Real Talk, Real Growth

Host Linda Ostovitz welcomes Mary Jordan, owner of Bra La La, a bra fitting boutique in Maple Lawn, Fulton, Maryland, for an inspiring conversation about what it takes to build a business from the ground up and keep it standing through every storm. Mary shares the unlikely journey that took her from cancer research at Georgetown’s Lombardi Cancer Center to biotech sales, and ultimately to opening...

In this episode of Real Talk, Real Growth, host Linda Ostovitz welcomes Dr. Minah Woo, Vice President of Workforce Innovation and Strategic Partnerships at Howard Community College. They discuss how the college partners with businesses to build talent pipelines through job fairs, short-term certifications, internships, advisory committees, and registered apprenticeships. The two also discuss the “...

In this episode of Real Talk, Real Growth , host Linda Ostovitz welcomes Wendy Elover , Joy & Clarity Strategist, author, and coach dedicated to helping high achieving professionals slow down, clear the noise, and reconnect with what truly matters. Wendy shares her unconventional career path, the creation of her unique title, and the powerful personal journey that led her to develop her signat...

In this episode of Real Talk, Real Growth , host Linda Ostovitz welcomes Cheryl Brown, General Counsel & VP of Human Resources at Southeastern Container in Asheville, North Carolina. Cheryl discusses her bold career transition from attorney at a labor and employment law firm in Maryland to an in-house role with Southeastern Container. Cheryl shares her journey, including her extensive communit...

In this episode of Real Talk, Real Growth , host Linda Ostovitz sits down with Jennifer Jones, CEO of the Howard County Economic Development Authority. Jennifer shares her journey from Howard County to Purdue University for engineering and law school, and her various professional roles that led her back to her community. She details the challenges and strategies of taking over a long-standing lead...

In this episode of Real Talk Real Growth, host Linda Ostovitz welcomes Lynda Ellis, owner of Capitol Concierge. They discuss Lynda's journey from joining the company in 1998 to eventually purchasing it and expanding its reach globally. Lynda shares insights into her business philosophy, including the importance of employee satisfaction, transparency, and listening to clients. She also recounts var...

In this episode of Real Talk, Real Growth , host Linda Ostovitz welcomes Kristy Mumma, co-owner of Stewart Technologies. Kristy shares her journey of transitioning from a department manager to a business owner along with her business partner, Tara Schinkel. Kristy talks about her involvement with the Howard County Chamber of Commerce, their successful Women's Leadership Conference, and the intrica...

In this episode of Real Talk, Real Growth , host Linda Ostovitz welcomes Kelly Mitchell, owner of Impact HR. Kelly shares her extensive experience in the HR field, discussing the evolution of HR from traditional administrative roles to strategic functions focused on people and culture. She highlights the importance of HR in organizational growth, workforce planning, compliance with laws, and maint...

In this episode of Real Talk, Real Growth , host Linda Ostovitz welcomes Betsy Wendell, owner of Octavia Boutique in Baltimore. They discuss the history of the boutique, its reputation for unique and special fashions, and Betsy's personal journey in managing the store through challenging times like COVID-19 and reconstruction. Betsy shares her insights on customer loyalty, community engagement, an...

In this episode of Real Talk, Real Growth , host Linda Ostovitz welcomes Shaun Eddy, CEO and partner at Oxford Planning Group. Shaun, a certified financial planner with a master's degree in financial analysis, explores the benefits and mechanics of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). He explains how HSAs can grow tax-deferred and be used for medical expenses, particularly in retirement. The discussion...

Welcome to Real Talk, Real Growth. Join host Linda Ostovitz each month as she has meaningful, practical discussions with guests who are on the cutting edge of business. They'll talk, and you’ll grow. Please be sure to like and subscribe to Real Talk, Real Growth wherever podcasts are found and join Linda each month as she discusses a new topic of interest.