Summary

In this episode of Grit, Grace, and Growth, host Laura Navaquin speaks with Mara Smith, founder of Inspiro Tequila, about her journey from attorney and corporate strategist to entrepreneur in the spirits industry. They discuss the importance of building a supportive community, networking, and the unique challenges faced by female founders. Mara shares insights on creating a product that stands out in a crowded market and offers practical advice for entrepreneurs looking to foster collaboration and support within their industries.

Takeaways

• Success isn't just about having a great product; it's about community.
• Building a network is essential for entrepreneurs.
• Mara's journey involved many pivots and learning experiences.
• Community support is crucial for navigating challenges.
• Women in the spirits industry often face funding challenges.
• Inspiro Tequila was inspired by strong women in Mara's life.
• Networking can lead to valuable connections and opportunities.
• Creating a unique product requires understanding consumer needs.
• Follow up on connections to build meaningful relationships.
• Social media is a powerful tool for industry recognition.

Sound Bites

"Success isn't just about having a great product."

"I always knew I was going to start my own company."

"Having a community is essential for a founder."

Chapters

00:00 From Law to Spirits: A Unique Journey

06:31 Building a Supportive Network

12:46 Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry

16:24 The Inspiration Behind Inspiro Tequila

18:29 Navigating the Spirits Distribution Landscape

20:53 Crafting a Unique Tequila Experience

24:12 Practical Networking Tips for Entrepreneurs

28:30 Connecting with Inspiro Tequila

30:15 Podcast End Audio Only.mp3

Connect with Mara Smith

• Website: ⁠Inspireotequila.com
• Inspiro Tequila on Instagram: @InspireoTequila
• Mara Smith on LinkedIn

Connect with Laura Navaquin

• Website: LauraNavaquin.com
• Instagram: @LauraNavaquin
• LinkedIn: Laura Navaquin
• Podcast: Grit, Grace, and Growth on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora and Youtube
• Learn More about Laura Navaquin Here