Founders in Focus
Real-world insights from four founders
Introducing Bernstein Private Wealth Management’s Founders in Focus, an exclusive roundtable discussion featuring four trailblazing women entrepreneurs who share their journeys and strategies for success. In this intimate, candid conversation, you'll hear about the power of problem solving, the role of trusted advisors, and how the right support can catapult you to the next level.
Founders in Focus is a series that delves into actionable advice and real-world experiences. Each episode captures meaningful exchanges about navigating challenges, curating a team, and the importance of solidarity and mentorship. Tune in to be inspired, learn, and connect with a community of visionary women redefining success in entrepreneurship.
The power of problem solving
Join four innovative entrepreneurs—Aishwarya Iyer, Hillary Peterson, Kirsty Stone, and Sarah Wragge—as they share their transformative "aha" moments that sparked their journeys to solve real-world problems. Learn how their personal experiences ignited a passion for creating meaningful solutions that empower others and drive change.
I'm constantly thinking about…who else do I need to hire so that I can operate in my zone of genius.
Meet Aishwarya Iyer—Brightland
Founder and CEO of Brightland, the first category-defining olive oil brand known for making the freshest, highest-quality olive oils, honeys, and vinegars on the market. Since its inception, Brightland has been featured by The New York Times, Vogue, Food & Wine, Fast Company, and many more. Aishwarya has been named on Create & Cultivate’s 100 and in Inc.’s Female Founders 100. Aishwarya also hosts a podcast, Recent Eats, where she speaks with interesting people about what they’ve been eating lately. Previously, Aishwarya spent over a decade in public affairs and corporate communications at various technology companies in both New York City and LA. She started her career at L’Oreal in the luxury products division at Lancome, and is a graduate of NYU’s Gallatin School of Individualized Study.
From solo to success
In this episode, Aishwarya Iyer, Hillary Peterson, Kirsty Stone, and Sarah Wragge explore the evolution from solo founder to confident team builder. The founders reflect on the pivotal moments that signaled it was time to scale through people, the qualities they seek in new hires, and the mindset shifts required to relinquish control and grow with intention.
I do believe that there is a truth. It keeps being shown to me…that when women support women, anything is possible.
Meet Hillary Peterson—True Botanicals
Founder of True Botanicals, a luxury skincare brand known for proving that clean products can deliver clinically proven results. Hillary founded True Botanicals after a personal health wake-up call led her to question the ingredients in everyday beauty products and the lack of transparency around them. Guided by leading anti-aging scientists, green chemists, and sustainability experts, Hillary built True Botanicals with a commitment to performance, safety, and environmental responsibility. Every product is MADE SAFE® certified and formulated to support high-functioning skin without compromising human or planetary health. Under her leadership, True Botanicals has helped set a new standard for clean beauty, showing that efficacy, integrity, and luxury can coexist.
Stronger together
In this episode, the founders discuss the value of community among women entrepreneurs. They reflect on how connection, collaboration, and shared experiences create a foundation for growth and resilience, exploring the ways that supportive networks can help overcome challenges and amplify impact.
When people say you can't have it all, you can, but just not all at the exact same time.
Meet Kirsty Stone—Retrouvaí
Founder and Creative Director of Retrouvaí, a Los Angeles-based fine jewelry house known for its expressive, heirloom-quality designs. Trained in couture design and fine jewelry, Kirsty brings a sculptural, emotion-driven approach to her work, drawing on traditional craftsmanship and modern techniques. Kirsty founded Retrouvaí as a creative outlet rooted in personal expression, memory, and meaning. Each piece is designed to feel intimate and enduring, with an emphasis on craftsmanship, storytelling, and individuality. Under her direction, Retrouvaí has become known for jewelry that balances artistry and wearability, resonating with collectors seeking pieces that feel both timeless and deeply personal.
You have to have certain qualities to be an entrepreneur…you have to be okay with being uncomfortable all the time.
Meet Sarah Wragge—Sarah Wragge Wellness
Founder and CEO of Sarah Wragge Wellness, a science-backed nutrition company best known for the SWW Method®, which focuses on blood sugar balance as a foundation for long-term health. Sarah founded the company after her own experience with chronic digestive issues led her to explore the transformative role of nutrition in healing and performance. Drawing on advanced training in integrative nutrition, Sarah built Sarah Wragge Wellness with a focus on education, personalization, and sustainable behavior change. Alongside a team of registered dietitians and clinical nutritionists, she works with individuals and organizations to improve energy, resilience, and overall well-being through evidence-based programs and products. Her work has helped shape a more thoughtful, practical approach to nutrition for high-performing individuals and communities alike.
Featured Content
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Female founders need more than just women investors to thrive in today’s competitive startup landscape.
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