WINK x Chon Shoaff
On this episode of WINK, Women I Need to Know, we dive deep into the world of design, business, and motherhood with the amazing Chon Show. With over 20 years of experience in both graphic and interior design, Chon is a powerhouse entrepreneur who runs her own business and is also a proud mom to a spirited five-year-old boy. Her journey is a perfect blend of creativity, grit, and the art of balancing it all. Whether you’re a fellow designer, an aspiring business owner, a working mom, or just someone interested in the creative industry, this episode is filled with actionable insights and real-talk inspiration.
Expert Graphic and Interior Designer, Business Owner, and Mom
On this episode of WINK, Women I Need to Know, we dive deep into the world of design, business, and motherhood with the amazing Chon Shoaff. With over 20 years of experience in both graphic and interior design, Chon is a powerhouse entrepreneur who runs her own business and is also a proud mom to a spirited five-year-old boy. Her journey is a perfect blend of creativity, grit, and the art of balancing it all. Whether you're a designer, aspiring business owner, working mom, or just interested in the creative industry, this episode offers practical tips and inspiring advice.
How Design Became a Lifelong Passion
Chon’s love for design began early, nurtured by a family steeped in creativity. “My grandfather was an architect, and I always thought his house was beautiful,” she shares, reflecting on how her childhood exposure to architecture and art shaped her career path. Growing up, Chon was always the artistic type, winning awards for her drawings in high school. Although her family wasn’t wealthy, scholarships helped pave the way for her to attend art school, where her passion for design truly took off.
"Design has always been a part of my life since I was little," Chon explains, and it’s clear that her roots in art and architecture have shaped what she does today.
Advice for Women Looking to Break into Design
For women eager to get into the design world, Chon has a simple but powerful piece of advice: Master your tools. Whether it’s the Adobe Creative Suite or Figma (which she now uses for product design), a strong command of design software is essential. "There’s so many areas in design. You just have to find where you want to be," Chon explains, emphasizing that the key to success in design is both a willingness to learn and a strong work ethic.
Building a Career and Network: Chon’s Journey
Chon knows firsthand the importance of networking in building a successful career. “I didn’t have a big network when I started, but I made one,” she says, recalling how she got her first internship by cold-emailing design agencies and introducing herself. It wasn’t glamorous, but it worked. "You just have to put yourself out there," Chon advises, and once you’ve made those connections, they’ll help you grow.
Throughout her career, Chon has also leveraged the power of relationships to bring her back into projects even after leaving corporate positions. Her mantra? “Never burn bridges.”
Designing with Purpose: Creativity as Problem-Solving
For Chon, design is all about solving visual problems—whether it’s maximizing space in an interior or creating a clear, effective message in a graphic. “In interior design, you’re solving problems—how to make a room function better, how to maximize space. In graphic design, you're figuring out how to communicate clearly with minimal distraction,” Chon explains. Her holistic approach to design ensures that every project is not just beautiful, but functional and purposeful.
Chon also emphasizes the importance of trust in interior design: "You hired me for a reason," she says, encouraging clients to trust designers to execute their vision, while still allowing room for collaboration. When designers have the space to work their magic, the end result is always stronger.
How to Incorporate Trends Without Losing Your Style
With the current trend toward minimalist, neutral spaces, one listener asks how to infuse personality into your designs while staying on trend. Chon’s advice? Don’t follow trends, adapt them. “Trends are going to die,” she says. "You want to design for longevity, not what's hot for the moment."
For Chon, the key is mixing different styles to create a timeless and unique look. Modern pieces combined with traditional elements can bring depth and warmth to any space. And if you love the minimalist aesthetic, Chon recommends using bold art and accessories to add personality and contrast to the clean lines of your decor.
Chon shares some of her favorite finds from Amazon:
Designing Around Kids: Stylish, Kid-Friendly Spaces
As a mom to a young child, Chon is no stranger to the challenges of creating a stylish yet functional home. Her top tip for parents? Invest in high-quality furniture. “Kids are messy. You need pieces that are durable,” she explains. Opting for performance fabrics or leather, which are easy to clean, can save a lot of stress in the long run.
But the secret to keeping a home organized with young kids? Creating designated spaces for play. “Having a playroom where kids can be themselves without the pressure of maintaining a ‘perfect’ living room is key,” Chon advises. She also recommends incorporating smart storage solutions—think built-in cabinets or baskets that help contain the inevitable clutter.
Finding Balance: Juggling Business, Motherhood, and Self-Care
The million-dollar question for working moms everywhere: How do you juggle it all? For Chon, it’s all about scheduling. "I live by schedules," she shares. By keeping a consistent routine for herself and her son, she’s able to manage the chaos and keep her business running smoothly. Chon stresses that taking care of yourself—whether it’s getting enough sleep, exercising (even if it’s at 8:30 p.m.), or simply taking time to relax—helps her be a better mom and business owner.
Her advice? “You have to take care of yourself first.” Taking breaks, investing in skincare, and making time for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential for showing up fully for the people you love.
Chon’s Guilty Pleasure TV Show: Shrinking
When it’s time to unwind, Chon turns to the TV show Shrinking, a lighthearted series that blends humor with heart. "It’s easy to watch, and Harrison Ford is in it. He’s just timeless,” she laughs. After a long day, we all need a little mindless entertainment, and Shrinking is Chon’s go-to guilty pleasure and we don’t blame her - who doesn’t love a little Harrison Ford?
The Power of Authentic Relationships
Before we wrapped up, Chon shared one final piece of wisdom for women in any industry: Build authentic relationships. "Relationships are the best currency," she says, stressing that real connections—whether through networking events, internships, or even just cold emails—are invaluable. In today’s digital world, it’s easy to hide behind social media, but genuine, in-person relationships are still the key to success.
Wrapping Up
Chon’s story is a powerful reminder that passion, creativity, and taking care of yourself are all integral to a successful career and balanced life. Whether you’re working in design, running your own business, or navigating motherhood, Chon’s insights offer a wealth of inspiration.
If you want to connect with Chon and see her latest design projects, check her out on Instagram at @designwithchon.
We hope you enjoy this episode of WINK, Women I Need to Know and are feeling inspired by Chon’s journey. Tune in for the full podcast and more episodes here:
WINK x Jess Iandiorio
Breaking Barriers & Building Teams: Insights from Jess Iandiorio, CMO of StarTree
In this inspiring episode of WINK, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Jess Iandiorio, the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of StarTree—a company that's making waves in the world of real-time analytic cloud solutions. Jess is a dynamic force in the tech industry, and during our conversation, she shared not only her career journey but also her insights on leadership, mentorship, and navigating the complex landscape of being a female executive in tech. Her perspective on authenticity, empathy, and being a hands-on leader is as refreshing as it is empowering.
From Market Research to CMO: Jess's Career Journey
Jess’s path to the top wasn’t linear, but it was built on passion, curiosity, and a commitment to learning. She started her career in market research at Forrester Research, using her background in organizational communication to dive deep into understanding the business trends and needs of various industries. But Jess didn’t stop there—her curiosity led her into the tech world, where she joined Endeca, a company specializing in enterprise site search. She quickly embraced product marketing, and through hard work and determination, she climbed the ranks to become CMO at StarTree.
But beyond her professional achievements, Jess is also a mother of three boys—ages 7, 9, and 11. Managing a demanding career while raising young children has given her a unique perspective on balance, time management, and the importance of asking for help when you need it. As she shared her story, it was clear that Jess isn’t just a tech leader—she’s a real-life example of how to juggle multiple roles while still showing up authentically.
Tackling Bias: A Call for Women to Embrace Their Strengths
As a passionate advocate for women in the workplace, Jess has had firsthand experience navigating gender bias, particularly in the tech industry. In one of her most impactful articles, The Real Reason Women Aren’t Getting Ahead in Tech: “She’s Not Strategic”, Jess shines a light on the frustrating stereotype that women who excel in operational roles are somehow not as “strategic” as their male counterparts. She’s seen how this bias can limit women’s upward mobility, even when they are making significant contributions to their teams.
Her advice to women in the workplace? Take on projects beyond your usual remit and nurture a strategic mindset. Jess encourages women to step outside of their comfort zones, even if it’s not immediately in their job description. She emphasizes that women’s strength in execution should be viewed as a strategic asset—not a limitation. For leaders, Jess advocates for looking beyond the labels and truly understanding the breadth of your team’s contributions.
Confidence, Public Speaking, and Leading with Empathy
Jess is also a role model for leadership in action. We were especially struck by her openness about how she built her confidence in public speaking and leadership, particularly when dealing with imposter syndrome. Known for asking insightful questions in meetings, Jess admitted that it took time for her to realize that this quality set her apart. In her early career, she was often nervous about speaking up in large meetings—but over time, she learned to “just send it.” She embraced asking questions, sharing her perspective, and owning her voice.
But what truly sets Jess apart as a leader is her emphasis on empathy. She believes it’s crucial to create a safe space for mistakes—not just for her team but for herself as well. As a leader, Jess owns up to her errors and encourages her team to do the same. This open approach to failure fosters a culture of continuous learning and growth, allowing everyone to move forward stronger and more resilient.
High Care, High Performance: Jess's Unique Leadership Style
One of the most striking aspects of Jess’s leadership style is her ability to balance high performance with high care. Sometimes, she’s been told she’s “too caring” for a corporate environment. But instead of viewing this as a weakness, Jess redefines what it means to care in the workplace. She believes that when people feel valued and supported, they’re more motivated to reach ambitious goals. Jess’s leadership is about psychological safety—creating an environment where people feel appreciated, understood, and inspired to perform at their best.
Staying close to her team’s daily operations is one of her secret weapons. Jess believes being hands-on helps her understand her team’s challenges, advocate for them effectively, and build trust with upper management. It’s this high care, high performance approach that has allowed her to lead successfully at StarTree.
The Executive Challenge: Mentorship, Trust, and Vulnerability
As a seasoned executive, Jess knows that leadership is about more than just running a department. It’s about influencing culture, making high-stakes decisions, and holding yourself accountable for the health and direction of the entire business. One of the most valuable lessons Jess has learned is the importance of mentorship. Early in her career, her former CMO, Tom Wentworth, provided the guidance and exposure she needed to gain confidence and navigate high-level strategy. Mentorship, Jess believes, isn’t just about learning the ropes—it’s about gaining the confidence to step into executive leadership and trust your instincts.
Trust is another critical element of high-performing teams, especially at the executive level. Jess reflected on how essential it is to build trust within leadership teams, particularly when navigating difficult decisions like layoffs or budget cuts. She emphasized the importance of addressing trust gaps and how doing so can be the difference between a company’s success or failure.
Vulnerability as Strength: Embracing Feedback and Building Team Connection
Throughout her career, Jess has learned to embrace vulnerability, especially when it comes to feedback. She encourages her team to view feedback as a gift—something that can be used to improve and grow. In fact, one of her most memorable team-building activities was a “Significant Emotional Experience” (SEE) around a campfire, where team members shared personal stories. This activity strengthened trust and reinforced the power of authentic, human connections in leadership.
At the heart of Jess’s leadership philosophy is the belief that being genuine and approachable can foster collaboration, build resilience, and ultimately drive success. By embracing her true self—both as a leader and as a person—Jess has cultivated an environment where her team can thrive, learn, and grow.
Final Thoughts
Jess Iandiorio’s journey is a powerful reminder that leadership is about much more than titles. It’s about creating the right environment for your team to succeed, making strategic decisions with empathy, and always striving to do better. Jess’s insights on mentorship, feedback, and leadership resonate far beyond the tech industry—they apply to anyone looking to lead with authenticity and compassion.
So, if you’re looking for a little inspiration or practical advice on building a strong, resilient team, this episode of WINK is a must-listen. Jess’s story proves that with confidence, compassion, and a willingness to embrace your true self, you can achieve incredible things.
WINK x Sorette
A New Kind of Support for Moms-to-Be: Lanning Ardente’s Journey with Sorette
In this heartwarming episode of WINK, we had the privilege of sitting down with Lanning Ardente, the CEO and founder of Sorette, a groundbreaking company on a mission to redefine what maternity products should look like. Lanning, a Boston-based mom of two, shares her deeply personal story of how her own struggles with pregnancy and postpartum led her to create a business that is transforming the way moms approach self-care and product safety, as featured on Oprah Daily.
From Personal Struggle to Entrepreneurial Spark
Lanning's journey to founding Sorette wasn’t exactly part of the plan—it was sparked by frustration and the desire to make a difference. Like many expectant mothers, she found herself scouring shelves for skincare products that were safe to use during pregnancy. But what she encountered instead was a lack of clear labeling, confusion about what was safe, and the alarming realization that many products contained chemicals that could harm both moms and babies.
This gap in the market became Lanning’s turning point. As a mom herself, she felt the weight of this uncertainty, and it pushed her to take action. Her background in consumer packaged goods gave her the tools to create a solution, but it was her own experiences as a mother that truly ignited her entrepreneurial fire. After the birth of her second child, Lanning felt a “rebirth” of her own purpose—and that’s when she decided to dive headfirst into the world of business.
Building a Business with Purpose (and a Lot of Heart)
Let’s face it—starting a business while raising two young children in an expensive city is no small feat. But Lanning was driven by a clear mission: to give moms a sense of confidence in their daily product choices by providing transparency, safety, and science-backed information. One of her first major steps was to create a scientific advisory board of experts in women’s health and reproductive science. This team helped Sorette develop a comprehensive “no-go” list of over 26,000 chemicals and compounds, ensuring that every product they offered was completely free from harmful ingredients.
Lanning’s path from mom to entrepreneur is a true testament to the power of turning personal challenges into impactful solutions. Her commitment to transparency and safety has been at the heart of Sorette’s success—and it’s clear that her mission goes far beyond business. For Lanning, it’s about empowering women to make informed choices during one of the most important and challenging times in their lives.
The Realities of Motherhood: Insights, Humor, and Honest Conversations
During our conversation, Lanning opened up about the unpredictable, messy, and often hilarious realities of new motherhood. From sleepless nights to mood swings, to the never-ending to-do lists, she and the WINK team (Amelia and Maggie) shared the raw, unfiltered moments that often go unspoken. And let’s be real—whether it’s dealing with intrusive thoughts or trying to juggle it all, motherhood can feel overwhelming at times.
But as Lanning, Amelia, and Maggie all agreed, it’s okay to not have it all figured out. These candid exchanges weren’t just about the physical challenges of pregnancy or postpartum—they were also about the mental health struggles that often go unaddressed. Lanning emphasized the importance of community during this time—specifically, a “sisterhood” for moms that creates a safe space to share experiences, find reliable resources, and support one another. It’s not just about the products—it’s about the connections we form as we navigate this journey together.
More Than Just Products: A Community for Moms
For Lanning, Sorette is about so much more than just offering safe, effective products. It’s about building a community where moms can feel understood, heard, and supported—whether they’re navigating pregnancy, postpartum, or the day-to-day challenges of motherhood. Through Sorette, Lanning wants to empower women with the right information and resources, so they can feel confident in their choices and less alone in their experiences.
As we chatted, it became clear that Sorette’s real value lies in the community it fosters. Moms can trust that the products they use are safe, but they can also find emotional and mental support in a space where they’re not judged for feeling overwhelmed, unsure, or simply human. Lanning’s vision is to create a place where women can come together, share stories, and lean on each other—because, as she put it, motherhood is hard enough without going it alone.
A Heartfelt Reminder for Moms Everywhere
What stood out most about Lanning’s story is her deep empathy for the struggles moms face and her commitment to making life just a little bit easier for others. Whether it’s offering products that are safe, science-backed, and effective, or creating a supportive community where moms can connect, Lanning’s mission is clear: small changes can have a big impact.
If you’re a new mom, a mom-to-be, or even a mom who’s simply looking for a little extra support, this episode of WINKis a must-listen. Lanning’s journey is a powerful reminder that we all need a little help, a lot of compassion, and a community to lean on. Whether you're facing the challenges of pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or the busy demands of motherhood, Sorette is here to remind you that you’re never alone.
We hope you’ll tune in to the full episode to hear Lanning’s inspiring story, learn about her entrepreneurial journey, and discover how Sorette is making a real difference in the lives of moms everywhere.
Self-Care Is in The Air
It's getting darker and colder outside, so it's more important than ever to take time for yourself and relax, even when you're busy. In fact, self-care rituals are shown to improve health. The Cleveland Clinic shares that stress-relief activities can calm your mind and reduce cortisol, the stress hormone. These practices can also lower blood pressure, improve your brain health, and help you feel happier and more relaxed—all great benefits!
At WINK, we have some great ideas for unwinding. So treat yourself and, of course, give yourself a hug! you got this.
1. Sip & Snack
What is better than wine? Wine accompanied by a delicious SNACK attached! Treat yourself to a wonderfully relaxing evening filled with laughter and great conversation among girlfriends, or simply enjoy some well-deserved distressing while soaking in a luxurious bubble bath with your favorite book in hand.
2. All Cotton Cozy PJs and Accessories.
Feel cozy and cute in these wonderfully soft 100% cotton matching PJs! Why not “light” some delightful candles, curl up under a warm blanket, and enjoy watching your favorite show, listening to uplifting music, or reflecting in your journal?
3. Stay-at-home Spa
Picture this: you’ve just had an incredibly long and tiring day, and you finally have a precious moment to yourself. Why not treat yourself by creating your very own private spa experience at home? Wrap yourself in the comfort of an organic waffle robe, slip into some fuzzy slippers, indulge in rejuvenating skincare, and take a little time for some easy nail care. It's the perfect way to recharge!
WINK may earn commissions, which go toward bringing you awesome female guests and networks!
Top 5 Empowering Halloween Costumes for Women in 2024
See WINK's top 5 empowering Halloween costumes for women in 2024!
Halloween is just around the corner and you might be wondering, what costume options do I have besides a sexy cat, sexy nurse, or sexy [insert any noun here]? Well, the WINK team has you covered with some of our favorite, empowering options!
1. The Suffragette
Why we like it: Suffragettes were crucial in the fight for women's rights, particularly the right to vote. Their activism challenged societal norms and brought attention to gender inequality. They played a significant role in changing laws and policies, ultimately leading to women's suffrage in many countries. Their efforts laid the groundwork for future political participation by women.
Suffragette Halloween Costume
2. A League of Their Own
Why we like it: The “A League of Their Own" film showcases complex, diverse female characters who are skilled athletes, highlighting women's capabilities in sports and leadership. It brings attention to the real women who played in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, celebrating their contributions and ensuring they are not forgotten in sports history. The film confronts stereotypes about women's roles, showing that they can excel in traditionally male-dominated fields.
"A League of Their Own" costume
3. Beatrix Kiddo: Kill Bill
Why we like it: Beatrix embodies self-determination. She takes control of her own destiny and highlights a woman's right to fight for her own justice. She is a multi-faceted character, balancing vulnerability with strength. Her journey explores themes of motherhood, loss, and resilience, making her relatable and inspiring. As a skilled martial artist, Beatrix defies traditional gender norms, proving that women can be powerful fighters and leaders in their own right.
Beatrix Kiddo costume
4. Amelia Earhart
Why we like it: As one of the first female aviators, she broke barriers in a male-dominated field, demonstrating that women could excel in aviation and other challenging professions. Her accomplishments made her a role model for women everywhere, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and challenge societal norms about gender roles. Earhart was a vocal advocate for women's rights and actively worked to promote women in aviation, co-founding the Ninety-Nines, an organization for female pilots.
Amelia Earhart costume
4. Queen Royalty
Why we like it: Everyone deserves to be Queen, every day. Show off your power and leadership this Halloween. Queens often challenge traditional gender norms, representing femininity not as a weakness but as a source of strength and influence. Queens come from various cultures and backgrounds, reflecting a wide range of experiences and perspectives, which enriches the narrative of women's empowerment globally.
Queen Royalty costume
Queen cape costumes
WINK may earn commissions, which go toward bringing you awesome female guests and networks!
What’s new?
Learn what's new at Women I Need to Know
Hello, WINK community!
We have some exciting updates to share with you as we gear up for the back-to-school season this September. At WINK - Women I Need to Know, we are always looking for new ways to connect with and inspire our incredible followers.
To celebrate the launch of WINK, we've also created some fabulous new merchandise. From stylish apparel to fun accessories, our new line is designed to help you share the WINK Co. spirit wherever you go. It's the perfect way to show your support and spread the word about the women we all need to know.
Speaking of…we can't help but be inspired by the incredible female athletes competing at the Olympics. Fencer Nada Hafez, is competing at seven months pregnant - WHAT(!) How incredible is that? Her determination and strength are truly awe-inspiring, and we're cheering her on every step of the way!
As we craft our podcast, we have a question for you: Who are the women YOU want to know? Share your thoughts with us, and let's continue to celebrate the remarkable women who make the world a better place.
Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for being part of the WINK community!
With love and excitement,
A & M
Who are we?
Wink Collaborative: Women I Need to Know - the podcast that introduces you to extraordinary women making waves in various fields. Hosted by two seasoned professionals, Amelia and Maggie, with rich background in content marketing & merchandising - and loosely held perspectives on parenting, relationship(ing), and failing (forward) - this podcast is more than just conversations; it’s a gateway to invaluable networks and laughter.
With dynamic professional careers spanning a combined 35 years at various companies, we have established ourselves as thought leaders and innovators. Our professional journey is marked by significant achievements and contributions that have paved the way for others. Balancing career with personal life, we bring a unique perspective [what meal is best consumed over the kitchen sink] and genuine curiosity [do you also overshare at the beginning of each zoom?] to each episode.
Each episode, features an in-depth interview with an inspiring woman from diverse industries. Our guests are leaders, pioneers, and change-makers who share their stories, insights, and advice. But the value doesn’t stop at the conversation. Listeners gain access to our guests’ networks, opening doors to new opportunities, mentorships, and collaborations.
Join us on this journey to discover the women YOU NEED TO KNOW and tap into the power of their networks.
What is WINK?
It all begins with an idea to support women.
Empowering Women through Networking and Support: The Story of WINK (Women I Need to Know)
In today's fast-paced society, the pressure on women to "have it all" can be overwhelming. Juggling careers, family responsibilities, and personal ambitions often leaves little room for self-care and meaningful connections. Recognizing these challenges, we created WINK (Women I Need to Know) to empower women by fostering strong networks and providing unwavering support throughout their journeys.
The Need for Women Supporting Women
Women supporting women is more than just a mantra; it's a crucial element for personal and professional growth. Networking among women can lead to new opportunities, increased confidence, and a greater sense of community. However, finding the time and space to build these connections can be daunting. This is where WINK steps in, offering a platform dedicated to making networking accessible and enjoyable.
Why We Created WINK
As two working moms, we know firsthand the challenges of balancing multiple roles and the burnout that often follows. Our own experiences highlighted the immense value of friendships, humor, and support. We realized that many women, like us, needed a dedicated space to share advice, find encouragement, and laugh together. Thus, WINK was born out of a desire to create a community where women can thrive.
Building Networks with WINK
At WINK, we believe that strong networks are the foundation of success. Our platform offers various opportunities for women to connect, whether through online forums, local meet-ups, or virtual events. By bringing women together from diverse backgrounds, we facilitate the exchange of ideas, experiences, and support, helping each member to grow both personally and professionally.
Feeling Supported in Your Journey
Support and humor are at the heart of WINK. We understand that every woman's journey is unique, filled with its own set of challenges and triumphs. Our community is here to provide a safe space where women can share their stories, seek advice, and offer encouragement. Through shared experiences, we aim to uplift one another and foster a sense of belonging that is essential for personal fulfillment.
Embracing Humor and Inspiration
Life's challenges are easier to face with a smile and a bit of humor. At WINK, we celebrate the power of laughter and inspiration. Our funny and inspiring merch is designed to spark joy and serve as daily reminders of our strength and resilience. These items not only bring a smile to your face but also help to create connections and start conversations, reinforcing the supportive spirit of our community.
Join the WINK Community
We invite you to join the WINK community and experience the power of women supporting women. Together, we can navigate the complexities of modern life, build meaningful networks, and find the support we need to "have it all." Explore our website to learn more about our mission and become a part of a network that champions the success and well-being of women.