Episode 45: In this episode of Freed Stories, we connect with Lauren Dalrymple and Kate Keyser, November 2024 Freed Fellows and co-founders of Ivy Lane Home Staging. Operating along Colorado's Front Range, they combine Lauren's psychology background with Kate's marketing expertise to create emotionally resonant staged spaces that drive sales. Their unique approach moves beyond traditional staging to deliver customized solutions for each property.

3 Key Takeaways:

1. Market-Specific Approach: Each home requires individual attention - staging needs in Fort Collins differ significantly from Denver, requiring adaptability and market understanding.
2. Strategic Inventory Management: Success in staging relies on strategic sourcing, mixing high-end and affordable pieces to create luxury looks while managing costs effectively.
3. Relationship-First Business Model: Building genuine connections with realtors and understanding their challenges led to sustainable growth without paid advertising.

Connect with Ivy Lane Home Staging:

Website - https://www.ivylanehomestaging.com/ Instagram: @IvyLaneHome - https://www.instagram.com/ivylanehome/

Continue Your Journey: Don't forget to subscribe to Freed Stories on your favorite podcast platform. Stay tuned for more episodes filled with actionable insights and stories of entrepreneurship that inspire and guide. Visit our website for additional resources and support at

Freed Growth - https://freedgrowth.com/grow

Apply for our Freed Fellowship Monthly Grant - https://freedfellowship.com/

Follow Freed Growth on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/freedgrowth

Episode 44: In this episode of Freed Stories, we connect with Marissa Romero, our October 2024 Freed Fellow and founder of Subscribers to Sales. As a former civil engineer turned digital entrepreneur, Marissa shares her journey from creating daily YouTube content in Thailand to building a successful agency that helps coaches and experts maximize their YouTube presence. Her unique approach combines strategic content creation with team building to help business owners focus on their expertise while her team handles the technical aspects.

3 Key Takeaways:

1. From Creator to Agency: The transition from content creation to running a service-based business requires different systems, sales approaches, and team management skills.
2. Strategic Content Creation: Success on YouTube isn't about expensive equipment or perfect editing - it's about consistent value delivery and proper backend optimization.
3. Mindset Foundation: Business success is 80% mindset and 20% strategy - maintaining spiritual and mental well-being is crucial for long-term success.

Connect with Marissa Romero: Website: marissaromero.com Free Content Creation Blueprint: marissaromero.com/blueprint

Continue Your Journey: Don't forget to subscribe to Freed Stories on your favorite podcast platform. Stay tuned for more episodes filled with actionable insights and stories of entrepreneurship that inspire and guide. Visit our website for additional resources and support at

Freed Growth - https://freedgrowth.com/grow

Apply for our Freed Fellowship Monthly Grant - https://freedfellowship.com/

Follow Freed Growth on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/freedgrowth

Episode 43: In this episode of Freed Stories, we reconnect with January 2021 Freed Fellow Elif Ekin, founder of Kahve Cafe and Bohemian Baklava. From surviving the pandemic to overcoming significant business challenges, Elif shares how she transformed a Victorian house in Salt Lake City into a thriving coffee destination that's earned recognition as Best Coffee in SLC 2024 and Best Turkish Coffee for two consecutive years.

3 Key Takeaways:

1. Authenticity in Business: Being transparent about challenges and staying true to your vision builds genuine customer connections and community support
2. Strategic Growth Management: Cross-training staff across multiple roles creates operational flexibility while maintaining quality and authenticity
3. Business Protection: Maintaining direct control over crucial operations like finances while delegating other responsibilities helps prevent potential issues

Connect with Elif Ekin: Website: www.kahvecafeslc.com Baklava Orders: www.bohemianbaklava.com Location: 57 South 600 East, Salt Lake City

Continue Your Journey: Don't forget to subscribe to Freed Stories on your favorite podcast platform. Stay tuned for more episodes filled with actionable insights and stories of entrepreneurship that inspire and guide. Visit our website for additional resources and support at

Freed Growth - https://freedgrowth.com/grow

Apply for our Freed Fellowship Monthly Grant - https://freedfellowship.com/

Follow Freed Growth on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/freedgrowth