CURVEPRENEUR DIGITAL MAGAZINE A Monthly Digital Publication Volume 1 • Issue 8 October 2026 Founder & Editor-in-Chief Christina Stevenson Featured Entrepreneur Donna Davis Reena Friedman Watts Photography & Visual Media Cover Photography and Additional Images provided by featured contributors and sourced from publicly available or properly licensed image collections. Creative Direction & Layout Curvepreneur Editorial Team Editorial Support / Contributors Guest Contributors & Community Partners A publication of KYB Plans Editorial & Business Office KYB Plans Columbia, South Carolina Editorial inquiries curvepreneur@gmail.com Digital Publication • Distributed Globally

Legal Disclaimer Curvepreneur Digital Magazine is published by KYB Plans, Columbia, South Carolina. Curvepreneur Digital Magazine is a monthly digital publication created to inform, inspire, and highlight entrepreneurial journeys and business insights. All content reflects personal experiences, opinions, and professional perspectives of contributors and does not constitute legal, financial, or business advice. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and seek qualified professionals when making business or financial decisions. All content is the property of KYB Plans and Curvepreneur Digital Magazine unless otherwise noted. Images and written materials are published with permission of contributors and may not be reproduced, distributed, or republished without written consent. ISSN: Pending © 2026 KYB Plans — Publisher of Curvepreneur Digital Magazine. All rights reserved.

LETTEREDITOR'SThe Legacy We Create Together Leadership and legacy are not always defined by titles, recognition, or the size of a business. Sometimes they are reflected in the decisions we make, the relationships we develop, and the difference our actions make in the lives of others. As we celebrate National Women's Small Business Month, this October issue of Curvepreneur explores the many ways women lead, contribute, and create opportunities for themselves and their communities. Through the experiences of Donna Davis and Reena Friedman Watts, we recognize that leadership takes different forms and that every professional journey carries lessons worth sharing. Our editorials also explore visibility, meaningful conversations, collaboration, and the importance of supporting one another. 02 CURVEPRENEURChristina Stevenson FOUNDER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF With Gratitude, My hope is that this issue encourages you to recognize the value of your own experiences, appreciate the contributions of women around you, and continue creating connections that extend beyond business.

COMMUNITY, COLLABORATION & COLLECTIVE GROWTH

05CURVEPRENEUR Every small business represents more than a product, a service, or a source of income. Behind it is a woman who recognized an opportunity, believed in an idea, and made the decision to pursue it. Whether she operates from a storefront, a professional office, her home, or an online platform, her business represents an investment of time, knowledge, resources, and determination. CELEBRATING WOMEN- OWNED BUSINESSES AND THE CONNECTIONS THAT STRENGTHEN THEM During National Women's Small Business Month, we celebrate these women not simply because they own businesses, but because of the contributions they make to the people and communities around them. A neighborhood business may create employment opportunities, support local events, or purchase products and services from nearby vendors. A service provider may help another entrepreneur operate more efficiently, assist a family through an important transition, or offer expertise that customers might otherwise struggle to access. These contributions remind us that the value of a small business is not always measured by its size or revenue. Sometimes its greatest influence is found in the relationships it develops and the opportunities it creates for others.

06CURVEPRENEUR These relationships can create opportunities that might not have developed independently. Entrepreneurship is often described as an individual journey, but few businesses operate entirely independently. Entrepreneurs rely on customers, vendors, professional relationships, and community resources to sustain and develop their businesses. Collaboration allows women to build upon these connections while maintaining their individual business identities. COLLABORATION CREATES POSSIBILITIES Collaboration does not mean giving away services, sacrificing professional boundaries, or ignoring competition. It means recognizing where shared interests, complementary expertise, and mutual respect can create something beneficial. And sometimes, collaboration begins with a simple introduction or a willingness to share information that could help another woman move forward. A graphic designer may partner with a business consultant to support a new entrepreneur. An event professional may develop relationships with caterers, photographers, and local venues. A business owner may refer a customer to another woman whose expertise is better suited to a particular need.

07CURVEPRENEUR Celebrating women entrepreneurs is meaningful, but genuine support extends beyond recognition during a particular month. Purchasing from a woman-owned business is one way to contribute, but recommending a business, leaving a thoughtful review, attending a community event, or introducing an entrepreneur to a potential customer can be equally meaningful. SUPPORTING WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES WITH INTENTION For women entrepreneurs themselves, support may involve sharing professional knowledge, participating in business organizations, mentoring someone entering the industry, or simply making room for another woman's perspective. At the same time, supporting women-owned businesses means respecting the value of their work. Women entrepreneurs deserve fair compensation, clear expectations, and professional relationships built on mutual respect. A strong business community is not one where everyone is expected to give endlessly. It is one where people recognize the contributions of others and create opportunities for relationships that benefit everyone involved.

08CURVEPRENEURAs we recognize National Women's Small Business Month, we have an opportunity to consider how our individual actions contribute to the larger business community. Are we supporting businesses within our neighborhoods? Are we developing meaningful professional relationships? Are we willing to share opportunities when appropriate and recognize the accomplishments of other women? When women connect, collaborate, and support one another with intention, they create more than individual opportunities for success. They help establish stronger professional networks, encourage greater community participation, and make room for others to flourish. Because when women-owned businesses grow through meaningful relationships and shared opportunities, the benefits can extend far beyond the businesses themselves. GROWING TOGETHER, STRENGTHENING COMMUNITIES Every woman-owned business has its own purpose, challenges, and definition of success. Some entrepreneurs aspire to expand into larger companies, while others are creating smaller businesses that provide financial stability, flexibility, and meaningful work. Both deserve recognition, and both contribute to the economic and social fabric of our communities.

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11CURVEPRENEUR Every October, we see the familiar pink ribbons, awareness campaigns, fundraising events, and messages encouraging women to prioritize their breast health. They serve an important purpose, reminding us of the need for education, early detection, research, and continued support. But for those of us who have experienced breast cancer through the lives of people we love, the meaning behind that pink ribbon becomes much more personal. I have family members who have survived breast cancer, and I have also lost friends to this disease. I have witnessed the relief and gratitude that can accompany survival, as well as the heartbreak of knowing that not everyone receives the outcome we hope for. These experiences remind me that breast cancer is not simply a medical diagnosis or an awareness campaign. It is something that changes lives, families, relationships, and the way we sometimes think about our own health. THE WOMEN, THE STORIES, THE STRENGTH Perhaps one of the most unsettling realities of breast cancer is the uncertainty. We do not always know who will develop it or when. You can be young or older, have a larger bust or a smaller one, live an active lifestyle, or believe you are doing everything possible to protect your health. Although certain factors can increase risk, there is no absolute guarantee that breast cancer will never become part of your story. And while it occurs far more frequently in women, men can develop breast cancer as well. For some women, that uncertainty accompanies every mammogram. There may be a quiet question lingering in the back of their minds: Will this be the appointment when something is discovered? Perhaps it happens during a shower, when a familiar self-check reveals something that feels different, or during an ordinary day when an unexpected change creates concern. Suddenly, something that seemed distant feels frighteningly close.

12CURVEPRENEUR A breast cancer diagnosis does not arrive in isolation. It enters a life already filled with responsibilities, relationships, routines, and plans. There may be children to care for, a career to maintain, a business to operate, or family members who depend on the woman receiving the news. Suddenly, everyday decisions may be accompanied by medical appointments, treatment discussions, financial concerns, and questions about an uncertain future. That fear is real, but it should not prevent us from seeking answers. A change does not automatically mean cancer, and a screening appointment is not a prediction of what lies ahead. It is an opportunity to pay attention to our health, ask questions, and take appropriate action. Behind every ribbon is a woman with a life, a family, responsibilities, relationships, hopes, and plans for tomorrow. And that is why awareness must always be about more than a color or a campaign. THE LIVES BEHIND THE DIAGNOSIS

13CURVEPRENEUR For women entrepreneurs, the experience may introduce additional concerns about maintaining their businesses while prioritizing their health. Yet whether a woman is managing a company, raising a family, enjoying retirement, or navigating another chapter of life, she deserves the opportunity to focus on her well-being without feeling that she must remain strong for everyone around her. Those of us who love someone facing breast cancer may not always know what to say. Sometimes we want so desperately to offer reassurance that we forget the importance of simply listening. Support may come through a ride to an appointment, a prepared meal, assistance with everyday responsibilities, or respecting someone's need for privacy. And sometimes, it is simply being present without expecting her to explain how she feels. AWARENESS THAT STAYS WITH US Perhaps the most meaningful thing we can take from Breast Cancer Awareness Month is the reminder that paying attention to our health is an act of care, not fear. Knowing what is normal for our bodies, discussing personal risk factors and appropriate mammogram screening with healthcare professionals, and seeking medical attention when something changes are important steps we can take.

14CURVEPRENEUR We must also remember that not every woman has equal access to healthcare. Financial limitations, insurance concerns, transportation, and family responsibilities can make even routine screenings difficult. Supporting breast cancer awareness means caring about these realities as much as we care about the messages printed on pink ribbons. For me, October will always bring thoughts of the women in my family who survived and the friends whose lives ended far too soon. Their experiences are reminders of both the progress that has been made and the lives that continue to be affected. And perhaps that is what I hope we remember most: behind every diagnosis is someone who was making plans, loving her family, pursuing her dreams, and expecting tomorrow to arrive much as it did yesterday. We cannot eliminate every uncertainty, but we can remain informed, attentive, compassionate, and present for one another. Because the ribbon may represent awareness, but the women and their stories are what give it meaning.

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18 CURVEPRENEUR Some of the most meaningful opportunities in business begin with something remarkably simple: a conversation. Not necessarily a formal meeting, an elaborate presentation, or a carefully rehearsed introduction. Sometimes it begins with two women sharing their experiences over coffee, a brief exchange at a community event, or an unexpected discussion between people who discover they have something in common HOW STORYTELLING BUILDS COMMUNITIES AND OPENS DOORS What starts as an ordinary conversation can become the beginning of a professional relationship, a collaboration, a new opportunity, or even a friendship that extends well beyond business. Yet in a world where communication increasingly takes place through screens, promotional messages, and carefully curated content, we sometimes overlook the value of simply getting to know one another For women entrepreneurs, conversation is more than a social activity. It is one of the ways we establish trust, exchange knowledge, discover opportunities, and build the relationships that help businesses and communities grow.

19 CURVEPRENEURWhen we meet another woman in business, we often begin with familiar questions. What do you do? How long have you been in business? What services do you offer? These questions are useful introductions, but they rarely tell us the complete story. A challenge we believed was ours alone may turn out to be an experience someone else understands. An idea we have been hesitant to explore may become clearer through another person's perspective. A conversation may introduce a possibility we had not previously considered. These connections remind us that our individual journeys may be different, but we often have more in common than we initially realize. EVERY WOMAN HAS A STORY WORTH HEARING Behind a business name may be a woman who spent twenty years developing her expertise before deciding to work independently. Another may have started her company after recognizing a need within her community. Someone else may have entered entrepreneurship following a career change, a family transition, or an experience that caused her to reconsider what she wanted from her professional life. These experiences influence how women approach their work, the customers they serve, and the values they bring into their businesses. When we take time to listen, we begin to understand more than what someone sells or the professional title she holds. We discover what matters to her, what she has learned, and sometimes what she hopes to accomplish next. Storytelling allows women to share those experiences in ways that professional biographies and business descriptions cannot always capture. And sometimes, hearing another woman's story helps us recognize something about our own.

20CURVEPRENEUR Meaningful conversation requires more than speaking. It also requires a willingness to listen. In professional settings, we can become so focused on explaining our services, introducing our businesses, or making a positive impression that we forget to become genuinely curious about the person in front of us. LISTENING CREATES OPPORTUNITIES FOR CONNECTION But relationships rarely develop through introductions alone. Consider the difference between meeting someone and immediately describing everything your business offers versus asking about her work, listening to the challenges she encounters, and discovering where your experiences intersect. The second conversation may reveal opportunities that neither person anticipated. Perhaps she works with customers who could benefit from your services. Perhaps you know someone who can assist with a challenge she has been trying to resolve. Or perhaps there is no immediate business opportunity at all, but you discover shared interests, community concerns, or professional experiences that create a foundation for future conversations. Sometimes the relationship itself is the beginning of something meaningful. And when people feel heard and respected, they are often more comfortable continuing the conversation, exchanging ideas, and exploring ways to support one another. Not every interaction needs to result in a sale, a referral, or a formal collaboration to have value.

21 CURVEPRENEUR Another may establish a small business that becomes a gathering place, an employment opportunity, or a source of support for residents. When these stories are shared, they help others recognize the people and experiences contributing to their communities. They also create opportunities for greater involvement. Storytelling also plays an important role beyond individual business relationships. Communities are shaped by the people who live, work, volunteer, and invest their time within them. Yet many of their contributions remain largely unknown outside immediate circles. A woman may spend years organizing neighborhood activities, supporting local families, mentoring young people, or helping other entrepreneurs navigate unfamiliar business processes without ever receiving public recognition. Someone reading about a community initiative may decide to volunteer. A business owner learning about another entrepreneur's work may offer to collaborate. A woman who has been considering a similar project may find encouragement in seeing how someone else approached the idea. WHEN STORIES STRENGTHEN COMMUNITIES Stories make contributions visible, but they also help people understand why those contributions matter. This is especially important for women whose work does not always receive the same attention as larger organizations or more established businesses. Sharing their experiences helps broaden our understanding of leadership, entrepreneurship, and community involvement.

22 CURVEPRENEUR But some of the strongest relationships develop when we allow conversations to unfold without immediately determining what we expect to gain. An entrepreneur may meet someone who has no current need for her services but later remembers her when an opportunity arises. A casual introduction may lead to another conversation several months later. A shared interest in a community project may eventually develop into a professional partnership. There is a tendency in business to approach every interaction with a particular objective. We attend events hoping to secure clients, meet influential people, or establish partnerships that produce measurable results. Those goals are understandable. Building a business requires intentional effort, and professional networking can be an important part of that work. These possibilities are difficult to predict because relationships do not always follow a specific timeline. What we can control is how we participate in them. OPENING DOORS WITHOUT FORCING OPPORTUNITIES We can be attentive, respectful, genuinely interested, and willing to maintain contact when there is a meaningful reason to do so. We can follow through when we offer assistance, make introductions thoughtfully, and recognize that professional relationships deserve more than an occasional message asking for a favor. Opening doors is not always about knowing the most influential person in the room. Sometimes it is about recognizing the potential in the people already around us.

23 CURVEPRENEURNot every woman enters a conversation with the same confidence, professional connections, or access to opportunities. Some are comfortable introducing themselves and sharing their accomplishments. Others may be entering a new industry, rebuilding their professional networks, or learning how to communicate the value of their work. There is value in asking thoughtful questions, acknowledging different experiences, and allowing others to contribute without interruption or competition. When women feel comfortable participating, conversations become richer. Ideas can be challenged constructively, perspectives can expand, and relationships can develop across differences in age, background, industry, and experience. GIVING WOMEN THE SPACE TO BE HEARD That may involve inviting someone into a discussion, introducing a newer entrepreneur to an established professional, or encouraging a woman to share her perspective when she has something meaningful to contribute. It also means understanding that we do not have to dominate a conversation to demonstrate knowledge or leadership. Creating opportunities for conversation also means making room for women whose voices might otherwise be overlooked. This is how conversation becomes something greater than an exchange of information. It becomes a way of creating belonging.

24 CURVEPRENEUR The person who initiated that conversation may never realize its significance. That is part of what makes human connection so meaningful. We cannot always measure the influence of our words or predict what someone may carry forward from an ordinary exchange. Most of us can remember a conversation that influenced a decision, introduced us to an opportunity, or helped us see a situation differently. Sometimes we remember the advice. Other times, we remember how someone made us feel: respected, understood, encouraged, or simply heard. THE CONVERSATIONS THAT STAY WITH US For women entrepreneurs, this is worth remembering as we move through professional events, community activities, customer interactions, and everyday encounters. Our stories have value, but so do the stories of the women around us. And when we make space to share and listen, we create opportunities for relationships that extend beyond individual transactions. A conversation may not immediately change the direction of a business or transform a community. But it can begin the process of understanding, connection, and collaboration that makes those outcomes possible. Sometimes the most important door we open begins with a simple conversation and the willingness to truly listen.

MEETREENA FRIEDMAN WATTS

EDITORIAL DISCLAIMER This feature includes personal reflections involving Jewish identity, family history, the Holocaust, the Ku Klux Klan, racial prejudice and extremism, and an encounter connected to the Israel–Gaza conflict. Some of these subjects may be sensitive or emotionally difficult for readers. These experiences are presented within the context of the interview to explore human connection, personal boundaries, and the complexities of listening across differences. The purpose of including these conversations is to provide insight into the interviewee’s personal experiences and perspectives while encouraging thoughtful understanding and respect for the diverse backgrounds and experiences of others. Curvepreneur Digital Magazine does not present these personal accounts as a comprehensive examination of the Israel–Gaza conflict or as an endorsement of any political position, prejudice, discrimination, antisemitism, racism, religious intolerance, extremism, or hostility toward any individual or community. The views, opinions, and experiences expressed by the interviewee are her own and do not necessarily reflect those of Curvepreneur Digital Magazine, its publisher, KYB Plans, or its editorial team. Curvepreneur remains committed to sharing meaningful personal stories with editorial integrity, sensitivity, and respect. All perspectives presented in this feature should be understood within the context of the interview and the individual experiences being discussed. 27 CURVEPRENEUR

28 CURVEPRENEUR Some careers follow a carefully mapped direction. Others unfold through unexpected opportunities, fascinating people, and a willingness to discover what might happen next. For Reena Friedman Watts, the journey has included television studios, radio, corporate events, entrepreneurial communities, and conversations with people whose experiences could hardly be more different from her own. BEYOND THE MICROPHONE: CONNECTION, COURAGE, CREATIVITY, AND THE STORIES THAT SHAPE US Today, Reena is recognized for her ability to connect people and bring stories to life through *Better Call Daddy*, a podcast that combines candid interviews with reflections from one of her most trusted advisors: her father. Yet the microphone represents only one chapter in a remarkably varied professional life. Her background includes researching stories from the NPR newswire, reviewing small claims cases, and working on television productions including *The Jerry Springer Show*, Court TV, and *Nanny 911*. She has worked in radio, coordinated large-scale events for the telecommunications and financial industries, secured sponsorships, and helped connect prominent personalities with podcast audiences.

16 CURVEPRENEURWhile booking guests for Cathy Heller's *Don't Keep Your Day Job* podcast, her work included securing appearances by Howard Schultz, Barbara Corcoran, Ken Coleman, and Derek Sivers. During her involvement, the podcast's reported cumulative downloads increased from approximately four million to nearly fifteen million. Beyond media production, Reena has worked with entrepreneurs seeking their first clients, supported authors in connecting with influential voices, and helped others develop meaningful professional communities. What connects these experiences is more than a talent for networking. It is a genuine fascination with people: what motivates them, what changes them, what they remember, and what they hope to leave behind. During our October conversation, that fascination became the foundation for a discussion that moved naturally between laughter, family, difficult experiences, professional lessons, and the importance of remaining open to new possibilities.

30 CURVEPRENEUR This was an era before the convenience of smartphones. Reena recalled being given money, vouchers, and a beeper while being entrusted with guests who needed to return to the studio on schedule. As an intern exploring a new city and learning the demands of television production, Reena discovered that those responsibilities sometimes led to adventures that were not exactly part of the day's original plans. Long before podcasting became part of her professional identity, Reena was discovering the unpredictable world of television production. Working on *The Jerry Springer Show* meant more than preparing guests for their appearances. It also meant accompanying people around Chicago, keeping them entertained, and navigating an environment where plans could change without much warning. WHERE THE STORY BEGAN: FROM TELEVISION TO HUMAN CONNECTIONThey didn't tell me not to take them on a boat. No, they didn't tell me not to take them on a double-decker tour of the city.

31 CURVEPRENEUR Behind the sensational moments audiences saw on television were individuals with personalities, fears, expectations, and stories that extended far beyond their appearances on screen. Being around them in ordinary circumstances offered a different perspective on human behavior. The story becomes even more entertaining when imagining a young television intern somewhere on Lake Michigan, expected back at the studio but without a cellphone to explain her whereabouts. There was humor in the experience, but also an early education in resourcefulness. Reena was learning to manage personalities, navigate unexpected circumstances, make decisions independently, and understand what people needed beyond the immediate requirements of a television production. Those skills would remain relevant throughout her career. It also introduced Reena to a professional world where curiosity, adaptability, and communication could open doors that formal job descriptions rarely anticipated. What began as an unconventional introduction to entertainment became preparation for a career centered on discovering and sharing human experiences.

32 CURVEPRENEUR The title "Better Call Daddy" is memorable, but its origins are deeply personal. For Reena, calling her father was already an established part of everyday life long before she launched the podcast. Their relationship carried the familiar rhythm of family conversations, advice, humor, and knowing exactly which parent to approach when hoping for a favorable answer. The television series *Better Call Saul* provided some inspiration for the name, but the emotional connection came from a much older family tradition. BETTER CALL DADDY: A FAMILIAR VOICE AND AN UNEXPECTED PARTNERSHIP I called it that because I literally do call my dad every day. And I have an interesting relationship with my mother, where if I knew I wanted to get a yes, I would always call my dad.

33 CURVEPRENEURThat personal connection developed into an approach to podcasting that distinguishes *Better Call Daddy* from a conventional interview program. Reena introduces guests and their experiences, while her father's reflections bring another generation's perspective into the conversation. The result is an opportunity to consider stories through different stages of life, different experiences, and sometimes entirely different expectations. One of its earliest milestones also illustrates Reena's understanding of connection. Although she had recorded interviews before speaking with entrepreneur Evan Carmichael, she chose to release his conversation as the show's first episode after learning that he enjoyed being a new podcaster's first guest. It was a thoughtful decision that combined genuine interest, professional initiative, and an understanding of how a meaningful first impression could introduce the program to listeners. There is something appealing about the familiarity of that arrangement. Many people have a parent, grandparent, mentor, or trusted relative whose perspective continues to influence their decisions long after childhood. For Reena, the relationship is not simply part of the podcast's identity. It helps shape which conversations feel meaningful. The podcast has become a place where personal history and public conversation intersect. The larger lesson is that professional opportunities often begin with paying attention. Sometimes the detail that makes a connection possible is something another person has already shared. Her curiosity extends beyond whether someone has achieved professional success or attracted public attention. She is also interested in whether an individual's experience might challenge assumptions, offer wisdom, or inspire a thoughtful reaction from her father.

34 CURVEPRENEUR Reena's experience suggests that confidence does not necessarily mean expecting everyone to agree. It means recognizing that a refusal does not have to end the effort. During our conversation, she described contacting a prominent individual after receiving an introduction. The response arrived quickly, but it was a polite rejection. Throughout her career, Reena has worked in environments where reaching the right person can make a significant difference. Securing an interview, arranging a guest appearance, obtaining a professional introduction, or connecting an entrepreneur with a potential collaborator often begins with a simple but uncomfortable action: ASKING. I'll try. He'd be a great guest, but I'm not gonna be heartbroken Rather than treating the answer as a professional defeat, she viewed the exchange in proportion to what she had attempted. THE COURAGE TO ASK — AND THE CONFIDENCE TO HEAR NO That perspective is especially relevant to women entrepreneurs who may hesitate before introducing themselves, requesting a meeting, seeking an opportunity, or approaching someone whose professional achievements seem far beyond their immediate circle. Reena's career has involved connecting with people across industries and levels of recognition. Those experiences have taught her that access is not always determined by someone's job title or public visibility.

35 CURVEPRENEURThere is an entrepreneurial lesson in that experience. Progress often comes through a combination of relationships, persistence, and a willingness to recognize the importance of work that others might overlook. During the interview, a story about filmmaker David Seth Cohen and his experience working on *Big Daddy* with Adam Sandler brought those early professional roles into focus. The conversation reflected Reena's familiarity with the responsibilities of production assistants: running errands, coordinating logistics, managing unpredictable schedules, and doing work that may seem ordinary but contributes to the success of a larger production. So does the ability to recognize that an unanswered request, an unavailable guest, or a declined invitation is not necessarily a judgment about one's talent or value. Her work in television and podcasting has also given her an appreciation for the people whose names never appear in headlines. Production assistants, coordinators, researchers, and others working behind the scenes often develop the relationships and practical understanding that make larger opportunities possible. THE WILLINGNESS TO INITIATE A CONVERSATION MATTERS.

36 CURVEPRENEUR It's funny because he was like… ‘Wow! I think I'd even have dinner with that guy.’ I'm like, maybe, just not at my house, you know?” Some of the most meaningful conversations are also the most difficult. For Reena, interviewing people whose backgrounds or beliefs differ dramatically from her own is not simply an exercise in collecting unusual stories. It can require examining personal reactions, family history, cultural identity, and the boundaries that determine how far a conversation can reasonably go. LISTENING ACROSS DIFFERENCES: HUMANITY, IDENTITY, AND PERSONAL BOUNDARIES Her podcast has included an interview with a former member of the Ku Klux Klan, an organization associated with white supremacy, racial intimidation, and violence. That experience prompted reflection about what it means to listen to someone whose past may involve beliefs or actions that are deeply troubling. Understanding another person's journey does not require agreement, friendship, or acceptance of harmful ideology.

37 CURVEPRENEURReena's family history includes the devastating consequences of the Holocaust. Her grandmother lost numerous relatives, and those losses influenced the way later generations understood family, security, and cultural identity. Those memories are not distant historical references within her family. They remain part of the experiences that shape how certain conversations are approached. The humor in that exchange with her father underscores an important distinction. Curiosity can create an opportunity to understand another person's experiences without requiring someone to abandon personal boundaries. That distinction became more personal as our conversation moved toward Jewish identity, family history, and the Israel–Gaza conflict.

38 CURVEPRENEURHer itinerary included a connection through Chicago, a city where she had previously lived. Unfortunately, her flight to Louisville was repeatedly delayed before eventually being canceled. Had the airline announced the cancellation earlier, she could have rented a car and made the approximately five-hour drive in time for the burial. Instead, after waiting several hours, she found herself arranging transportation by road, ultimately missing the funeral despite her efforts. While standing in line, Reena noticed two young women who were also trying to reach Louisville. They appeared to be approximately 17 and 21 years old and had been affected by the same cancellation. With a rental car arranged and a long drive ahead, Reena offered them a ride. It was a spontaneous gesture of kindness toward two strangers who shared the same destination. As the discussion continued, the young woman expressed a distinction between her feelings toward Jewish people and Israelis. Reena became increasingly uncomfortable, recognizing that the subject touched deeply personal concerns while they were traveling together in a confined space. For the first several hours, the journey continued without incident. Then, approximately three hours into the drive, one of the young women revealed that she was from Gaza. For Reena, whose two sisters live in Israel, the revelation immediately introduced an emotional dimension to what had begun as an ordinary travel arrangement. The ongoing conflict and her family's personal connections to the region made the conversation particularly sensitive. Reena had been traveling from Texas to Louisville, Kentucky, to attend the funeral of her childhood best friend's mother. Having spent countless nights at her friend's home growing up, she had developed a close relationship with the family. Attending the funeral was personally important to her. One experience brought the complexities of human connection particularly close to home for Reena. What began as a trip to attend a funeral became an unexpected encounter that challenged her comfort, tested her personal boundaries, and ultimately left her reflecting on humanity. AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY AND A DIFFICULT CONVERSATION

39 CURVEPRENEUR The experience remained with her because it demonstrated how complicated human connection can become when personal histories, cultural identities, and strongly held beliefs intersect. Reena had offered assistance without knowing anything about the women's backgrounds. What began as an act of generosity developed into a conversation she had not anticipated and did not feel comfortable continuing. Rather than allowing the exchange to become confrontational, Reena chose not to pursue the political discussion. Upon reaching Louisville, she dropped the women at the airport instead of taking them to their individual destinations. Despite the discomfort, the encounter did not end in hostility. We hugged, we went on our ways. We didn't say anything mean to each other. It kind of like restored my faith in humanity a little bit.The willingness to listen does not eliminate the need for boundaries. Sometimes understanding begins with recognizing both what people share and what they are not prepared to discuss. Yet the encounter also reinforced an important distinction: people can disagree, feel uncomfortable, or establish personal boundaries without necessarily treating one another with hostility. For Reena, that lesson extends into her work as an interviewer. Her curiosity about people's experiences remains strong, but she recognizes that some subjects are too personally sensitive for her to explore through her podcast.

41 CURVEPRENEUR Yeah, if you rely on AI, it is going to take away from authenticity so much. For someone whose career depends on conversation, personality, and meaningful relationships, that distinction matters. During our interview, Reena expressed concern about the increasing use of AI-generated podcast introductions, interview questions, and other content that can make individual programs sound less distinctive. As technology changes the way people communicate, the question of authenticity has become increasingly relevant to entrepreneurs and content creators. Artificial intelligence can assist with writing, editing, graphics, research, and production. Yet the convenience of those tools also raises questions about how much of a person's original voice remains in the finished work. The concern is not simply whether technology can produce polished material. It is whether the finished product still reflects the person whose name and reputation appear on it. Reena's perspective invites entrepreneurs to consider what their audiences are actually connecting with. BEYOND PERFECTION: AUTHENTICITY IN THE AGE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

A thoughtful pause, an unexpected laugh, or an honest reaction may communicate more about someone than an extensively edited script. Reena has observed that audiences can appreciate unedited moments precisely because they feel human. Reena's perspective invites entrepreneurs to consider what their audiences are actually connecting with. A polished presentation may attract attention, but genuine communication often depends on personality, lived experience, spontaneity, and the moments that cannot be completely planned. For women entrepreneurs developing their public presence, the lesson is not necessarily to reject technology. It is to remain intentional about its role. A tool can support communication without becoming a substitute for individual perspective. In an environment where content can be generated quickly and distributed widely, the ability to recognize and preserve one's authentic voice may become an increasingly valuable professional advantage. 42 CURVEPRENEUR

43 CURVEPRENEUR Reena's perspective invites entrepreneurs to consider what their audiences are actually connecting with. A polished presentation may attract attention, but genuine communication often depends on personality, lived experience, spontaneity, and the moments that cannot be completely planned. A thoughtful pause, an unexpected laugh, or an honest reaction may communicate more about someone than an extensively edited script. Reena has observed that audiences can appreciate unedited moments precisely because they feel human. For women entrepreneurs developing their public presence, the lesson is not necessarily to reject technology. It is to remain intentional about its role. A tool can support communication without becoming a substitute for individual perspective. In an environment where content can be generated quickly and distributed widely, the ability to recognize and preserve one's authentic voice may become an increasingly valuable professional advantage.

That realization influenced the way Reena approached her podcast's promotional materials. Rather than assuming that every video needed additional editing or elaborate branding, she began paying closer attention to what audiences responded to naturally. For women entrepreneurs exploring podcasting, social media, and other forms of digital marketing, establishing a recognizable presence can feel closely connected to producing polished, professional content. Yet Reena's experience offers a different perspective on what truly attracts an audience. YOUR VOICE IS YOUR GREATEST ADVANTAGE The clips that I literally just take behind the scenes, like, and don't edit, and just throw a quote on, those get triple the engagement of something that took me double as long to do. 44 CURVEPRENEUR During our conversation, the discussion turned to how women business owners can use podcasting to introduce their businesses, communicate their values, and connect with potential customers without sacrificing the qualities that make them distinctive. Reena's observations were grounded in her own experiences creating and promoting Better Call Daddy. Over time, she noticed that highly produced clips featuring extensive branding, transitions, and other visual enhancements did not necessarily attract the strongest audience response. In fact, some of her simplest content performed considerably better. For women entrepreneurs, the implications extend beyond podcasting. Whether introducing a new service, sharing a business milestone, discussing a professional challenge, or offering practical guidance, genuine communication can help establish the familiarity and trust that support lasting customer relationships.

45CURVEPRENEURA business owner does not necessarily need an elaborate production process to communicate something meaningful. Sometimes an unscripted conversation, a candid reflection, or a simple behind-the-scenes moment can create a stronger connection than a carefully constructed promotional message. Technology can certainly make marketing more efficient. However, Reena's experience reinforces the importance of allowing individual personality and perspective to remain visible. The goal is not to eliminate professionalism or preparation. It is to recognize that professionalism and authenticity can exist together. For women who are considering sharing their expertise publicly, the opportunity begins with being willing to communicate in their own voices rather than waiting until every detail appears perfect.

46CURVEPRENEURReturning to music introduced both excitement and the familiar challenge of wanting to do something well. REDISCOVERING CREATIVITY AND GIVING YOURSELF PERMISSION TO BEGIN AGAIN Although much of Reena's professional identity is associated with media and communication, creativity has been part of her life for far longer. During our conversation, she reflected on a side of her background that does not always receive attention: her love of music. Reena recognized that perfectionism had appeared throughout her career, including during her early television work. The desire to find the best guests, produce excellent results, and improve her skills had been a recurring professional motivation. Reena attended a youth performing arts school, earned a singing scholarship to college, and studied music before eventually changing her educational direction and moving toward radio. Years later, that interest has resurfaced through an unexpected new experience: guitar lessons. Something that I feel like I'm not asked a lot about is, like, my love of music. Learning guitar placed her in a different position.

47CURVEPRENEUR Rather than relying on years of experience, she was once again a beginner, learning from someone considerably younger and discovering how much practice would be required to play the music she enjoyed. FAMILY, COMMUNITY, AND THE MEANING OF SUCCESS There was also joy in the experience. Picking up the instrument renewed her enthusiasm and made her want to share what she was learning with her children. That moment offers an encouraging perspective for women who have spent years prioritizing careers, businesses, families, and other responsibilities. Growth can involve pursuing an entirely new opportunity, but it can also mean returning to something familiar with a different perspective. As a mother of four, Reena's personal life exists alongside her professional commitments and creative interests. Her relationship with her father remains central to the podcast, while her children continue to influence the way she thinks about learning, opportunity, and the future. Yet throughout our conversation, family and community repeatedly emerged as important parts of how she understands meaningful work. Creative interests do not have to disappear simply because they have been set aside. A new class, instrument, activity, or professional skill can reconnect someone with an earlier part of herself while creating opportunities for continued personal growth. Reena's willingness to explore music again also reflects a broader pattern in her life. Her career has never been confined to one role, and her interests have continued to evolve alongside her responsibilities. Professional success is often measured through accomplishments that can be easily identified: prominent clients, recognized projects, impressive audiences, and opportunities to work with influential people. Reena has experienced many of those milestones.

48 CURVEPRENEURHer work with entrepreneurs and communities reflects a similar interest in helping people make connections that extend beyond a single transaction. It also reflects a broader understanding of community. Meaningful relationships are not always created through formal networking events or carefully planned introductions. Sometimes they begin with curiosity, a shared experience, a willingness to listen, or a conversation that develops unexpectedly.Would my dad like this person? Or would my dad learn something from this person? Or what would my dad even think of this person? Those questions offer insight into the way Reena approaches her podcast. Whether supporting someone seeking a first client, introducing professionals with shared interests, or helping a guest bring an important experience to a wider audience, her work frequently centers on the value of relationships. Rather than viewing every interview solely through the lens of audience size or professional recognition, she considers what another person might learn from the exchange. That perspective gives *Better Call Daddy* a personal dimension that is difficult to separate from its professional purpose. For women navigating entrepreneurship alongside family responsibilities, this perspective offers a reminder that personal relationships and professional growth do not always need to exist in separate worlds. The people who shape our values can also influence the work we choose to pursue and the contributions we hope to make.

49CURVEPRENEUR Instead, Reena reflected on the simpler things that become important when looking beyond immediate accomplishments. Her thoughts returned to family, safety, creativity, the ability to offer hope, and the desire to continue doing work that feels meaningful. You want your kids to be able to stand on their own two feet, you want to be able to offer hope to the people that God sends in your path, you want to be able to do creative work, you want to be able to inspire. Toward the end of our conversation, the discussion turned to legacy. For someone whose career has included well-known television productions, prominent guests, professional accomplishments, and a growing collection of personal stories, the question could easily have focused on recognition or career milestones. A LEGACY THAT CONTINUES BEYOND THE MICROPHONE Reena sees *Better Call Daddy* as a place to make art, collaborate with creative people, develop her skills, and connect with a community. The podcast provides room for continued learning as well as the opportunity to preserve conversations that might otherwise disappear with time. Those priorities offer a fitting perspective on a career that has taken so many different directions.

50CURVEPRENEUR As she considers what lies ahead, her interest is not limited to what the podcast might accomplish professionally. She also hopes its influence will extend through her children, future grandchildren, husband, immediate family, and the wider world. For her, that thread is connection. From accompanying television guests through Chicago to interviewing people with extraordinary life experiences, from helping entrepreneurs develop relationships to sharing conversations with her father, Reena has continued to find purpose in bringing people together. That desire captures something important about leadership and legacy. And perhaps that is what makes her story particularly relevant to this October celebration of women in business. Leadership is not defined solely by the positions we hold or the achievements we collect. It can also be reflected in our curiosity, our willingness to begin again, our respect for personal boundaries, and the relationships we choose to nurture. There is also a deeply personal hope that the relationships and experiences surrounding the program will continue to matter to her family. Recognition may accompany meaningful work, but lasting influence often develops through the people who are encouraged, supported, or inspired along the way. Reena's story illustrates that a career does not have to follow a straight path to have a clear purpose. Experiences that appear unrelated can eventually reveal a common thread. For Reena Friedman Watts, the microphone is one way of expressing those values. People want to see the unedited. They want to see the behind the scenes stuff. The legacy reaches well beyond it.

There is a belief many entrepreneurs carry into business, especially when they are just getting started: if you provide an excellent product, deliver outstanding service, and treat your customers well, people will eventually discover you. Your reputation will grow, referrals will follow, and the quality of your work will speak for itself. There is some truth to that thinking. Quality matters. Customer satisfaction matters. A positive reputation can become one of the strongest assets a business develops over time. But there is another part of the conversation that deserves equal attention.53CURVEPRENEUR WHY GOOD WORK ISN'T ALWAYS ENOUGH For women entrepreneurs who have invested considerable time developing their expertise, establishing their businesses, and refining their services, this realization can be frustrating. They know the value of what they offer. Their existing customers may be genuinely pleased with their experiences. Yet attracting new opportunities, developing professional relationships, and expanding their reach can remain challenging. The issue is not always the quality of their work. Sometimes it is simply that too few people know about it. People cannot support a business they do not know exists. Visibility is not a substitute for delivering value, but it is an important part of helping that value reach the people who may benefit from it.

54CURVEPRENEURMany women entrepreneurs are responsible for nearly every aspect of their businesses. They manage customer inquiries, provide services, maintain financial records, coordinate schedules, and make the countless decisions required to keep operations moving. Marketing can easily become something they intend to address when everything else is finished. WHEN DOING THE WORK TAKES PRIORITY OVER BEING SEEN These decisions are understandable. Providing services and meeting existing obligations are essential responsibilities. But when visibility is repeatedly postponed, an entrepreneur may find herself depending almost entirely on existing customers, occasional referrals, or people who happen to discover her business. A social media post gets postponed because a client needs attention. A networking opportunity is declined because an important deadline is approaching. Updating a website or reaching out to a potential collaborator becomes another task on an already full calendar. This creates an interesting contradiction. She may be doing everything necessary to provide an excellent customer experience while giving relatively little attention to helping new customers find her.

55CURVEPRENEUR Visibility requires a place in the business's regular operations, not merely the occasional burst of activity when sales are slow. That does not mean every entrepreneur must spend hours each day creating content or attending events. It means recognizing that communicating what a business offers is part of operating that business. MARKETING IS MORE THAN PROMOTION When women hear the word marketing, their first thoughts often turn to advertisements, social media campaigns, promotional graphics, or paid publicity. These tools certainly have their place, but marketing encompasses much more than asking people to purchase something. Consider two entrepreneurs offering similar services. Both have professional experience, reasonable pricing, and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction. One rarely discusses her business outside existing customer relationships. The other regularly participates in community conversations, explains the services she provides, shares useful information, and maintains relationships with professionals who serve similar audiences. Over time, the second entrepreneur may become more familiar to potential customers, even when the first entrepreneur delivers equally strong work. That familiarity matters.

56CURVEPRENEUR When someone needs a particular service, they often begin by considering businesses they already recognize or those recommended by people they trust. An entrepreneur who has consistently communicated her expertise has created more opportunities to be remembered when a need arises. YOUR STORY IS PART OF YOUR BUSINESS Every business has a story. Sometimes it begins with a professional skill developed over many years. Sometimes it grows from recognizing an unmet need in the community. Other businesses emerge after a career transition, a personal experience, or the realization that an existing service could be delivered differently. This is one reason visibility and credibility often develop together. People become familiar with a business through repeated, meaningful interactions, and those experiences can encourage them to learn more. Of course, being visible does not automatically make someone credible. Promises still need to be fulfilled, information should be accurate, and professional conduct must support the image a business presents. Marketing introduces people to the business. The customer experience helps determine whether that introduction develops into a lasting relationship. One of the most underused marketing resources available to women entrepreneurs is their own experience. These stories help people understand the thinking and purpose behind a business Yet many women hesitate to share them. They may believe their experiences are too ordinary, too personal, or not particularly interesting. Others feel that discussing their accomplishments might be perceived as boasting.

57CURVEPRENEURStorytelling gives people another way to understand the value behind the work.Being able to tell that story becomes especially important when someone outside the business is being asked to financially support its next stage.There is an important distinction between exaggerating achievements and communicating professional experience. Sharing why you established your business, what you have learned, and how your services address particular needs is not simply self-promotion. It provides context that can help potential customers understand your approach. A woman who spent years working in an industry before opening her own business has knowledge that may influence how she serves customers. An entrepreneur who developed a service after encountering a recurring problem may have a particularly thoughtful understanding of the people experiencing that problem. Not every personal experience belongs in a marketing campaign, and entrepreneurs should always maintain boundaries around information they prefer to keep private. But sharing appropriate parts of a professional journey can create connections that a list of services and prices alone may not establish. These details can make a business more memorable because they help people connect the services being offered with the person and purpose behind them.

Some of the most valuable business opportunities begin through ordinary conversations. A woman attends a community event and meets someone who works with the same type of customers. A business owner participates in a professional discussion and discovers an opportunity to collaborate. Two entrepreneurs exchange information about their services and later recognize ways they can refer customers to one another. 58CURVEPRENEUR RELATIONSHIPS CREATE VISIBILITY THAT ADVERTISING CANNOT ALWAYS BUY The objective should not simply be to meet more people. It should be to establish connections that have professional relevance and the potential for mutual benefit. These interactions may not immediately produce revenue, but they can establish relationships that become meaningful over time. Networking is sometimes presented as a numbers-driven activity: collect as many business cards as possible, introduce yourself to everyone in the room, and follow up with as many contacts as you can. For some entrepreneurs, that approach works. Others prefer developing a smaller number of genuine relationships through conversations that allow people to understand one another's work. There is room for both approaches. Community organizations, business associations, educational events, collaborative projects, and local initiatives can all provide opportunities for entrepreneurs to become more familiar to the people around them. And visibility does not always require attending an event in person. Participating in thoughtful online discussions, supporting another business's initiative, contributing expertise to a community publication, or introducing professionals who could benefit from knowing one another can also strengthen relationships. The important consideration is whether those activities help build recognition, trust, and meaningful connections.

59CURVEPRENEUROne of the challenges of modern marketing is the pressure to remain visible everywhere. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to post frequently, produce videos, maintain multiple social media accounts, publish newsletters, participate in networking events, and continuously develop new ways to attract attention. For a woman operating a small business, attempting to manage every available marketing channel can quickly take time away from the services and relationships that sustain her company. CONSISTENCY MATTERS MORE THAN CONSTANT ATTENTION Fortunately, effective visibility does not require participating in every platform or adopting every new marketing trend. It requires understanding where potential customers are most likely to encounter the business and selecting communication methods that can be maintained consistently. For one entrepreneur, that might mean maintaining an informative website, publishing occasional articles, and developing referral relationships with complementary businesses. Another may find that social media provides a direct connection to customers who regularly engage with her products. A service-based business may benefit more from professional associations, community partnerships, and direct introductions.

These experiences do not necessarily mean the effort has been wasted, but they do invite closer consideration of whether the message is reaching the right audience. A manageable marketing approach maintained over time is often more useful than an ambitious plan that becomes impossible to sustain. Consistency also helps people recognize a business's identity. When messaging, service descriptions, and professional presentation remain clear across different settings, customers have an easier time understanding what the business represents. Visibility should support the business, not become a separate operation that consumes all of the entrepreneur's attention. It is important to recognize that visibility alone does not guarantee business growth. A social media post may reach hundreds of people without producing an inquiry. An entrepreneur may attend several networking events before developing a meaningful professional relationship. A marketing campaign may generate interest from people who are not yet ready to purchase. Visibility is most useful when it connects to a clear business objective.. BEING SEEN IS ONLY THE BEGINNING Are you trying to introduce a new service? Establish credibility within a particular industry? Develop referral partnerships? Reach customers in a specific geographic area? Encourage existing customers to return? Each objective may require a different approach. Entrepreneurs also benefit from making it easy for interested people to take the next step. A potential customer should be able to understand the services offered, locate reliable contact information, and determine how to request additional details. A business can generate attention and still miss opportunities if its information is unclear or inquiries go unanswered. This is where marketing and business operations meet. The promise presented publicly must be supported by a professional and accessible customer experience.

61CURVEPRENEURMAKING ROOM FOR YOUR BUSINESS TO BE RECOGNIZED For women entrepreneurs, visibility sometimes requires a shift in perspective. It means understanding that sharing professional accomplishments is not necessarily boasting, that discussing services is not automatically being pushy, and that inviting people to learn about a business does not diminish the authenticity of the work. There is no need to turn every conversation into a sales presentation or approach every relationship as a potential transaction. That balance will look different for every business. It may involve dedicating a small amount of time each week to marketing, developing a stronger professional network, improving the clarity of business messaging, or becoming more intentional about sharing relevant experiences and accomplishments. What matters is making visibility a deliberate part of the business rather than something left entirely to chance. But there is also no benefit in keeping valuable work so quiet that the people who need it never have an opportunity to discover it. The challenge is finding a balance between serving existing customers and creating opportunities to reach new ones.

62CURVEPRENEURBecause doing good work matters. Helping people discover that work matters, too. That balance will look different for every business. It may involve dedicating a small amount of time each week to marketing, developing a stronger professional network, improving the clarity of business messaging, or becoming more intentional about sharing relevant experiences and accomplishments. What matters is making visibility a deliberate part of the business rather than something left entirely to chance. Excellent work deserves an opportunity to be discovered. Strong relationships deserve the attention necessary to develop. And women who have invested their knowledge, resources, and experience into entrepreneurship deserve to participate in conversations where their expertise may make a difference. The goal is not to become the most recognizable person in every room. It is to make sure the right people have an opportunity to recognize the value of what you bring to it.

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MEETDONNA DAVIS

There are moments in life when moving forward requires more than a carefully developed plan. Sometimes, it requires trusting that the experiences, lessons, and abilities accumulated along the way have prepared us for opportunities we cannot yet see. For Donna Davis, founder and CEO of D.W. Davis Consulting, LLC, that moment came when she decided to retire from a career she genuinely loved and step fully into entrepreneurship. FROM PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION TO PURPOSEFUL LEADERSHIP, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND THE FUTURE OF AI WOMEN IN BUSINESS: LEADERSHIP & LEGACY After nearly three decades of public service, including her role as Director of the Office of Health and Nutrition at the South Carolina Department of Education, Davis had established a career centered on leadership, education, and service. She understood the responsibilities of managing programs, developing employees, navigating organizational challenges, and making decisions that affected communities across South Carolina. 65 CURVEPRENEUR I did not know what forward looked like. Yet when she retired in January 2025, she wasn't leaving because she had grown tired of her work. Nor was she stepping into a business already generating predictable monthly revenue. She was following a calling, trusting that her experiences had prepared her for something different. During our conversation, Davis reflected on that decision and the uncertainty that accompanied it. She knew she was ready to leave traditional employment, but she couldn't fully envision what entrepreneurship would become.

66 CURVEPRENEUR It was a decision grounded in faith, but it also represented something familiar to many women entrepreneurs: the willingness to move beyond what is comfortable without having every answer. Davis had already begun developing her consulting business while working full-time. She had coaching clients, professional experience, and a growing sense of direction, but the financial consistency many entrepreneurs hope to establish before leaving traditional employment wasn't there. Still, she moved forward. The day after her retirement, an organization contacted her about an opportunity to work together. For Davis, the timing reinforced her belief that she had made the right decision. That experience became another lesson in a journey that continues to evolve. Sometimes the next chapter doesn't fully reveal itself until we are willing to begin it.

Long before artificial intelligence became a central part of her consulting work, Davis was helping women confront difficult experiences, recognize their abilities, and move toward the lives they wanted to create. FINDING HER VOICE AND HELPING OTHER WOMEN FIND THEIRS Her entrepreneurial journey began in 2021 with Facebook Live conversations addressing subjects women often experience but may hesitate to discuss openly, including shame, anger, personal challenges, and overcoming difficult circumstances. 67 CURVEPRENEUR She approached those early broadcasts with preparation and consistency. She developed topics, wrote scripts by hand, and committed to appearing live every other Saturday. She had completed the administrative steps to establish her business and was ready to share messages she believed could help other women. The audience, however, wasn't always what she expected. Some broadcasts attracted few viewers. At times, the only person watching was her mother, who would leave a comment announcing her presence. What once felt embarrassing became a cherished memory after her mother's passing. Looking back, Davis spoke affectionately about those early broadcasts and how much she would treasure another opportunity to see her mother commenting during a live session. Although her audience appeared small, Davis eventually discovered that her messages were reaching women who weren't necessarily comfortable responding publicly. Women began contacting her privately, sharing how her words had influenced their decisions and perspectives. One woman explained that hearing Davis discuss change and professional transitions had given her the confidence to pursue other employment opportunities after remaining in the same position for years.

Those conversations helped Davis recognize that impact isn't always measured by the number of people watching, commenting, or following. Sometimes, meaningful change happens quietly, through a conversation that reaches someone at precisely the moment she needs encouragement. Rather than developing a business model centered on keeping clients indefinitely, Davis wanted to help individuals address specific concerns, develop confidence, and make progress. She also understood the importance of distinguishing coaching from therapy, recognizing that each serves a different purpose. 68 CURVEPRENEUR As she continued sharing motivational messages, she began recognizing another opportunity. Friends frequently sought her guidance, and she discovered that helping people work through challenges came naturally to her. That realization led her into individual coaching. Her own experiences with therapy and coaching would eventually deepen her appreciation for the ways professional guidance can help individuals recognize patterns, confront challenges, and develop a healthier understanding of themselves. As her coaching practice developed, Davis noticed that many of the women seeking her guidance shared another aspiration: They wanted to become business owners. That discovery opened the door to another evolution of D.W. Davis Consulting.

70 CURVEPRENEURDonna Davis understands leadership from a perspective few people experience. As a child growing up in Hampton County, South Carolina, she knew what it meant to depend on school meals. Years later, she would become responsible for overseeing the very type of program that had helped sustain her as a student. LEADERSHIP IS MORE THAN A POSITION Her professional journey was built over nearly three decades of public service, supported by an education that included a bachelor's degree in Sociology and a master's degree in Human Resource Development, both from Clemson University. At the South Carolina Department of Education, she advanced through roles involving program administration, training, and leadership before becoming Interim Director of the Office of Health and Nutrition in March 2021 and Director in March 2022. In that position, Davis led South Carolina's Child Nutrition Programs across more than 800 schools. Her responsibilities extended beyond ensuring compliance with program requirements. She understood the operational pressures facing school nutrition professionals, including staffing, procurement, financial responsibilities, employee retention, and the daily demands of serving students.

71 CURVEPRENEURHer professional accomplishments also include helping secure nearly $3 million in federal grant funding for South Carolina school nutrition initiatives, including a breakfast grant awarded to only four states. Yet the most lasting lessons of her career were not confined to budgets, audits, or administrative decisions. They came from understanding the people responsible for making these programs work. Davis recognized that employees often carry personal challenges into their professional lives. Family responsibilities, financial concerns, emotional strain, and other difficulties do not necessarily disappear when the workday begins. For leaders, acknowledging that reality is not a departure from effective management; it is part of understanding what people need to succeed. Her philosophy challenges the expectation that individuals should simply leave their personal concerns at the door. Instead, she encourages leaders to develop the awareness, communication skills, and emotional steadiness necessary to support their teams while maintaining their own well- being. That understanding eventually became part of the foundation for her PRESENCE leadership framework, which explores how individuals respond, communicate, and make decisions, particularly under pressure.

72 CURVEPRENEUR Through her PRESENCE Power Index, Davis identifies eight dimensions of leadership development, encompassing purpose awareness, emotional intelligence, empathy-driven communication, consistency in character, resilience building, self-leadership, nervous system regulation, and emergence and evolution. She also developed PEACE, a five-step emotional-reset approach designed to help frontline teams respond to difficult moments during demanding workdays. These programs reflect her belief that leadership development must go beyond instruction and provide practical tools people can apply in their everyday responsibilities. Her work has reached organizations including Denver Public Schools and Greenfield USD, and she has shared her expertise with professional audiences at national conferences. Her background also includes credentials as a Certified Public Manager, DISC Behavioral Consultant, and Certified Behavior Consultant, along with additional professional training in inclusive leadership and mental health first aid instruction. For Davis, these experiences reinforce an understanding that has become central to her consulting work: meaningful leadership begins with how individuals show up for themselves and others. There is a way for leaders to lead without losing themselves It is a principle shaped by professional experience, personal transformation, and an appreciation for the people behind every position and title.

College offered a temporary refuge, but returning home meant confronting the circumstances she was living through. During her freshman year, Davis embraced her Christian faith. Although that decision became central to her life, she also struggled with how to interpret religious teachings about marriage and commitment while living in an abusive relationship. Behind Davis's professional accomplishments is a personal story of survival, faith, healing, and rebuilding. As a young woman, she married while still a senior in high school. The marriage became abusive, involving experiences that affected her confidence, emotional well- being, and sense of personal worth. THE PERSONAL JOURNEY BEHIND THE PROFESSIONAL WOMAN 73 CURVEPRENEUR She recalls feeling trapped, torn between the desire to leave and the beliefs she understood to require her to remain. Eventually, circumstances presented an opportunity for her to walk away. Although she did not have every detail of her future arranged, she made the decision not to return. Her older sister, who had relocated to Columbia, helped her begin a new chapter. Davis credits her faith with helping her through that transition, but she is equally open about the importance of professional support and personal development in her healing. She sought therapy and later worked with a coach who helped her address beliefs and patterns that continued to influence her life. Today, she has been married to her current husband for more than 27 years. She describes her journey as evidence of restoration, but also acknowledges that personal growth requires more than simply moving beyond a difficult experience.

74 CURVEPRENEUR Her journey has taught her that surviving difficult circumstances and fully moving beyond their influence are not necessarily the same thing. There can be a period when the behaviors and emotional responses that helped someone survive are no longer needed, yet remain deeply familiar. Recognizing that distinction has been an important part of her personal growth. I can appreciate who it is that I had to be in order to survive. And also understand that I don't need to be her anymore, because I have survived. Those words capture a significant part of Davis's philosophy. She does not dismiss her past or the strength it required to navigate difficult circumstances. Instead, she recognizes that personal growth can involve honoring who we once needed to be while making room for who we are becoming.

75 CURVEPRENEUR For women entrepreneurs who have invested their time, energy, finances, and personal dreams into creating a business, that distinction can be especially important. It allows them to evaluate opportunities, make changes, and respond to setbacks without allowing every business decision to define how they see themselves. That understanding has also influenced how she approaches entrepreneurship. Davis has learned to separate her identity from her business. When someone declines a service or an opportunity doesn't materialize, she no longer interprets that decision as a rejection of her personal worth. The business is not me. Her personal experiences have also shaped the subjects she explores as an author. In her September 2021 book, I Wish She Knew: Lessons Learned in Life's Journey, Davis shares reflections on difficult relationships, personal identity, and lessons learned through her own experiences. Developed from the Facebook Live conversations that helped launch her entrepreneurial journey, the book reflects her desire to speak to the younger version of herself who had not yet found the confidence to use her voice. Rather than separating her personal journey from her professional life, she has allowed those experiences to inform the way she coaches, teaches, and encourages others.

As Davis continued developing her business, another opportunity began taking shape. Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly accessible, and she recognized its potential to help entrepreneurs who did not have the financial resources to hire extensive administrative or marketing support. EMBRACING CHANGE: HOW AI BECAME PART OF HER PURPOSE She described AI as an equalizer, helping bridge the gap between businesses with substantial resources and entrepreneurs working largely on their own. However, she also recognized a challenge. For business owners managing nearly every aspect of their operations independently, AI offered new possibilities. Davis saw how these tools could assist with content development, administrative responsibilities, communication, and other tasks that often consume a significant portion of an entrepreneur's time. AI-generated content could sound generic, and business owners risked losing their individuality if they relied on technology without maintaining control over their message. For Davis, authenticity became central to her approach. For business owners managing nearly every aspect of their operations independently, AI offered new possibilities. Davis saw how these tools could assist with content development, administrative responsibilities, communication, and other tasks that often consume a significant portion of an entrepreneur's time. She began developing methods to help clients teach AI tools about their businesses, communication preferences, and personal styles. Rather than simply showing people how to enter prompts or use the latest applications, she wanted them to understand how technology could support their specific goals. Her work eventually expanded into AI education, consulting, and professional training. 77 CURVEPRENEUR

78 CURVEPRENEUR Davis is a Certified AI Consultant and has pursued additional AI-related professional development. She has provided training for businesses, organizations, libraries, and the City of Columbia, while also participating in professional discussions about AI readiness and responsible adoption. We as humans need to still make the final judgment. Her consulting work includes helping organizations consider how AI can support productivity, improve efficiency, and create opportunities without replacing human judgment. She is particularly clear about the limitations of the technology. AI can produce inaccurate information, make assumptions, and generate responses that sound convincing even when they are incorrect. That is why she emphasizes the responsibility of individuals and organizations to review what these systems produce.

79CURVEPRENEUR Her message is not that everyone must embrace every emerging technology. Rather, she encourages people to understand what is available, consider how it may be useful, and approach it with both curiosity and discernment. It's not about the next new tool. It's not about all of these tools. It's how can these tools effectively help me.

80 CURVEPRENEURFor women entrepreneurs, that perspective can make AI feel less like an intimidating technological development and more like another resource for managing and growing a business. It also reflects a principle that connects her leadership philosophy with her technology consulting: People should remain at the center of the decisions they make. Technology can assist with tasks, generate ideas, and provide new opportunities, but it should not erase the experiences, values, or individual perspectives that make each business distinctive. For Davis, the future of AI is not simply about adopting more sophisticated systems. It is about helping people use those systems intentionally, ethically, and in ways that support their professional and personal goals.

AN EVOLVING BUSINESS AND AN EXPANDING LEGACY When Davis established her company, she did not envision every service, speaking opportunity, or professional direction it would eventually encompass. Her business began with conversations and coaching, expanded into leadership development, and grew to include AI training and consulting. Each transition reflected something she had learned about her abilities, her clients, and the needs of the people she wanted to help. She has also continued sharing her experiences through writing. As her professional focus expanded into leadership development, Davis's writing evolved alongside it. In September 2025, she released Presence Framework Workbook: Your Guide to Leading with Courage, Clarity, and Authenticity. Designed to accompany her leadership teachings, the workbook helps readers explore the eight dimensions of presence and consider how they show up in their personal and professional lives. The following month, she published Present and Powerful: A Journey of Resilience, Emotional Intelligence, and Bold Leadership. Drawing from her professional experiences and personal journey, the book reflects her progression from a student receiving free and reduced-price school meals to becoming a statewide leader responsible for the programs that had once supported her.82CURVEPRENEUR Her work as an author also includes Lead the Moment: How Emotionally Intelligent Leaders Navigate Acceleration in the Age of AI. Bringing together her experience in leadership development, emotional intelligence, and artificial intelligence, the book explores how leaders can remain present, respond thoughtfully under pressure, and navigate change without losing the human connection essential to effective leadership. Through her PRESENCE and PEACE frameworks, Davis emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, emotional regulation, and intentional decision-making in an increasingly technology-driven world.

83 CURVEPRENEURTogether, these works reflect more than an expanding collection of publications. They reveal the evolution of a woman whose personal experiences, professional responsibilities, and understanding of leadership have continued to shape the messages she shares with others. She understands the operational demands placed on organizations, the pressures experienced by leaders, and the personal challenges that can influence professional performance. Her work is particularly relevant to organizations seeking to strengthen employee engagement, leadership capacity, communication, and the ability to respond effectively during periods of change. Today, D.W. Davis Consulting brings together executive coaching, leadership development, organizational training, keynote speaking, and human-centered AI consulting. Her experience as a public-sector leader, combined with her professional certifications and personal development work, allows her to approach these services from several perspectives. Yet Davis does not present entrepreneurship as a journey in which every opportunity must fit neatly into an original business plan. She acknowledges that her company continues to evolve and that she remains open to new directions.

84CURVEPRENEURFor entrepreneurs who believe they must have every detail of their business established from the beginning, her experience offers a different perspective. A business can change as its owner grows.New interests, professional opportunities, and personal discoveries can reveal directions that were not apparent when the company first began. Don't be so married to the idea of what you think your business should look like that you're unwilling to be flexible. She has learned to appreciate that process rather than resist it. As Davis explained, “My business has gone through many iterations, and it is still going through iterations.”

85 CURVEPRENEURHer advice to other women in business is to remain open to change and avoid becoming so attached to an original vision that they overlook opportunities for meaningful growth. That flexibility has allowed her to connect seemingly different areas of expertise into a consulting practice grounded in a consistent purpose: helping people recognize their abilities, strengthen their leadership, and move forward with greater confidence.

86CURVEPRENEUR She enjoys the opportunity to sit back, watch a good film, and spend time alone without the demands of her professional schedule. She also values spending meaningful time with the people she loves. Despite her speaking engagements, professional responsibilities, and entrepreneurial ambitions, Davis recognizes the importance of enjoying the life she is creating. Sometimes, that means something as simple as taking herself to the movies. LIVING BEYOND THE BUSINESS Whether cooking dinner together, enjoying an outing with friends, or sharing an ordinary moment with family, she appreciates the relationships and experiences that make life fulfilling. Those moments are part of the balance she encourages others to recognize.

87 CURVEPRENEURProfessional achievement may create opportunities, but it does not replace the importance of connection, personal fulfillment, and being present in one's own life. For Davis, leadership is not simply about what a person accomplishes. It is also about how they choose to live, how they treat others, and the example they leave behind. Her story demonstrates that legacy can be created through professional service, personal transformation, the courage to make difficult decisions, and the willingness to help others recognize their own potential. And while her career has already included significant accomplishments, Davis continues looking forward. There are still opportunities to explore, people to reach, and new ways to make an impact. Perhaps that is what makes her perspective especially meaningful for women who are considering entrepreneurship later in life, contemplating a professional transition, or wondering whether a long-held dream is still possible. When asked what she would say to a woman who needed encouragement to pursue entrepreneurship or continue moving forward despite challenges, Davis offered a simple reminder.

I would say the dreams that you have always had are still there. Because dreams don't age. We do. And your dream is still waiting on you to say yes. -Donna Davis

89 CURVEPRENEURIt was a fitting conclusion to a conversation about leadership, faith, personal transformation, and the courage to embrace change. For Donna Davis, becoming has never been limited to reaching a particular position, earning a professional title, or establishing a successful business. It has been a continuing process of learning, healing, evolving, and discovering new ways to contribute. Her journey reminds us that our experiences do not have to define the limits of our future. They can become the foundation for the lives, businesses, and legacies we choose to create. And sometimes, the most meaningful step toward that future begins with a simple decision to say yes.

93CURVEPRENEURShe may be the woman sitting beside you at a business luncheon, the colleague who always meets her deadlines, the neighbor who greets you with a smile, or the entrepreneur whose confidence and accomplishments you admire. From the outside, her life may appear successful, stable, and fulfilling. What you may not see is what happens when she returns home. THE STORIES WE DON'T ALWAYS SEE It can happen to women of different ages, backgrounds, educational levels, and financial circumstances. It can affect someone who appears to have everything together just as easily as someone whose struggles are more visible. And while women experience domestic violence disproportionately, men can be victims as well. Domestic violence does not always leave visible bruises. Sometimes it exists in the words that slowly diminish someone's confidence, the constant monitoring of phone calls and messages, the financial restrictions that limit independence, or the fear of saying or doing something that might provoke another person's anger. Perhaps one of the most difficult realities is that someone experiencing abuse may become exceptionally skilled at concealing it. She may continue working, raising children, managing responsibilities, and participating in her community while privately navigating circumstances that others know nothing about.

94 CURVEPRENEUR Fear of retaliation, financial dependence, concerns about children, emotional attachment, isolation, threats, and uncertainty about the future can all influence a person's circumstances. Some individuals may have attempted to leave before. Others may be carefully considering their options while trying to protect themselves and their families. For women entrepreneurs, financial independence may provide certain resources, but owning a business does not automatically protect someone from abuse. A controlling partner may interfere with business finances, professional relationships, transportation, or access to customers. The very independence an entrepreneur has worked to establish may become another source of conflict within an abusive relationship. It is important to recognize that leaving can sometimes increase danger, particularly when an abusive partner believes they are losing control. Safety, access to resources, and individualized planning matter far more than outside expectations about how quickly someone should act. One of the questions frequently asked about abusive relationships is, "Why doesn't she just leave?" But leaving is not always a simple decision, and the question itself can overlook the complexities of abuse.WHY LEAVING ISN'T ALWAYS SIMPLE

95 CURVEPRENEUR Compassion Before Judgment We may never know everything another person is experiencing, but we can choose how we respond when someone trusts us enough to share part of her story. Listening without judgment, respecting confidentiality, and avoiding questions that suggest blame can make an important difference. Rather than insisting that someone immediately end a relationship, we can acknowledge what they are experiencing, ask what support would be helpful, and encourage connections with qualified domestic violence advocates who can assist with safety planning and available resources. Support also means understanding that survivors should not have to prove their experiences to deserve compassion. Abuse does not become less serious because someone remains in a relationship, returns to a partner, or appears outwardly successful. And sometimes, the most meaningful thing we can communicate is that we believe someone deserves to live without fear, humiliation, or control.

96 CURVEPRENEURNational Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-SAFE (7233) | Text START to 88788 | thehotline.org But we can help create an environment where compassion replaces judgment, where conversations about abuse are met with understanding, and where seeking assistance is treated with dignity. Because sometimes the woman who appears to have everything under control is the very woman who needs to know she does not have to face everything alone. Domestic Violence Awareness Month invites us to recognize an issue that often remains hidden behind carefully maintained appearances. But awareness must extend beyond purple ribbons, social media messages, and annual campaigns. It should influence how we speak about survivors, how we respond to disclosures, and whether we support organizations working to provide safe housing, counseling, legal advocacy, and other essential services. We may not be able to see what happens behind every closed door. We may not know which woman in our professional circle, neighborhood, family, or community is quietly searching for a way forward. What Happens Beyond October

99CURVEPRENEUR YOU DON'T HAVE TO HAVE A TITLE TO BE A LEADER There is something interesting about the way we recognize leadership. We often associate it with a title, a position of authority, a successful business, or a seat at a table where important decisions are made. We celebrate CEOs, executives, founders, presidents, and women who have reached milestones that demonstrate their professional accomplishments. And certainly, those achievements deserve recognition. They represent years of commitment, decisions, sacrifices, and determination.The truth is, some of the most influential women in our communities have never held an executive title. They may never appear on the cover of a business publication, deliver a keynote address, or receive an award recognizing their contributions. Yet their influence can be seen in the people they encourage, the opportunities they create, the relationships they nurture, and the communities they help strengthen. The truth is, some of the most influential women in our communities have never held an executive title. They may never appear on the cover of a business publication, deliver a keynote address, or receive an award recognizing their contributions. Yet their influence can be seen in the people they encourage, the opportunities they create, the relationships they nurture, and the communities they help strengthen.They are leading, even when no one has officially called them leaders.

100CURVEPRENEURThink about the woman who introduces two business owners because she recognizes that their services could complement one another. She receives no commission, no public acknowledgment, and perhaps not even a thank-you. She simply sees an opportunity for two people to benefit from knowing each other.These are everyday examples of leadership that often go unnoticed because we have become accustomed to looking for leadership in formal positions rather than meaningful actions. LEADERSHIP DOESN'T ALWAYS COME WITH RECOGNITION SOMETIMES LEADERSHIP MEANS STEPPING FORWARD. OTHER TIMES, IT MEANS CREATING ENOUGH ROOM FOR SOMEONE ELSE TO STEP FORWARD.Or consider the entrepreneur who takes time to explain a business process to someone just getting started. She could easily keep that information to herself, believing that knowledge provides a competitive advantage. Instead, she shares what she has learned because she remembers what it was like to have questions and limited resources.And yet, these contributions are often what make communities stronger. Leadership is not simply about being the person in charge. It is also about recognizing when something needs to be done and being willing to contribute. It involves listening, making thoughtful decisions, accepting responsibility, and understanding that our actions can affect people beyond ourselves.

101CURVEPRENEURAuthority generally comes with a designated position. It provides the ability to make decisions, establish expectations, assign responsibilities, or direct the work of others. Influence, however, develops through relationships, trust, consistency, and the way people experience our presence. Authority and Influence are not the same thing. THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN INFLUENCE AND AUTHORITYA woman may have the authority to manage a team without necessarily earning its confidence. Another woman may hold no supervisory position at all, yet her colleagues consistently seek her advice because they respect her judgment and trust her intentions.Both women may have opportunities to lead, but the source of their influence is different.

In entrepreneurship, this distinction becomes especially important. Many women begin their businesses as independent operators, managing everything from customer relationships and marketing to finances and daily operations. There may be no employees to supervise, no organizational hierarchy, and no impressive title beyond business owner.A small-business owner who consistently follows through on her commitments is demonstrating accountability. An entrepreneur who recommends another business when she cannot meet a customer's needs is demonstrating professionalism and confidence. A woman who acknowledges a mistake and works to correct it is demonstrating integrity. 102CURVEPRENEURThese choices may seem ordinary, but over time they establish something far more valuable than a title: a reputation people can trust.

One of the most meaningful expressions of leadership is the willingness to create opportunities that extend beyond our own interests.103CURVEPRENEUR WHEN WOMEN CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR OTHER WOMENWomen entrepreneurs understand that building a business requires more than developing a product or offering a service. It involves establishing relationships, gaining visibility, learning unfamiliar processes, and finding people who are willing to offer guidance or share resources.For many women, those relationships become essential to their progress.An introduction can lead to a new client. A conversation can provide clarity about a difficult business decision. An invitation to participate in an event can introduce an entrepreneur to an entirely new audience. A recommendation can create an opportunity that might otherwise have remained unavailable.These moments may appear mall individually, but their collective influence can be substantial.Unfortunately, there are times when women hesitate to share opportunities because they fear creating competition. They may believe that another woman's success will somehow diminish their own or that sharing knowledge means surrendering an advantage they worked hard to develop.Healthy competition has its place in business. Entrepreneurs must protect their professional interests, establish boundaries, and make decisions that support their financial stability. Collaboration does not require sharing confidential information, giving away services, or sacrificing the sustainability of a business.But protecting our interests and supporting other women are not mutually exclusive.

104CURVEPRENEUR We can celebrate another entrepreneur's accomplishments without questioning our own progress. We can refer business to someone whose expertise is different from ours. We can share information about community resources, professional organizations, or opportunities for visibility without expecting something in return. You Don't Have to Be the Loudest Voice in the Room There is another misconception about leadership worth discussing: the belief that leaders must always be outspoken, highly visible, or comfortable commanding attention. Certainly, strong communication skills are important. Being able to articulate ideas, advocate for a position, and engage with others can strengthen a woman's professional influence. But leadership does not require every woman to have the same personality or communication style. And perhaps most importantly, we can recognize that another woman's progress does not automatically represent our loss. Leadership that encourages collaboration creates an environment where women can exchange ideas, develop relationships, and discover possibilities they may not have identified independently. That kind of influence extends beyond individual success. Some women are natural public speakers. They enjoy networking events, group discussions, and opportunities to share their experiences with large audiences. Others prefer smaller conversations, thoughtful observation, and relationships developed over time. Neither approach automatically determines someone's leadership ability.

105CURVEPRENEUR A woman who listens carefully before contributing to a discussion may recognize concerns others have overlooked. Someone who prefers working behind the scenes may be the person ensuring that an important community project actually moves forward. A business owner who is uncomfortable promoting herself may nevertheless be exceptional at bringing people together and helping them achieve a shared objective. Leadership is not a personality contest It is possible to be reserved and influential, quiet and confident, thoughtful and decisive. It is also possible to be charismatic and highly visible without consistently demonstrating the qualities that make someone an effective leader. What matters is not simply how much attention a woman receives, but what she does with the opportunities and responsibilities before her. Of course, women should not feel obligated to remain behind the scenes simply because that is where others are accustomed to seeing them. There is value in learning to communicate our accomplishments, share our perspectives, and participate in conversations that affect our businesses and communities. But visibility should expand our opportunities to contribute, not become the sole measure of our worth.

106CURVEPRENEURWe sometimes speak about leadership as though it belongs to women who have already figured everything out. We admire the entrepreneur who appears confident in every decision, the executive who navigates challenges with composure, and the community advocate who seems to know exactly what needs to happen next. LEADERSHIP REQUIRES RESPONSIBILITY, NOT PERFECTION What we do not always see are the uncertainties, mistakes, difficult conversations, and adjustments that accompany those experiences. Leadership does not eliminate uncertainty. It requires us to make thoughtful decisions even when circumstances are imperfect. There will be times when we misjudge a situation, communicate poorly, place our trust in the wrong person, or pursue an idea that does not produce the results we anticipated. These experiences do not automatically disqualify us from leadership. How we respond to them matters. Can we acknowledge when we were wrong? Are we willing to listen to perspectives that differ from our own? Can we accept constructive criticism without immediately becoming defensive? Do we recognize when our decisions have affected someone else, even if that outcome was not our intention? These questions deserve consideration because leadership carries responsibility, whether or not we hold a formal position. A woman who owns a small business may be responsible for only her own operations, but her decisions still affect customers, vendors, collaborators, and perhaps members of her family. A community volunteer may not have an official leadership designation, but others may depend on her reliability and judgment. The scope of responsibility may differ, yet the importance of acting with integrity remains. And sometimes the most responsible decision a leader can make is to acknowledge that she needs assistance, additional information, or another person's expertise.

When we think about legacy, our attention often turns to the things people leave behind: businesses, financial resources, professional accomplishments, or organizations that continue operating after their founders have stepped away. Those are important forms of legacy, but they are not the only ones.THE EXAMPLE WE SET BECOMES PART OF OUR LEGACYOur legacy also develops through the experiences people have with us. It is reflected in how we treat someone who has little to offer us professionally, whether we honor our commitments, and how we respond when another woman achieves something we have been working toward ourselves.107CURVEPRENEURIt can be found in the confidence someone develops because we encouraged her to pursue an opportunity, the knowledge she gains because we were willing to share our experience, or the professional relationship that begins because we made an introduction. We may never know the full effect of those moments.A conversation that seems insignificant to us may remain with someone else for years. Advice shared during an ordinary meeting may influence a decision that changes the direction of a business. A simple expression of confidence may encourage a woman to submit an application, launch a service, or finally share an idea she has been hesitant to pursue. Not every interaction produces a remarkable outcome, and not every act of encouragement changes someone's life. But the possibility of meaningful influence exists in far more places than we sometimes recognize.This is why leadership and legacy are so closely connected. Leadership is demonstrated through what we do today. Legacy develops through what continues to matter because of those actions.

111CURVEPRENEUR When we think about building something meaningful, our attention often turns to what we hope to accomplish next. We consider business growth, financial stability, professional recognition, and the milestones that will demonstrate our progress. But there is another question worth asking: What are we creating today that will continue to matter tomorrow? The Lasting Impact of Purpose, Leadership, and the Choices We Make Sometimes it is found in the people whose lives we influence along the way. For women entrepreneurs, legacy is often associated with establishing a successful company, building financial security, or creating something that can eventually be passed on to future generations. These are meaningful accomplishments, but legacy is not limited to what we own or the businesses we establish.

112CURVEPRENEURConsider the entrepreneur who takes time to mentor a woman entering her industry, the business owner who creates employment opportunities within her community, or the leader who encourages someone to recognize abilities she had not yet discovered in herself. Their contributions may never appear in a financial statement or receive public recognition, yet their influence can continue long after the original interaction.BEYOND THE BUSINESSThe same is true of the values we demonstrate through our work. Integrity, compassion, fairness, and a willingness to create opportunities for others can become part of how people remember our leadership. A successful business may provide financial rewards, but the relationships we establish and the example we set can become equally meaningful parts of what we leave behind.

113CURVEPRENEURCreating a lasting impact does not require having every detail of the future planned. It begins with becoming more intentional about the decisions we make today. Are we developing relationships built on trust? Are we sharing knowledge that may help someone else move forward? Are we creating businesses that reflect our values while contributing something meaningful to the communities we serve?BUILDING WITH TOMORROW IN MINDThese questions invite us to look beyond immediate accomplishments and consider the larger purpose behind our efforts.Every woman will define legacy differently. For some, it may be a business that continues for generations. For others, it may be the confidence they helped another woman develop, the opportunities they created, or the example they provided for their children and communities. What matters is recognizing that the impact of our work can extend beyond the moment in which it takes place. Because what we build is not measured only by what we accomplish today, but also by what continues to make a difference after the moment has passed.

CLOSING REFLECTION Women in Business: Leadership & Legacy October is a celebration of the women whose leadership, experiences, and contributions continue to shape businesses and communities. In this issue, we feature Donna Davis and Reena Friedman Watts, exploring their professional journeys and perspectives on leadership, connection, and creating meaningful opportunities. Our editorial features examine why visibility matters in entrepreneurship, how storytelling opens doors, and the importance of community collaboration and collective growth. We also explore the idea that leadership does not require a formal title. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Domestic Violence Awareness Month, More Than a Ribbon and Behind Closed Doors bring attention to experiences that deserve understanding, compassion, and continued conversation. Together, these stories remind us that leadership and legacy are shaped not only by what women accomplish, but also by the relationships they nurture, the challenges they navigate, and the contributions they make along the way. 114 CURVEPRENEUR

115 CURVEPRENEURLooking Ahead: November 2026 Resilience, Reflection & Rebuilding Every journey includes moments that challenge our expectations, change our direction, or invite us to begin again. In November, Curvepreneur turns its attention to Resilience, Reflection & Rebuilding, exploring the experiences that shape women through personal and professional transitions. We'll look at what it means to navigate unexpected changes, reflect on lessons learned, and discover new possibilities after difficult seasons. Through personal stories, entrepreneurial perspectives, and thoughtful editorials, we'll consider how women redefine success, rebuild confidence, and move forward with greater clarity and purpose. As the year begins drawing to a close, November offers an opportunity to recognize how far we've come, acknowledge what we've learned, and consider what we want to carry into our next chapter. Join us in November as we celebrate the strength found in experience, the value of reflection, and the possibilities that come with beginning again. NEXT ISSUE

81CURVEPRENEUR RESOURCES The following organizations and services provide support, guidance, and resources for entrepreneurs at various stages of their business journey: SCORE FConnect with experienced volunteer business mentors for free, confidential guidance, along with workshops, courses, templates and other resources for starting and growing a business. www.score.org U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Small-business owners can access practical information on starting, running and growing a business, including guidance on financing, operations and strategy through CO—. U.S. Chamber of Commerce www.sba.gov KYB Plans Business Planning, strategy development and consulting services designed to help entrepreneurs build with clarity and confidence www. stan.store/KYBPlans HT Biz Law Legal support and business structuring services. https://www.htbizlaw.com ADP Affiliation Payroll and HR solutions designed to help small businesses manage employees, payroll taxes, hiring and other workforce needs. ADP offers options specifically designed for businesses with 1–49 employees.

CURVEPRENEURDigital Magazine Volume 1 - Issue 8 October 2026