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Carolyn Rodz
CEO of Hello Alice, and advocate for putting more funding into the hands of small business owner to power our economy
Professional Background
Carolyn Rodz is renowned as the founder of Hello Alice, a dynamic platform designed to serve as an entrepreneur’s passport to success through small business. With a steadfast dedication to advocating for inclusive entrepreneurship, Carolyn works tirelessly with a diverse range of partners, including governments, corporations, foundations, and ecosystem builders. Her mission is to create pathways for underrepresented entrepreneurs, including women, minorities, and veterans, enabling them to access the capital, resources, mentors, and partnerships essential for scaling their businesses and achieving their dreams.
In her impressive career prior to founding Hello Alice, Carolyn honed her financial acumen and entrepreneurial spirit as an investment banker at JPMorgan, where she played an instrumental role in raising billions of dollars in capital. Her expertise in financial strategy and investment facilitated the growth of numerous businesses across the spectrum. Carolyn has also lent her entrepreneurial talents to the global landscape as the co-founder and CEO of Cake Communications, an interactive marketing agency that has effectively served clients around the world, helping them establish their brand presence and engage with audiences.
Education and Achievements
Carolyn attended Texas A&M University, where she studied for her Bachelor of Business Administration with a focus on Finance. This strong academic foundation laid the groundwork for her future ventures and shaped her profound understanding of the financial sectors and entrepreneurial strategies necessary to thrive in the business world.
Her enthusiasm for fostering inclusivity in entrepreneurship has led her to serve as a member of the board for Texas A&M's Mays College of Business, solidifying her commitment to education and entrepreneurship development. Carolyn's influence extends internationally; she has acted as a delegate in the United Nations Global Accelerator, sharing her insights and advocating for small businesses on a global scale.
As a charismatic speaker, Carolyn has captivated audiences at prestigious events, including serving as a TEDx speaker, where she inspired future business leaders and entrepreneurs to pursue their visions unabashedly. Her contributions to the entrepreneurial ecosystem have earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious American Express Micro to Millions award and being recognized as a Sam Walton Emerging Entrepreneur. In 2016, Carolyn was named one of Entrepreneur Magazine's "Women to Watch" and later included in Inc. Magazine’s list of "17 Inspiring Women of 2017." These honors are a testament to her persistent dedication to not only her own entrepreneurial journey but also the success of countless others.
In May 2017, Carolyn had the honor of testifying before the Congressional Committee on Small Business during a pivotal hearing titled, "Empowering Small Businesses: The Accelerator Model.” This opportunity highlighted her as a leading voice in advocating for resources and support for small businesses, cementing her position as a thought leader in the field.
Under her leadership, Hello Alice garnered significant recognition and acclaim. The organization's accelerator program, Circular Board, was named "The Fastest-Growing Accelerator for Women and Minorities" by Fast Company, highlighting the impact of Carolyn's vision and commitment to fostering inclusive business practices.
Personal Life
Beyond her professional pursuits, Carolyn Rodz finds joy and laughter in her family life. She is happily married and the proud mother of two children, who bring endless happiness and laughter into her life. Her love for cookies adds a lighthearted touch to her vibrant personality, reminding those around her to embrace the sweetness in both life and business. Carolyn embodies a unique blend of ambition, passion, and warmth, and as she explores the opportunities ahead, she embraces the excitement of the unknown and the possibilities it holds.
Conclusion
Carolyn Rodz is an inspiring force in the world of entrepreneurship, championing inclusivity while empowering underrepresented business owners. Through her impactful work with Hello Alice, her experience in investment banking, and her leadership in interactive marketing, she continues to make a difference. Carolyn's journey is a testament to the power of resilience, commitment, and passion, as she inspires the next generation of entrepreneurs and advocates for a more equitable business landscape.
Highlights
I'd attribute nearly all of my successes in life to the extra mile. It's where I've met amazing people who have propelled me forward, discover things that help me connect to big ideas, and have been most rewarded financially and emotionally. https://t.co/sK7MLg8vmW
Growing @HelloAlice is among the most rewarding & challenging things I’ve done in my life. Commitment to mission is critical, because it gets hard & scary & exhausting. Thanks for sharing the highs w/the lows, @Inc @alidonaldson. They are the only constants of entrepreneurship.
