Coffee N° 5 with Lara Schmoisman

Hosted by Lara Schmoisman

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Episodes

242

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Your Brew of Business Wisdom - Coffee N5 is your ultimate guide to running, growing, and scaling a successful business in today’s competitive landscape. Hosted by award-winning marketing strategist Lara Schmoisman—a Forbes Next 1000 honoree and LA Times Inspirational Women finalist—this Podcast is your secret weapon for actionable strategies, insider tips, and real-world success stories. Every episode dives into the tools, tricks, and tactics that help businesses thrive, featuring insights from industry leaders and innovators across beauty, wellness, lifestyle, and beyond. Lara’s unique approach combines her vast expertise in omnichannel marketing with her passion for helping brands unlock their potential. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, Coffee N5 gives you everything you need to create lasting success. So, pour yourself a cup, tune in, and let’s turn your business ambitions into reality—one episode at a time! Listen now and discover what it takes to build the business of your dreams.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 9, 2026Episode 230 min

How Beauty Heroes Revolutionized Clean Skincare Shopping

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Coffee N°5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Jeannie Jarnot, founder of Beauty Heroes. Jeannie dives into her transition from spa management to pioneering a clean, sustainable, and highly effective beauty marketplace. From establishing strict ingredient standards to navigating a decade of evolving consumer behavior, this conversation uncovers what it truly takes for brands to succeed in highly curated environments while maintaining authenticity, consistency, and a consumer-first approach.• Key Topics Covered:Jeannie Jarnot’s background in spa management and how it shaped her strict brand standards.The reality of ingredient curation and why Beauty Heroes strictly bans components like phenoxyethanol.How consumer behavior and awareness around clean beauty have evolved over the last 12 years.Proven strategies for independent brands to pitch, survive, and thrive in curated marketplaces.The role of authentic content, long-term brand engagement, and consistency in driving growth.Integrating holistic wellness into the traditional beauty space and anticipating future industry trends.• About Jeannie Jarnot:Jeannie Jarnot is the founder of Beauty Heroes, a trailblazing marketplace and discovery service dedicated to clean, healthy, and sustainable skincare. With a rich background as a spa director, Jeannie revolutionized the beauty shopping experience by enforcing unparalleled ingredient standards and championing a "less is more" philosophy. She is a recognized leader in the wellness industry, passionate about helping consumers make conscious choices and helping ethical brands scale with integrity.🔗 Stay Connected with The DARL: 📸 Instagram: / thedarlagency👍 Facebook: / thedarlagency💼 LinkedIn: / about🐦 X (Twitter): https://x.com/thedarlagency 🌐 Website: https://thedarl.com/🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth!#MarketingCareer #CoffeeN5Podcast #JeannieJarnot #CleanBeauty #BeautyHeroes #SkincareMarketing #BrandStrategy #SustainableBeauty #TheDARL #BusinessGrowthSupport the show

June 2, 202633 min

From Secretary to Industry Leader: Elana S Drell Szyfer's Journey

Send us Fan MailHow do you climb from an entry-level secretarial role to the executive suites of the beauty world?In this episode of Coffee N°5, we sit down with beauty industry powerhouse Elana S Drell Szyfer. Elana shares her remarkable journey, offering a masterclass in career development, leadership, and the shifting dynamics of the beauty and wellness landscape.Whether you are climbing the corporate ladder in a global powerhouse or navigating the agile waters of a startup, Elana’s insights on humility, continuous learning, and adaptability are essential listening. We dive deep into why modern careers are no longer a straight line, how the convergence of health and beauty is changing the market, and the irreplaceable role of mentorship in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.Key Takeaways From This Episode:Start Somewhere: Why taking an entry-level role (even as a secretary) can give you the foundational tools to build an empire.The Corporate vs. Startup Shift: Critical leadership lessons learned when transitioning from massive global corporations to agile, small brands.The New Career Landscape: Understanding the evolution of career stages and the exciting convergence of beauty, health, and wellness.The Power of Mentorship: Why asking questions and actively supporting future leaders is the ultimate key to industry growth.Connect with Elana:LinkedIn: Connect with Elana S Drell SzyferResources Mentioned in This Episode:CEW (Cosmetic Executive Women): cewbeauty.org (Note: double-check link spelling for CEW)Industry Insights: Women's Wear Daily (WWD)💡 Sound Bites to Remember:"Start somewhere, even as a secretary.""Be humble and entrepreneurial.""Ask questions, build your own path."Love the show? Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe to Coffee N°5 on your favorite podcast platform!Support the show

May 5, 202625 min

Breaking Taboos in Sexual Wellness: The Future of Women’s Pleasure with Maria Warrington

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Coffee N°5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Maria Warrington, CEO of Beacon Brands. Maria dives into the evolving world of sexual wellness, sharing what it really takes to build, market, and scale a brand in one of the most restricted yet fastest-growing industries. From breaking taboos to redefining pleasure as part of overall wellness, this conversation uncovers the strategies behind connecting with modern consumers while navigating cultural, political, and digital advertising barriers.• Key Topics Covered:The challenges of marketing sexual wellness products in highly regulated digital environments.How to break taboos and build authentic, stigma-free brand conversations.The role of community and medical professionals in building trust and credibility.Expanding beyond pleasure into wellness, menopause, and holistic women’s health.How brands like Plus One innovate to stay relevant across major retailers like Target, Walmart, and Amazon.The shift in consumer openness and how it’s reshaping the future of the industry.• About Maria Warrington:Maria Warrington is the CEO of Beacon Brands, a leader in the sexual wellness and consumer goods space. She oversees a portfolio of brands including Plus One, focused on empowering women through accessible, innovative, and stigma-free products. With extensive experience in brand building, retail expansion, and navigating complex marketing restrictions, Maria is at the forefront of redefining how wellness and pleasure are positioned in today’s market.Stay Connected with The DARL:Instagram: thedarlagencyFacebook: thedarlagencyLinkedIn: aboutX: https://x.com/thedarlagencyWebsite: https://thedarl.com/Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth!#MarketingCareer #CoffeeN5Podcast #MariaWarrington #SexualWellness #WomenHealth #BrandStrategy #DigitalMarketing #TheDARL #BusinessGrowthSupport the show

April 27, 202628 min

Raising Capital & Scaling: What Investors REALLY Look for in Beauty Brands

Send us Fan MailIn Episode of Coffee N5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Ilya Seglin, Managing Director at Raymond James. Ilya dives deep into the world of finance, explaining what it takes for a brand to raise growth capital or achieve a successful strategic exit. They discuss the reality of "alphabet soup" fundraising (Series A, B, and beyond) and why having a "forever brand" is the ultimate goal for major acquirers.• Key Topics Covered:The difference between Strategic Acquirers and Private Equity (The "Marriage vs. Divorce" analogy).When is the right time to stop self-funding and look for outside investors?The importance of unit economics, repeat purchase behavior, and product differentiation.Why a Sephora or Ulta launch could either make or destroy your business.The "Halo Effect": How digital data informs retail success.3 Things a brand should NEVER do when trying to scale.• About Ilya Seglin: Ilya Seglin is a seasoned investment banker specializing in the consumer and beauty sectors. With years of experience at firms like Raymond James, he has been a key player in some of the most significant deals in the industry. He helps founders navigate the complexities of raising capital, finding the right strategic partners, and preparing their businesses for long-term sustainability and eventual sale. Stay Connected with The DARL: Instagram: thedarlagency Facebook: thedarlagency LinkedIn: about X: https://x.com/thedarlagency Website: https://thedarl.com/ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth!#MarketingCareer #CoffeeN5Podcast #IlyaSeglin #BrandExit #InvestmentBanking #BeautyIndustry #StartupFunding #DigitalMarketingAgency #TheDARL #BusinessGrowthlinkedin.comTHE DARL | LinkedInTHE DARL | 17,178 followers on LinkedIn. We are breaking the rules. We are raising the bar. | We are a boutique agency that’s breaking the rules and raising the bar. We are visionaries who love challenges. We are creative without limits.The Darl (@thedarlagency) on XAs a boutique marketing and production agency, we offer a dynamic approach to the new digital media era.X (formerly Twitter)The DarlIntegrated MarketingThe No-Agency Agency means lean, agile, and transparent marketing built for your brand’s success.Support the show

April 22, 2026Episode 24832 min

The Future of Wellness: AI and Luxury Experiences with Tom | Coffee N5

Send us Fan MailThe Future of Wellness: AI and Luxury Experiences with Tom | Coffee N5In Episode 248 of Coffee N5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Tom, a leading consultant in the luxury skincare and wellness space. They explore a often overlooked but highly lucrative channel: Hospitality. Tom shares insights on how brands can move beyond traditional retail and tap into luxury hotels and resorts, the reality of "career consultants," and how AI is set to revolutionize the guest experience through advanced diagnostics.Key Topics Covered:Execution vs. Theory: Why brands need consultants who are ready to "roll up their sleeves" and execute beyond plan A.The Hospitality Opportunity: How luxury skincare and wellness brands can diversify their revenue through in-room amenities and hotel boutiques.Networking for Growth: Why surrounding yourself with people who contribute to your growth is essential for long-term success.The New Rules of Luxury: Debunking myths about discounting, Black Friday, and why premium brands must adapt to consumer convenience (including the Amazon factor).AI and the Future of Wellness: How AI is moving from a buzzword to a diagnostic tool that will power personalized health and longevity retreats.About Tom: Tom is a seasoned consultant specializing in luxury skincare, wellness, and high-end hospitality. With years of experience helping brands navigate the transition from retail to experiential models, he is an expert at building B2B partnerships with some of the world’s most prestigious hotel groups. He is known for his practical, execution-focused approach to brand building and his deep understanding of the evolving luxury consumer.Follow tom:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-macpherson-le-maire-32600948/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tom_mlm_parisien/🔗 Stay Connected with The DARL: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedarlagency 👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedarlagency 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thedarl 🐦 X: https://x.com/thedarlagency 🌐 Website: https://thedarl.com/🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth!Support the show

April 14, 2026Episode 24730 min

Beyond the Business Card: Strategic Networking with Mike Ryan | Coffee N5

Send us Fan MailBeyond the Business Card: Strategic Networking with Mike Ryan | Coffee N5In Episode 247 of Coffee N5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Mike Ryan, a true master of professional relationships and a veteran of the PR and marketing industry. In this episode, they dive deep into the world of professional relationship building, the critical importance of "showing up," and how Mike has successfully navigated the digital revolution from the days of hand-typed press releases to creating premium, high-tech unboxing experiences for global brands.Key Topics Covered:The Philosophy of Showing Up: Why being a "social butterfly" is about building genuine human relationships, not just filling a to-do list.Networking vs. Strategic Partnering: How to move beyond the traditional "booth" mentality to become a respected authority and a face people recognize at every event.The Evolution of the Industry: A fascinating look at the transition from 1980s manual press distribution to the modern era of digital logistics and fulfillment.The Art of the Unboxing Experience: Why "white glove" service and customized influencer send-outs are the new standard for brands in the digital age.Reputation as Your Only Contract: Mike explains why building a "circle of trust" and maintaining a flawless reputation is more powerful than any legal document.About Mike Ryan:Mike Ryan is a seasoned expert in networking and business development with nearly four decades of experience in the communications and fulfillment space. Known as a "Chief Networking Officer" in spirit, Mike has built his career on the principles of loyalty, adaptability, and the power of a handshake. He is a prominent figure in the beauty, fashion, and wellness circles and is the host of the podcast Minutes with Mike.🔗 Stay Connected with The DARL:📸 Instagram: / thedarlagency 👍 Facebook: / thedarlagency 💼 LinkedIn: / about 🐦 X: https://x.com/thedarlagency🌐 Website: https://thedarl.com/🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth!#NetworkingSuccess #CoffeeN5Podcast #MikeRyan #BusinessStrategy #UnboxingExperience #BusinessEvolution #LaraSchmoisman #TheDarlAgency #PersonalBranding #ProfessionalGrowthSupport the show

March 10, 2026Episode 5224 min

The Future of Hormone Health: Community, Clean Living, and Preventative Wellness with Sara Jensen

Send us Fan MailIn this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara Schmoisman sits down with Sara Jensen—serial entrepreneur, author, and Co-Founder & Co-CEO of Hugh & Grace—to explore hormone health, preventative wellness, chemical exposure, and the rise of community-driven commerce.We'll talk about:How 14 years of infertility reshaped Sara’s understanding of hormone healthThe hidden impact of hormone-disrupting chemicals in skincare, haircare, and home productsWhy “clean beauty” lacks a clear definition—and what real preventative wellness requiresThe power of simplifying routines to reduce overwhelm and drive complianceWhy detoxification should be gentle, daily, and sustainableFor more information, visit Sara's LinkedIn and InstagramSubscribe to Lara’s newsletter.Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media:Instagram: @laraschmoismanFacebook: @LaraSchmoismanSupport the show

March 3, 2026Episode 5133 min

The Power of Kindness: Longevity, Entrepreneurship, and Building a Legacy with Dr. Brent Ridge

Send us Fan MailIn this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara Schmoisman sits down with Dr. Brent Ridge—physician, longevity researcher, co-founder of Beekman 1802, and co-author of Goat Wisdom—to explore the science of longevity, microbiome innovation, and why kindness is a powerful long-term business strategy.We'll talk about:Why extreme longevity is influenced more by optimism and social connection than by geneticsHow the “anti-aging” narrative became a fear-based marketing constructWhy longevity starts at birth—not at 40The science behind goat milk, skin pH, and microbiome balanceHow exosomes and oligosaccharides support skin ecosystem healthFor more information, visit Brent's LinkedIn and InstagramSubscribe to Lara’s newsletter.Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media:Instagram: @laraschmoismanFacebook: @LaraSchmoismanSupport the showSupport the show

February 24, 2026Episode 5030 min

The Reality of Social Commerce: Creators, AI, and What Actually Drives Sales with Bora Mutluoglu

Send us Fan MailIn this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara Schmoisman sits down with Bora Mutluoglu, co-founder of Reacher and Y Combinator alum, to break down the reality of social commerce. Using TikTok Shop as a case study, they explore automation, affiliate strategy, creator relationships, and how AI-generated content is reshaping sustainable growth.We'll talk about:Why the “easy sales” narrative around TikTok Shop is misleadingHow social commerce is maturing into a performance-driven ecosystemWhy automation tools don’t replace relationship building with creatorsThe myth of follower count and what actually drives visibility todayWhen large influencers make sense—and when they don’tFor more information, visit Bora's LinkedIn and InstagramSubscribe to Lara’s newsletter.Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media:Instagram: @laraschmoismanFacebook: @LaraSchmoismanSupport the show

February 17, 2026Episode 4923 min

Redefining Ambition: From Burnout to Purpose with Amina AlTai

Send us Fan MailIn this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara Schmoisman sits down with Amina AlTai—holistic business and career coach, proud immigrant, chronic illness advocate, host of the Amina Change Your Life podcast, and author of The Ambition Trap: How to Stop Chasing and Start Living—to explore the psychology of ambition. From burnout and hustle culture to core wounds, systemic pressure, and sustainable growth, this conversation reframes ambition as alignment, awareness, and purpose—not endless striving.We'll talk about:Why PR in 2026 is an ecosystem—not a standalone functionThe myth of “just PR” and why siloed teams break brand momentumInfluencer ROI realities: affiliates, attribution, and what actually convertsLaunch events: when they work, when they don’t, and why most failPR + AI: authority, citations, and why human voice still mattersFor more information, visit Amina's LinkedIn and InstagramSubscribe to Lara’s newsletter.Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media:Instagram: @laraschmoismanFacebook: @LaraSchmoismanSupport the show