Dominnique Karetsos on Women’s Health Tech Disruption

Women's Journal Staff on August 30, 2024

According to the Harvard Business School, entrepreneurs share a distinct set of characteristics. They are almost inevitably curious, adaptable, self-aware and decisive.

But there’s a personality trait that Harvard leaves out – passion. Successful entrepreneurs are able to adapt to market conditions and analyze needs extremely quickly, and when they find a business or cause that excites them, they can be single-minded in purpose.

One such focused individual is Dominnique Karetsos, CEO, venture general partner, board member, advisor, global speaker, innovator, and UN Women Delegate.

Karetsos, Founder and CEO of Healthy Pleasure Group, Minthub and Co-Creator of Amboy St Ventures, is bullish about the growth potential of the female-focused health and wellness market. She has seen an increased demand for products that appeal to modern women and leveraged that demand into entrepreneurial success.

Her work with Amboy Street Ventures, the world’s first venture capital fund dedicated to women’s health tech startups and Minthub, a B2B innovation hub focused on enhancing health and wellness and intimate care for everyone at all life stages, are both projects that Karetsos is especially passionate about.

As she says, “These are organizations at the cutting edge of empowerment, but they’re not just passion projects. They’re companies that are hyper-focused on the sexual health and women’s health technology market and providing products and solutions designed, developed and marketed by pioneering women.”

Growing up in South Africa, surrounded by nature and exposed to societies where behaviors such as breastfeeding in public are very different from those and considered taboo in Western society gave Karetsos a unique view of what it means for women to take ownership of their bodies. Although now based in the UK, her exploration of various cultures and the role of women in society is a passion that continues to shape her life and unique take on the female wellness industry.

“We’ve seen movements such as MeToo grab the headlines, and we’re also seeing a lot more conversation about women’s health and the unique needs of this market. But health and wellness organizations, especially startups, need to become more in tune with what the female market wants and needs, says Karetsos.

Dominnique Karetsos on Women's Health Tech Disruption

Photo Courtesy: Dominnique Karetsos

The Keys to the Kingdom

The venture capital market has surged in recent months after a slow start to 2024 and a very quiet 2023. Much of this nascent recovery is due to re-emergent interest in technology, geopolitical issues and economic motors, especially AI, and it bodes well for those seeking funding in these areas.

Karetsos is bullish about the growth potential of companies involved in female wellness tech but warns that the needs of this market are changing, and those seeking a competitive edge need to get on board with new narratives surrounding the empowerment of women.

“Anyone involved in brands would have by now realized that the female market is in urgent need of products that speak to them as women, not societal constructs. Times are changing. Women are taking ownership of their lives and their identities. They are no longer satisfied with being a Mrs, a Miss or even a Ms; they want to be recognized for their value as equal humans.”

For Karetsos this also means developing health and wellness products that cater to women from every background and of every age.

“More and more companies are realizing that women have different needs, depending on their time of life. A wellness product designed for a woman of 18 is probably not going to meet the needs of a menopausal or postmenopausal woman. So, extra data needs to be gathered by any company entering this potentially lucrative market.

“Women are a unique demographic that has to cope with periods, pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases and often professional and societal pressures. It’s a complex marketplace, but the right advice and research can smooth the way to brand acceptance and loyalty.

“I believe that every woman deserves honest, inclusive, and comprehensive sexual health education and access to innovative products marketed at women by women who understand the challenges that they face.”

Experience Counts

Karetsos has applied 25 years of experience across 40+ markets, advising major brands and becoming a sought-after expert in the competitive female-focused health tech industry.

As Founder and CEO of Healthy Pleasure Group, a professional services firm specializing in women’s health and technology, Karetsos and her team help companies launch products, build brands, and craft strategies tailored to evolving customer needs.

“There are approximately 170 million women in the United States, and worldwide, women spend almost $35 trillion on consumer goods, the equivalent of 50% of global consumer spending. It’s a market that requires careful consideration and, in many cases, new narratives and revisiting brand identities. It’s also a potentially lucrative U.S. market if companies go in with their eyes wide open.”

Photo Courtesy: Dominnique Karetsos

The Need for a New Perspective

Karetsos is dedicated to dismantling stigma and dispelling misinformation. “Advocacy is about reshaping the narrative and making discussions about female health and wellness more common,’ she explains.

‘We must foster safe environments where individuals feel comfortable asking questions and seeking support without fear of judgment.”

In tandem with her advocacy work, Karetsos is a focused investor, backing forward-thinking startups that share her vision. She believes entrepreneurship can spark change and is dedicated to supporting ventures focused on empowering women. “Investing in female-centric health startups isn’t just about profits; it’s about driving innovation and creating solutions that truly improve people’s lives,’ says Karetsos.”

This rapidly evolving industry offers great rewards for savvy entrants, but market domination requires more than just strategy—it demands a distinct edge.

As competition grows, companies need unique selling points that resonate with women. For expert insights from an accomplished advisor, an industry pioneer and Healthtech thought leader, and a mentor to female founders, connect with Dominnique Karetsos on LinkedIn or explore her empowering vision for women on her website.

Published By: Aize Perez

AMOnubogu Life & Love Coaching: Helping Women Rediscover Love After Divorce

Women's Journal Staff on August 30, 2024

Adrianna Onubogu, CEO of AMOnubogu Life & Love Coaching, is making waves by helping women navigate the often challenging terrain of life after divorce. Through her personal experiences and expertise, Adrianna empowers women to find love and rediscover their self-worth. As a teen mom at 17 and a divorcee with three children by 26, Adrianna’s journey is a testament to resilience and the pursuit of happiness. Her inspiring story serves as the foundation for her coaching practice, where she encourages women to believe that life after divorce can indeed be filled with joy, love, and fulfillment.

Adrianna’s approach to life coaching is rooted in her belief that every woman deserves a love that aligns with her true self and values. Having found the love of her life through a dating site, which led to a proposal in just ten months, Adrianna is living proof that one’s past does not dictate the future. Her coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of learning from past relationships to define what one truly wants and deserves in love. This self-discovery process is essential for women who wish to break free from cycles of unhealthy relationships and set an example of what true love looks like for their children.

AMOnubogu Life & Love Coaching differentiates itself by addressing the unique challenges faced by women post-divorce. Adrianna’s personal experience as a mother and her journey toward remarriage provide her with a unique perspective that resonates with her clients. She understands the doubts and fears that divorced women often face, especially those with children, and offers practical advice to help them rebuild their lives. Her coaching programs focus on healing, personal growth, and the pursuit of authentic relationships, encouraging women to let go of past resentments and embrace the possibility of a future filled with love.

In her coaching sessions, Adrianna delves into the complex emotions that women experience after divorce. She helps them understand that their worth is not diminished by past relationships and that they are deserving of a love that is respectful, supportive, and nurturing. By guiding her clients through the healing process, Adrianna enables them to move beyond their anger and resentment toward their ex-partners. This emotional freedom allows them to open their hearts to new possibilities and attract the kind of love that they desire and deserve.

AMOnubogu Life & Love Coaching Helping Women Rediscover Love After Divorce

Photo Courtesy: Adrianna Onubogu

Adrianna’s success stories highlight the transformative power of her coaching. Many of her clients have experienced significant personal growth, leading to healthier relationships and improved self-esteem. One client, who initially sought coaching to focus on herself and her son, found herself growing into a more vulnerable and self-aware individual. Through Adrianna’s guidance, she learned to celebrate her achievements, manage her emotions, and approach life with a more positive outlook. Another client, who was on the verge of giving up on her relationship, found renewed hope and clarity thanks to Adrianna’s unique approach, which helped her navigate her relationship challenges effectively.

At the core of AMOnubogu Life & Love Coaching is the belief that women should not let past relationships define their future. Adrianna challenges her clients to reflect on whether they want their last relationship to be their final one. By encouraging them to seek out fulfilling partnerships, she empowers women to reclaim their narrative and build the life they truly want. Adrianna’s coaching is not just about finding love; it’s about helping women rediscover themselves, prioritize their well-being, and set a positive example for their children.

Adrianna’s coaching also emphasizes the importance of modeling healthy relationships for children. She believes that when children see their mother being loved in the right way, it shapes their understanding of love and relationships. This insight is crucial in breaking the cycle of single motherhood and divorce, as it teaches children the value of mutual respect, love, and partnership. Adrianna’s own children have witnessed her journey from divorce to finding love again, which she believes has had a positive impact on their understanding of relationships.

As Adrianna continues to inspire and guide women through their journeys, her mission remains clear: to help women see that life after divorce is not the end but a new beginning. With her compassionate and results-oriented approach, Adrianna is helping women transform their pain into strength, their fears into confidence, and their dreams into reality. Her work has already made a profound impact on many lives, and she is committed to expanding her reach to help even more women discover the love they deserve.

For more information on AMOnubogu Life & Love Coaching and Adrianna’s programs, please visit www.AdriannaMason.com. Follow Adrianna’s journey and gain insights into life and love coaching by connecting with her on Instagram and Medium. Adrianna Onubogu’s expertise in life and love coaching is a beacon of hope for women seeking to redefine their lives after divorce, and her story is an inspiration to many.

Published by: Khy Talara

Keller Plastics: Pioneering Custom Extrusions

Women's Journal Staff on August 30, 2024

In a world where the demand for innovative and customized solutions is ever-increasing, Keller Plastics stands at the forefront of revolutionizing industries with its unparalleled expertise in custom plastic extrusions. For over four decades, this leader in the plastics manufacturing sphere has been transforming ideas into tangible high-quality products, serving an array of sectors including aerospace, retail, medical, and automotive. With a commitment to excellence echoed through their mantra, “We deliver innovation. We guarantee Quality, Service, and Value Every Day!”, Keller Plastics has become synonymous with reliability and ingenuity.

Keller Plastics differentiates itself by offering comprehensive services that complement its thermoplastic custom profiles. Notably, their ability to custom color match any palette a client provides sets them apart in the industry. This capability is underpinned by specially designed screws during the PVC extrusion process to ensure optimal melt and brilliant color dispersion – a testament to their technical prowess. Their engineering team’s adeptness at achieving high L/D ratios exemplifies the company’s dedication to perfection in every project undertaken.

Beyond color matching, Keller Products innovates with custom drilling stations for precise design scenarios and offers lamination services that cater to various types of custom plastic extrusions. Their commitment to pushing boundaries is evident in their provision of complete Engineering Design services including 3D print prototypes for extrusion projects – a rare feat that underscores their leading position in extrusion technology.

Why does Keller Plastics stand as the ideal option for your custom profile plastic extrusion needs? The answer lies not only in their ability to tackle challenging requests but also in their holistic approach towards customer service. With every project undertaken, they guarantee quality service and value – principles that have cemented their reputation as industry leaders.

Their engineering team is poised to design final products that meet exact specifications while offering customization options that few can rival. From design engineering to tooling and from co-extrusion to fabrication processes like punching or notching, Keller Plastics offers an all-encompassing solution for custom plastic profile extrusions.

Specialization in diverse applications further illustrates Keller Plastic’s mastery over custom plastic extrusion techniques. Whether it’s creating PVC pipes for industrial use or crafting intricate automotive trims, each product benefits from Keller’s rigorous standards for safety and sustainability. Their proficiency extends into producing medical tubing with precision, highlighting an acute focus on functionality and regulatory compliance crucial within high-stakes fields like healthcare.

The realm of consumer products also benefits from Keller’s expertise where everyday items are reimagined through innovative uses of custom-extruded plastics; from sports equipment parts enhancing athlete safety to home improvement products combining durability with aesthetic appeal.

With over forty years of dedicated service, Keller Plastics exemplifies how steadfast commitment to quality can drive innovation across various industries. As they continue to harness advanced technologies and foster strong partnerships with each client, they remain dedicated not just as a leading manufacturer but as a valued business partner committed to turning visionary ideas into reality.

At its core, Keller Plastics thrives on a philosophy deeply rooted in delivering superior craftsmanship matched by exemplary customer service. As industry leaders utilizing versatile techniques “to convert ideas into tangible high-quality products,” they invite partners and clients alike into a collaborative journey towards achieving remarkable solutions tailored precisely to meet every need.

For those poised at the idea stage of a project or seeking better solutions for existing needs within the realm of custom plastic extrusions—Keller Plastics represents more than just a manufacturer; they stand as pioneers ready to usher your concepts into fruition with unmatched quality and value.

Engage with them today:

Call: (603) 446-6916

Email: sales@kellerproducts.com

Embark on your journey towards groundbreaking solutions with Keller Products – where innovation meets excellence.

Published by: Martin De Juan

Exploring Global Comfort Foods in Modern Kitchens

Women's Journal Staff on August 30, 2024

Comfort food is a universal concept, yet its interpretation varies wildly from one culture to another. What remains consistent, however, is the way these dishes offer solace, warmth, and a deep sense of familiarity. Today, as the world becomes increasingly interconnected, traditional comfort foods are crossing borders and making their way into kitchens far from their origins.

From the aromatic turmeric rice of Southeast Asia to the hearty casseroles of the American Midwest, comfort foods have a way of bringing warmth to the soul. These dishes are no longer just regional staples; they’re becoming global favorites, adapted and enjoyed by people everywhere.

The Appeal of Global Comfort Foods

The allure of comfort food lies in its ability to evoke emotions and memories. When people move from one country to another, they often bring their culinary traditions with them, turning to these familiar dishes during times of stress or homesickness. This is how global comfort foods begin their journey into new kitchens. Dishes like Italian lasagna, Japanese ramen, and Mexican tamales have gained international popularity, not just because they’re delicious, but because they resonate on a deeper emotional level.

As these dishes are introduced into new cultures, they often undergo slight modifications to suit local tastes and ingredient availability. For instance, Japanese ramen has been adapted in countless ways outside of Japan, with new variations incorporating local flavors. Similarly, Italian pasta dishes have been reimagined around the world, with chefs and home cooks alike putting their own spin on traditional recipes. The result is a fusion of flavors that both honors the original dish and creates something entirely new.

The global appeal of these comfort foods is also a testament to the power of food to bridge cultural divides. In a world where diversity is increasingly celebrated, embracing the comfort foods of different cultures is a way to foster understanding and appreciation. When people cook and enjoy these dishes, they’re participating in a form of cultural exchange that’s both delicious and deeply meaningful.

Modern Twists on Traditional Dishes

As global comfort foods find their way into more kitchens, chefs and home cooks are experimenting with new ways to prepare these beloved dishes. Traditional recipes are being reinterpreted with modern techniques and ingredients, leading to innovative versions that still capture the essence of the original. This trend is particularly popular in urban areas, where food enthusiasts are eager to explore new flavors while still seeking the comfort of familiar dishes.

Take, for example, the humble mac and cheese. Originally an American staple, it has been transformed in recent years by chefs around the world. In some restaurants, mac and cheese is now made with artisanal cheeses, topped with truffle oil, or even spiced up with flavors from other cuisines, like kimchi from Korea or chorizo from Spain. These creative twists have turned simple comfort food into a gourmet experience, all while maintaining the nostalgic comfort that makes it so beloved.

Similarly, Indian curry has found a place in the global culinary scene, with variations popping up that incorporate local ingredients and flavors. In the UK, for instance, chicken tikka masala—a dish that is said to have been created by Indian chefs in Britain—has become a national favorite, often served with a side of chips (fries) instead of the traditional naan or rice. This hybrid dish is a perfect example of how global comfort foods can evolve and adapt, reflecting the culture of the place where they’re enjoyed.

These modern interpretations of traditional comfort foods not only highlight the adaptability of these dishes but also their timeless appeal. Whether it’s a reimagined version of a childhood favorite or a new take on a classic dish from another culture, comfort food continues to evolve while remaining a source of warmth and satisfaction.

Bringing Global Comfort Foods into Your Home

For those looking to explore global comfort foods at home, the possibilities are endless. With the availability of international ingredients in supermarkets and online stores, it’s easier than ever to recreate traditional dishes from around the world in your own kitchen. Whether you’re making a simple bowl of pho from Vietnam, a rich moussaka from Greece, or a spicy jerk chicken from Jamaica, these dishes can bring a taste of the world into your home.

One of the joys of cooking comfort food is the opportunity to connect with the culture it comes from. Understanding the history and significance of a dish can make the cooking experience even more meaningful. For example, making a pot of Italian minestrone isn’t just about preparing a healthy meal; it’s about appreciating the resourcefulness of Italian cooks who created this dish from whatever vegetables they had on hand. Similarly, baking a batch of Swedish cinnamon buns is a way to partake in the Swedish tradition of “fika,” a coffee break that’s as much about community as it is about the food.

Bringing global comfort foods into your home also allows for creativity. While it’s important to respect the origins of these dishes, there’s nothing wrong with experimenting and making them your own. You might add a local twist to a traditional recipe or combine elements from different cultures to create something new. The key is to find the balance between innovation and tradition, ensuring that the dish remains comforting while also offering something fresh and exciting.

In exploring global comfort foods, you’re not just expanding your culinary repertoire—you’re opening yourself up to new experiences and connections. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering of friends, these dishes offer a way to share the warmth and comfort of home, no matter where in the world that home might

Published by: Martin De Juan

Navigating Life’s Transitions: Dr. Ada Luz Gonzalez’s Story

Women's Journal Staff on August 30, 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of business and life transitions, adaptability isn’t just an advantage—it’s a necessity. Dr. Ada Gonzalez, a distinguished entrepreneur and communication expert, embodies this principle through her concept of “pivotability” – the quality or state of being pivotable, of being able to pivot and change direction without falling apart.

Her journey through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship has been a masterclass in pivoting effectively, both professionally and personally.

For senior leaders and women in transition, her story offers valuable insights into leveraging communication and adaptability to navigate the complexities of leadership and life.

Dr. Ada’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by her ability to embrace change with confidence. Life is full of voluntary and involuntary transitions, and many times, it’s challenging to face that reality.

You’d be surprised to see how many transitions Dr. Ada has experienced:

She moved from one country to another eight times, building new support systems and business connections each time.
She lived in three different states in the USA (Michigan, Texas, and Delaware).
Born and raised in Cuba, she learned English from scratch when she started college in the USA at 20 years of age.
She raised children who have now grown up, moved out, started careers, and made her a grandmother.
She experienced the loss of her mother, her father’s remarriage, and his subsequent widowhood.
She transitioned from being the director of a counseling center in Mexico to becoming an entrepreneur in the USA.
She got divorced and later remarried.

Some transitions were harder than others. Through every challenge, she faced fears, failures, and stumbles but also received support, developed more pivotability, learned a lot, and ultimately thrived.

One critical moment was when she was 18, overwhelmed by the abundance of choices in a Madrid department store.

Having grown up in Communist Cuba with ration cards and limited options, she found herself paralyzed by the sheer number of blouses available. This experience marked the start of her journey into freedom and resilience, shifting her mindset from “scarcity thinking” to “anything is possible.”

This experience was a turning point. It set her free to explore, learn, and embrace the new, no matter how challenging. It sparked her fascination with the opportunities that change brings, leading her to focus her studies on change and transformation. Ultimately, she built a career helping others navigate life or business challenges.

Dr. Ada’s personal and professional lives are deeply intertwined.

A defining moment in her life was when she divorced her husband of 27 years. She recalls the exact moment in Santa Fe, NM, while taking one of her doctoral classes, when she realized she could not continue to be in a relationship that had been difficult and unfulfilling for years. She felt it was time to set herself free.

An art show at one of the many galleries in Santa Fe, themed “Journeys,” resonated deeply with her. One picture, titled “The Tethered Traveler,” hit her at her core, reminding her that if you can’t take flight because you are tethered, you must cut free.

Paralyzed by the weight of a bad relationship, she decided to divorce her husband once her youngest son graduated from high school.

She moved to Texas, where she took the national test to become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, started a new job, and became a US citizen.

This professional growth gave her the courage to work as a therapist for the Army in Germany and later to start her company, Transformative Conversations, in Delaware as an expert in communication and relationships.

Dr. Ada helps senior leaders and their teams engage in effective conversations that drive business forward. She also aids high-achieving couples in rekindling their connection and supports women in transition in developing pivotability and transforming their lives.

She authored Transformative Conversations: The Heart of the Leadership Journey, which translates complex concepts into practical guidance for leaders.

Her upcoming initiative involves a “Journey of Renewal” retreat to Tuscany in 2025 and the launch of the “Renewal Circle,” a community for continuous growth and transformation.

Dr. Ada’s journey is a compelling testament to the power of adaptability and effective communication in leadership. Her concept of pivotability offers a roadmap for senior leaders looking to thrive in the dynamic business world.

She firmly believes that leaders and individuals can navigate any challenge and achieve lasting success by embracing change, fostering strategic conversations, and leveraging personal growth.

To learn more about Dr. Ada Gonazalez, visit her website.

Published by: Nelly Chavez