Published by Lara Schmoisman
Your Brew of Business Wisdom - Coffee N5 is your ultimate guide to running, growing, and scaling a successful business in today’s competitive landscape. Hosted by award-winning marketing strategist Lara Schmoisman—a Forbes Next 1000 honoree and LA Times Inspirational Women finalist—this Podcast is your secret weapon for actionable strategies, insider tips, and real-world success stories. Every episode dives into the tools, tricks, and tactics that help businesses thrive, featuring insights from industry leaders and innovators across beauty, wellness, lifestyle, and beyond. Lara’s unique approach combines her vast expertise in omnichannel marketing with her passion for helping brands unlock their potential. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, Coffee N5 gives you everything you need to create lasting success. So, pour yourself a cup, tune in, and let’s turn your business ambitions into reality—one episode at a time! Listen now and discover what it takes to build the business of your dreams.
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Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Coffee N°5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Jeannie Jarnot, founder of Beauty Heroes. Jeannie dives into her transition from spa management to pioneering a clean, sustainable, and highly effective beauty marketplace. From establishing strict ingredient standards to navigating a decade of evolving consumer behavior, this conversation uncovers what it truly takes for brands to succeed in highly curated environments while maintaining authenticity, consistency, and a consumer-first approach. • Key Topics Covered: Jeannie Jarnot’s background in spa management and how it shaped her strict brand standards. The reality of ingredient curation and why Beauty Heroes strictly bans components like phenoxyethanol. How consumer behavior and awareness around clean beauty have evolved over the last 12 years. Proven strategies for independent brands to pitch, survive, and thrive in curated marketplaces. The role of authentic content, long-term brand engagement, and consistency in driving growth. Integrating holistic wellness into the traditional beauty space and anticipating future industry trends. • About Jeannie Jarnot: Jeannie Jarnot is the founder of Beauty Heroes, a trailblazing marketplace and discovery service dedicated to clean, healthy, and sustainable skincare. With a rich background as a spa director, Jeannie revolutionized the beauty shopping experience by enforcing unparalleled ingredient standards and championing a "less is more" philosophy. She is a recognized leader in the wellness industry, passionate about helping consumers make conscious choices and helping ethical brands scale with integrity. 🔗 Stay Connected with The DARL: 📸 Instagram: / thedarlagency 👍 Facebook: / thedarlagency 💼 LinkedIn: / about 🐦 X (Twitter): https://x.com/thedarlagency 🌐 Website: https://thedarl.com/ 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth!#MarketingCareer #CoffeeN5Podcast #JeannieJarnot #CleanBeauty #BeautyHeroes #SkincareMarketing #BrandStrategy #SustainableBeauty #TheDARL #BusinessGrowth Support the show
Send us Fan Mail How do you climb from an entry-level secretarial role to the executive suites of the beauty world? In this episode of Coffee N°5 , we sit down with beauty industry powerhouse Elana S Drell Szyfer . Elana shares her remarkable journey, offering a masterclass in career development, leadership, and the shifting dynamics of the beauty and wellness landscape. Whether you are climbing the corporate ladder in a global powerhouse or navigating the agile waters of a startup, Elana’s insights on humility, continuous learning, and adaptability are essential listening. We dive deep into why modern careers are no longer a straight line, how the convergence of health and beauty is changing the market, and the irreplaceable role of mentorship in shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Key Takeaways From This Episode: Start Somewhere: Why taking an entry-level role (even as a secretary) can give you the foundational tools to build an empire. The Corporate vs. Startup Shift: Critical leadership lessons learned when transitioning from massive global corporations to agile, small brands. The New Career Landscape: Understanding the evolution of career stages and the exciting convergence of beauty, health, and wellness. The Power of Mentorship: Why asking questions and actively supporting future leaders is the ultimate key to industry growth. Connect with Elana: LinkedIn: Connect with Elana S Drell Szyfer Resources Mentioned in This Episode: CEW (Cosmetic Executive Women): cewbeauty.org (Note: double-check link spelling for CEW) Industry Insights: Women's Wear Daily (WWD) 💡 Sound Bites to Remember: "Start somewhere, even as a secretary." "Be humble and entrepreneurial." "Ask questions, build your own path." Love the show? Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe to Coffee N°5 on your favorite podcast platform! Support the show
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Coffee N°5 , Lara Schmoisman chats with Maria Warrington, CEO of Beacon Brands . Maria dives into the evolving world of sexual wellness, sharing what it really takes to build, market, and scale a brand in one of the most restricted yet fastest-growing industries. From breaking taboos to redefining pleasure as part of overall wellness, this conversation uncovers the strategies behind connecting with modern consumers while navigating cultural, political, and digital advertising barriers. • Key Topics Covered: The challenges of marketing sexual wellness products in highly regulated digital environments. How to break taboos and build authentic, stigma-free brand conversations. The role of community and medical professionals in building trust and credibility. Expanding beyond pleasure into wellness, menopause, and holistic women’s health. How brands like Plus One innovate to stay relevant across major retailers like Target, Walmart, and Amazon. The shift in consumer openness and how it’s reshaping the future of the industry. • About Maria Warrington: Maria Warrington is the CEO of Beacon Brands, a leader in the sexual wellness and consumer goods space. She oversees a portfolio of brands including Plus One, focused on empowering women through accessible, innovative, and stigma-free products. With extensive experience in brand building, retail expansion, and navigating complex marketing restrictions, Maria is at the forefront of redefining how wellness and pleasure are positioned in today’s market. Stay Connected with The DARL: Instagram: thedarlagency Facebook: thedarlagency LinkedIn: about X: https://x.com/thedarlagency Website: https://thedarl.com/ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth! #MarketingCareer #CoffeeN5Podcast #MariaWarrington #SexualWellness #WomenHealth #BrandStrategy #DigitalMarketing #TheDARL #BusinessGrowth Support the show
Send us Fan Mail In Episode of Coffee N5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Ilya Seglin , Managing Director at Raymond James. Ilya dives deep into the world of finance, explaining what it takes for a brand to raise growth capital or achieve a successful strategic exit. They discuss the reality of "alphabet soup" fundraising (Series A, B, and beyond) and why having a "forever brand" is the ultimate goal for major acquirers. • Key Topics Covered: The difference between Strategic Acquirers and Private Equity (The "Marriage vs. Divorce" analogy). When is the right time to stop self-funding and look for outside investors? The importance of unit economics, repeat purchase behavior, and product differentiation. Why a Sephora or Ulta launch could either make or destroy your business. The "Halo Effect": How digital data informs retail success. 3 Things a brand should NEVER do when trying to scale. • About Ilya Seglin: Ilya Seglin is a seasoned investment banker specializing in the consumer and beauty sectors. With years of experience at firms like Raymond James, he has been a key player in some of the most significant deals in the industry. He helps founders navigate the complexities of raising capital, finding the right strategic partners, and preparing their businesses for long-term sustainability and eventual sale. Stay Connected with The DARL: Instagram: thedarlagency Facebook: thedarlagency LinkedIn: about X: https://x.com/thedarlagency Website: https://thedarl.com/ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth! #MarketingCareer #CoffeeN5Podcast #IlyaSeglin #BrandExit #InvestmentBanking #BeautyIndustry #StartupFunding #DigitalMarketingAgency #TheDARL #BusinessGrowth linkedin.com THE DARL | LinkedIn THE DARL | 17,178 followers on LinkedIn. We are breaking the rules. We are raising the bar. | We are a boutique agency that’s breaking the rules and raising the bar. We are visionaries who love challenges. We are creative without limits. The Darl (@thedarlagency) on X As a boutique marketing and production agency, we offer a dynamic approach to the new digital media era. X (formerly Twitter) The Darl Integrated Marketing The No-Agency Agency means lean, agile, and transparent marketing built for your brand’s success. Support the show
Send us Fan Mail The Future of Wellness: AI and Luxury Experiences with Tom | Coffee N5 In Episode 248 of Coffee N5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Tom, a leading consultant in the luxury skincare and wellness space. They explore a often overlooked but highly lucrative channel: Hospitality. Tom shares insights on how brands can move beyond traditional retail and tap into luxury hotels and resorts, the reality of "career consultants," and how AI is set to revolutionize the guest experience through advanced diagnostics. Key Topics Covered: Execution vs. Theory: Why brands need consultants who are ready to "roll up their sleeves" and execute beyond plan A. The Hospitality Opportunity: How luxury skincare and wellness brands can diversify their revenue through in-room amenities and hotel boutiques. Networking for Growth: Why surrounding yourself with people who contribute to your growth is essential for long-term success. The New Rules of Luxury: Debunking myths about discounting, Black Friday, and why premium brands must adapt to consumer convenience (including the Amazon factor). AI and the Future of Wellness: How AI is moving from a buzzword to a diagnostic tool that will power personalized health and longevity retreats. About Tom: Tom is a seasoned consultant specializing in luxury skincare, wellness, and high-end hospitality. With years of experience helping brands navigate the transition from retail to experiential models, he is an expert at building B2B partnerships with some of the world’s most prestigious hotel groups. He is known for his practical, execution-focused approach to brand building and his deep understanding of the evolving luxury consumer. Follow tom: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-macpherson-le-maire-32600948/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tom_mlm_parisien/ 🔗 Stay Connected with The DARL: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedarlagency 👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedarlagency 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thedarl 🐦 X: https://x.com/thedarlagency 🌐 Website: https://thedarl.com/ 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth! Support the show
Send us Fan Mail Beyond the Business Card: Strategic Networking with Mike Ryan | Coffee N5 In Episode 247 of Coffee N5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Mike Ryan , a true master of professional relationships and a veteran of the PR and marketing industry. In this episode, they dive deep into the world of professional relationship building, the critical importance of "showing up," and how Mike has successfully navigated the digital revolution from the days of hand-typed press releases to creating premium, high-tech unboxing experiences for global brands. Key Topics Covered: The Philosophy of Showing Up: Why being a "social butterfly" is about building genuine human relationships, not just filling a to-do list. Networking vs. Strategic Partnering: How to move beyond the traditional "booth" mentality to become a respected authority and a face people recognize at every event. The Evolution of the Industry: A fascinating look at the transition from 1980s manual press distribution to the modern era of digital logistics and fulfillment. The Art of the Unboxing Experience: Why "white glove" service and customized influencer send-outs are the new standard for brands in the digital age. Reputation as Your Only Contract: Mike explains why building a "circle of trust" and maintaining a flawless reputation is more powerful than any legal document. About Mike Ryan: Mike Ryan is a seasoned expert in networking and business development with nearly four decades of experience in the communications and fulfillment space. Known as a "Chief Networking Officer" in spirit, Mike has built his career on the principles of loyalty, adaptability, and the power of a handshake. He is a prominent figure in the beauty, fashion, and wellness circles and is the host of the podcast Minutes with Mike . 🔗 Stay Connected with The DARL: 📸 Instagram: / thedarlagency 👍 Facebook: / thedarlagency 💼 LinkedIn: / about 🐦 X: https://x.com/thedarlagency 🌐 Website: https://thedarl.com/ 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth! #NetworkingSuccess #CoffeeN5Podcast #MikeRyan #BusinessStrategy #UnboxingExperience #BusinessEvolution #LaraSchmoisman #TheDarlAgency #PersonalBranding #ProfessionalGrowth Support the show
Send us Fan Mail In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara Schmoisman sits down with Sara Jensen—serial entrepreneur, author, and Co-Founder & Co-CEO of Hugh & Grace—to explore hormone health, preventative wellness, chemical exposure, and the rise of community-driven commerce. We'll talk about: How 14 years of infertility reshaped Sara’s understanding of hormone health The hidden impact of hormone-disrupting chemicals in skincare, haircare, and home products Why “clean beauty” lacks a clear definition—and what real preventative wellness requires The power of simplifying routines to reduce overwhelm and drive compliance Why detoxification should be gentle, daily, and sustainable For more information, visit Sara's LinkedIn and Instagram Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter. Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media: Instagram: @laraschmoisman Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman Support the show
Send us Fan Mail In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara Schmoisman sits down with Dr. Brent Ridge—physician, longevity researcher, co-founder of Beekman 1802, and co-author of Goat Wisdom —to explore the science of longevity, microbiome innovation, and why kindness is a powerful long-term business strategy. We'll talk about: Why extreme longevity is influenced more by optimism and social connection than by genetics How the “anti-aging” narrative became a fear-based marketing construct Why longevity starts at birth—not at 40 The science behind goat milk, skin pH, and microbiome balance How exosomes and oligosaccharides support skin ecosystem health For more information, visit Brent's LinkedIn and Instagram Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter. Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media: Instagram: @laraschmoisman Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman Support the show Support the show
Send us Fan Mail In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara Schmoisman sits down with Bora Mutluoglu, co-founder of Reacher and Y Combinator alum, to break down the reality of social commerce. Using TikTok Shop as a case study, they explore automation, affiliate strategy, creator relationships, and how AI-generated content is reshaping sustainable growth. We'll talk about: Why the “easy sales” narrative around TikTok Shop is misleading How social commerce is maturing into a performance-driven ecosystem Why automation tools don’t replace relationship building with creators The myth of follower count and what actually drives visibility today When large influencers make sense—and when they don’t For more information, visit Bora's LinkedIn and Instagram Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter. Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media: Instagram: @laraschmoisman Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman Support the show
Send us Fan Mail In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara Schmoisman sits down with Amina AlTai—holistic business and career coach, proud immigrant, chronic illness advocate, host of the Amina Change Your Life podcast, and author of The Ambition Trap: How to Stop Chasing and Start Living —to explore the psychology of ambition. From burnout and hustle culture to core wounds, systemic pressure, and sustainable growth, this conversation reframes ambition as alignment, awareness, and purpose—not endless striving. We'll talk about: Why PR in 2026 is an ecosystem—not a standalone function The myth of “just PR” and why siloed teams break brand momentum Influencer ROI realities: affiliates, attribution, and what actually converts Launch events: when they work, when they don’t, and why most fail PR + AI: authority, citations, and why human voice still matters For more information, visit Amina's LinkedIn and Instagram Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter. Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media: Instagram: @laraschmoisman Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman Support the show
Send us Fan Mail In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara Schmoisman sits down with Jennifer Bickerton and Lauren Kahn, Co-Founders of Intersection PR, to demystify what PR really looks like in 2026. From AI and media fragmentation to influencer economics, launches, and integrated ecosystems, this conversation breaks down how brands actually build relevance, authority, and momentum today. We'll talk about: Why PR in 2026 is an ecosystem—not a standalone function The myth of “just PR” and why siloed teams break brand momentum Influencer ROI realities: affiliates, attribution, and what actually converts Launch events: when they work, when they don’t, and why most fail PR + AI: authority, citations, and why human voice still matters For more information, visit Lauren's LinkedIn and Instagram and Jennifer's LinkedIn and Instagram Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter. Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media: Instagram: @laraschmoisman Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman Support the show
Send us Fan Mail In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara sits down with Laura Meyer—Founder & CEO of Envision Horizons and former Amazon insider—to break down why Amazon isn’t “just another sales channel.” They unpack what actually drives revenue on Amazon, the biggest distractions brands fall for, and how to build a profitable, defensible Amazon strategy without burning cash or losing brand identity. We'll talk about: Why Amazon is not “just another channel,” but a full ecosystem with its own laws. The biggest distraction brands waste money on (hint: it’s the storefront). The truth about Amazon PPC, DSP, and knowing your point of diminishing returns. How AI can help Amazon creative—and where it risks killing brand identity. What causes suspensions, red flags, and “Amazon horror stories”—and how to manage them. For more information, visit Laura Meyer's LinkedIn and Instagram . Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter. Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media: Instagram: @laraschmoisman Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman Support the show
Send us Fan Mail In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara sits down with Kat Garcia, Founder of Ground AI, to dismantle the myth of the linear career. They go from Hollywood sets to building revenue engines, getting real about why the traditional funnel is broken and how to use data to build actual momentum—not just noise. We'll talk about: Why the "straight line" career is a myth—and a trap. The reality of the "Broken Funnel" and why you can't track ROI the old way. Why being an early adopter (like Kat on YouTube in 2006) pays off. The difference between AI hype and AI that actually drives revenue. Why retention beats ROAS every single time. Knowing when your brand is actually ready for automation (hint: you need a baseline). For more information, visit Kat Garcia's LinkedIn and Instagram . Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter. Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media: Instagram: @laraschmoisman Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman Support the show
Send us Fan Mail In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara sits down with Allison McNamara, Founder and CEO of MARA Beauty, to explore the non-linear path from media to building a science-backed skincare brand. A grounded conversation about discipline, focus, and earning clarity over time. We'll talk about: Why non-linear careers often lead to stronger founders Building a science-backed brand without shortcuts How discipline shapes product and growth decisions The reality behind scaling and retail expansion Why focus matters more than speed When brand clarity finally clicks For more information, visit Allison McNamara's LinkedIn and Instagram . Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter. Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media: Instagram: @laraschmoisman Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman Support the show
Send us Fan Mail In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara Schmoisman sits down with Aaron Alpeter, founder of Izba, Sourcify, and Slotted, to break down the operational reality of scaling product-based businesses. From cash flow and supplier negotiations to packaging costs and operational flexibility, this episode explains why supply chain is a core growth driver—not a backend detail. We'll talk about : What supply chain really is—and why it directly impacts your ability to scale Why cash flow and unit economics matter more than fundraising How to negotiate with suppliers and use payment terms as a growth lever The hidden costs of packaging, shipping, and storage Why flexibility and strong relationships matter more than optimization For more information, visit Aaron Alpeter's LinkedIn and Instagram . Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter. Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media: Instagram: @laraschmoisman Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman Support the show
Send us Fan Mail Laurel Mintz, Founder & GP of Fabric VC and CEO of Elevate My Brand, joins Lara Schmoisman on Coffee Nº5 to demystify venture capital for founders. From bootstrapping vs. raising money and what VCs really look for in pitch decks, to the truth about AI hype and why communication trumps clever branding—this episode breaks down how real funding decisions are made in today’s market. We'll talk about : Why most founders say they’ll bootstrap… until they realize you can’t scale without marketing—or money. What VCs see in thousands of pitch decks — and why short, simple decks win. Why founders must know their numbers — and why clever storytelling can’t replace financial clarity. The truth about the AI gold rush — most startups don’t actually have data or defensible AI. Why communication quality often determines whether she’ll write a check more than branding does. For more information, visit Laurel Mintz's LinkedIn and Instagram . Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter. Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media: Instagram: @laraschmoisman Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman Support the show
Send us Fan Mail In the final Coffee Nº5 episode of the year, Lara Schmoisman breaks down the marketing ecosystem of 2026—an environment defined by AI clarity, human-led storytelling, micro-experts, privacy-first data practices, and integrated teams. This episode explains what it truly takes to operate, grow, and connect in a world where everything is interconnected. We'll talk about : The 2026 ecosystem: why everything in marketing is now interconnected—and why working in silos will break your growth. Generative Engine Optimization (GEO): clarity as the new currency for AI. AI agents as shoppers: what it means when software researches, compares, and negotiates for consumers. Responsible AI: why governance, rules, and human oversight will define how brands use technology. Content in 2026: real storytelling, crafted value, SEO-backed captions, and the end of shallow posting. The rise of micro-experts: why niche credibility beats mass follower counts. Privacy & first-party data: what owning your customer information really means. Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter. Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media: Instagram: @laraschmoisman Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman Support the show
Send us Fan Mail In this solo episode of Coffee Nº5, Lara Schmoisman cuts through the noise around SEO and breaks down what actually matters: technical performance, quality backlinks, and audience-driven keywords. She explains how SEO fuels organic growth, why structure matters more than shortcuts, and how brands can build long-term momentum in a world shaped by AI. A clear, strategic guide for marketers who want results—not gimmicks. We'll talk about : Why your website—not social media—is still the core of your digital ecosystem. The three parts of SEO: technical performance, backlinks, and keywords. The truth about technical SEO: structure, performance, pages, and the tech stack that supports conversions. Traffic vs. conversions: why most brands confuse them—and lose momentum. How AI has changed backlink strategy. Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter. Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media: Instagram: @laraschmoisman Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman Support the show
Send us Fan Mail Lara Schmoisman shares why your website is the true heart of your business—and why ignoring its performance can cost you growth, visibility, and conversions. From SEO and site speed to tech stacks and maintenance, this Coffee Nº5 episode breaks down how your site connects every part of your marketing strategy, from paid media to AI readiness. We'll talk about : Your website is your brand’s heart—every transaction and touchpoint starts there. How a slow or poorly optimized website kills your paid ads, organic reach, and SEO. The hidden costs of “plugin overload”—and how to streamline for speed and stability. The myth of agency pricing: how the right team actually saves you money by doing it right the first time. The silent mistake: brands investing thousands in ads but zero in SEO—renting attention instead of owning it. Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter. Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media: Instagram: @laraschmoisman Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman Support the show
Send us Fan Mail Lara Schmoisman breaks down why blogging is still one of the most powerful tools in digital marketing—and what happens when brands stop. From keyword strategy to AI-ready content, Lara reveals how organic traffic, SEO, and conversions are directly tied to consistent, strategic content creation. We'll talk about : What really happens when brands stop blogging: organic traffic drops, and sales follow. The 3 keyword types every brand needs: DNA, competitive, and trending. Why long-tail keywords are now the most strategic weapon in SEO and AI visibility. How to structure content so it ranks on Google and is readable by AI tools. The difference between filling a blog and creating content that solves real problems. The silent mistake: brands investing thousands in ads but zero in SEO—renting attention instead of owning it. Why chasing “viral tactics” without data leads to penalties, lost rankings, and zero scalability. What it means to make your website AI-ready —and why not doing it now is a liability. Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter. Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media: Instagram: @laraschmoisman Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman Support the show
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