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I first connected with Cheldin Barlatt Rumer in a women's group on Facebook, and she invited me to be a guest on her online talk show, "This Is It TV." I wasn't sure what to expect, or how to prepare and I was admittedly frazzled when, on the day of the interview, there was lots of rain. Despite showing up with frizzy hair, Cheldin was warm, inviting, reassuring, and lovely. She also happens to be incredibly smart, driven, and passionate about helping people grow their businesses. I had a wonderful conversation with Cheldin about content on her show, and wanted to return the favor by featuring her as this month's Lady Boss that I love! Part of what I think is so incredible about Cheldin's story is that she was already running a successful business when she decided to pursue a new passion, which is a testament to the fact that you don't ever have to let yourself be defined in just one way.
Cheldin Barlatt Rumer: This Is It TV
What is the name of your company (or companies) and what do you do?
I am the Executive Producer & Host of This is it TV, a daily digital talk show that celebrates the entrepreneurial sprint, while giving our audience a daily dose of lifestyle news. I give entrepreneurs and small business owners a platform to no longer whisper their wishes, but SCREAM their dream.
How long have you been in business?
This is it TV was created in 2015.
How did you decide to launch your own business?
I originally started a grass-roots PR & marketing agency called i-g creative, which I am still the CEO of the company. I would often prep my clients for interviews by recording them and interviewing them before going live. I realized that this was my true passion and in 2015 started This is it TV.
What challenges did you face in the process of launching your business?
I was late to the game in creating a digital series because by 2015 everyone was already established and on YouTube. It took me a few years to find my niche in the space and eventually found the mission of This Is It TV, which is Scream Your Dream. I want to help as many entrepreneurs and small business owners share their story and give them the confidence to scream their dream.
Did you feel as though there were resources available to you, specifically as a woman business owner?
I already had an extensive network of connections in the Philadelphia area through my previous business. However, there are such amazing women's groups that support other like-minded female entrepreneurs like myself. There is a large sense of community in this area and I have met a variety of women who have helped guide me and my business in the right direction.
Do you have a mentor?
My mother Ada!
Books you recommend?
Becoming by Michelle Obama.
What do you love most about running your own business?
I love creating things from the ground up and giving a platform to people who didn't always have one available to them. I found a need for entrepreneurs to have a community and voice and created this outlet for them. Interviewing interesting people everyday is probably my favorite part.
What is your least favorite aspect of running your own business?
My least favorite part is the administrative business tasks. Running a business is difficult and I am naturally creative. The administration side of things did not come easy to me, but with trial and error I have become proficient.
What is your best piece of advice for other women who are thinking about launching a business?
I always say I know what I know, but also know what I don't know. What I mean by this statement is that I understand when I need to ask for help when I am not good at something. Seek out advisors and find your tribe of people who have the knowledge in areas/disciplines that you lack knowledge in.