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“Write down how you're spending your time, then I want you to think back to a year ago and write down how you're spending your time. If those things are the same and you're wondering why your business hasn't grown at the level you want, you have your answer”In this candid episode of the Entreprenista Podcast, Anne Mahlum sits down with Stephanie and Courtney to share her raw and inspiring story of creating her fitness empire from scratch — and the costly lessons she learned along the way. You'll hear how Anne transformed her passion for fitness into solidcore, a groundbreaking Pilates-inspired workout, and scaled rapidly across the country. She dives into her strategic negotiations with landlords, how she avoided debt, and her bold approach to raising private equity—all while staying true to her vision. Beyond business, Anne’s story is about the importance of leadership, authenticity, and resilience, especially for women founders. Plus, she shares her insights on finding where you are most needed, planning successful exits, and the mindset shifts that make all the difference. Whether you're dreaming of your first startup or ready to scale your existing business, this episode is packed with real-life lessons, secrets to growth, and inspiration to help you play big, without the fear of failure holding you back.
What We Talked About:
Anne’s Journey Towards Founding Solidcore [4:20]
Anne’s First Big Lesson with Back on My Feet [11:50]
How Anne Refused to be the Victim [16:30]
How to Go After Home Runs [22:55]
When Should Founders Take on private equity? [34:30]
Connect with Anne:
@annemahlum on Instagram
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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of The Entreprenista Podcast - the most fun business meeting for women founders and leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.
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Guests
Anne Mahlum
Hosts
Stephanie Cartin
Stephanie Cartin is a serial entrepreneur, investor, podcast host, community builder, and a champion for women founders. She created the Entreprenista League, a community for women founders, to provide resources and support necessary at all business stages. She’s also the Co-founder of Socialfly, one of the first social media marketing agencies, as well as Entreprenista Media and Pearl Influential Capital which was recently acquired by Cherub. Stephanie has shared her journey managing her health challenges with Multiple Sclerosis, Infertility, and a complicated pregnancy and is an advocate for women going through similar challenges. Her story and businesses have been featured on the Today Show, Bloomberg and Forbes. Consider Stephanie your biggest business cheerleader.
Courtney Spritzer
Courtney Spritzer is an accomplished entrepreneur, investor, podcast host, and advocate for women founders. As Co-Founder and CEO of Socialfly, a social-first digital agency launched in 2012 and acquired in 2024, she has helped shape the industry with innovative strategies. She co-founded the Entreprenista League, a community for women founders, offering essential resources and support for all stages of business growth. Courtney’s entrepreneurial journey and business insights have been highlighted in top publications like Entrepreneur.com, Bloomberg, and Forbes.
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