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Name: Dr. Nidhi Jaswal Business Name:  Ketawa-Center for Behaviour Change Location:  Chandigarh , India Category:   Mental Health Website: https://www.ketawacbc.org/ Social Media: www.linkedin.com/in/ketawa-center-for-behaviour-change-57b663295 Company Detail: Ketawa – Center for Behaviour Change is a purpose-driven organization committed to promoting mental well-being, emotional resilience, and positive lifestyle transformation through science-backed and compassion-led interventions. Founded by a clinical psychologist, Ketawa bridges psychology, behavior science, and creative engagement to drive lasting change in individuals and communities. Their core offerings include: Laughter Wellness Programs that boost joy, reduce stress, and foster emotional well-being in schools, workplaces, and community settings Stress Management Workshops tailored for corporate employees, youth, educators, and healthcare professionals Leadership and Personality Development Modules that build self-confidence, emotional intelligence, and effective communication skills Skill Development Sessions focused on mental agility, self-regulation, mindfulness, and positive thinking Individual Counseling Sessions offering personalized mental health support for emotional challenges, anxiety, stress, and burnout and Group Counseling for Industries and Corporates to enhance team well-being, address workplace stress, and build a culture of psychological safety Invited Health Talks & Lectures on behavior change, digital detox, preventive mental health, and resilience Research Mentorship & Capacity Building for students, scholars, and professionals in psychology and public health Well-being Resources including toolkits, modules, and the published book Unwind: A Stress-Busting Guide for Young Minds Ketawa’s approach is holistic—they blend laughter, psychology, and experiential learning to create a safe, engaging, and transformative space for individuals to thrive. Their mission is to normalize mental health conversations, empower individuals with life skills, and build emotionally resilient communities. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: Ketawa – Center for Behaviour Change is not just another wellness or mental health organization—they are pioneers in integrating laughter wellness with behavioral science, making them globally distinctive. 🔹 First-of-its-kind Global Initiative: Ketawa conducted the world’s first Laughter Survey in India, capturing real-time data on laughter behaviors and emotional health across diverse populations. The findings gained recognition in esteemed national newspapers, spotlighting Ketawa as a thought leader in laughter and public mental health. 🔹 Laughter Wellness as a Therapeutic Tool: They are among the few organizations globally to use laughter wellness not just as entertainment but as a structured, research-backed tool to reduce stress, improve group cohesion, and build emotional resilience across corporate, educational, and healthcare settings. 🔹 Corporate Counseling Programs: They offer custom-designed counseling interventions for industries and corporates, addressing burnout, performance stress, and workplace mental health through both individual and group formats—bridging clinical care with organizational culture. 🔹 Research-Embedded Model: Every Ketawa initiative is evidence-driven. They routinely conduct public health surveys, pre-post impact assessments, and integrate behavioral insights into all offerings—making their programs both meaningful and measurable. 🔹 Multidisciplinary Expertise: Their edge lies in their unique fusion of psychology, public health, and positive engagement tools—delivered by trained professionals who understand not just emotions, but systems and behavior change. In essence, people choose Ketawa because they don’t just talk wellness—they measure it, mentor it, and make it joyful. Challenges Faced During the Journey: The first and foremost hurdle in forming Ketawa – Center for Behaviour Change was not external—it was Dr. Jaswal’s own internal resistance. Though trained as a clinical psychologist, she had spent nearly 15 fulfilling years in the field of public health. The idea of leaving a stable, prestigious job and stepping into entrepreneurship felt risky. Each time she considered turning her vision into reality, the comfort of a regular salary and the weight of professional security held her back. But once she made the courageous decision to resign and trust her vision, there was no turning back. From its very inception, she put her heart and soul into building content, networking, and convincing organizations about the power of laughter wellness and behavior change—concepts that were not yet mainstream. Though she named the brand Ketawa—which means “laughter” in Malay—to reflect joy and emotional well-being, it initially posed a challenge. The term was unfamiliar to many, and it was difficult for the audience to immediately understand or relate to the name. As it’s a Malaysian word, she had to invest time in explaining its meaning and connecting it with the essence of their work. Over time, as people experienced their laughter wellness sessions and behavior change initiatives, Ketawa found its place in their hearts and minds. The path wasn’t easy. Introducing laughter as a serious wellness tool, especially in formal settings like corporates, hospitals, and public health spaces, came with skepticism. But she relied on evidence, empathy, and persistence. Slowly, momentum built. In just two years, Ketawa has partnered with over 15 organizations, conducted 100+ laughter wellness sessions, delivered 50+ stress management workshops, facilitated 1500+ counseling sessions, and reached over 10,000 individuals across India and globally. They’ve also launched a practical guidebook on stress for youth, published blogs, and articles—and most notably, conducted the world’s first-ever Laughter Survey, the results of which were published in established national newspapers. Every challenge—from self-doubt to social resistance—became a stepping stone. Today, Ketawa stands as a vibrant example of what’s possible when vision meets courage. Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: Believe in yourself. The most beautiful thing a woman can wear is her confidence. Entrepreneurship begins with self-trust—when one believes in their ideas and their ability to make them happen, the journey truly begins. Dr. Jaswal’s advice to young women is this: don’t wait for the “perfect time” or external validation. If there is a vision and the skills to support it, take that first step. Equip yourself with knowledge, stay open to learning, and embrace challenges as stepping stones—not setbacks. Also, surround yourself with people who uplift you—mentors, peers, or a network of like-minded women. Their support can fuel momentum when things get tough. Most importantly, stay true to your values. Authenticity will become the brand’s strength. Entrepreneurship isn’t just about building a business—it’s about creating impact. If there is passion and purpose, success will follow. So, wear your confidence, put in the hard work, and lead with courage, empathy and compassion.

Name: Kelly Alexandra Borges Lima Business Name:  Kitudo Flavours Location:  Melbourne , Australia Category:   Food & Beverage Website: https://kitudoflavours.com.au/ Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-alexandra-93b1b597/ Company Detail: Founded in 2018 and based in Melbourne, KI TUDO Flavours is a catering and frozen food business that brings the authentic taste of Brazilian finger food to Australia. They specialise in handcrafted savoury pastries filled with seven unique flavours, including a vegan option. All their products—except the Cheese Ball—are dairy-free, coated in golden breadcrumbs, and deep-fried to perfection for a crispy and satisfying bite. Their offerings include traditional favourites such as “coxinhas” (chicken croquettes), cheese balls, and seasonal creations like their popular Easter “Ovo Coxinha.” Customers can enjoy their snacks freshly fried at events or take them home in frozen packs, ready to heat and serve. As an immigrant entrepreneur, Kelly started KI TUDO Flavours to share a taste of Brazil with local communities and to build a cultural bridge through food. Their mission is to spread happiness and connection through high-quality, authentic flavours made with love and dedication. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: What sets KI TUDO Flavours apart is the authenticity, quality, and heart behind everything they do. Their products are handcrafted using traditional Brazilian recipes, offering a genuine taste of Brazil that is hard to find in Australia. Each snack is made with carefully selected ingredients, attention to detail, and a deep respect for the culinary culture they represent. They are proud to offer a diverse range of flavours, including a vegan option and mostly dairy-free selections, making their menu more inclusive. Their unique approach allows customers to enjoy their food both freshly fried at events or conveniently at home through their frozen packs. But beyond the food, people connect with their story. As an immigrant woman entrepreneur, Kelly has built this business with passion and resilience, and that love shows in every bite. Customers choose KI TUDO Flavours not just for the delicious taste, but for the warmth, culture, and personal touch that come with it. Challenges Faced During the Journey: As an immigrant woman starting over in a new country, Kelly faced many challenges, personally, professionally, and financially. One of the biggest obstacles was the language barrier. Not speaking English fluently in the beginning made it difficult to communicate with suppliers, customers, and government services. It affected everything from understanding regulations to expressing the value of her products. She also started KI TUDO Flavours with very limited resources and no local connections, in a market where Brazilian food was not widely known. She had to educate people about their cuisine, build trust from scratch, and adapt to a completely different business environment. Without a big budget, she did everything herself—cooking, packaging, delivering, marketing, and customer service. Balancing this with family responsibilities and learning the local business culture was a daily challenge. Despite all of this, Kelly remained determined. She focused on quality, consistency, and building strong relationships with each customer. Every obstacle helped shape her resilience and creativity. Today, KI TUDO Flavours is a growing business that proudly brings the flavours of Brazil to Australia. Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: Kelly's biggest advice to young women is: believe in yourself, even when no one else does. Starting a business is never easy, especially as a woman, but your passion, persistence, and purpose will carry you through. Don’t wait to be “ready” or for things to be perfect. Start with what you have, learn as you go, and trust your instincts. Surround yourself with people who support your growth, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. There will be challenges, doubts, and even failures, but every step will make you stronger. Be proud of who you are and the unique perspective you bring. As an immigrant, Kelly had to overcome language barriers, fear, and many limitations, but she never stopped dreaming. If she can build a business in a new country, from scratch, so can anyone. Keep going, and remember: your courage is your greatest asset.

Name: Stephanie Lortie Business Name:  Closers International Location:  Montréal , Canada Category:   Digital Sales & Business Growth Expert Website: www.stephanielortie.com Social Media: www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-lortie-610062171 Company Detail: Stephanie Lortie is the founder of Closers International, a performance-driven company that helps online coaches, consultants, and digital entrepreneurs sell their expertise with confidence and scale sustainably through a high-ticket model. The company specializes in sales strategy, offer positioning, closing systems and business growth, combining human connection with powerful frameworks. The signature method empowers experts to build a business that reflects their values while generating consistent results — without burning out. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: What sets Stephanie’s work apart is the balance of strategy, psychology and integrity. The high-ticket model is tailored, not templated — no cookie-cutter scripts, no recycled funnels. Clients come to Closers International when they’re done with chaotic launches and ready to scale with clarity, structure and bold positioning. With over $20M+ in sales generated, the approach blends neuroscience-informed techniques, conversion-focused systems and deep market insight to help clients grow sustainably — without sacrificing who they are. Challenges Faced During the Journey: One of the biggest challenges was choosing alignment over noise — saying no to hustle culture, to every new trend, and to "proven formulas" that didn’t match who Stephanie was or what she stands for. She also had to overcome self-doubt, being in a male-dominated sales industry and reinventing her entire business model while becoming a mom (again). Finding the courage to create her own methodology and build a brand around it has been the most empowering and transformative part of this journey. Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: Women don’t need to fit in to succeed, they need to own what makes them different. Build a business that works for them, not one that constantly works against them. It’s okay to go slow, as long as they keep going. Say no to things that drain their power and yes to their zone of genius. And finally, success is not selfish. When they rise, they show others that it’s possible. Keep going.

Name: Shanthi Reddy Business Name:  Akshobya Technologies Location:  Bangalore , India Category:  Information Technology (IT) Website: https://www.akshobyatechnologies.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanthireddy/ Link: https://linktr.ee/akshobyatechnologies.com Company Detail: Akshobya Technologies is a women-led IT consulting and services firm specializing in Cloud Computing, Data Engineering, Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML), and Cybersecurity. Founded with the vision to empower enterprises through digital transformation, the company addresses the growing demand for agile, future-ready technology solutions. The core offerings include: Strategic IT Consulting to drive innovation and digital maturity Custom Software Development focused on data and AI-driven solutions Professional Training & Upskilling in Cloud, Data, and AI/ML for corporates and individuals Technology Staffing & Resource Outsourcing to support scalable workforce needs By integrating deep technical expertise with industry best practices, Akshobya Technologies delivers high-impact, customized solutions that help organizations enhance efficiency, competitiveness, and resilience in the digital age. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: Akshobya Technologies stands out through its integrated approach to digital transformation, combining advanced capabilities in Cloud, Data, AI/ML, and Cybersecurity with strategic consulting, upskilling, and specialized talent solutions. The company provides end-to-end technology enablement—from advisory and implementation to skill development—ensuring tangible business outcomes. What sets the company apart: Strategic Business Advisory – Advises organizations on IT-driven business strategies aimed at revenue generation, with a strong focus on emerging technologies and market trends, particularly in Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity. Deep Data Expertise – Delivers specialized solutions across the full data value chain—Data Engineering, Data Analytics, and Data Science—helping businesses harness the true power of data. Visionary, Women-Led Leadership – Founded by a globally recognized tech leader, the company drives inclusive innovation and thought leadership in every engagement. Customized & Scalable Offerings – Solutions are tailored to specific client needs, ensuring precision, performance, and scalability. Future-Ready Upskilling – Hands-on training programs are designed to address real-world skill gaps, producing job-ready talent aligned to evolving tech landscapes. Agility with Depth – Delivers the expertise of a large firm with the agility and personalized service of a niche partner. Clients choose Akshobya Technologies not just for services, but for strategic partnership, innovation enablement, and the ability to drive measurable impact in a competitive digital economy. Challenges Faced During the Journey: Building Akshobya Technologies into a recognized name in the IT and tech consulting space has been a journey marked by resilience, strategic adaptation, and a deep commitment to innovation. One of the primary challenges was breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry as a woman founder and tech leader. Establishing credibility and gaining trust—especially in high-stakes enterprise IT environments—required consistent delivery of excellence, thought leadership, and persistence. Another major challenge was navigating the rapidly evolving technology landscape, particularly in areas like AI, Cybersecurity, and Cloud. Staying ahead of the curve demanded continuous learning, investment in R&D, and building a team capable of adapting to future-ready solutions. As a bootstrapped and women-led startup, the company also faced resource constraints, from talent acquisition to scaling operations. These were overcome by focusing on quality, partnerships, and organic growth, and by offering niche services that delivered real business value to clients. Additionally, building trust in training and consulting offerings during a time of digital saturation required differentiation through customization, depth of domain knowledge, and a track record of impact-driven delivery. These challenges shaped the organizational culture—agile, inclusive, and innovation-focused—and continue to fuel the mission to empower others through technology. Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: To young women aspiring to be entrepreneurs or already walking the entrepreneurial journey, the strongest advice is to believe deeply in their vision and cultivate resilience. Entrepreneurship is as much about mindset as it is about strategy. Challenges and setbacks will come, but the ability to learn, adapt, and persist will define success. Build a strong support network—mentors, peers, and allies—who can provide guidance, encouragement, and honest feedback. Never hesitate to seek help or collaborate; entrepreneurship is not a solo endeavor. Invest in continuous learning and skill development, especially in today’s fast-evolving technology landscape. Stay curious and open to new ideas, because innovation often comes from being willing to explore beyond the comfort zone. Be bold in claiming their space and their worth. Don’t let gender stereotypes or self-doubt limit ambitions. Their unique perspective and leadership style are valuable assets. Finally, embrace purpose-driven entrepreneurship—build businesses that not only succeed financially but also create positive impact. That combination will sustain passion and inspire those around them. Remember, every great enterprise starts with a single step taken with courage and conviction.

Great Companies: How did you get your idea or concept for the business? Samita Kapoor: My inspiration for starting an Intellectual Property (IP) consultancy stemmed from firsthand experiences where I observed innovative startups and creative professionals struggling to protect their ideas due to a lack of accessible and affordable IP guidance. Recognizing this gap, I envisioned a consultancy that not only demystifies the complexities of IP law but also offers cost-effective solutions tailored to the unique needs of each client. By combining my legal expertise with a commitment to affordability, my goal is to empower innovators to safeguard their creations without financial strain, fostering a more inclusive environment for innovation. Great Companies: What are the various services provided by Genuiin IP Solutions LLP?Samita Kapoor: Genuiin IP Solutions provides world-class IP research, analysis, and consultancy services globally. Our primary focus is on protecting all forms of Intellectual Property, including: Patents Industrial Designs Trademarks Copyrights Plant Variety Protection Our end-to-end services cover: Filing, prosecution, and litigation Watch services and market research IP valuation and technology transfer We are committed to helping clients monetize and safeguard their IP while maintaining the highest standards of quality, confidentiality, and affordability. Great Companies: What makes Genuiin IP Solutions LLP different from hundreds of other similar service providers? Samita Kapoor: Genuiin IP Solutions stands out due to our use of advanced technology to deliver effective and affordable legal services. Our firm empowers clients by providing strategic tools and expert guidance necessary to protect their innovations and fuel their growth. What truly differentiates us is: Personalized service Innovative, technology-driven solutions Transparent and value-based pricing We address complex techno-legal challenges with clarity, making IP protection simple and attainable for clients at every stage of business. Great Companies: What were the struggles and challenges you faced and how did you overcome them? Samita Kapoor: One of our biggest challenges was changing the perception that top-tier IP services must come with a hefty price tag. We focused on demonstrating that legal excellence and affordability can coexist—especially when supported by smart technology and custom strategies. Another challenge was addressing the diverse and complex needs of our clients. Every situation required a tailored approach, so we built adaptable systems that maintained efficiency without compromising quality. On a personal level, I founded Genuiin IP Solutions while being a young mother. At the time of incorporation, my daughter was just six years old, and I became pregnant with my second child shortly after launching the firm. Balancing a growing family and a new business tested my resilience, discipline, and time management—challenges that ultimately shaped the empathetic and determined culture of our firm. Great Companies: How do you plan to grow in the future? What does 5 years down the line look like for Genuiin IP Solutions LLP? Samita Kapoor: In the next five years, we envision Genuiin IP Solutions LLP becoming a full-spectrum IP consultancy known for its innovation, accessibility, and technological excellence. Our key goals include: Diversifying Our Services: Introducing IP portfolio management and IP valuation to meet evolving client needs. Leveraging Technology: Developing digital tools to streamline IP filing, registration, and monitoring processes. Expanding Reach: Forming global partnerships to serve broader markets, both in India and internationally. Investing in Talent: Continuously training our team to stay ahead of the curve in legal and technological developments. Our mission is to make IP protection a strategic advantage for businesses of all sizes—while staying true to our core values of integrity, innovation, and affordability. Great Companies: If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting out, what would it be? Samita Kapoor: Focus on delivering high-quality work at affordable rates . In the consulting world, trust and credibility are everything. When you consistently provide value with transparency, you build lasting relationships. Don’t shy away from offering accessible pricing—especially for startups and small businesses. Growing alongside your clients creates a strong foundation for long-term success. Remember, excellence and affordability can go hand in hand. Website : www.genuiin-ip.com

Great Companies: How did you get your idea or concept for the business? Bitha Sadanandan:  I am a clinical health facilitator with foundational training in Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy (BCST). After graduation, I observed therapeutic outcomes that didn't align with findings from other healthcare modalities. This led me to explore complementary fields, seeking to understand the underlying causes of observed phenomena and diseases, as per Hippocrates' emphasis on societal factors in health. Through this inquiry, I discovered a consistent pattern in my therapeutic process that consistently improved outcomes over time. This pattern, corroborated by ancient and modern findings, became the conceptual basis for "Meristem Intelligence." It's a phenomenon inherent to being human, largely residing in the "I don't know" quadrants of the Johari Window. When this unknown phenomenon is conceptualized into a recognizable pattern, it transforms into a technology with specific "how-tos" and a form of artificial intelligence that requires continuous improvement. Therefore, I've taglined the process within Meristem Intelligence as "original humane intelligence facilitation." It operates on a 50:50 relationship with life as a teacher or phenomenon, which is why all our products are offered at a 50% discount. Great Companies: What are the various services provided by Meristem Intelligence®️? Bitha Sadanandan:  The therapeutic process I developed yielded four core brand values, represented by these names: Nirbeeja Yoga®:  This involves no-touch, body-oriented, "no-things-based" therapeutic health improvement. DharmaPada For SoulSatisfaction®:  This is a no-touch/body-based personal work that may utilize external "things." Connect.®:  This focuses on no-touch/body-based community harmony and health improvement, also potentially using external "things." Meristem Intelligence®:  This is related to touch-based, body-oriented, "no-things-based" therapeutic health improvement. Collectively, these are now referred to as MITI, which is the school of learning for these modalities. The first and last brand values (Nirbeeja Yoga® and Meristem Intelligence®) involve more unknown elements and utilize no external "things," focusing on internal body-based quality of life. The second and third (DharmaPada For SoulSatisfaction® and Connect.®) combine known and unknown aspects, leaning more towards the known, and may incorporate external "things" for external body-based quality of life. The Brand Values are rooted in silence, stillness, and "nothingness," which are the underpinnings of frequency, energy, and vibration, as highlighted by Nicola Tesla. These are constants for unlearning, learning, and relearning values to improve destruction, preservation, and creation processes within the ongoing flow of life, ultimately addressing disquiets within the mystery of "nothingness" within the "physis" of life. They enhance "conscience," or the conglomerate science of healthy living, referred to as "sanatana dharma," ensuring that "dharma" continuously improves. The Brand Values are akin to the four walls of a room, with a floor and roof, forming the space of "Meristem Intelligence® Earth." Aspects of all four Brand Values are integrated into all services, coaching, and products of Meristem Intelligence®, similar to the concept of ShriChakra with its four gateways. MITI's learning process is structured like a Montessori to college-level system, where foundational basics are learned first, followed by progressively higher values and standards in a Point of Sale/Service (POS) system of iterative improvement. It's like a fast-food center where you can get a "snack" or "byte" of information to integrate into daily life. As the quality of this "byte" improves, so does the experienced and lived quality of life, according to the consumer's readiness. We offer services both online and offline, in one-on-one and group settings, recommending investment in all four formats due to their unique benefits. Analogous to King Ravana's attempt to build a golden staircase to heaven, and King Rama's request for Lakshmana to learn from him, MITI, formed over time from learning from many "10-layered humans," offers four verticals to help individuals continuously ascend to better states of health. Those who invest experience a degree of wellness on the "stairwell of life" as their "ability to be" (space) improves, leading to an effortless and ongoing improvement simply by having a human body. Ultimately, a person can become like the "clear dot on top of the Mahameru," a "humane human being" capable of functioning with "Green Tara-quality dashaavataara/dashami-quantity humane being," with violence washed out of their system, achieving "shaanti-quantity (substance) humane being" – an ennobled human. This is like a soft, gel-like substance that can improve surfaces without losing its composition, acting as a catalyst for healthier, wealthier, wiser living, similar to a "life-enlivening wower booster in Candy Crush Saga." Great Companies: What makes Meristem Intelligence®️ different from hundreds of other similar service providers? Bitha Sadanandan:  Meristem Intelligence®️ (MITI) distinguishes itself through its personalized and individualized biodynamic approach to healthcare. Unlike many other modalities, it does not involve medicines, lab tests, interventions, or even energy manipulations. It operates at a subtler and more profound level than even BCST's Body Intelligence-based logic, zooming further into a person-centered logic. In this paradigm, an individual is seen as a representation of their people, groups, and communities, all of which influence their health at any given time. When a person heals, the community also heals, and vice-versa, reflecting the idea that "it takes a village to take care of a baby and a baby to take care of a village." With reference to the Johari Window, MITI's approach draws contributory factors from all four quadrants, but it uniquely accesses the "I don't know" quadrants, which are largely inaccessible to most other service providers. This leads to benefits that manifest over time, sometimes years after an initial session, much like a squirrel hiding seeds that contribute to a forest's development in due course. MITI has been continuously sowing these "thoughtseeds" across various social media channels. MITI approaches life and healthcare from the "nth Way." While different fields of medicine view the human body through various lenses (e.g., allopathy mechanically, ayurveda through humors, unani through hormones, reiki through chi), Meristem Intelligence® appreciates the human body from an "nth way" perspective. This acknowledges that all these perspectives influence the body, but it also considers "known" and "unknown" factors. This means MITI can address health challenges stemming from unknown or idiopathic causes, even without knowing the specific cause or symptoms.  Furthermore, MITI extends its scope to address "diseases" of wealth and wisdom, which in turn affect personal and societal health. It does this by re-evaluating traditional concepts.  When the "inner dan" improves, or "bitters in the butters" improve, our understanding and use of technology transform. For example, some individuals who were scheduled for surgeries have no longer needed them after availing of our services. Just as Prakriti is related to Purusha, MITI acknowledges the 50:50 relationship of a person with life as a teacher or phenomenon, which is why all products are already at a 50% discount. As the founder, facilitator, and proprietor of Meristem Intelligence®️, I am the sole authorized teacher, ensuring a dedicated learning curve for those interested. This centralized control allows for careful observation and study in delivering MITI solutions. Specific indicators confirm when MITI Advantages are present, ensuring the authenticity of the "original humane intelligence facilitation." The learning methodology is distinct and investing in its "how-to" can significantly fast-track #humanityacrossboundaries. MITI operates from a person-centric model of the Universe. This paradigm shift in appreciating body intelligence has led to our four Brand verticals, each evolving with nuanced details appreciated over time. It's an inside-out approach.  We've found that each person functions according to their unique "mathematics," with varying qualities of relationships with Reality, to the extent that each person inhabits their own "universe." Consequently, a group of people living together can be considered a "multiverse"! When these individual "universes" interact, it can sometimes lead to cacophony, impacting #humanityacrossboundaries. MITI's suite of services,  coaching,  products, and concepts arise from ongoing clinical and non-clinical interpersonal interactions and routine fieldwork, continually assessing the degree of sickness versus health in individuals in relation to their environments. As we all share the same Earth, this helps contain the scope of Meristem Intelligence to "shrishti optimization." We believe human beings are a blessing to the Planet. Contrary to some beliefs that the planet would be better without humans, our R&D has uncovered evidence for how the human body, evolved over several cycles, enlivens life in the multiverse. This is exemplified by mythological references like "samudra manthan," whose scientific relevance is often misunderstood, much like misinterpreting "yantra, mantra, tantra" practices from textbooks. Having identified numerous "coding errors" in our constructs of Reality, leading to the "Hard Problem of Consciousness," our services, coaching, and products integrate these findings. Our learning methodology offers a Montessori-to-iterative advancement approach, catering to an individual's, society's, or community's readiness to accommodate necessary course corrections. MITI disseminates "thoughtseeds" (ideas) gradually, much like observing a tree grow in a time-lapse video. The profound impact of MITI on enlivening life in the multiverse can only be appreciated through retrospective reflective learning, an approach integrated into our methodology. Inspired by "A Beautiful Mind's" portrayal of defense challenges from a schizophrenic reality and Captain Kirk's exploration of new civilizations, MITI has been decoding the basic necessities for sustainable civilizations. Each body part can be seen as a civilization with its own logic, collectively maintaining the whole body. MITI operates on a person-centric model of the Universe/Reality. Our economy functions by a mosaic of logic that might seem schizophrenic from the perspectives of different vocations. In essence, MITI has identified the causes of contradictions in how different people perceive reality,  addressing the misconception that human beings are the problem.  We are not. The issue lies in how we've viewed Reality and our purpose as individuals and a species. We've also found that each person functions by a different "math," so MITI solutions cater to these individualistic differences, again, from a person-centric model of the personal Universe. Our services help a person become a "humane #LordOfTheRings," suggested by the "dot at the Center of ShriChakra." This is an "incorporation technology" "wower'd," not "power'd," by yoga. It begins with the premise that the human body already performs a form of yoga simply by maintaining its human shape. Further developments proceed from this premise within a person-centric model of the Universe. We operate from the understanding that each of us lives in our own universe, making us part of a multiverse. Enlivening life in this multiverse is "manushyadharma," the duty inherent in having a human body, just as a tree has a role by being a tree. The "Human Life Value" calculable from this perspective is distinct. This self-development process, guided by these thoughtlines, makes our services, coaching, and products a game-changer in the 21st Century's AI-empowered technologies, transforming our "sick economy" into a "healthy economy." The intricate relationship of Prakriti with Purusha is woven into the Vedas and our four Brand values. Our "IT" (information technology) functions on absolute basics: no-buy, reduce, reuse, recycle, no-waste, and an absolute "conscience-improvement cycle." The MITI way is "grihasth yogaashram" – the infinite, never-ending work of maintaining sanity in health, wealth, and wisdom while walking the truth-based evolutionary "physis" of becoming better as an individual and collectively as a species. While most services are of "shruti" (heard and reproduced/created) and/or "smriti" (remembered and created) origin, Meristem Intelligence®️ is a "shrishti" (creation from original, like shiva or swayambhu or shambhogakaaya) optimizing phenomenological process. It's a passively active AND actively passive phenomenon that functions by iterative improvement of contributory factors. These factors include reinvestment of originals in the aforementioned "Basix" iterative improvement cycle, ensuring that nothing, not even "nothing," is excluded from the process, and everything undergoes periodic "code improvization." The constitution of a person becomes like a country through a process scientists call "scalar bosonification." This elevates Stephen Covey's idea of Dependence, Independence, Interdependence to "Interdependently Independent," which defines a leader – a fine balance between leader, follower, and center. While discussions focus on "The One," MITI empowers each investor to become the "One" they need to be by virtue of having a human body, as no one else can fulfill their unique purpose. It embodies a technology of "no-force" and "no competition." It's both an inside-out and outside-in phenomenon. Life on Earth exemplifies a technology that many of our innovations attempt to replicate. MITI has been connecting the dots of this original technology, documented by ancient scientists across various genres of literature, religion, philosophies, and ethnicities, along with our own innovations derived from clinical health facilitation observations. These insights are integrated into our services, coaching, products, and concepts, guided by the "shrishti optimization" process that we have continuously improved since our inception. This iterative process helps enhance "conscience," leading one to become a "shrishti optimizing shaanti-quantity (substance) humane being" – an ennobled human. This is akin to the clear-conscience dot at the Center of ShriChakra or atop Mahameru. It's like a soft, gel-like substance that can bounce off surfaces, improving their texture without losing composition, acting as a catalyst for healthier, wealthier, wiser living, similar to a "power booster in Candy Crush Saga." It's an ecologically sustainable iterative organic growth process with compassion-based natural selection benefits from having #humanityacrossboundaries-based #healthierspermandovum. It's like planting a tulsi or coconut tree in the central courtyard of one's house, which then enlivens life from within by organically integrating what it takes to improve substance through "shrishti optimization." Often, tiny bits of information make a MITI difference in the quality of outcome experienced, representing a MITI Advantage in achieving a better "landing on the stairwell of life" and becoming a finer person. Fine people generate wealth by pursuing goals worth investing in that iteratively improve Human Life Value. And many such more. Great Companies: What were the struggles and challenges you faced and how did you overcome them? Bitha Sadanandan:  As a clinical health facilitator, I found myself doing certain things so effectively that health improved in ways I hadn't anticipated. It was like witnessing too many flashes in the pan, requiring me to adapt to this continuous stream of positive outcomes without becoming overwhelmed or losing composure, especially when confronting the "dour moments humanity wouldn't believe happen in the dark recesses of human consciousness." I had to contain the "believe-it-or-not bandwidth of extremes" that presented themselves according to my readiness, ensuring I remained well enough to facilitate healing for deeper "crocodiles" within the fabric of timespace when both they and I were ready. To address this, I developed a single, multifaceted practice that heals, helps me breathe, detoxifies, decontaminates, detraumatizes, "decookies," and rejuvenates my capacity for love and life, rather than merely surviving with "caretaker syndromes." I discovered movement-less yoga (Nirbeeja Yoga®), enabling me to maintain my humanity and avoid becoming a "God or Devil" due to the extremes of the situation. Surgeons and physicians are sometimes said to have a "God complex." During the two years of the pandemic, I functioned like WALL-E, healing the fabric of timespace from the aforementioned perspective (as I was actively developing my discoveries and hadn't yet marketed my Brand values). Following this, my participation in business networking groups, combined with saved finances from 19+ years in medical transcription and modest savings from clinical health facilitation, were largely depleted. I've always struggled with asking for money. I resorted to using a credit card, essentially borrowing from my bank, and furthered my education with this borrowed money. Given that the values I discovered through Meristem Intelligence® are industry-first and represent a "manvantara-quality" human evolutionary leap, I felt compelled to fund my entrepreneurial ventures for the benefit of humanity and future generations. This led me to borrow from family, putting me in debt. However, what appears to be a "low" is part of the "karma-redemption cycle," where the failure of others to ask for what or who was needed has caused widespread suffering. This financial downturn wasn't entirely negative; it compelled me to speak more openly about my work and its details over the past six months than I had since 2013, progressively clarifying my market positioning with each output. For instance, this interview arrived in my inbox unasked, revealing details I hadn't previously had reason to disclose. I found "Honesty and authenticity are some of the best policies" to be a "coping mechanism" derived from doing the right things; "what goes around comes around." Life refined me through this phase because I had been similarly refining life through my therapeutic clinical and non-clinical health facilitation practices. Life has now led me into the wealth industry through HDFC Life and Health insurance, where I am learning money management from the "Human Life Value" perspective to further improve health through wealth. In my clinical health facilitation, I was required to maintain "practitioner neutral," a state later identified as "nothing" by spiritual enthusiasts, and considered difficult to attain. At 46, I feel too young to be discussing high spiritual attainments. I was also perceived as too young when clinically facilitating, with people finding it hard to reconcile my physical youth with a perceived maturity. I chose to incorporate the grey in my hair as part of my professional presentation, aiming for a theatrical appropriateness that appealed to both young and old. I now have a range of clothes that align with the wise saying, "we're all actors on the grand stage of life, expected to play our part well enough," with the desired response being "wow." While my "stage presence" might still need "touch-up," I function more as a behind-the-scenes production manager, operating on a "modus vivendi" with "fun" as an essential ingredient in the life- and health-enlivening "modus operandi." I've now integrated "wow'er dynamics" into MITI's technologies, replacing "pow'er," making a MITI difference. The mathematics of everyday economics contains numerous "coding errors." The realm of the unknown is not only fraught with problems people prefer to ignore but also with solutions they are unaware they possess. Technology, as we know it, including "yantra, mantra, tantra" in both white and black magic, lacks the capacity to bridge these gaps because it operates on a different mathematical basis than our usual calculations – one that uses 6 as its base, not 5. Our perception of normalcy is influenced by concepts like the circle of fifths and other harmonious calculations (e.g., 8ths, 12ths). We assign "unlucky" to certain numbers and "inauspicious" to certain colors, employing chants,  visualizations, and corresponding mathematical techniques. The "axiom of choice" yields varying results across different professional spectra. While Unified Field Theory and numerous therapists aim to transcend diseases, maintaining health and growth necessitates an infinitely ascending "math" that begins with recombinations of previously known basics. Although hexagonal honeycombs are popular today, I've had to derive my values from recombining known basics and premises to establish a more stable foundation for normal functioning, with fun being an essential ingredient. It's surprising how many individuals don't understand innocent fun. Even biology isn't always considered a pure science, despite mounting evidence that its mathematics is the mother of all mathematics.  We chant mantras from "shlokas" composed with alphanumericals but lack the ability to decipher their underlying logic; it's like a painting drawn with scale lines from an infinite point – we see the consequences (buildings, pathways, trees), but cannot trace the original source. This has led to the development of artificial intelligence, progressing towards AGI. The variations stemming from the Butterfly Effect and schizophrenic constructs of reality, coupled with the uphill task of rewriting narratives with "infinite invisible ink," are both easy and challenging. It's an uphill struggle against the current, yet it's what everyone demands, and people are less upset with me when I consistently provide improving solutions from this perspective. I call it the "technology of love," because it heals wounds over time.  However, love has also claimed many lives due to a misunderstanding of its "fire-less fire," which demands the purest, unadulterated honest truth of "truelove" as the "wind beneath the last shadow of doubt" – fearlessness, also known as walking the middle ground with the "Faith of counterfirelessfire," or "no-force." We reinvented "WheelOfDharma (DharmaPada For SoulSatisfaction®️)" for iteratively improving the math of doing the right things, and then "wower'd" it with "Connect.®️" technology to connect the dots across information spheres, transforming schizophrenic constructs of reality into more complete pieces of a jigsaw puzzle, making people "path makers" rather than "path breakers." More stories in my 'lady's handbag.' Great Companies: How do you plan to grow in the future? What does 5 years down the line look like for Meristem Intelligence®️? Bitha Sadanandan:  Meristem Intelligence®️ adheres to the wisdom of the ancients: to observe flora, fauna, and seasons, and act accordingly. Similarly, the Star Trek series advises against disturbing a civilization's prime directive. These aren't alien directives but messages from ancient scientists, guiding those who seek meaning in fragmented information and build appropriate constructs. Constructs that align with the Vedic principle of sustainable creation – "|| poornamadah poornamidam poornaat poornamudachyate | poornasya poornamasdaayah poornameevaa vashishyate ||" – endure the test of time, gaining approval from the "dark matter" that permeates space and time, fostering potential for life's evolution.  From Meristem Intelligence (MI), we evolved to MITI as a firmament to offer necessary services without overwhelming brain-fogged neurological systems with excessive information. We are gradually introducing growth factors to ease the transition beyond post-COVID brain and physiological concerns, making new concepts iteratively acceptable and encouraging people to embrace a healthier future. Our focus is on building an online community and products, alongside offline investments, to progressively upgrade our reason for being. Healing the fabric of timespace through Nirbeeja Yoga®️ (#healthiernaturalbreathing) is central to our creative process. Sharing its basic benefits and MITI concepts (Warmup To Basics) will help cultivate humanity's capacity for health-based, rather than sickness-based, ecological economics. This is our immediate future. Our year-on-year development has been so extraordinary that we now project growth on a per-6-months-to-1-year basis, to avoid severely underestimating our potential over five years; this has been our growth rate since 2020. Our recent entry into the wealth industry through HDFC Life further complements our work, with health's marriage to wealth, enhanced by subtle wisdom, creating a delightful "ice creamy dessert" to anticipate. Please visit patreon.com/MeristemIntelligence  and learn.dynamicstillnesses.com for a curated selection of MITI services, coaching, products, and concepts. As we are still expanding our online and offline visibility, "EarlyBird" investors gain a MITI Advantage never before conceived, as we are ushering in a new "manvantara" in what it means to be human – from a person-centric model of the Universe/Reality. Great Companies: If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting out, what would it be? Bitha Sadanandan:  Write. Journal. I recommend both hardcopy and softcopy, but begin by writing in a physical book. Carry that book everywhere until jotting down your thoughts, insights, wishes, dreams, and observations becomes a habit. Over time, these entries will become "dots" as concepts solidify in your mind, and your written words will serve as a springboard for further reflection, allowing ideas to congeal in your intellect.  These formed and unformed ideas will eventually culminate in a million-dollar product you can niche over time. No amount of money can provide what this exercise and practice yield over time. Every person, product, book, and billboard holds some value, but it is within your own being that they gain "value" and gravitas over time. Just as particles in the Kuiper Belt became planets, and Earth didn't form overnight, you'll want to consistently engage in this practice to eventually reach your "Earth." It will take time, but it's worth it, and "it" is information technology. This note-taking habit will evolve into your Information Management System and then into a more complex Management Information System as it compounds over time. Website : www.dynamicstillnesses.com

Great Companies: How did you get your idea or concept for the business? Susan Venter: I observed that many property owners struggle due to a lack of understanding regarding their building plans and compliance requirements. This is a significant challenge in the industry—people often aren't aware of their rights or the necessity of approved plans for modifications or property sales. Since 2011, SM Architectural & Town-Planning Services has been focused on bridging this knowledge gap. We collaborate with property professionals—agents, town planners, and engineers—to ensure our clients receive accurate information and expert guidance. Great Companies: What are the various services provided by SM Architectural & Town-Planning Services? Susan Venter: We specialise in designing and submitting building plans for new and existing structures, ensuring full compliance with local municipal regulations. Our goal is to simplify complex processes and provide tailored solutions for our clients' property needs. Our services include: ✅ Building plans for new and existing structures ✅ Obtaining copies of existing approved plans ✅ Council submissions and approvals ✅ Redrawing existing building plans ✅ Comprehensive property services and more Great Companies: What makes SM Architectural & Town-Planning Services different from hundreds of other similar service providers? Susan Venter: What sets us apart is our comprehensive approach to drafting services. We aim to simplify the world of building regulations for property owners, investors, and developers. Our professional, efficient, and friendly service ensures close collaboration with clients to meet their ideas and requirements. With over 14 years of experience in building plan creation, we bring expert solutions that save our clients both time and money. Great Companies: What were the struggles and challenges you faced and how did you overcome them? Susan Venter: In our early stages, we faced significant cash flow challenges due to limited funding and high operational costs. We had to make some tough decisions to keep the business going. Through a strict cost-cutting strategy and operational streamlining, we managed to become profitable within our first year. A similar challenge arose during the COVID-19 pandemic, but through resilience and adaptability, we’ve continued to persevere. Great Companies: How do you plan to grow in the future? What does 5 years down the line look like for SM Architectural & Town-Planning Services? Susan Venter: We've recently expanded into property services, adding more value to our existing building plan offerings. As certified Property Practitioners, we are better positioned to assist clients with property-related concerns. Looking ahead, we plan to invest in advanced equipment to enhance work efficiency and take on larger-scale projects. This growth is essential for scaling our business sustainably. Great Companies: If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting out, what would it be? Susan Venter: Believe in yourself. Having faith in your abilities can unlock immense potential. Let go of self-doubt and trust that you’re capable of achieving great things. Website : https://www.smteken.co.za

Name: Zinthiya Ganeshpanchan Business Name:  Zinthiya Trust Location:  Leicester, United Kingdom ( UK) Category:   NGO Website: https://www.zinthiyatrust.org/ Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/zganeshpanchan/ Company Detail: Zinthiya Trust supports women and families to be free for violence and poverty. To achieve its objective it provides a range of support services to its beneficiaries which include one to one support to women fleeing all forms of abuse as well as providing money and debt advise to individuals who are facing poverty including fuel poverty. In addition, the charity also provides practical help such as emergency accommodation to women fleeing abuse, utility popups for those in fuel poverty, school uniforms for children of families facing poverty and emergency food and hygiene products to those in crisis. On average year it supports around 2,000 unique beneficiaries. As a charity focused on long term change it also heavily invests in education and awareness raising on the issues it is working among the community including among young people. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: It is one of the only organisations in its region providing a holistic support package to its beneficiaries who are often those with multiple and complex needs. It is also among the very few organisations nationally who are providing support to women fleeing abuse and have no recourse to public funding. Furthermore, around 85% of its current employees have also been previous service users demonstrating its commitment to long term change. Additionally despite being a not for profit organisation it is also very entrepreneurial and innovative in the way it works to support its community. This has been demonstrated in the way it works to diversify its income to become sustainable and continue to grow. It is believed that these characteristics make it unique. Challenges Faced During the Journey: The charity was set up by Zinthiya in 2009 with as little as £100 as she wanted to provide opportunity for those who were impacted by abuse and poverty. However, since setting up the charity she faced a number of challenges such as the global financial crisis in 2009, the Pandemic as well as the current cost of living crisis which has been a challenge as the demand for the work has increased while in the same time securing resources to deliver the work has been more and more challenging. Despite these challenges Zinthiya has led the organisation to become one of the leading charities in the region. On a personal capacity she has also had to face numerous challenges such as fleeing a war torn country and having to start a new life from scratch, facing specific challenges associated with being a woman of colour as well as being a carer to her daughter and extended family. However, through her passion, vision, determination, agility and leadership she has been able to overcome all obstacles she faced and grow the charity to what it is today. As a result the charity has also won many awards for the impact it has created in the community. Most impressively Zinthiya has not only grown the Zinthiya Trust but has also in 2018 established another Social enterprise that provides low cost food and sanitary products to those on low income demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit, can do attitude as well as her courage to face challenges to make a real difference in the community she works. Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: Being an entrepreneur is tough but equally satisfying. However, if one wants to be successful one must be prepared to put in the hard work and always be prepared to give before one gains.

Name: Rebecca Houston Business Name:  Smash Marketing Location:  Norwich , United Kingdom ( UK) Category:   Digital Marketing Website: www.smashmarketing.co.uk Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-houston-mcim-chartered-marketer/ Company Detail: Beks Houston is the visionary behind Smash Marketing—a digital agency known for its strategic brilliance, people-first culture, and purpose-driven approach. As the founder and leader, Beks has built more than just a successful business. She has created a thriving ecosystem where creativity, innovation, inclusion, and impact intersect. Beks' leadership is defined by intention and integrity. She led the charge for Smash Marketing to become a certified B Corp—a powerful step that reflects her belief that business can be a force for good. This achievement underscores her commitment to ethical practice, sustainability, and social impact in every aspect of her company’s operations. At the heart of Beks’ leadership is her unwavering commitment to her team. She fosters a culture of empowerment, ensuring every team member is trusted to make decisions and supported to grow. Daily team meetings provide a space for collaboration, problem-solving, and camaraderie. Under her guidance, constant learning isn’t just encouraged—it’s embedded into the DNA of the company. Beks also looks beyond her walls, implementing a program designed to help individuals struggling to re-enter the workforce gain meaningful work experience. Her empathy, coupled with practical action, has opened doors for many and demonstrates her belief in inclusive opportunity and community responsibility. The warmth of Beks' leadership is felt in the little things too—from the support she offers her team, to the way she brings her beloved dogs into the office, adding to the friendly, welcoming vibe that defines Smash Marketing. Outside of work, she’s a proud wife and mum of two, balancing the demands of leadership with grace and relatability. Beks Houston isn’t just a great leader—she’s a transformative one. She builds businesses that thrive, teams that rise, and communities that benefit. Her leadership continues to inspire not only her industry but everyone lucky enough to work alongside her. Smash Marketing doesn’t just do marketing—they transform small businesses into online powerhouses. Big marketing for small businesses – Smash Marketing makes top-tier digital marketing accessible to SMEs, helping them compete with the big players.· Results you can trust – Their 6-month money-back guarantee on SEO proves they stand by their work.· Affordable & transparent – No hidden fees, no contracts—just marketing that works.· Committed to sustainability – The team is on a mission to Net Zero, planting 700+ trees and cutting 70+ tonnes of carbon through Ecologi.· A team that never stops learning – The company invests in constant upskilling to deliver the latest strategies to its clients. Smash Marketing is not just a marketing agency - It’s a force for growth, community, and sustainability. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: They don't tie their clients into long contracts. They insist on monthly meetings to ensure all are on the same page. They value great communication and offer their clients a link to the project management tool, so clients can see what is booked in and when. They don't outsource, all work is done by the amazing team. Challenges Faced During the Journey: They got through 7 years of challenges. Stats say that 40% of agencies failed last year, they have survived and are thriving! Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: Follow your dream. Believe in yourself. If you can dream it, you can do it.

How did you get your idea or concept for the business? Jennifer Hensley: The idea for Playmaker Coaching and Consulting came from a recurring pattern I noticed over my 20 years in the corporate world, working with hundreds of small business owners. Many had access to incredible tools and resources—but didn’t know they existed, when to use them, or how to apply them effectively in their business. What they needed wasn’t more theory; they needed a playbook—and a trusted teammate to help them execute it. As an athlete, I’ve always valued having a clear game plan and a coach who sees the whole field. That mindset shaped my approach to leadership in corporate roles and now fuels how I serve business owners. I founded Playmaker to bridge the gap between strategy and execution—helping clients move forward with confidence, clarity, and consistency. What are the various services provided by Playmaker Coaching and Consulting LLC? Jennifer Hensley: We offer a comprehensive suite of services tailored to meet clients where they are in their business journey: Brand Boot Camp  – A foundational program focused on clarifying your value proposition and strengthening your digital presence. Marketing MVP  – A toolkit of essential marketing strategies every professional service business should implement. On-Demand Expert Coaching  – Training and mentoring teams to become playmakers themselves. Playmaker 4U  – Our fractional Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) service, where we lead your marketing strategy and execution. We also provide self-paced programs, group accelerators, interactive workshops, and one-on-one coaching. Whether it’s a short-term boost or long-term partnership, we help businesses execute the right plays at the right time to win. What makes Playmaker Coaching and Consulting LLC different from hundreds of other similar service providers? Jennifer Hensley: We are not  a marketing agency—and that’s intentional. While others push you to hire external teams, we become your Playmaker : someone who sees the entire field, builds a strategic game plan, and helps you execute it with precision. Our value lies in delivering: Clear playbooks and actionable strategies Aligned marketing, business development, and operations More referrals through authentic client acquisition A consistent client experience that turns customers into raving fans Our approach is grounded in ownership, authentic relationships, efficient problem-solving, and smart systems. We don't just offer advice—we help clients build and maintain momentum with real results. What were the struggles and challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them? Jennifer Hensley: Initially, clients didn’t just want advice—they wanted someone to implement solutions. We pivoted by building a trusted network of expert partners, allowing us to offer hands-on support. This helped us evolve into a one-stop shop that delivers both strategy and execution. Another challenge was balancing people and technology. While relationships always come first, we’ve also invested in systems that allow us to scale while remaining personal and boutique. I continuously learn from mentors, mastermind peers, and clients themselves. The biggest shift? Practicing what we preach. We use the same tools and frameworks we recommend—and stay grounded in values like service and integrity. How do you plan to grow in the future? What does 5 years down the line look like for Playmaker Coaching and Consulting LLC? Jennifer Hensley: Over the next five years, we aim to: Expand our group programs  while maintaining personalized 1:1 support. Enhance our online content library  with simple, powerful resources. Offer more in-person workshops  to connect and empower clients deeply. Partner with aligned experts and collaborators to provide a comprehensive support ecosystem . Extend our value through clients to their partners and networks—creating a ripple effect of sustainable growth. Instead of building a large team, I envision working closely with a trusted collaborator to scale with purpose and creativity. If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting out, what would it be? Jennifer Hensley: Focus on building a strong foundation : clear strategy, values-driven leadership, and consistent action. Set realistic, focused goals aligned with your vision, and break them into phases. Know your strengths and build systems around them. Don’t chase perfection—progress comes from regular effort and refinement. Above all, lead with your values . Build authentic relationships, lean into your network, and remember: business is about people. Stay patient, keep learning, and trust the journey. "Success isn’t a destination—it’s a journey of steady, intentional effort. You’ve got this!" https://playmakercoach.com/

Transforming Lives with Lifestyle-as-Medicine Wellness Solutions Great Companies: How did you get your idea or concept for the business? Tanya Fasnacht Jolliffe: Decades of experience gave me deep insight into the traditional, diet-focused approach to disease and weight management. I saw how this often led to chronic dieting and failed to create long-term health transformation. This understanding—coupled with my knowledge of how lifestyle factors drive lasting behavior change—inspired me to shift my focus. I founded L I T Wellness Solutions to deliver non-diet nutrition therapy , centered around lifestyle-as-medicine  solutions that truly support sustainable well-being. Great Companies: What are the various services provided by L I T Wellness Solutions? Tanya Fasnacht Jolliffe: We offer both corporate wellness consulting  and individual coaching , with services including: Corporate wellness programs  focused on transforming workplace culture  (especially in the transportation sector) by creating values-driven, safe, and productive environments that reduce healthcare costs. One-on-one coaching  (private pay or insurance-based) tailored to: Managing medical conditions and weight through non-diet approaches Disordered eating recovery with a holistic focus Athlete nutrition coaching to improve fueling strategies and performance Great Companies: What makes L I T Wellness Solutions different from hundreds of other similar service providers? Tanya Fasnacht Jolliffe: L I T Wellness Solutions is unique because we take a holistic, personalized, and evidence-based approach  to well-being. We emphasize sustainable behavior change  and go far beyond just diet or exercise. We integrate the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual  dimensions of health using our "lifestyle as medicine"  model. Our non-diet, attuned eating strategies , including mindful eating and body awareness, are especially uncommon in traditional wellness settings, making our methodology truly transformative. Great Companies: What were the struggles and challenges you faced and how did you overcome them? Tanya Fasnacht Jolliffe: L I T Wellness Solutions launched in late 2019 , around the same time I published my book, The Mindful Me Journey: A 40-Day Guided Journey Toward a Healthier Relationship With Food and Exercise . I began promoting it through speaking engagements  and coaching, but everything paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic . Instead of stepping back, I used the time to upskill —completing certification as an Integrative Mental Health Professional . This not only enhanced my qualifications but allowed me to restart with greater momentum  when the world reopened. Great Companies: How do you plan to grow in the future? What does 5 years down the line look like for L I T Wellness Solutions? Tanya Fasnacht Jolliffe: In the next five years, we aim to: Become a preferred wellness partner  for mid-sized and large corporations Expand national visibility and credibility  through strategic partnerships Leverage data-driven results  to showcase the effectiveness of our approach Promote The Mindful Me Journey  and expand our coaching influence and reach Great Companies: If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting out, what would it be? Tanya Fasnacht Jolliffe: Understand that wellness is more than just food or fitness . True transformation requires addressing the whole person —mental, emotional, and lifestyle dimensions included. Clarify your "why" , define who you want to help , understand what makes your approach unique , and get the training necessary  to back it up. Doing this early on will give you credibility  and set a strong foundation as you grow your brand. https://www.litwellnesssolutions.com/

Empowering Women Through Fashion and Entrepreneurship Great Companies: How did you get your idea or concept for the business? Sangeetha Narayanan: From a very young age, I had the desire to become an entrepreneur. I never liked the idea of working under someone — I always wanted to be my own boss . More importantly, I dreamed of creating employment opportunities for struggling women . That vision laid the foundation for Ekaika Boutique. Great Companies: What are the various services provided by Ekaika Boutique? Sangeetha Narayanan: At Ekaika Boutique, we specialize in: Aari work blouses Designer blouses Kurtis and suits stitching We focus on providing customized, high-quality ethnic fashion that reflects both tradition and modern elegance. Great Companies: What makes Ekaika Boutique different from hundreds of other similar service providers? Sangeetha Narayanan: What makes us stand out is our customer-centric approach . We offer: Pick-up services from the customer’s home  via Dunzo or in person Competitive pricing Doorstep delivery  or courier services We even cater to clients across India and in countries like Malaysia . Our convenience, quality, and affordability have helped us build a loyal customer base. Great Companies: What were the struggles and challenges you faced and how did you overcome them? Sangeetha Narayanan: I faced many struggles — one of the biggest was lack of support from my own family . At one point, I had to shut down my business for an entire year . But things changed. With renewed encouragement from my family, I restarted Ekaika Boutique. That support gave me newfound confidence  to move forward stronger than ever. Great Companies: How do you plan to grow in the future? What does 5 years down the line look like for Ekaika Boutique? Sangeetha Narayanan: My dream is to export Aari work blouses internationally , especially to countries where Indian weddings are celebrated. I am actively attending business meetings , networking, and staying ready for the right opportunity. I’m confident that in five years, Ekaika Boutique will have a global footprint . Great Companies: If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting out, what would it be? Sangeetha Narayanan: Start with your passion  — let that guide your business idea. Begin small, like I did, and then grow gradually. Keep learning  by attending seminars and industry events to stay updated. The journey will be tough, but staying true to your vision makes it worth it. Social Media : https://www.linkedin.com/in/sangeetha-narayanan-0a8593256/