Women Founders Share Their Stories at In Her Shoes | Chicago Women in Business Event
What It Really Takes to Build Something from Nothing: An Evening for Women in Business in Chicago
There is something incredibly powerful about hearing the story behind someone's success.
Not the polished version you see on social media. Not the highlight reel. The real story—the moments of uncertainty, the pivots, the failures, the risks, and the perseverance it took to keep moving forward.
That was the heart behind In Her Shoes, an intimate evening hosted by Inspirate Marketing in partnership with Heels & Handshakes Chicago at The Yard Fulton Market.
Designed for women founders, entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals across Chicago, the evening created space for honest conversations about leadership, ambition, and what it truly means to build a career with purpose.
Throughout the evening, attendees heard firsthand stories of resilience, growth, and leadership from accomplished women who have built businesses, navigated career changes, and overcome challenges that aren't always visible from the outside.
Nikole highlighted her health setbacks and the importance of balancing work with joy.
Lynette discussed her tech company's journey, including being a finalist for TechStars and the impact of her CTO's departure.
Lake emphasized the importance of financial planning and separating self-worth from net worth.
Sarah shared insights on building brands through storytelling.
Instead of focusing only on achievements, the conversation highlighted the moments that shaped them:
Learning through failure
Making difficult decisions
Embracing change
Building confidence over time
Staying committed to a vision even when the outcome wasn't guaranteed
These stories resonated because they reflected experiences many women in business face every day.
Advice you wish you could tell your younger self. 👇
“keep walking and to believe in her limitless potential.”
“Being present and enjoying the moment rather than always focusing on the future.”
“To go for it and not be afraid to take risks.”
“Make time for joy and valuing the people you love.”
Thank you to these women who poured their time, energy, expertise and heart into our community. We are beyond grateful for you.
From left to right:
Nikole Galanes
Sara Press
Lake Mitchell
Lynette Correa-Velez
Moderated by Samantha Alvarez
Every successful business has a story. Behind every milestone is a woman who chose to keep going, even when the path wasn't clear.
Events like In Her Shoes continue to strengthen the growing community of women in business in Chicago, bringing together founders, professionals, and leaders who believe success is built through authentic relationships.
If you're looking for a welcoming women's networking community in Chicago, Heels & Handshakes brings together women entrepreneurs, business owners, executives, and professionals who believe that meaningful relationships create lasting opportunities. Through monthly networking events, educational programming, and intentional connections, our mission is simple: help women grow their businesses, expand their networks, and support one another every step of the way.
Whether you're launching your first business, leading an established company, or growing your career, there's a place for you in our community. We can't wait to welcome you to an upcoming Heels & Handshakes Chicago event and introduce you to hundreds of incredible women who are building, leading, and thriving together.
Photography provided by Amanda Kazmer