Holly Molenaar launched the Ottawa Valley Boss Babes podcast at the beginning of the pandemic with one goal in mind."And to be able to encourage other women who are entering entrepreneurship to be inspired that maybe they might be able to embark on their own journey."Molenaar, 33, says it was when support was gathering for small businesses during the pandemic that the idea was born and that, in turn, helped her create her own brand and business.
OV Boss Babes' latest episode was recorded Wednesday featuring Kayla Janke, who owns and operates four businesses in the Ottawa Valley: Valley Tent and Party Rental, Parvati & Athena Events, Ottawa Valley Roast House, and Nature's Compass. Molenaar has also expanded her guest list to women outside of Renfrew County, touching the Pontiac and Lanark County as well.
According to the 2021 census, women in Renfrew County make up 43.4 per cent of those who identify as self employed.