Courageous Conversations with Fran Pastore
Through her work as the Founder and CEO of the Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) in Connecticut, Fran Pastore has had the privilege of knowing and working with remarkable and accomplished leaders who have invaluable insights and strategies for success in the business world and beyond. In every episode, guests share lessons they’ve learned through their personal journeys as they and Fran delve into topics such as financial empowerment, economic equity & access to capital, advocacy for women, growing a business, and more. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, Fran and her guests offer practical advice and inspiration to help you overcome obstacles, conquer your fears, and achieve your goals.
Recent Episodes
S4/Ep.7 Connecticut Works for Small Business
July 20, 2023
Join Fran Pastore on this episode of Courageous Conversations as she engages in a thoughtful discussion with Connecticut’s Lt. Governor, Susan Bysiewicz. Together, they explore why it’s a good time to be a small business ent…
S4/Ep.6 The Journey from Product to Pitch: Learn from FunkkOFF’s Shark Tank Adventure
June 22, 2023
The creators of FunkkOFF TeethRefreshers, Joelle Flynn and Sonia Hounsell, join Fran on today’s episode of Courageous Conversations. Lifelong friends, the duo share their journey of entrepreneurship, how their diverse skills…
S4.Ep.5 Growth, Innovation and the Economic Futures of CT & NY
May 18, 2023
How are New York and Connecticut embracing growth, innovation, and collaboration? Join Fran Pastore as she engages in a dynamic dialogue with Alexandra Daum, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Economic and Communi…
S4/Ep.4 Grit & Grace: The Fight for the American Dream with Dr. Oscar Guerra
April 20, 2023
Join Fran Pastore in this episode of Courageous Conversations as she speaks with Dr. Oscar Guerra, an Emmy award-winning documentary filmmaker and UConn professor. Dr. Guerra shares his experience directing "Grit & Grace: Th…
S4/Ep3 Revolutionizing Retirement with CT State Comptroller Sean Scanlon & MyCTSavings
March 24, 2023
Connecticut State Comptroller Sean Scanlon is on a mission to make financial literacy and saving for retirement more accessible for the state’s small businesses and their employees. He sits down with Fran in today’s episode …
S4/Ep.2 It Starts With A Business Plan
Feb. 16, 2023
“If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” – Ben Franklin Mr. Franklin certainly knew what he was talking about – especially for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs! That’s why Fran is joined by WBDC Bus…
