Local women entrepreneurs share stories of resilience, challenges and triumphs, offering insights and advice to inspire and guide those striving to succeed in business.
Michelle McCalla, Owner/Founder
BelleAmour Bridalbelleamourbridal.com
133 N. Michigan St. Toledo419-244-1812
What sets you apart from in the industry?
At Belle Amour Bridal, we pride ourselves on creating an unforgettable, personalized experience for every bride. With over 400 carefully curated gowns and an elegant selection of Mother of the Bride and Groom dresses, we cater to every style and vision. Our warm, attentive team understands the significance of this milestone, ensuring the journey is as joyful as the destination. More than a boutique, we’re a part of our community’s love stories, celebrating life’s most cherished moments with elegance and care.
What do you love most about your job?
The privilege of being part of such a special moment in a bride’s life. Helping her find the dress that makes her feel confident and beautiful is an experience I cherish. The joy on her face when she knows it’s “the one” never gets old.
I also treasure the personal connections—whether it’s bonding with brides and their families or collaborating with my amazing team. Creating a warm, welcoming space and unforgettable memories is what makes this work so meaningful.
What is some advice you would give your younger self?
Trust the journey and embrace every challenge as an opportunity for growth. The moments that feel like setbacks are often paving the way for your greatest successes. Believe in yourself and never underestimate the power of your passion and resilience.
What is on your bucket list?
I’d like to create a sanctuary for dogs, particularly senior dogs
that have been abandoned or need a second chance. I’d love to rescue, foster, and give them a loving place to live out their golden years. There’s something so rewarding about caring for animals who need it most.
Most used app?
Other than our POS system I am buried in emails all the time.
What is something people don’t know about me?
I have two big passions: bridal and animals. I studied fashion design and merchandising in school, where I created a business plan for a bridal store. Twenty years later, I pursued my love for animals and went back to school to become a vet and then went on to open Belle Amour Bridal. It’s been an incredible journey blending my passions in such unique ways!
Poppy Fleur is our exclusive bridal line and named after my Mini Schnauzer. Belle Amour donates a portion of the sales to local shelters and rescue groups with the sale of each gown from our collection.
Kathryn M. Tucker
Chief Experience Officer at Fremont Federal Credit Union and owner, Toledo’s Share Winery
419herhub.org
567-970-7172
Kathryn M. TuckerWhat sets you apart in your industry?
The desire to uplift our community. I’ve worn many hats—I still do—throughout my personal and professional lift. The difference is understanding that I am not where I am for me, but for others.
For work I need: Snacks.
What challenges did you overcome to get to where you are today? The biggest challenge was confidence. We have all been through many challenges in life and they can leave us feeling beat down sometimes. Having the confidence and conviction to feel confident in your purpose/journey, even when the road is rough, has helped me most in life and most certainly in business.
Best advice you’ve ever gotten: The only people who will remember all those late nights, weekends, and holidays you worked are your kids. Family first.
What is on your bucket list? Contributing to world peace. I realize this may sound ridiculous, but I want to make a meaningful impact on humanity that helps bring us all together.
What is your most-used app? ChatGPT.
What do you love most about your job? My role at Women of Toledo as the Board President has been incredible. My favorite part of this role is supporting the team behind the mission: the staff. Watching them grow and work through the blood, sweat, and tears to engage, educate, and empower women here and around the world is remarkable.
Something most people don’t know about me is: My husband and I just opened a winery in downtown Toledo.
Dani Bucher , General Manager & Event Specialist
The Mez – Toledo’s Event Space
[email protected]
710 Monroe Street, Toledo
(567) 218-0575
Dani Bucher , General Manager & Event Specialist What sets you apart in your industry?
The short answer is seeing opportunity. Seeing the opportunity and need for something outside the box. The opportunityto push the limits of event space design in our area. The opportunity to create a space that brings people together in a more intimate setting pushes the boundaries of current trends.
Opportunity to serve our clients, local businesses, and community in new and refreshing ways. The ability to see beauty in thedetails. My previous work experience was invaluable in seeing all the behind-the-scenes of event days, how vendors operated through their day, and what accommodations they had to make throughout their day.
Seeing what worked and what didn’t work well, and the opportunity to improve on that.
There are always going to be bumps in the road and quirks to deal with but being able tosee potential problems and find a workable solution is a huge asset.
For work, I need:
Coffee, always iced! Usually, my phone and laptop, and a pen and notepad of some sort because there are always a lot of moving pieces happening
One piece of advice you’d give your younger self:
Study and live abroad, and then travel a whole lot! I love traveling, but it gets harder as you have more responsibilities on your plate ( like a house, children, and bills). It’s not impossible; it’s just harder to make and take the time.
What challenges did you overcome to get to where you are today?
This is a tough one because I can list a lot of things, but I think those things would all
boil down to confidence—being confident in the gifts God has given me and the call He has placed on my life. Imposter syndrome is something that’s really easy to get stuck in. There are always going to be whispers of doubt—they will never stop—but continually focusing on my purpose and operating in that is where the best version of us blooms.
What is on your bucket list?
I’ve always wanted to be on the display team for Anthropologie or Magnolia, honestly,any creative design team. I love the experiential design and storefront displays and I’d love to be a part of designing and creating those beautiful displays! Also a cooking class in Ireland or France, the opportunity to live abroad and learn while experiencing it!
What’s a great recent discovery?
Chat GPT—I am still in the babysteps phase of learning about it and how to use it more effectively, but it has helped me with scheduling and time management!
What is your most-used app?
Instagram and Pinterest.
What do you love most about your job?
Problem-solving. I love being creative, and I am never short on off-the-wall or outside-the-box ideas. I’m not afraid to try new things or push the boundaries on how things are, and the opportunity to flex that in my job is so fun. I also love people! I love hearing their stories, seeing what’s important to them, and seeing them operate in their gifts. I have such a privilege to have a front-row seat in seeing and experiencing that in my work!
My desk:
Oh to have an actual desk! In my dreams, I have a cute little office with a big pink anthro table as my desk and lots of live plants and art and mood boards. In reality, I have no real desk currently. I take my “desk” with me wherever I go, it’s the kitchen island between cooking meals, it’s the console of my truck between sourcing and client meetings. Some days it’s a cozy local coffee shop and some days it’s in the car at the pickup line.
Something most people don’t know about me is:
I hate onions, like really hate them. I have a texture issue with a lot of foods, unfortunately. I want to like them, but I can’t get past the texture of them. I LOVE pastries though. I would live off croissants if I could. That’s another bucket list item- the croissant tour, must-doo before I die!
Dr. Deitra Hickey, Owner
Serenity Health and Wellness
serenitywellness1.com
1685 Lance PointeDr., Maumee
419-891-2181
Dr. Deitra Hickey, OwnerWhat sets you apart in your industry?
At Serenity, we have found a way to combine wellness, beautification, and stress relieving services under one roof. We were one of the first full service, holistic health facilities in Toledo.
One piece of advice you’d give your younger self:
Don’t burn the candle at both ends. Although we were taught to grind to our fullest capability, self-care and mental health is critical to happiness and true peace and contentment. There’s no point in being successful if you don’t have that.
What challenges did you overcome to get where you are today?
When I opened Serenity 15 years ago, I knew we were in an obscure/remote location. It helped us keep our initial overhead low and I always said, “when we get the word out and are full, I will be happy that we are here.” That time has come. Patience is a virtue.
Best advice you’ve ever gotten:
Not everyone acts or reacts the same way that you would. Do not have too high of expectations of others or you could set yourself up for disappointment.
What is on your bucket list?
I am very fortunate that I have accomplished almost everything on my bucket list. At this point, I just hope to be able to live a happy healthy life with my husband, enjoying all of the things we have worked so hard for over the last 30 years
What is your most-used app?
OneNote. It helps me to keep my professional and personal life organized.
What do you love most about your job?
We are very fortunate at Serenity that we get to have a career that pampers others. We help people honor themselves and prioritize their well-being. The community also enjoys spending their birthdays, bridal parties, anniversaries, and other celebrations with us. It is an honor to be a part of those special occasions.
Something most people don’t know about me is:
I am a proud Toledian. I was born and raised in Toledo. Went to Toledo Public Schools k-12. All of my degrees are from UT. Worked for Toledo Public for 17 years and taught at The University of Toledo for three years. I love my community and am proud to add Serenity to everything T-town has to offer.
Pamela Weitzel, Co-owner
Frankel Dentistry
jonfrankeldentistry.com
5012 Talmadge Road, Toledo
419-693-0781
Pamela Weitzel, Co-ownerWhat sets you apart in your industry? I own it! Frankel Dentistry is the first 100% employee-owned dental practice in the United States.
For work I need: Changing lives a smile at a time is more than a mission statement for Frankel Dentistry. It is hard wired into the fabric of my being at work and at home. I often tell friends there is no curfew on communication with me. You need me. I’m available.
One piece of advice you’d give your younger self: If I could give my younger self one piece of advice, it would be this: every challenge is a hidden opportunity waiting to be uncovered. Embrace the tough moments—they’re the stepping stones to growth and success!
Best advice you’ve ever gotten:
“You are not your story.” It was a game-changer—reminding me that I’m the author, not the narrative. Life’s unwritten pages are full of possibilities!
What is on your bucket list?
The new Honda Prelude Hybrid Coupe. I am leaning toward white.
What is your most-used app?
NYT Games
What do you love most about your job? Dentistry is an incredibly versatile field, blending science, art, psychology, AI, and business. It offers the unique opportunity to transform live in meaningful ways. There’s nothing quite like seeing a once-nervous patient walk into the office with confidence, sporting a beautiful, healthy smile. That moment is truly indescribable!
Something most people don’t know about me is:
I am a Certified Kolbe Consultant.
Jennifer Ludwig, DDS, MS, Partner
HLH Orthodontics
perfectbraces.com
4413 Keystone Dr, Toledo
419-882-1017
Jennifer Ludwig, DDS, MS, PartnerWhat sets you apart in your industry?
My partners and I are always looking for ways to improve the care and experience for our patients. New techniques, new materials, new technology. Always striving to be better keeps us at the top of our game.
For work I need:
Patients that put their trust in me to give them a beautiful, functional smile and my talente HLH team.
One piece of advice you’d give your younger self:
Never second guess investing in yourself. Finishing my residency with 6 figures of debt, I allowed that to create stress and anxiety. My education allowed me to retire that debt. I wish I had realized earlier to trust the process.
What challenges did you overcome to get to where you are today?
When I first applied to orthodontic residencies, I was told ‘no’. I had always been strong academically so being told you’re not good enough was a blow. I sought advice from my future partners and residents at the time and learned to play the application game better. Not being afraid to be told ‘no’ again was critical.
Best advice you’ve ever gotten:
From my mom when I was junior high age. I don’t remember the exact words but the message was “not being forthcoming with the truth or letting a lie slide by omission does not make it correct or just.” This holds true in adult life. Just because it is legal, doesn’t make it moral or right.
What is on your bucket list?
EVERYWHERE!!! I love to travel. Top of the list is Australia.
What’s a great recent discovery?
The Libby app from Toledo Lucas County Public Library.
What is your most-used app?
The Libby app may get the most time, but embarrassingly McDonalds is the most frequent. I need it for my coffee deal!
What do you love most about your job?
The people. The patients we treat and the team it takes to give the best care. They make me laugh and smile and maybe give me some grey hair but mostly they make my day.
My desk:
In reality is 20+ dental chairs/work stations spread over 3 locations with a handful of “to do” items in my bag.
Something most people don’t know about me is:
I am a horrible singer. Very few have ever heard me sing because of this.
Courtney Bache, Vice President
Estate Jewelers
estatejewelerstoledo.com
5442 Monroe St., Toledo
419-885-9100
Courtney Bache, Vice PresidentWhat sets you apart in your industry?
My degree is in fine art, I trained and then worked as a bench jeweler and custom jeweler for many years before ultimately landing at and then becoming co-owner of Estate Jewelers. This experience has helped me immensely as a store owner. Really understanding how pieces are constructed, how repairs are performed and what will last for generations of daily wear is paramount to me. You won’t find that mentality at a big box store, guaranteed.
One piece of advice you’d give your younger self:
Ha, ha, you couldn’t tell the younger me anything, I thought I knew it all! I’m much more prone to listen to advice now, so 97 year old Courtney, if you’re out there, I’m listening.
What challenges did you overcome to get to where you are today?
Too many to name here and all so unexpected, but that’s what helps you grow.
Best advice you’ve ever gotten:
The person who taught me how to make custom jewelry used to say, “Do it with joy, or don’t do it at all.” There is so much we have to do in life that we don’t want to do, I found that using this approach generally makes life better, and if I really can’t find joy in the task, I find someone else to do it.
What is on your bucket list?
To end each day with the person I love.
What’s a great recent discovery?
There are so many unique Toledo businesses that I’ve discovered lately – Nevermore Used Books, Brewhouse Downtown and Lucille’s Jazz Lounge to name a few.
What do you love most about your job?
Love. A nervous gentleman getting engaged, a couple who have been married for 42 years that seem to have their own private language, adding a new birthstone to a mother’s ring. Seeing multigenerational celebration and growth is the absolute most rewarding part of my job. The jewelry is nice too.
Sariah Flynn, President & CEO
Toledo Metro Federal Credit Union
1212 Adams St., Toledo
toledometro.com
(419)242-4926
Sariah Flynn, President & CEOWhat sets you apart in your industry?
The credit union sector is filled with incredibly talented women leaders, so much so that it’s hard to answer this question without considering the broader financial industry. What truly sets me, and many other leaders in the credit union space, apart is our genuine commitment to serving the underserved and forgotten members of our communities. It’s this unwavering dedication to making a difference that distinguishes us from others in the financial world.
For work I need: Faith, a solid team, and coffee. Along with support from my incredibly understanding husband.
One piece of advice you’d give your younger self:
Put your family first. There were times when I allowed work demands and the stress that came with them to take precedence over my family. Now, I’m actively working to create a healthier work-life balance, and I wish I had recognized the importance of prioritizing my loved ones when my children were younger. Family is the foundation, and I would have cherished those moments more.
What challenges did you overcome to get to where you are today?
I could easily write a novel about the challenges that have shaped my journey. I married at 17, found myself divorced with two young children by 23, and had no clear path to a college degree—factors that led me down a career path far from traditional. Over time, I’ve learned to embrace these challenges. It’s incredibly rewarding to reflect on moments when I felt lost or hopeless, only to realize, in hindsight, that those very experiences were part of a greater plan. Looking back, I see how each piece fell into place, guided by faith, leading me to where I am today.
Best advice you’ve ever gotten:
When I started at Toledo Metro, I made a significant mistake, and when I shared it with my new boss, I braced myself for harsh consequences. Instead, his response was, “Perfection is only determined by the one who seeks it.” I admit, I had to ask him what he meant, and he simply said, “No one is perfect.” His words, and the grace he showed, have stayed with me ever since. I often reflect on that moment when evaluating both my own mistakes and those of others. I tend to be my own harshest critic, and giving myself permission to make mistakes is still something I work on. His advice serves as a reminder that we all slip up, and that’s part of the journey.
What is on your bucket list? I strive to live life to the fullest, embracing experiences that many would consider the highlights of a bucket list. One such aspiration was sparked in high school when I read The Celestine Prophecy, a novel set primarily in Peru. Since then, visiting Peru has been a dream of mine. I’ve yet to make it there, and it remains one of the few destinations I’ve wanted to see that I have yet to cross off my list.
What’s a great recent discovery? AI and its growing impact on financial services, particularly in areas like fraud detection, and personalized financial advising. While the potential of AI in finance is exciting, it also raises important concerns, especially when it comes to data privacy and ethical issues. The key will be to ensure that these technologies are developed and used responsibly, with safeguards in place to protect consumers and maintain trust in the financial system.
What is your most-used app? Spotify. Closely followed by Pinterest for meal planning.
What do you love most about your job? What I love most about my job is the opportunity to help people achieve financial stability and security. There’s nothing more rewarding than guiding others toward a future where they feel confident and empowered in their financial decisions.
My desk: Organized chaos.
Something most people don’t know about me is: One thing most people don’t know about me is that I’ve always dreamed of writing the novel I mentioned
Julie Ketterman, Co-owner, General Manager
Ye Olde Durty Bird
yeoldedurtybird.com
2 S. St. Clair St, Toledo
(419) 243-2473
Julie Ketterman, Co-owner, General ManagerWhat sets you apart in your industry?
35 plus years of experience.
My most used app:
The Weather Channel
For work I need?
Yellow sticky notes
What do you love most about your job?
Making people happy.
Best advice you’ve ever gotten:
Do not slow down when merging onto the expressway.
Erica Sommer, President & CEO
State Soft Water
statesoftwater.com
(810) 227-4561
Erica Sommer, President & CEOWhat sets you apart in your industry?
We’re a TRUSTED, 3rd generation family owned and operated water treatment company. We’re ready to help protect your family or business with CLEAN water!
One piece of advice you’d give your younger self:
Make mistakes but learn from them. Take advantage of opportunities. Take risks. Work hard and be persistent.
What is on your bucket list?
Continuing to travel the world with my family! Life is too short and you need to take the time to enjoy this beautiful life that God has given us.
What do you love most about your job?
Our family’s long history in the water treatment industry has been driven by wanting to do something good for humanity. As third generation I have a true passion for providing CLEAN water for local families and businesses. I am thankful and owe this great career to my grandfather and father, they both have taught me so much, not only about this water industry and business but in life itself. In business, you must have a passion for problem solving and helping people, we have exactly that here at State Soft Water. Our family also has a water treatment company in Morris, IL, Great Water USA. The two companies keep me very busy, but our passionate employees continue to grow and provide the best customer service while also providing clean water. A bonus to my career is working alongside my husband Ryan. Having him as a business partner has been a fun ride. We enjoy working hard while having the freedom to enjoy our two boys who are very active with sports and life! We are truly grateful and blessed!
My desk:
My desk must be cleaned and organized. It does get cluttered when I have a lot of different projects going (which is all the time) but I do my best to stay organized. The more cleaned and organized I am, the more efficient I find myself to be. I also love a good candle lit on my desk.
Shelley Horine, MA, LPCC, Owner
pathwaytoserenity.net
115 W. Front St. Unit 8, Perrysburg
419-910-2638
Shelley Horine, MA, LPCC, OwnerWhat sets you apart in your industry?
I have been a police officer for 21 years prior to becoming a counselor so I integrate a variety of treatment approaches that are unique to the client which include but not limited to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Internal Family Systems, Intimacy for the Inside Out for couples counseling.
For work I need:
To be present with my clients so I also take care of myself as well. I go to counseling and do self-care.
One piece of advice you’d give your younger self:
The advice I would give my younger self would be you can do anything if you just try.
What challenges did you overcome to get to where you are today?
I had a traumatic childhood growing up and then going into law enforcement at the age of 24 years old. While serving as a police officer I also served in the Air National guard with the 180th from 2000 to 2007. I was deployed to Iraq and Hurricane Katrina/Rita. Then in 2014 I completed my masters in mental health counseling and worked part time as a counselor, then in 2016 I was in a physical altercation with a suspect and was injured with a concussion along with a diagnosis of PTSD. I overcome those things by getting my own counseling in using the therapies I use with my clients.
Best advice you’ve ever gotten:
That there are no bad parts of us just what has happened to us.
What is on your bucket list?
I would like to go to a women’s basketball final four.
What’s a great recent discovery?
That fears seems to keep us all back from trying anything new.
What is your most-used app?
Calm for meditation.
What do you love most about your job?
I love being part of a client’s journey to healing.
Something most people don’t know about me is:
That I sky dived once.
Judy Potter, Owner
Black & White Transportation
bwtransportation.com
4665 W. Bancroft St., Toledo
419-536-8294
Judy Potter, OwnerWhat sets you apart in your industry?
Our diversification of services we offer.
What challenges did you overcome to get to where you are today?
There are many from banking, contract, employee relationships and cashflow to name just a few.
What’s a great recent discovery?
The Transversa/Broda chair. It is a revolutionary hybrid wheelchair that will greatly expand our services for those in need.
What do you love most about your job?
That we provide a vital service for so many that have real transportation issues.
My desk:
Is chaotic from the outside looking in but from my chair it is perfect.
Something most people don’t know about me is: I am a veteran of the United States Navy. Hoo Rah!!
Zorailyn Martinez, President & CEO
Latin Dance in Toledo
latindanceintoledo.com
3218 W. Sylvania Ave., Toledo
419-910-4021
Zorailyn Martinez, President & CEOWhat sets you apart in your industry?
What sets me apart is that, growing up in Venezuela, Salsa and Bachata were an essential part of my culture. I bring that cultural depth into my teaching, sharing not only the steps but also the history and soul behind the dances, passing that connection to the culture onto my students. Having started dancing later in life, I understand how intimidating it can be to step onto the dance floor, so I make sure every student feels encouraged and supported in my classes. Even in a group of 20, I always do my best to make each person feel valued and seen. It’s important to me that everyone leaves class feeling like they’ve made progress, not just as dancers,but as individuals. My personal experience allows me to relate to my students an create a comfortable, welcoming environment where they can grow, whether they’re beginners or more advanced dancers.
For work I need:
I need my creativity. It keeps me inspired and constantly thinking about the next big idea. Creativity is essential to both my teaching and my business. I’m always looking for innovative ways to create new dance routines and fresh ideas to promote the studio.
Every class offers an opportunity to explore new ways to keep things exciting and engaging for my students. Creativity also helps me think outside the box when it comes to running the studio. From creating social media content to organizing events, I love finding unique ways to attract new people and spread the joy of Latin dance while engaging with the community.
One piece of advice you’d give your younger self:
I would tell her to trust herself, follow her instincts, and listen to her heart. Growing up, I felt a lot of pressure to follow a conventional path that my family expected of me. I graduated from college in Venezuela with a degree in engineering, but deep down, I always knew it wasn’t what truly inspired me. If I could go back, I would encourage my younger self to embrace her passions and not let external expectations shape her decisions.
It’s crucial to trust your instincts and pursue what brings you happiness, even if it’s different from what others envision for you.
What challenges did you overcome to get to where you are today?
The biggest challenge I faced was learning to trust myself, truly believing in my abilities and listening to my inner voice. I came to realize that no one is coming to save you. While there are incredible people who can offer support and guidance, we all face our own individual battles. Once I overcame that mental barrier and started trusting my instincts, everything changed. I gained a newfound confidence, and that’s when things began to shift. My business was born, and it started growing faster than I ever expected. Believing in myself gave me the courage to take risks, make decisions with conviction, and move forward with purpose. This has been one of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned: trusting yourself is key to unlocking your true potential.
Best advice you’ve ever gotten:
The best advice I’ve ever received was to “always advertise.” I’ve always known that marketing and advertising are important, but the significance really hit me when I launched my business in a new country, a city I didn’t know, with a new language and no idea how the community would respond to my vision. Last year, a successful businessman told me, “Always advertise, no matter what, just do it.” Now, I understand why, out of everything he could have said, he emphasized this as a crucial element for building a successful business. Even when you have support and a strong community, you still need to make the effort to reach people who haven’t discovered you yet—especially if you want to take your business to the next level. It’s about going the extra mile to make sure others know you exist.
What’s on your bucket list?
There are a few things on my bucket list, but one of them is to travel more, to teach and, just as importantly, to continue learning along the way. Latin dance is such a powerful, universal language, and I feel passionate about bringing it to even the most remote places. I want to offer people the opportunity to experience the energy and emotion that comes with Salsa and Bachata. I believe that these dances have the ability to connect people on a deeper level, no matter where they’re from, and I want to share that feeling with as many communities as possible. By doing this, I can not only introduce them to the beauty of Latin dance but also continue to grow as a teacher and dancer myself.
What’s a great recent discovery?
I’ve recently realized how powerful consistency and self-belief are in achieving success. I always knew they mattered, but it wasn’t until now that I truly understood their impact. I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit, but fear and lack of confidence held me back. I’d start projects, but never follow through. What’s changed is that nowI know once you commit and believe in your vision, you become unstoppable. Consistency and belief in myself have made all the difference, and now I’m able to create successful classes, host events, and build the life I’ve always dreamed of. The key is to never give up and keep moving forward.
What is your most-used app?
When I saw this question, I had to check my phone to be sure, and it turns out that my most-used apps are Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and Spotify. Both Facebook and Instagram serve personal and business purposes. They help me stay connectedwith my students, friends and family, keep up with my community, and share updates about classes and events. YouTube is a valuable resource for both learning and entertainment, so I use it a lot. Spotify is a must for me because music is such a big part of my life. While these apps are essential for my work, I also prioritize my mental health. I make sure not to spend too much time mindlessly scrolling or watching content that doesn’t add value to my day and purpose.
What do you love most about your job?
Honestly, I love every aspect of it. From the initial inspiration to executing new ideas, the entire process is something I truly enjoy from start to finish. However, if I had to pick one thing, it would be the opportunity to connect with so many different people. I’ve watched students come in feeling nervous or unsure, and then I’ve seen them grow in confidence. It’s incredibly rewarding to be a part of their journey. Dance not only gives them a physical workout but also provides a mental break. I really love how it allows people to forget their struggles for an hour—it’s like a mini vacation for both their minds and bodies.
My desk:
My desk is simple and mobile—just my laptop, phone, and a notebook for jotting down notes and ideas. More often than not, my cat, Gordo, is there keeping me company while I work. I love having him around; he brings a cozy, unique energy to my space. I feel really lucky that, in addition to teaching at the studio, I can take care of the rest of my work from the comfort of my home or anywhere I choose. It’s the perfect balance, allowing me to stay productive while keeping things relaxed.
Something most people don’t know about me is:
While many assume that all Latinos are naturally good dancers, I wasn’t one of them. I grew up as the “black sheep” in my family, listening to rock music (still do) and not feeling a connection with Latin dance or my own roots. My family would throw parties for any occasion, and I’d watch them dance, wishing I could move like they did. It wasn’t until I was in college, around 19 or 20, that I decided to give it a shot and took my first Salsa class. That moment was a turning point, and I never looked back. Now, I believe the rhythm and flavor were always within me—it just took time for me to discover and fully connect with it.
CLAUDIA ROSCOE, Owner
HEALTH FOOD BY CLAUDIA
healthfoodsbyclaudia.com
3904 Secor Rd., Toledo
419-474-2400
CLAUDIA ROSCOE, OwnerWhat sets you apart in your industry?
Our level of commitment to education and the quality of products we stock on our shelves. I’ve always had a simple motto-if I don’t want to feed something to my family, I certainly don’t want to feed it to yours either. Good health is a commitment, and we’re committed to your good health.
One piece of advice you’d give to your younger self:
Listen better when someone is speaking to me and to be more patient, with myself and others.
What challenges did you overcome to get to where you are today?
Life is full of challenges. Some of them I’ve overcome, and some continue to be works in progress. One challenge I’ve learned to overcome after working with the public for so long is to just be where a person is at, rather than having expectations for them. Just listen to where they’re at and respect it. A challenge that is a work in progress is learning to transform sorrow and trauma into something greater filled with love and gratitude.
What do you love most about your job?
The opportunity to witness the healing capacity of the human body when given the proper tools that nourish it. When you witness someone heal themself, you see very clearly how the current medical system’s approach to addressing dis-ease is very off.
My desk:
My workspace is always filled with pens, pencils, paper, note pads, notes written on the pads, books, highlighters, sticky notes and articles and research papers on things I’m studying. I’ll be the first to admit I’m not good at organizing paper stuff, so I tend to have stacks of papers and books around me all the time!
