Oct 8

Women Who Mean Business (and Then Some)

Boss Moves: Wisdom from women who lead

At Hart House Creative, we’ve had the privilege of sitting down with some serious trailblazers—women who are rewriting the rules, breaking the mold, and, let’s be honest, absolutely killing it in their industries. Our podcast has been a front-row seat to their wisdom, grit, and a whole lot of laughter.

In this article, we’re spotlighting a few of these powerhouse women. From the unique challenges they’ve tackled to the triumphs they’re celebrating, we’re sharing their insights straight from the source—with a few golden quotes from our podcast chats. Get ready to be inspired because these women aren’t just running businesses—they’re running the show.

Women Who Mean Business In the Art World

Nancy Good is a dynamic force in the Las Vegas art scene, blending creativity with community impact through her work at Core Contemporary, a gallery she owns and operates. At Core, Nancy provides a platform for other artists to shine, offering exhibition opportunities, educational programs, and mentorship while maintaining a vibrant arts and culture event space.

In her on-site studio, Nancy continues to create her own layered, inspiring pieces, which reflect the importance of play in her process. In addition to running the gallery, she serves as an adjunct faculty member at Roseman University Medical School, where she uses her artistic expertise to design workshops and curricula that bridge the gap between art and science, enriching the education of future medical professionals.

“I know that I will never gain perfection and I don’t want to. I want to become skilled in everything that I do.” – Nancy Good

Ashley Zabarte is the visionary behind Hey Maker, a vibrant space in Downtown Las Vegas at the Ferguson, where creators and their work come together in a celebration of artistry and community. As the founder of Hey Maker and organizer of the beloved Maker’s Market, Ashley is dedicated to empowering and elevating makers, helping them build their brands while fostering connections within the creative community. Her mission is to support small businesses and the local economy by providing artists with the platform and guidance they need to gain traction and momentum. Ashley’s passion for sustainability and her keen eye for discovering beauty in unexpected places is woven into everything she does, making her a true champion for makers and the environment alike.

“How do I help other artists? I know that’s what I want to do. Then, during the pandemic, it just came to me, my old business partner, and I started a subscription box. Every month we would curate it with different local artists in the box to help get them out in the community, get their name out there, and give them a boost.” – Ashley Zabarte

Chelsea Luster, exhibition manager at The Philadelphia Magic Gardens, is a rising artist whose work delves into the intricate themes of safe spaces within Queer and Black culture. Through her mixed-media paintings and installations, Chelsea’s art serves as a powerful exploration of identity and belonging. Her significant series, Finding Home, invites Black, Queer, Trans, and Femme individuals to express their safe havens through the use of textures, colors, and memories.

Chelsea's deeply interactive process often incorporates interviews, shared meals, and collaborative installations, creating spaces that challenge mainstream media's stereotypes while fostering connection and dialogue.

“The collective power of artists is really what pushes the art scene forward in Philadelphia. There’s no way that anyone can do it by themselves. We all need each other.” – Chelsey Luster

How Women in Science are Making Knowledge Accessible

Sarah McAnulty is a passionate advocate for science education and environmental conservation, known for her ability to bridge the gap between scientists and the public. As the founder of Skype A Scientist, Sarah connects classrooms with scientists across the globe, fostering curiosity and a love for learning in students of all ages.

Her artistic talent also shines through her vivid illustrations of marine life, which make complex scientific concepts approachable and engaging. Sarah’s dedication extends to her public art program in Fishtown, where she supports local artists and spreads messages of environmental care. With a unique blend of scientific rigor and creative expression, Sarah is making a lasting impact on both her community and the natural world.

“Making science feel achievable and approachable is absolutely the goal. Meeting scientists is a great way to do that.” – Sarah McAnulty

Disrupting the Sports Apparel Game with Bold Vision

Whitney Bansin is a true disruptor in the sports fashion industry, carving out a space where high fashion, functionality, and inclusivity intersect. As the founder of The Wild Collective, a brand known for its bold, androgynous designs and commitment to sustainability, Whitney has redefined what sports apparel can be.

In an industry often dominated by male leadership and generic logo-ed T-shirts, she has introduced fashion-forward creations that empower both athletes and style enthusiasts to make a statement. With her visionary leadership and dedication to pushing boundaries, Whitney continues to thrive and inspire in the world of sports fashion.

“You have to understand your boundaries and know when it’s okay to be in that slump and when you gotta kick it into high gear.” – Whitney Bansin

Redefining the Kitchen with Passion and Innovation

Chef Aziza Young is a culinary powerhouse (and mother of five!) whose journey began in her family’s kitchen at the age of 9, sparked by her father’s passion for food. By 12, she was already honing her skills at her grandfather's catering company, and despite only having formal training in high school, she launched her own catering business in 2013.

Known for her creativity and dedication, Aziza quickly made a name for herself, earning acclaim on Fox’s Hell’s Kitchen and later competing on Chopped. Her flair for inventive dishes has cemented her as a beloved figure in Philadelphia’s food scene, winning her multiple awards, including the People’s Choice Award for Best Short Rib Lasagna and two Open Table accolades for her restaurant. Today, as a private chef to professional athletes and a business owner, Aziza continues to inspire with her innovative approach to food and her unshakable work ethic.

“My greatest motivation is that I don’t want to work for anyone. I can do what I do and work hard, or I can work for someone else and work hard for them. But I don’t want to. That is my biggest motivation. I don’t want to be on someone else’s schedule and time. I want to create my own schedule and be on my own time.” – Chef Aziza Young

A Movement of Empowerment and Innovation

Celebrating female entrepreneurship isn’t just a moment—it’s a movement. The women featured in this article are redefining industries, breaking barriers, and creating spaces for themselves and others to thrive in.

From the art world to the culinary scene, fashion, science, and beyond, these women who mean business are proving that there’s no limit to what can be achieved with passion, creativity, and a fierce commitment to their visions. Their stories remind us that success is as much about lifting others up as it is about personal triumph, and their journeys serve as an inspiring testament to the power of women leading the charge.

Here’s to the women who are not only running businesses but running the world—and doing it on their own terms.