:10:39.720 --> 00:10:44.280] Getting able to invest in them is even more exciting.
[00:10:44.280 --> 00:10:52.160] And so I always tell people, you know, by the time a stock reaches the public market, it's really seen billions of dollars in profit already.
[00:10:52.480 --> 00:11:05.280] It's why the average stock on the public market does an average of about 10% return, where in venture capital, it averages about 20% because it's between like 18 and 27%.
[00:11:05.280 --> 00:11:13.600] It's why people should consider putting a portion of their portfolio, even if it's 5%, into this asset class.
[00:11:13.600 --> 00:11:28.880] The problem is, especially for women, but men too, is that their wealth advisors usually don't recommend it because A, they don't know about it, and B, they probably won't benefit from it if their company doesn't offer that asset class.
[00:11:28.880 --> 00:11:38.000] And that's what we have to break out of and know that there are books, podcasts, workshops for us to learn about venture capital.
[00:11:38.000 --> 00:11:42.080] We do it on our website, showherthemoneymovie.com.
[00:11:42.080 --> 00:11:56.720] We have a whole resources page to learn about venture capital and why you would want to put part of your portfolio into that, even if your wealth advisor doesn't have that in their selection of options, if that makes sense.
[00:11:56.960 --> 00:12:03.040] We have to educate ourselves on it, and we're trying to provide that through the movie and these resources.
[00:12:03.040 --> 00:12:07.520] And I feel like for us as women, a lot of times we can be more risk averse.
[00:12:07.520 --> 00:12:23.920] Like unless we know all the information, it's harder for us to say, okay, I'm going to take that $1,000, $5,000, $10,000 and write that check if I don't understand the asset class itself, where a lot of times men will be like, oh, a friend says I need to invest in this, write the check, just do it.
[00:12:23.920 --> 00:12:26.880] And I think a lot of times that's just like how we're wired as women.
[00:12:26.880 --> 00:12:37.160] And that's okay because now we have all these opportunities to become educated so we can feel like we're empowered to make these choices of where to invest our money.
[00:12:37.400 --> 00:12:39.480] And yes, can it be riskier?
[00:12:39.480 --> 00:12:46.680] Sure, but there can be a lot bigger returns, and there's so much opportunity when we're all able to invest in each other.
[00:12:46.680 --> 00:12:47.880] But it does start with education.
[00:12:47.880 --> 00:12:50.360] So, Catherine, I want to talk about the movie right now.
[00:12:50.360 --> 00:12:56.920] Tell me about that moment that you realized this statistic and you were like, All right, I need to make this movie.
[00:12:56.920 --> 00:12:58.040] What was your first step?
[00:12:58.040 --> 00:13:00.280] What did you do to get it off the ground?
[00:13:00.440 --> 00:13:07.640] First, I thought, well, this is going to be interesting raising money for a movie about how hard it is to raise money.
[00:13:07.960 --> 00:13:10.360] I thought that's crazy right there.
[00:13:10.680 --> 00:13:17.800] But I knew there had to be an entertaining way to help women understand what venture capital is.
[00:13:17.800 --> 00:13:20.600] And what better way than through storytelling?
[00:13:20.600 --> 00:13:25.320] So, this isn't some documentary that's full of numbers and is going to bore you.
[00:13:25.320 --> 00:13:34.600] It actually is a moving movie about these entrepreneurs' journeys and what they go through to build their businesses.
[00:13:34.600 --> 00:13:42.200] And along the way, while you're being entertained by their stories, you're also learning about venture capital.
[00:13:42.200 --> 00:13:50.440] For instance, in the movie, we try to get rid of the idea that people think that it's inaccessible to them to invest in venture.
[00:13:50.440 --> 00:13:57.560] People have an idea that you have to have a million dollars, $10 million to invest in venture capital, that it's just for wealthy people.
[00:13:57.560 --> 00:13:59.400] But that's not the case.
[00:13:59.400 --> 00:14:07.960] You might take $25,000 from your IRA or $100,000 from your IRA and move it into this type of asset class.
[00:14:07.960 --> 00:14:19.040] It may be that you put in 25, but the venture fund might say, Oh, you only have to put in 10, and then during capital calls over the next year or two, you can put in the rest.
[00:14:19.360 --> 00:14:25.440] So people have to understand how bite-sized it can be, how accessible it can be.
[00:14:25.440 --> 00:14:34.080] The other part of the film was to let them know what an exciting opportunity it is to meet people who are innovating.
[00:14:34.080 --> 00:14:39.360] Maybe you're not an innovator yourself, but you can invest in people who are.
[00:14:39.360 --> 00:14:43.120] How exciting is that that you know the newest thing happening?
[00:14:43.120 --> 00:14:49.120] It could be, hey, there's on the horizon something that's going to detect lung cancer.
[00:14:49.120 --> 00:14:50.960] I know a woman that's working on that.
[00:14:50.960 --> 00:14:55.920] It could be something that has to do with improving women's health.
[00:14:55.920 --> 00:15:00.240] There's those new wearables that let you know how to minimize menopause.
[00:15:00.240 --> 00:15:05.440] You know, if we don't invest in women's health care products, men aren't going to.
[00:15:05.440 --> 00:15:07.840] They haven't been for the last couple of decades.
[00:15:07.840 --> 00:15:12.080] So, you know, I did a TED talk called Fund Women Save the World.
[00:15:12.080 --> 00:15:18.560] And in that, I talked about the research shows how people do tend to invest in people they identify with.
[00:15:18.560 --> 00:15:27.920] So it's very important that we have women investing in women through venture capital because otherwise nobody is.
[00:15:27.920 --> 00:15:29.440] That's why we get 2%.
[00:15:29.440 --> 00:15:37.760] When these women go and pitch, they're pitching to all old white men who don't even understand the product and certainly don't identify with the founder.
[00:15:37.760 --> 00:15:44.640] It's so important that we take this problem into our own hands and we solve it as women do.
[00:15:44.640 --> 00:16:17.800] And so I feel like on this 100-city tour around the world with the film, we've been educating people, lighting a match in each city, and creating a fire of excitement for women to understand: hey, I can be part of this movement and I can help create change and move that 2% needle by becoming an investor in venture capital in women-founded funds who are funding women's innovations that are game-changing and going to help change the future of what products and services we see.
[00:16:17.800 --> 00:16:24.600] You know, I always say women impact 80% of the buying decisions.
[00:16:24.600 --> 00:16:31.800] Why aren't we impacting that type of number of investment decisions?
[00:16:31.800 --> 00:16:35.640] Women are coming into trillions of dollars in the coming decade.
[00:16:35.640 --> 00:16:37.560] What are they going to do with it?
[00:16:37.560 --> 00:16:55.640] They need to know about venture capital, and collectively, we need to make a movement, which we are to change that 2% so that we get our fair share of investment dollars to create products and services that will not only benefit women, but will benefit the planet.
[00:16:55.640 --> 00:16:57.400] Yes, yes, and yes.
[00:16:57.400 --> 00:16:59.400] I wanted to be a little passionate about it.
[00:16:59.560 --> 00:17:00.600] I know, I am too.
[00:17:00.600 --> 00:17:01.240] So, I love it.
[00:17:01.800 --> 00:17:22.520] This is a very intense, passionate episode because both of our goals are to help more women founders grow and scale a business, build a business of your dreams, get access to funding, resources, support, and all of us have the opportunity if we want to be able to invest in each other and understand what we're investing in and what this incredible opportunity is going to be.
[00:17:22.520 --> 00:17:30.520] So, Catherine, I love this strategy that you came up with to be able to show this movie in different cities.
[00:17:30.520 --> 00:17:34.280] You've done a 100-city tour over the past year.
[00:17:34.280 --> 00:17:36.280] When I look at you, I'm like, How are you still standing?
[00:17:36.280 --> 00:17:39.800] That seems like the most exhausting but amazing thing ever.
[00:17:39.800 --> 00:17:46.480] Tell me how you decided on this strategy to be able to get the movie out there to reach as many people as possible.
[00:17:46.800 --> 00:17:54.880] Well, I did think from the get-go, it needed to be a grassroots tour where you can have conversations with people and then allow them a QA.
[00:17:54.880 --> 00:18:03.920] And even as we roll out our virtual, we have that same pattern where we're going to do a virtual panel so we can still engage people with the conversation.
[00:18:04.240 --> 00:18:06.000] Now you've expanded to virtual, which is amazing.
[00:18:06.000 --> 00:18:07.840] And we're so glad to be able to do this.
[00:18:07.840 --> 00:18:14.080] Yeah, as fun as it was to do in person, and it really was because you know how it is from your events.
[00:18:14.080 --> 00:18:23.280] When you get a lot of really high-powered, successful, energized women in a room together, there is a magic, right?
[00:18:23.600 --> 00:18:28.960] And so there's been a magic around the in-person screenings.
[00:18:28.960 --> 00:18:38.240] That being said, so many people have wanted to see it and couldn't see it because maybe it wasn't in their city or they weren't available at that day in time.
[00:18:38.240 --> 00:18:46.800] So, and that's why we're now rolling out for 2025 the virtual opportunity to reach groups like yours so we can reach more people.
[00:18:46.800 --> 00:18:50.560] They can buy a ticket, watch it over, you know, three to five days.
[00:18:50.560 --> 00:18:53.600] And then at the end of that, we have the virtual panel.
[00:18:53.600 --> 00:18:58.080] And this is a formula that so we can reach millions of women around the world.
[00:18:58.080 --> 00:19:00.720] Yeah, we're excited to get that started.
[00:19:00.720 --> 00:19:03.280] And that's why we're moving into that arena.
[00:19:03.280 --> 00:19:04.400] So here's the thing.
[00:19:04.400 --> 00:19:18.080] You can't just go and see it somewhere, but we are doing exclusive screenings with entities like Entrepreneurs so that they have an opportunity, like you said, to all see it and then all talk about it together at the same time.
[00:19:18.080 --> 00:19:21.600] And like you said, that engagement and that conversation is so important.
[00:19:21.600 --> 00:19:29.320] And this topic is so important that we can have that conversation around the actual fundamentals around venture capital.
[00:19:29.320 --> 00:19:36.280] Because, again, something I see all the time is like, if you don't know about this, you might feel like, oh, should I be asking this question?
[00:19:29.840 --> 00:19:38.600] And I hear people say all the time, like, oh, this is a silly question.
[00:19:38.680 --> 00:19:40.680] I'm like, no, there's no silly questions.
[00:19:40.680 --> 00:19:42.360] There's no stupid questions.
[00:19:42.360 --> 00:19:51.720] This is a safe space to come ask everything because most people do not know anything about this asset class, like nothing, even as founders.
[00:19:51.720 --> 00:19:53.240] Again, I just shared this before.
[00:19:53.240 --> 00:19:55.560] I knew nothing about venture capital.
[00:19:55.560 --> 00:20:00.040] I was already in business for many, many years before I learned about this.
[00:20:00.040 --> 00:20:01.400] And it was like a light bulb.
[00:20:01.400 --> 00:20:05.480] And I'm like, oh my gosh, how did I not know about this?
[00:20:05.480 --> 00:20:15.080] So we are here to educate everyone so you can have that information and then you decide whether it makes sense to start investing in this asset class.
[00:20:15.080 --> 00:20:16.360] But at least you know about it.
[00:20:16.360 --> 00:20:20.200] At least you have that information and you've learned something.
[00:20:20.200 --> 00:20:22.840] Yes, we have to educate ourselves on it.
[00:20:22.840 --> 00:20:36.840] It isn't for everybody, but it is for enough people that aren't taking advantage of it that it's worth us going out on the tour and talking to people about it, either as an investor or as someone looking to scale their business.
[00:20:36.840 --> 00:20:40.040] But we definitely should be making ourselves aware about it.
[00:20:40.040 --> 00:20:41.240] That's what we've done.
[00:20:41.240 --> 00:20:46.600] We've tried to do like in an engaging, fascinating, storytelling kind of way.
[00:20:46.600 --> 00:20:48.280] What is venture capital?
[00:20:48.280 --> 00:20:53.720] And, you know, people, when they leave the movie, they're like, wow, I didn't know it was so easy to understand.
[00:20:53.720 --> 00:20:56.040] I didn't know how accessible it was.
[00:20:56.040 --> 00:20:58.440] I didn't know how exciting it is.
[00:20:58.440 --> 00:21:00.680] And so that really was our goal.
[00:21:00.680 --> 00:21:04.920] We're thrilled that so many people are talking about it and wanting to see it.
[00:21:04.920 --> 00:21:09.960] And we are on a mission to get more people to be able to see it.
[00:21:09.960 --> 00:21:16.720] Catherine, what were some of your biggest challenges as you went out to raise capital to be able to produce this movie?
[00:21:17.040 --> 00:21:18.640] It's like anybody.
[00:21:18.640 --> 00:21:20.320] You have to take the time.
[00:21:20.320 --> 00:21:28.960] I'm a big believer in it is about connecting with people, you know, because people invest in people they believe in or, you know, are like-minded.
[00:21:28.960 --> 00:21:31.040] And so I had to go out and find the people.
[00:21:31.200 --> 00:21:37.520] You have to talk to hundreds of people and find those people that get it, that say, you know what, you're right.
[00:21:37.520 --> 00:21:39.840] This is what we need to help change this.
[00:21:39.840 --> 00:21:49.840] And so I was so fortunate to find a couple dozen people that believed in the fact that a film could raise awareness enough to help move the needle.
[00:21:49.840 --> 00:21:53.920] And it was important enough to them that they wanted to invest in it.
[00:21:53.920 --> 00:21:56.320] So yeah, really fortunate in that read up.
[00:21:56.320 --> 00:22:01.440] Really, and so many amazing women and two men invested in our film.
[00:22:01.440 --> 00:22:03.120] And we have a book coming out.
[00:22:03.120 --> 00:22:06.160] It's the same name as the movie, Show Her the Money.
[00:22:06.160 --> 00:22:13.680] And it's the people of the movie and the movement because each one of them had such an incredible story themselves.
[00:22:13.680 --> 00:22:16.080] I'm like, oh my gosh, this would make a great book.
[00:22:16.080 --> 00:22:20.880] So each chapter tells each of their stories and it's a really great read.
[00:22:20.880 --> 00:22:23.520] It'll be out in the next couple of weeks.
[00:22:23.520 --> 00:22:24.240] Amazing.
[00:22:24.240 --> 00:22:24.720] All right.
[00:22:24.720 --> 00:22:28.800] So I think by the time this episode airs, everyone head over to the show notes again right now.
[00:22:28.800 --> 00:22:33.360] If you want to get a copy of the book, we will link out to that book.
[00:22:33.360 --> 00:22:40.320] And if this episode is out before the book comes out, Catherine, just send us that link and we'll add it into the show notes so everyone can go find it.
[00:22:40.320 --> 00:22:45.680] Up next, you'll hear all about the strategies Catherine used to raise money for her film.
[00:22:52.720 --> 00:22:53.920] Hi, Entrepreneurs.
[00:22:53.920 --> 00:22:55.040] It's Steph here.
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[00:22:59.680 --> 00:23:06.120] And that's why we created our Entrepreneursa Founders Weekend Wealth and Wellness Retreat.
[00:23:06.280 --> 00:23:08.440] And I can't wait to meet you in person there.
[00:23:08.440 --> 00:23:22.680] So you're officially invited to join us from April 30th to May 3rd, 2026, at the stunning PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, for three transformative days of connection, collaboration, and real business growth.
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[00:23:24.760 --> 00:23:33.160] It is a curated retreat designed to help you build authentic, lasting relationships with women who truly understand your journey.
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[00:23:39.960 --> 00:23:51.480] So if you are ready to invest in yourself and your business and your vision and your next level of success, head over to entrepreneurs.com forward slash foundersweekend to reserve your ticket today.
[00:23:51.480 --> 00:23:59.800] That's entrepreneur.com forward slash foundersweekend, or head over to the show notes right now and tap the invitation to reserve your ticket.
[00:23:59.800 --> 00:24:01.240] I'll see you there.
[00:24:10.840 --> 00:24:15.640] Tell me, what are some of the biggest challenges and learning lessons from creating a movie and a book?
[00:24:15.640 --> 00:24:21.800] Because I know we have a lot of entrepreneurs, one, that definitely are in the process of writing a book and want to write a book.
[00:24:21.800 --> 00:24:25.320] And two, some that might want to create a movie one day.
[00:24:25.320 --> 00:24:27.240] What have you learned about the process?
[00:24:27.240 --> 00:24:32.520] You just have to find like-minded people that believe in whatever the movie's about.
[00:24:32.520 --> 00:24:47.200] You know, for a documentary, you're typically looking at, you know, it's about a topic and you're finding people that believe in that same topic that you do, whether it's about venture capital or about climate change or whatever that may be.
[00:24:44.840 --> 00:24:50.720] So for us, I tried to get creative and how we raised the money.
[00:24:51.120 --> 00:24:52.880] Really did three different things.
[00:24:52.880 --> 00:24:58.400] One is we did equi investment, so we created an LLC that people could invest in.
[00:24:58.560 --> 00:25:06.720] Second, I set up a fiscal sponsor with a 5013C and raised some of the money through donations.
[00:25:06.720 --> 00:25:18.800] And then the final part for me was getting a sponsor for our, which was originally a 50-city tour that turned into 100 cities, getting a corporate company to underwrite that.
[00:25:18.800 --> 00:25:21.040] And that was Wells Fargo for us.
[00:25:21.040 --> 00:25:27.840] It was a three-pronged way of raising over a million dollars to make the movie and then take it around the world.
[00:25:27.840 --> 00:25:32.080] What happened was I declared that we were going to take it to 50 cities.
[00:25:32.080 --> 00:25:37.920] I didn't really know how we were going to do that, but you know, I felt led to say that and do that.
[00:25:37.920 --> 00:25:44.800] And after we did our theatrical premiere in LA and New York, that got us the momentum.
[00:25:44.800 --> 00:25:50.800] So many people that attended those reached out to us to then schedule their screenings.
[00:25:50.800 --> 00:25:55.200] We've never actually pursued people screening it.
[00:25:55.200 --> 00:25:57.760] They have come to us and said, we want to screen it.
[00:25:57.760 --> 00:26:11.280] So we've been really lucky that it's been an organic demand and seems to continue to be into 2025 for both live screenings and for the new virtual screenings.
[00:26:11.280 --> 00:26:19.600] So there's just been a thirst and a hunger as people want to learn more about venture and how they can be a part of it.
[00:26:19.600 --> 00:26:23.600] And so, I guess, right place, right time, lucky.
[00:26:23.600 --> 00:26:24.080] Yeah.
[00:26:24.400 --> 00:26:33.400] Well, I always think, you know, luck comes by putting yourself out there and in the right rooms and the right places for that magic to just spark.
[00:26:33.560 --> 00:26:37.480] Like, you've worked really, really, really hard to get lucky, right?
[00:26:37.480 --> 00:26:39.080] Yes, yes, yes.
[00:26:39.080 --> 00:26:45.080] Catherine, I want to hear about maybe some of the operational logistics of the past year.
[00:26:45.080 --> 00:26:50.520] So, you've gone to so many cities, screened this a hundred times across the country.
[00:26:50.520 --> 00:26:58.600] So, you've been building this business on the back end of Show Her the Money while you've been literally running around the country.
[00:26:58.600 --> 00:27:05.320] How have you gone about growing your team and managing all of these events over the past year?
[00:27:05.320 --> 00:27:07.400] What are some of your secrets?
[00:27:07.560 --> 00:27:11.240] Phenomenal women, you know, on my team.
[00:27:11.560 --> 00:27:13.960] You obviously can't do it all yourself.
[00:27:13.960 --> 00:27:24.440] So, my tour coordinator, Michaela Kennedy, has been off the charts, amazing, booking all of the travel and the panels in each city.
[00:27:24.440 --> 00:27:32.760] And then, I have another assistant that also helps us with our Invest in Her podcast, as well as helping with the travel agendas and whatnot.
[00:27:32.760 --> 00:27:36.200] So, yeah, it does take a really great, dedicated team.
[00:27:36.200 --> 00:27:39.560] And I am super fortunate in that arena.
[00:27:39.880 --> 00:27:47.000] All the people that are involved in the film have been very active in the screening.
[00:27:47.000 --> 00:27:59.080] So, when you go to a screening, many of the people involved with the film who've invested in the film and are associate producers or executive producers will often come to the screenings and be on the panel.
[00:27:59.080 --> 00:28:07.400] So, they've been super excited not just to invest in the film, but to actually be in the film screenings.
[00:28:07.400 --> 00:28:08.360] They love it.
[00:28:08.360 --> 00:28:09.560] They're into it.
[00:28:09.560 --> 00:28:10.760] They're awesome.
[00:28:10.760 --> 00:28:14.040] I couldn't be luckier with the people that invested in the film.
[00:28:14.040 --> 00:28:18.080] It's why I'm excited about the book coming out and telling each of their stories.
[00:28:18.320 --> 00:28:30.160] But they have been electric and amazing as well, which has made it more fun because when I'm in the other cities with the other people from the film, it's even electric times 10.
[00:28:30.160 --> 00:28:31.200] Yes, no.
[00:28:31.200 --> 00:28:37.360] And I am so excited for our virtual event when we bring everyone together on Zoom together.
[00:28:37.360 --> 00:28:42.640] But I just know the energy of being in these rooms in person is truly magical.
[00:28:42.640 --> 00:28:49.520] Catherine, do you remember the first time when you had that very first screening and you brought everyone together watching the movie?
[00:28:49.520 --> 00:28:51.760] Like, what did that feel like for you?
[00:28:52.080 --> 00:28:52.880] I do.
[00:28:53.280 --> 00:28:57.520] So the very first screening was at the Soho House in West Hollywood.
[00:28:57.520 --> 00:28:58.880] It was not open to the public.
[00:28:58.880 --> 00:29:04.960] It was for everyone who had invested in the film and everybody involved in the film and everybody in the film.
[00:29:04.960 --> 00:29:09.200] And yeah, me and the director Kai Dickens, of course, we were nervous.
[00:29:09.200 --> 00:29:11.280] We're like, we hope they love it.
[00:29:11.280 --> 00:29:16.160] And so, yeah, it was really gratifying that they did embrace it and love it.
[00:29:16.160 --> 00:29:25.600] And then it was even more gratifying when we went to our first premiere at a film festival, which was the women's festival in Philadelphia.
[00:29:25.600 --> 00:29:36.480] And several hundred people in the theater, off the charts energy throughout the entire film, and then a big celebration afterwards.
[00:29:36.480 --> 00:29:40.960] And I thought, wow, is every city going to be like this?
[00:29:40.960 --> 00:29:42.640] This is crazy.
[00:29:42.640 --> 00:29:49.360] And it actually continued city after city with this enthusiasm and this magic.
[00:29:49.360 --> 00:29:52.560] And it hasn't, it's just been really incredible.
[00:29:52.560 --> 00:30:00.000] And so, yeah, it's been a lot of cities, I will admit, but I guess the reception of it has fueled me.
[00:30:00.440 --> 00:30:07.400] You know, when you know you're doing what you're meant to be doing, and there's a gratification and a joy in that.
[00:30:07.400 --> 00:30:09.960] And so, yeah, it's really been an amazing year.
[00:30:09.960 --> 00:30:10.840] No, it's incredible.
[00:30:10.840 --> 00:30:11.880] I know that feeling every day.
[00:30:11.880 --> 00:30:19.880] It's like when you're doing what you feel like you've worked your entire life for and like were born to do, and now it has just come to life, like there's nothing better.
[00:30:19.880 --> 00:30:26.920] Even when you feel like you're working so hard and sometimes around the clock and doing a million things, but you know, it's for the best purpose, nothing feels better.
[00:30:26.920 --> 00:30:28.600] And so, so relate to that.
[00:30:28.600 --> 00:30:38.200] And speaking of all this, while the film has been incredibly amazing, we do have other new things on the horizon besides just virtually streaming it.
[00:30:38.200 --> 00:31:05.000] So, we're working on a curriculum to go with the film because we had some universities ask us for this, so that we can roll out an educational program to high schools and colleges and universities so young people can learn about venture so that what happened to you and I doesn't happen to them, that that generation knows and understands venture as a career path, as an investment path, as a funding path.
[00:31:05.000 --> 00:31:06.520] Won't they have a leg up?
[00:31:06.520 --> 00:31:12.440] And so, we want to educate young women and men about venture at a younger age.
[00:31:12.440 --> 00:31:22.520] And so, looking for a corporate underwriter or foundation to help us do that, but that's the next plan to roll that out, feels like also very on purpose.
[00:31:22.520 --> 00:31:33.400] And then, we also have an opportunity looking for the corporate sponsor to team up with us on an opportunity we have to do a spin-off docuseries with entrepreneur media.
[00:31:33.400 --> 00:31:40.280] So, that's a couple of things on our agenda to expand what we're already doing with the film.
[00:31:40.280 --> 00:31:41.480] That's incredible.
[00:31:41.480 --> 00:31:42.680] I love that.
[00:31:42.680 --> 00:32:02.560] So, for our entrepreneurs who might also be building event companies or movies or nonprofits where they are also looking for corporate partners and sponsors, can you share some of your best tips and secrets on how you've gone about finding these corporate partners?
[00:32:02.560 --> 00:32:09.040] Once again, I go back to really, and this is something I talk about in the movie: it's connections.
[00:32:09.040 --> 00:32:15.200] It's all about connecting with people because people want to do business with people they like.
[00:32:15.200 --> 00:32:20.240] I always love the Maya Angelou saying, people don't remember what you say.
[00:32:20.240 --> 00:32:23.040] They remember how you made them feel, right?
[00:32:23.600 --> 00:32:25.600] I love that saying.
[00:32:25.600 --> 00:32:27.040] It's so true.
[00:32:27.040 --> 00:32:30.560] So we have to connect on a human level with people.
[00:32:30.560 --> 00:32:36.000] And then if you're like-minded, they're going to want to support your endeavor.
[00:32:36.000 --> 00:32:41.040] And someone working at a corporation is no different than you are as an entrepreneur.
[00:32:41.360 --> 00:32:43.680] They probably have a calling.
[00:32:43.680 --> 00:32:47.520] They want to be helping women, or you have to find the ones that are.
[00:32:47.520 --> 00:32:49.520] They are in those corporations.
[00:32:49.520 --> 00:32:58.240] And it's a matter of working in an environment like Entrepreneur, where you're helping each other to connect to company heads.
[00:32:58.240 --> 00:33:05.440] And that's where we have to deal with women in the C-suite who have that power to get behind projects like this.
[00:33:05.440 --> 00:33:14.320] And I was fortunate to meet some in the Wells Fargo entity that believed in our project, took it to the powers that be, and made that happen.
[00:33:14.320 --> 00:33:21.040] So I really applaud those women, Ruth Jackson, Judith Goldcrand, and Amy Bellarosa.
[00:33:21.040 --> 00:33:28.400] You need the champions in those entities to champion for you, but you need to connect with them.
[00:33:28.400 --> 00:33:30.760] And that's why you need to go to events like yours.
[00:33:29.840 --> 00:33:31.960] Yes, absolutely.
[00:33:29.920 --> 00:33:34.040] I always share with our community all of the time.
[00:33:34.360 --> 00:33:38.200] It's not about the two of us are connecting and can we do business together?
[00:33:38.200 --> 00:33:51.080] Like, sure, that's great, but it's like, who do we all know that we can introduce each other to and making sure that you're asking for those intros and connections because we all do want to help each other, but we're also not all mind readers.
[00:33:51.080 --> 00:33:54.600] So if you can be really clear in who you want to reach out to, right?
[00:33:54.600 --> 00:34:02.920] So Catherine, when you get in the Entrepreneur community platform and you share and they're like, hey, everyone, we're looking for more corporate sponsors or underwriters for this project.
[00:34:02.920 --> 00:34:06.840] Does anyone know someone who works at Insert Company Name Here?
[00:34:06.840 --> 00:34:09.400] And then someone in the community can connect you.
[00:34:09.400 --> 00:34:13.320] That's how we can all get ahead and really get to the right people.
[00:34:13.320 --> 00:34:15.480] And the same goes for fundraising as well, right?
[00:34:15.480 --> 00:34:21.960] It's really all about the network that we have and asking for those connections and introductions.
[00:34:21.960 --> 00:34:22.600] Yes.
[00:34:22.600 --> 00:34:40.440] And realizing that connecting should be fun and fundraising could be more fun if we realize that in connecting, we're going to be meeting other really brilliant, amazing women and not make it a chore, but make it an opportunity to meet some really awesome people.
[00:34:40.440 --> 00:34:41.080] Absolutely.
[00:34:41.080 --> 00:34:46.440] It's all about building those real authentic relationships and having fun along the way for sure.
[00:34:46.440 --> 00:34:47.480] 100%.
[00:34:47.480 --> 00:34:56.120] All right, Catherine, over the past year, I'm sure you have been navigating using different business tools on the back end of running and operating the business.
[00:34:56.120 --> 00:34:59.720] Are there any favorites that you have that you want to share with everyone?
[00:34:59.720 --> 00:35:02.280] Oh, I knew you were going to ask that question.
[00:35:02.280 --> 00:35:10.920] I am like the least tech savvy person out there, but I do have someone that works on my blog and I believe that they're using the AI to help with that.
[00:35:10.920 --> 00:35:17.360] AI, I think, is the inevitable tool and whatever shape, form, or capacity.
[00:35:17.680 --> 00:35:27.120] I know with our new Silicon Valley Women Founders Fund that we are very focused on finding women in tech who have AI-based solutions.
[00:35:27.120 --> 00:35:28.320] We do think that is.
[00:35:28.640 --> 00:35:39.040] crucial to the future and really looking for products that enhance what other technology companies are maybe missing and it could make it better.
[00:35:39.040 --> 00:35:53.760] So a lot of these large technology companies, they're not necessarily looking for a new product, but they're looking for some sort of product that will enhance what they're already doing to make them more competitive than their competitor.
[00:35:53.760 --> 00:35:55.920] And that's the kind of things we look for.
[00:35:55.920 --> 00:35:56.800] Yeah, absolutely.
[00:35:56.800 --> 00:36:04.400] So at our team meeting this week, we were talking about AI and I was telling our team, I'm like, a lot of us on our team are using different AI tools.
[00:36:04.400 --> 00:36:06.880] So like I use one called Perplexity.
[00:36:06.880 --> 00:36:08.560] I also use a tool called Cloud.
[00:36:08.560 --> 00:36:11.440] And I'm sure everyone knows about ChatGPT, right?
[00:36:11.440 --> 00:36:17.040] There's so many ways that we can be using these tools to just become more efficient.
[00:36:17.040 --> 00:36:22.880] And I don't think it's that these AI tools are going to replace humans doing work.
[00:36:22.880 --> 00:36:30.240] Like we still need, we're still needed, but we can become so much more efficient and we can do a lot more by using these tools.
[00:36:30.240 --> 00:36:41.920] So the companies that I feel like are going to get left behind and could have challenges are the companies that aren't embracing these technologies and tools using AI because everyone else is going to be using it.
[00:36:41.920 --> 00:36:48.960] So they're going to be light years ahead and they're going to be able to execute a lot more in their business than the companies that aren't embracing using these tools.
[00:36:48.960 --> 00:36:51.200] So that's how we're looking at it.
[00:36:51.200 --> 00:36:51.520] Yeah.
[00:36:51.520 --> 00:36:57.680] And, you know, the bottom line is any technology can be used for the good or the bad.
[00:36:57.680 --> 00:36:59.360] And how do you control that?
[00:36:59.360 --> 00:37:00.360] I don't know.
[00:37:00.600 --> 00:37:03.000] But I mean, that goes for social media too.
[00:36:59.840 --> 00:37:05.000] So obviously it goes for AI.
[00:37:05.320 --> 00:37:12.680] But yeah, there are definitely things that AI can do to create efficiencies that will be for the better.
[00:37:12.680 --> 00:37:14.200] Absolutely.
[00:37:18.680 --> 00:37:25.160] Founders are always asking us, what has been the secret to our success building multiple seven-figure businesses?
[00:37:25.160 --> 00:37:26.520] Do you want to know how?
[00:37:26.520 --> 00:37:28.200] It's our community.
[00:37:28.200 --> 00:37:35.800] We created the Entrepreneursa League for founders like you because the most successful entrepreneurs do not navigate business alone.
[00:37:35.800 --> 00:37:41.640] We navigate the challenges and opportunities with the support of people we know, love, and trust.
[00:37:41.640 --> 00:37:45.480] The relationships you build in business will be the key to your success.
[00:37:45.480 --> 00:37:47.640] Trust me, it's how we've done it.
[00:37:47.640 --> 00:37:53.320] And I'm giving you access to everything we've used to grow and scale our businesses over the past decade.
[00:37:53.320 --> 00:37:57.720] Plus, you're going to meet your new best friends in business right inside the community.
[00:37:57.720 --> 00:38:20.120] Our members have access to everything we've used to grow our businesses over the past 10 plus years, from in-person events to virtual events, business education, funding resources, office hours with myself and other top founders in your industry, press opportunities, and access to our community platform where you can instantly get all of your business questions answered.
[00:38:20.120 --> 00:38:26.840] You can join us in the community over at refer.entrepranista.com forward slash join us.
[00:38:26.840 --> 00:38:32.600] That's refer.entreprenista.com forward slash join us to join the community.
[00:38:32.600 --> 00:38:35.960] Or head to the show notes right now and tap the link to join.
[00:38:35.960 --> 00:38:38.200] I cannot wait to meet you.
[00:38:38.840 --> 00:38:43.160] All right, Catherine, I have to ask you, what is your biggest business secret?
[00:38:43.160 --> 00:38:53.440] I don't know if it's a secret, but I would just say that connecting people is free and brings so much joy that I don't know why more people don't activate that.
[00:38:53.440 --> 00:38:59.360] And so that would be my tip: to just activate your ability to connect people.
[00:38:59.360 --> 00:39:14.240] And what I mean by that is: let's say you meet someone at Entrepreneurista and they have some sort of product or service you don't necessarily need, you could still park it in the back of your mind so that when you meet somebody who does need that, you're like, oh, wait, I have that solution.
[00:39:14.240 --> 00:39:15.920] Let me connect you.
[00:39:15.920 --> 00:39:26.880] And I think it's super fun to connect people that it helps them, even if it doesn't benefit you, but it does give you such joy and satisfaction.
[00:39:26.880 --> 00:39:37.920] And I think we need to all be cultivating that connecting is a really superpower that we should be utilizing for the greater good.
[00:39:37.920 --> 00:39:38.640] Absolutely.
[00:39:38.640 --> 00:39:39.680] It is so important.
[00:39:39.680 --> 00:39:47.440] And I'm going to share everyone a tip that I have come to realize over the past few years about being a, for all of us, super connector.
[00:39:47.440 --> 00:39:56.160] Is one, we should all become super connectors, but two, the best way to become a super connector is to stay organized with all the people you connect with and meet.
[00:39:56.160 --> 00:40:01.280] So many years ago, when Courtney and I first started Social Fly, we had joined a networking group.
[00:40:01.280 --> 00:40:07.760] And also back then, 12 plus years ago, my memory was a lot better than it is now today at 40.
[00:40:07.760 --> 00:40:09.600] It's hard for me to remember everyone's name.
[00:40:09.600 --> 00:40:23.760] So I'm like, oh, I wish that even back then I had started a CRM, which is a customer relationship management tool or a people management relationship tool if you're using it just for everyone that you know, but somewhere to document like everyone that you're meeting.
[00:40:23.760 --> 00:40:30.000] Because think about if you're out and about at events or on podcasts or in business on LinkedIn, like you're meeting people all the time.
[00:40:30.600 --> 00:40:32.280] Have a place to document it.
[00:40:32.280 --> 00:40:35.320] So after an event, go put all of your notes and information in there.
[00:40:35.320 --> 00:40:43.400] Because then when you meet someone and they're like, oh, I really need to connect with a social media agency or a copywriter or I need a connection at this bank.
[00:40:43.400 --> 00:40:45.720] You're like, oh, let me introduce you to this person.
[00:40:45.720 --> 00:40:47.080] Now you have everyone listed there.
[00:40:47.080 --> 00:40:48.040] You have their email address.
[00:40:48.040 --> 00:40:49.800] You can make that intro a lot faster.
[00:40:49.800 --> 00:40:52.040] So start that people CRM today.
[00:40:52.040 --> 00:40:53.320] That's my tip.
[00:40:53.320 --> 00:40:53.880] Yeah.
[00:40:53.880 --> 00:40:56.280] Is there a tool that exists like that?
[00:40:56.280 --> 00:40:59.000] I mean, there's so many CRMs that are out there.
[00:40:59.000 --> 00:41:06.600] So I actually do a lot of this in the Google suite, like in the Google shared sheets, is where I have mine.
[00:41:06.600 --> 00:41:08.680] However, there's a lot of amazing tools out there.
[00:41:08.680 --> 00:41:11.000] We also use HubSpot CRM.
[00:41:11.000 --> 00:41:12.680] So we use that for the business itself.
[00:41:12.680 --> 00:41:20.280] So like we're managing all of our contacts in there for corporate, but for just like a regular CRM, like you don't really have to spend any money.
[00:41:20.280 --> 00:41:27.160] You can just have a shared Google Sheets and have different columns in there and just track everyone in there.
[00:41:27.160 --> 00:41:28.600] So super easy.
[00:41:28.600 --> 00:41:37.800] Okay, Stephanie, I want someone out there to create a solution that we are at an event, we talk into something, it records it.
[00:41:37.800 --> 00:41:44.440] We say what their name is, their email, their phone number, and what you talk to them about.
[00:41:44.440 --> 00:41:53.240] And then it magically appears in a document that we can go back by category or by city and find them.
[00:41:53.240 --> 00:41:54.920] Let's create that.
[00:41:54.920 --> 00:41:55.640] Let's do it.
[00:41:55.640 --> 00:41:58.040] If it doesn't already exist, because it might already exist, right?
[00:41:58.040 --> 00:41:59.720] But if it doesn't exist, let's create it.
[00:41:59.720 --> 00:42:03.800] It seems now with these AI tools and technology, it seems like it wouldn't be that hard to create.
[00:42:03.880 --> 00:42:07.960] Just speak into it, transcribes it, and sends it right into that CRM.
[00:42:07.960 --> 00:42:09.240] I love that.
[00:42:09.880 --> 00:42:11.480] Last question for you, Catherine.
[00:42:11.480 --> 00:42:14.040] What does being an entrepreneurista mean to you?
[00:42:14.040 --> 00:42:17.280] I've been a serial entrepreneur my entire life.
[00:42:17.600 --> 00:42:25.760] For me, you know, I think it lets you listen to your purpose and then create that idea or innovation.
[00:42:25.760 --> 00:42:27.440] I'm just an idea person.
[00:42:27.440 --> 00:42:28.480] I can't help myself.
[00:42:28.480 --> 00:42:29.760] I'm a Sagittarius.
[00:42:29.760 --> 00:42:38.480] In fact, I have to actually rein in all of my ideas and really pick the ones that I think are worth putting the time and energy into.
[00:42:38.480 --> 00:42:40.800] But it's exciting and interesting.
[00:42:41.120 --> 00:42:46.240] You know, you make your own day, even if it is a 20-hour day.
[00:42:46.560 --> 00:42:54.560] But yeah, I just love being an entrepreneur and glad that you have created a forum for everybody to come together.
[00:42:54.560 --> 00:42:56.160] I think that's so important.
[00:42:56.160 --> 00:42:58.720] And yeah, thanks for all you're doing.
[00:42:58.720 --> 00:43:07.520] Thank you for all you have done and are continuing to do to help so many women founders and bring everyone together and educate everyone.
[00:43:07.520 --> 00:43:10.000] Where can everyone find you and follow you?
[00:43:10.000 --> 00:43:14.400] And again, everyone, don't forget we are going to be linking out to everything Catherine shares right now in the show notes.
[00:43:14.400 --> 00:43:22.960] So go head over to the show notes right now because you're definitely going to want to come to our virtual screening and panel of Show Her the Money.
[00:43:22.960 --> 00:43:24.400] But Catherine, where can everyone find you?
[00:43:24.400 --> 00:43:25.200] Tell me.
[00:43:25.200 --> 00:43:27.680] Well, you can find me down at this nightclub.
[00:43:27.680 --> 00:43:28.960] No, I'm just kidding.
[00:43:30.240 --> 00:43:34.320] You can find me, of course, on LinkedIn, Catherine Gray.
[00:43:34.320 --> 00:43:38.560] We also have the showherthemoneymovie.com website.
[00:43:38.560 --> 00:43:44.800] And then for those interested in venture capital, learning more about it, we have workshops about that.
[00:43:44.800 --> 00:43:48.640] And we have the Silicon Valley Women Founders Fund.
[00:43:48.640 --> 00:43:53.440] So you can find that as well, womenfoundersfund.vc.
[00:43:53.440 --> 00:43:55.680] So yeah, lots of ways to find me.
[00:43:55.680 --> 00:43:56.960] Would love to connect.
[00:43:56.960 --> 00:44:11.960] And I appreciate this platform to share all about our movement and our endeavors and about women learning more about venture and how we together can move that needle and help change the world for the better.
[00:44:11.960 --> 00:44:14.760] So thank you for the conversation today.
[00:44:14.760 --> 00:44:17.480] Yes, Catherine, thank you again for being here.
[00:44:17.480 --> 00:44:22.040] I'm Stephanie and this is the best business meeting I've ever had.
[00:44:22.280 --> 00:44:31.800] Hi Entrepranistas, it's Steph here and I hope today's episode has left you feeling inspired and with some actionable tips that you can apply to your own business.
[00:44:31.800 --> 00:44:39.160] The way we've grown our community and resources is by sharing content like this for years and asking for help along the way.
[00:44:39.160 --> 00:44:44.680] So here's where we need your help so we can continue to make as much impact as possible together.
[00:44:44.680 --> 00:44:54.360] If you can leave us a five-star review and extra credit if you share this episode on Instagram, LinkedIn, or DM it to a founder friend who would benefit from hearing it.
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[00:45:01.720 --> 00:45:04.760] And you know I love nothing more than giveaways and prizes.
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[00:45:19.240 --> 00:45:25.000] Wishing you a productive week ahead and stay tuned for another impactful episode next week.