Some of the speakers included: Angela Thornton - News Anchor at KATU, Janna Mock-Lopez – Publisher of Portland Family & Goodness Magazine, Julie Duryea- Owner of Souk, LLC, and Zenana-Renee Rose – Owner of Zenana Spa & Wellness Center. I was impressed with speakers and the advice they shared, I’d love to share some of the highlights and pass it onto you. I think it can be applied to most entrepreneuers, no matter where you are in your business.

Session One: Meet the Media

* Be flexible when working with the media, if they want to meet up, adjust your schedule and make room in your day to talk to them. It makes a great impression and they will remember you down the road.

* When pitching ideas or events, be sure to do it months ahead of time.

* Know the publication and don’t pitch a story they did last fall, get to know the reporters and editors so you know what they are looking for (follow them on Twitter!).

* Profile yourself as a local expert and find a hook (a national story or study that’s very popular) can help elevate you and others.

Session Two: The Business of Balance

* Get outside and exercise, it helps decrease stress and depression.

* Have a circle of 5 friends/mentors with more experience than you and ask them for advice and guidance.

* Unplug from your phone and computer on a regular basis.

* Be creative finding childcare help: have someone live with you if you have the space. Swap or do trades with friends & colleagues.

Session Three: Smart Strategies for Growing Businesses

* If something is working, keep it up and replicate it in other aspects of your business.

* Hire professionals before you expand your business (lawyer, accountant, web designer, etc.).

Session Four: Movers & Shakers Share Secrets to Success

* Seek out resources and training through books, podcasts, seminars, etc.

* Don’t let someone else define your work/life balance, it’s different for everyone.

* Perserverence – have no fear, build confidence, don’t doubt yourself and have/share excitement about your business.

* Seek out colleagues and refer each other.