Mamaprenista, Richelle Peña, on Sharing Her Experiences as a Leader at Work and Home
August 7, 2023
Hello Richelle! Please share a brief introduction about yourself and your business:
I am an entrepreneur, dedicated wife, and mom of three beautiful children. Over the past 15 years, I have been in a leadership position and owned 7 pediatric dental offices with my husband. My journey of being a working mom and business owner has allowed me to learn how to balance work and life. I want to help people by sharing my experiences as a leader at home and work. My life is balanced, and it’s not just about work. I will provide tips on family, relationships, and leadership. I am also writing my first book that covers my journey of ups and downs and how to tackle life. It is a great mix of business, leadership, the relationship of working with my husband, and living a balanced life raising my kids.
What excites you about being an Entreprenista League member?
I am excited to be part of a community of women who are like minded entrepreneurs. I think it is great that women can uplift one another rather than hold each other down.
So Richelle, how did you know you were ready to start your own business?
I talk the talk and walk the walk. Having owned a business in the past, with over 130 employees, I want to help people reach their full potential. Women can work and raise a family. It is possible.
You mentioned you owned pediatric dental offices, can you elaborate on that? What was your background prior to starting your own business?
I have a doctorate in Pharmacy. In 10 years, my husband and I built a multi-million dollar business that was acquired by a larger dental service organization just for kids.
Did you always know you wanted to be an entrepreneur?
No. I let fear hold me back for a long time. I was always the supportive person in the company. After going through the roller coaster ride of owning a business, I now have the confidence to venture out on my own.
When launching a new biz, marketing is so important! What is your game plan moving forward?
I am still in the beginning stages of my business plan. I am writing a book that I am hoping opens more doors for me.
Entreprenistas are resilient. What is the biggest challenge you have encountered so far?
The biggest challenge I am facing is wanting to do it all. I have several ideas of what business I want to open, but I had to learn to take it one step at a time.
Richelle, you have lots to be proud of! What is the accomplishment you are the most proud of to date?
To date, the biggest accomplishment that I am most proud of is being successful both in my career/business owner and a dedicated mother and wife. Many people say you have to choose, between work and family. I disagree. It’s all about balance. I am blessed that I was able to be present in my kids lives and never missed an important moment despite the craziness of building our business. As a woman and mom, it was important that my family came first.
We all want to believe in work life balance...but sometimes it seems impossible. Are you a believer?
YES. Yes. Yes. Time management is key. Set expectations- no emails or phone calls past working hours (5pm). Put your phone down and be present. People can wait. Prioritize your own health and wellness. You can care and love other people until you take care of yourself first.
What have you achieved recently that you'd like to celebrate with our community?
Putting myself out there on social media. I lived a very private life, but I’m now ready to share what I’ve learned. I also am excited to launch my first book!
What's next for your business? What can we expect to see over the next few years?
My book launch. I want that to open doors and build connections with organizations who could use my help. I also would like to start an online party platform. I love parties and am the mom everyone goes to when they need recommendations. I’ll need help with that one :)