Courageous Conversations with Fran Pastore

Through her work as the Founder and CEO of the Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) in Connecticut, Fran Pastore has had the privilege of knowing and working with remarkable and accomplished leaders who have invaluable insights and strategies for success in the business world and beyond. In every episode, guests share lessons they’ve learned through their personal journeys as they and Fran delve into topics such as financial empowerment, economic equity & access to capital, advocacy for women, growing a business, and more. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, Fran and her guests offer practical advice and inspiration to help you overcome obstacles, conquer your fears, and achieve your goals.

S3/Ep.3 The Impact of Elections on Women Entrepreneurs

Nov 17, 2022

The 2022 mid-term elections took place just over a week ago. While we don’t fully know all of the results or what they will mean for the balance of power in our country, it is clear that female voters came out in force to make their voices heard. In this episode of Courageous Conversations, Fran spoke with...

S3/Ep.2 Accelerating The Growth of Women's Entrepreneurship in CT

Oct 20, 2022

25 years ago, Fran Pastore & Dorothy Bratchell embarked on a mission to create a resource for women entrepreneurs in Connecticut. They were at the forefront of forging a path to accelerate the growth of women’s entrepreneurship and remain committed to that mission today. Listen to this episode of Courageous...

S3/Ep.1 Women in Banking: Meet Four Connecticut CEOs

Sep 22, 2022

What does it take to reach the pinnacle of success in a male dominated arena? Of the more than two dozen banks that are licensed or headquartered in CT, six are led by women in the CEO position. Four of those extraordinary women join Fran to discuss the lessons they learned along the way, the mentors who inspired them,...

S2/Ep.7 Introducing The Mom Shuffle Podcast: When Women Thrive, Communities Come Alive

Aug 10, 2022

Twenty-five years ago, Fran Pastore turned a transition in her career into an opportunity for thousands of other women, their communities, and the State of Connecticut. A recent guest of the Mom Shuffle Podcast, a show which features interviews with guests who are trying to build businesses while also raising their...

S2/Ep.6 Investing In the Future Of Women

Jun 23, 2022

WBDC CEO Fran Pastore was recently appointed Board Chairperson for the Connecticut Paid Leave Authority. In this episode of Courageous Conversations Fran sits down with Nancy Barrow, host of The Paid Leave Podcast. Of course, they discuss WBDC's work and why Fran is so passionate about CT's paid leave program, but they...