18. Why Hustling Alone Isn’t Enough: Erica Thomas’s Entrepreneurship Strategies for Networking

From Erica Thomas’s early days combining a full-time job with moonlighting as a freelance writer and food blogger to becoming the powerhouse behind a flourishing food-focused company, Erica shares an inside look at the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, the pivotal role of networking, and the impact of social media on business growth. Erica offers a deep dive into balancing professional pursuits with personal development, touching on parenting, relationships, and societal shifts. Plus, get a glimpse into her philanthropic efforts, how she overcame financial hurdles, and her strategies for cultivating contentment, all while striving for business success. What You'll Learn in This Episode The significance of hustle, networking, and asking for support in an entrepreneur's journey to success Challenges new entrepreneurs face, especially concerning business management aspects like taxes, and the importance of having a support system Strategic insights on combating imposter syndrome and the cultivation of self-belief and self-worth Erica's vision for fostering community and inclusivity through her women's supper club and its recent expansion Dealing with the pressures and criticisms that come with entrepreneurship and social media presence, and the philosophy of contentment driving business performance ABOUT ERICA: Eating With Erica is a nationally recognized food and lifestyle website that has been featured in Food & Wine, Good Morning America, CNN, FOX5, Essence and more. Erica started EWE as a passionate food enthusiast and used her background in corporate marketing and influencer marketing to build EWE into the brand it is today. While she now runs it full-time, being a successful entrepreneur did not happen overnight and when asked, Erica is quick to explain how for the first several months she worked from 9-5 and then came home to work her “5-9.” Over the past decade, Erica has worked with over 250 companies including brands like Panera, La Marca Prosecco, Kroger, Woodford Reserve, and Lexus. As a businesswoman, she understands the importance of professional partnerships, but it is her passion for delicious food that remains at the core of EWE. Connect with Erica: Website Instagram Twitter Facebook Links from the show: Giving Kitchen: A nonprofit organization supporting restaurant workers. Learn more on their website Gift Biz: A philanthropy focused on supporting entrepreneurs, yet a specific web link was not provided, please search for local opportunities or organizations with a similar name. For more information and to connect with our host, Lindsey Epperly, visit www.lindseyepperly.com Looking to turn your Imposter Syndrome into Inspiration? Grab the workbook here!