Dreaming Big with Dr. Ellie Paris-Miranda

In this episode of Behind the Curtain: Money Made Simple, host Julie Beckham sits down with Dr. Ellie Paris, tenure-track professor of entrepreneurship at Wheaton College and founder of a groundbreaking social impact bookstore and ice cream café in Brockton. Dr. Paris shares her remarkable journey from growing up in poverty to becoming a PhD, MBA, professor, entrepreneur, and community leader. She opens up about the challenges of launching a business with no outside investment, the importance of education and social capital, and the framework she created—“the Five Es”—to empower individuals and communities. Together, Julie and Dr. Paris explore how dreams become reality, the role of mentors and networks, and what it truly takes to succeed as an entrepreneur.

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[00:00:00] Julie introduces guest Dr. Ellie Paris Miranda and her social impact bookstore and ice cream café in Brockton.

[00:02:04] Dr. Paris shares her background as a professor, entrepreneur, and the inspiration behind the bookstore.

[00:04:51] Growing up Cape Verdean in Europe and building an inclusive space that reflects her global experiences.

[00:06:09] Dr. Paris’s personal journey—raised by a single mom, overcoming poverty, and pursuing higher education.

[00:07:36] Bootstrapping the business with no outside investment and honoring her mother’s sacrifices.

[00:09:40] Challenges of entrepreneurship: lack of financial and social capital, and building networks intentionally.

[00:11:19] The power of education in creating opportunities and credibility as an entrepreneur.

[00:14:06] Teaching soft skills—networking, communication, professionalism—to students and interns.

[00:17:56] The role of mentorship and seizing everyday opportunities to guide others.

[00:19:43] Vision for expansion: bringing the bookstore model to communities across America.

[00:20:14] Dr. Paris’s “Five Es” framework: Expose, Experience, Explore, Excel, Elevate.

[00:24:27] What makes an entrepreneur successful: drive, commitment, and resilience in the face of struggle.

[00:27:09] Invitation to visit the bookstore, connect online, and collaborate.

[00:29:15] Rapid-fire questions: favorite word, least favorite word, walk-on song, most used emoji, and motivation.

[00:32:38] Best money advice received and reflections on financial education gaps.

[00:34:13] Challenge to listeners: pick one book, course, or resource to pursue a long-postponed dream.

[00:35:33] Closing thoughts: “Dream big—it takes the same work anyway.”

Links:

Dr. Ellie Paris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellie-paris-miranda

Julie Beckham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-beckham-05589534