Podcast
The Nouveau Podcast
Hosted by Meredith Waguespack · EN
The Nouveau Podcast: Your guide to building a thriving local small business.
Join entrepreneur Meredith Waguespack, owner of Sweet Baton Rouge® for insights, inspiration, and actionable advice with over 14 years in the retail industry. We'll explore data, marketing, community, and more, all with a touch of French charm.
Let's pop the cork on your entrepreneurial success!
20episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Episode 18: Making the Most of Your Business's Quiet Season
May 26, 202500:14:24Tap to summarizeIs your business experiencing a seasonal slowdown? Instead of hitting pause, this week on The Nouveau Podcast, we're exploring how to strategically leverage your quiet season for long-term growth and success. Discover actionable steps you can take to work on your business, rather than just in it, during these valuable periods.We'll delve into key strategies like reviewing past performance, investing in learning and development for yourself and your team, optimizing your online presence, nurturing valuable customer relationships, and finally tackling those crucial behind-the-scenes tasks that often get neglected during busier times. Learn how to analyze your data, plan future content, strengthen customer loyalty, and streamline your business infrastructure to emerge stronger and more prepared for your next peak season.Don't let your slow season go to waste! Tune in for practical tips and a mindset shift that will help you see this quieter time as a powerful opportunity for reflection, growth, and strategic planning.Connect with Meredith:I am a mom to three, big maw maw to seven. I've been married for 18+ years, counting the days down to the BIG 20 so we can open up a great bottle of wine.My husband and I also own a wine bar in our town we live in, called Library Wine & Provisions. I am the founder of Sweet Baton Rouge®, a local Louisiana business I created from scratch with no marketing plan, just a little grit and lots of geaux! This business will hit 15 years in October and by far has been my most professional career doing what I love, marketing. I have built systems and habits to stay consistent and vision focused on our goals at hand. In 2024 I started a second business, Petey’s Press, to bring all of our production in-house to screen print as our business has always been centered around locally designed & printed t-shirts. Listen to The Nouveau Podcast Follow Meredith on Instagram The Nouveau Podcast Instagram Join Our Email Shop Sweet Baton Rouge®
Transcribe →Episode 17: Batch Working: Your Secret Weapon for Productivity
May 19, 202500:19:05Tap to summarizeFeeling overwhelmed by constant task-switching? Discover the power of batch working! This week on The Nouveau Podcast, we dive into a game-changing productivity strategy that can transform the way you work. Learn why grouping similar tasks into focused time blocks minimizes distractions, maximizes focus, and ultimately saves you precious time and energy.We'll explore the key benefits of batch working, including reduced mental fatigue, increased momentum, streamlined workflows, and more time for deep work. Plus, get practical, step-by-step guidance on how to implement batch working into your daily routine. From identifying recurring tasks and grouping them effectively to scheduling dedicated time blocks and staying focused, we'll equip you with the tools you need to conquer your to-do list with greater ease and efficiency.Ready to ditch the scattered approach and unlock your productivity potential? Tune in to learn how batch working can become your secret weapon for a more focused and successful business!Connect with Meredith:I am a mom to three, big maw maw to seven. I've been married for 18+ years, counting the days down to the BIG 20 so we can open up a great bottle of wine.My husband and I also own a wine bar in our town we live in, called Library Wine & Provisions. I am the founder of Sweet Baton Rouge®, a local Louisiana business I created from scratch with no marketing plan, just a little grit and lots of geaux! This business will hit 15 years in October and by far has been my most professional career doing what I love, marketing. I have built systems and habits to stay consistent and vision focused on our goals at hand. In 2024 I started a second business, Petey’s Press, to bring all of our production in-house to screen print as our business has always been centered around locally designed & printed t-shirts. Listen to The Nouveau Podcast Follow Meredith on Instagram The Nouveau Podcast Instagram Join Our Email Shop Sweet Baton Rouge®
Transcribe →Episode 16: Local Series: Sarah Fulton with Fulton Bookkeeping & Accounting
May 12, 202500:35:07Tap to summarizeFeeling overwhelmed by your business finances? You're not alone! This week on The Nouveau Podcast, we're diving into the crucial topic of bookkeeping and financial clarity with the wonderful Sarah from Fulton Bookkeeping. Sarah's on a mission to empower ambitious female entrepreneurs (that's you!) to feel confident and in control of their business numbers.Sarah understands that navigating your books can be daunting, and she's created a judgment-free space to help you truly understand your financial data and use it to drive your success. With 7 years of accounting expertise, Sarah breaks down common pain points, offering initial steps to feel less intimidated by your finances.We'll explore how Fulton Bookkeeping bridges the gap for business owners, creating a supportive partnership to build your financial confidence. Plus, for creative and service-based businesses like marketing agencies, photographers, and designers, Sarah shares key financial insights and important KPIs to track for growth.Feeling stressed about your bookkeeping? Sarah offers a powerful mindset shift to start your journey towards clarity. And don't miss out on her fantastic FREE resource: a quick 5-minute financial systems audit to pinpoint your strengths and areas for improvement! Learn what valuable insights you can gain and where to find it on her website.Tune in to unlock your financial confidence and start leveraging your numbers for a thriving business!Connect with Meredith:I am a mom to three, big maw maw to seven. I've been married for 18+ years, counting the days down to the BIG 20 so we can open up a great bottle of wine.My husband and I also own a wine bar in our town we live in, called Library Wine & Provisions. I am the founder of Sweet Baton Rouge®, a local Louisiana business I created from scratch with no marketing plan, just a little grit and lots of geaux! This business will hit 15 years in October and by far has been my most professional career doing what I love, marketing. I have built systems and habits to stay consistent and vision focused on our goals at hand. In 2024 I started a second business, Petey’s Press, to bring all of our production in-house to screen print as our business has always been centered around locally designed & printed t-shirts. Listen to The Nouveau Podcast Follow Meredith on Instagram The Nouveau Podcast Instagram Join Our Email Shop Sweet Baton Rouge®
Transcribe →Episode 15: Local Series: Jordan Basham with Where To Geaux Social
May 5, 202500:45:49Tap to summarizeThis week, I'm absolutely buzzing to introduce you to my friend, the incredibly dynamic Jordan Basham! Jordan is the driving force behind the hyper-local phenomenon that is Where To Geaux, your ultimate guide to all things Baton Rouge and beyond. If you've ever wondered where to eat, what to do, or how to truly experience our amazing community, you've likely stumbled upon her fantastic content.But Jordan isn't just about showcasing the best of where to "geaux" for fun – she's also the brains behind Where To Geaux Social, a thriving social media marketing agency dedicated to helping local businesses shine online. As someone who's been navigating the entrepreneurial waters for almost 15 years, I know firsthand the challenges small businesses face when it comes to marketing. That's why I wanted to bring Jordan on. Whether you're just starting out, juggling a side hustle with a full-time job, or you're a seasoned business owner ready to invest in your marketing strategy, this episode is packed with valuable insights.Jordan shares her journey from building a popular local Instagram account fueled by a genuine love for supporting small businesses, to launching a successful social media agency that's now helping over 30 diverse clients – from restaurants to doctors – navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape. We dive into the questions every business owner grapples with: How do you know where to invest your marketing dollars? How do you cut through the noise and truly connect with your audience? And is TikTok the answer to everything (spoiler alert: maybe not for everyone!).Jordan's approach is refreshingly honest and grounded. She emphasizes the power of building a real community, the importance of consistent effort over chasing viral trends, and the freedom that comes from outsourcing your social media when you're already wearing too many hats. We even touch on the rollercoaster of emotions that comes with social media success and the crucial reminder to celebrate the small wins.If you're a local business owner looking to level up your marketing game, gain practical advice from someone deeply rooted in our community, and maybe even find the courage to take that leap of faith in your own entrepreneurial journey, then get ready to geaux listen!You can follow her at @wheretogeaux225 & @wheretogeauxsocialConnect with Meredith:I am a mom to three, big maw maw to seven. I've been married for 18+ years, counting the days down to the BIG 20 so we can open up a great bottle of wine.My husband and I also own a wine bar in our town we live in, called Library Wine & Provisions. I am the founder of Sweet Baton Rouge®, a local Louisiana business I created from scratch with no marketing plan, just a little grit and lots of geaux! This business will hit 15 years in October and by far has been my most professional career doing what I love, marketing. I have built systems and habits to stay consistent and vision focused on our goals at hand. In 2024 I started a second business, Petey’s Press, to bring all of our production in-house to screen print as our business has always been centered around locally designed & printed t-shirts. Listen to The Nouveau Podcast Follow Meredith on Instagram The Nouveau Podcast Instagram Join Our Email Shop Sweet Baton Rouge®
Transcribe →Episode 14: Local Series: With Lydia Matthews, Esther Clothing Brand.
Apr 28, 202500:36:42Tap to summarizeWelcome back to The Nouveau Podcast, everyone! This week, I'm so thrilled to introduce a guest whose entrepreneurial journey has been truly inspiring to witness. Please give a warm Nouveau welcome to the incredibly talented Lydia Matthews! Our paths first crossed maybe back in 2020 or 2021, right around the time she started to build the amazing Esther Clothing brand, when she joined us as a vendor for our Sweet Baton Rouge Ultimate Tailgate. And since then, I've had the wonderful opportunity to watch her business truly grow and blossom over the years.. Tune in for an inspiring story with Lydia! You can connect with her at @esther_clothingbrand. Lydia Matthews is a certified personal stylist and custom color consultant through Esther Clothing brand, found here for more info; https://esther-clothing.com.Connect with Meredith:I am a mom to three, big maw maw to seven. I've been married for 18+ years, counting the days down to the BIG 20 so we can open up a great bottle of wine.My husband and I also own a wine bar in our town we live in, called Library Wine & Provisions. I am the founder of Sweet Baton Rouge®, a local Louisiana business I created from scratch with no marketing plan, just a little grit and lots of geaux! This business will hit 15 years in October and by far has been my most professional career doing what I love, marketing. I have built systems and habits to stay consistent and vision focused on our goals at hand. In 2024 I started a second business, Petey’s Press, to bring all of our production in-house to screen print as our business has always been centered around locally designed & printed t-shirts. Listen to The Nouveau Podcast Follow Meredith on Instagram The Nouveau Podcast Instagram Join Our Email Shop Sweet Baton Rouge®
Transcribe →Episode 13: Local Series: Finding Financial Freedom (Guest Amy Anderson)
Apr 21, 202500:47:36Tap to summarizeWelcome back to our Local Series! This week, we're diving into a topic crucial for everyone: financial freedom. I'm thrilled to welcome our guest, Amy Anderson from BF Anderson!Amy wears many hats, not just at her firm as both an Investment Advisor and Marketing Director, managing client portfolios and promoting investment strategies. She's also a passionate advocate for animal rescue and a loving dog mom to her adorable rescues. But what truly makes Amy a must-listen is her dedication to making personal finance accessible and empowering through her platform, @the.fiscal.fox.What you will learn:In this insightful episode, Amy shares her wisdom and practical tips on how you can begin your journey towards financial freedom. We'll explore:Demystifying personal finance and making it less intimidating.Understanding the fundamentals of financial literacy.Getting started with investing in the stock market.Practical steps you can take today to build a more secure financial future.Amy's unique perspective as both a financial advisor and someone deeply connected to our local community.Whether you're just starting to think about your financial goals or looking for actionable strategies to take control of your financial future, Amy's down-to-earth approach and expert advice will leave you feeling informed and motivated.Tune in to gain valuable insights and start paving your path towards financial freedom right here in our local community!Find Amy Anderson @the.fiscal.fox and bfanderson.comConnect with Meredith:I am a mom to three, big maw maw to seven. I've been married for 18+ years, counting the days down to the BIG 20 so we can open up a great bottle of wine.My husband and I also own a wine bar in our town we live in, called Library Wine & Provisions. I am the founder of Sweet Baton Rouge®, a local Louisiana business I created from scratch with no marketing plan, just a little grit and lots of geaux! This business will hit 15 years in October and by far has been my most professional career doing what I love, marketing. I have built systems and habits to stay consistent and vision focused on our goals at hand. In 2024 I started a second business, Petey’s Press, to bring all of our production in-house to screen print as our business has always been centered around locally designed & printed t-shirts. Listen to The Nouveau Podcast Follow Meredith on Instagram The Nouveau Podcast Instagram Join Our Email Shop Sweet Baton Rouge®
Transcribe →Episode 12: Local Series: The Legal Side of Hiring Like a Boss! (Guest Johanna Landreneau)
Apr 14, 202500:45:23Tap to summarizeWelcome back to our Local Series! This week, we're tackling a crucial aspect of business growth: hiring. I'm thrilled to introduce our guest, Baton Rouge attorney Johanna Landreneau!With over 30 years of legal experience spanning complex civil litigation, including employment law, Johanna now dedicates her expertise to advising businesses on HR compliance, consulting, business formation, branding, and risk management. Fun fact: Johanna handled the trademark registration for Sweet Baton Rouge® way back when, and also played a significant role in my family's adoption journey.In this essential episode for business owners, Johanna shares her invaluable insights on how to hire like a boss while navigating the legal landscape. We'll break down:The critical differences between hiring employees vs. independent contractors (1099s).When you absolutely need contracts (spoiler alert: even for contractors!).The role and importance of Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) in protecting your business.Practical and straightforward ways to legally protect your business when building your team, without getting bogged down in unnecessary legal jargon.Whether you're about to make your first hire or are looking to ensure your current hiring practices are legally sound, Johanna's clear and actionable advice will empower you to build your team with confidence and avoid potential legal pitfalls.Tune in for a must-listen conversation that will equip you with the legal know-how to hire smart and protect your business!Follow Johanna Landreneau @johanna_landreneau_ & @landreneau_lawyers or visit her website lalawbr.com.Connect with Meredith:I am a mom to three, big maw maw to seven. I've been married for 18+ years, counting the days down to the BIG 20 so we can open up a great bottle of wine.My husband and I also own a wine bar in our town we live in, called Library Wine & Provisions. I am the founder of Sweet Baton Rouge®, a local Louisiana business I created from scratch with no marketing plan, just a little grit and lots of geaux! This business will hit 15 years in October and by far has been my most professional career doing what I love, marketing. I have built systems and habits to stay consistent and vision focused on our goals at hand. In 2024 I started a second business, Petey’s Press, to bring all of our production in-house to screen print as our business has always been centered around locally designed & printed t-shirts. Listen to The Nouveau Podcast Follow Meredith on Instagram The Nouveau Podcast Instagram Join Our Email Shop Sweet Baton Rouge®
Transcribe →Episode 11: Local Series: The Power of Networking (Guest Leigh Moss)
Apr 7, 202500:38:01Tap to summarizeWelcome to our Local Series! Join us as we spotlight the vital roles local connections play in shaping your business. Today, we're thrilled to welcome our first ever guest on The Nouveau Podcast: the incredible Leigh Moss!Leigh is a true entrepreneurial force, juggling Highland Road Realty, The Influential BWN (Business Women's Network), and the charming event space Fete: A Petite Southern Venue, nestled in a historic cottage. Her love for beautiful spaces extends to The Dreamer’s Cottage, her adorable pink door retreat in Natchez, Mississippi. Plus, you can catch her inspiring stories of faith and hope every Monday morning on The Punchbowl Diaries!In this episode, we dive deep into the power of networking, exploring how connecting with the right people and communities can be a game-changer for your local business. Leigh shares her insights on:The invaluable benefits of joining networking groups like The Influential BWN.Building genuine relationships that lead to support, collaboration, and growth.Creating and nurturing a strong local business ecosystem.Overcoming the challenges of entrepreneurship through connection.Her journey building multiple successful ventures within the local community.Leigh's passion for fostering connections and empowering fellow entrepreneurs shines through as she shares practical advice and inspiring anecdotes. Learn how to tap into the power of your local network and cultivate relationships that will propel your business forward.Tune in for a conversation filled with actionable takeaways and the genuine warmth of community spirit!Multi-Passionate Entrepreneur: @influential_bwn@fete.venue @highlandroadrealty @punchbowldiaries_podcast @dreamers.cottage.natchezConnect with Meredith:I am a mom to three, big maw maw to seven. I've been married for 18+ years, counting the days down to the BIG 20 so we can open up a great bottle of wine.My husband and I also own a wine bar in our town we live in, called Library Wine & Provisions. I am the founder of Sweet Baton Rouge®, a local Louisiana business I created from scratch with no marketing plan, just a little grit and lots of geaux! This business will hit 15 years in October and by far has been my most professional career doing what I love, marketing. I have built systems and habits to stay consistent and vision focused on our goals at hand. In 2024 I started a second business, Petey’s Press, to bring all of our production in-house to screen print as our business has always been centered around locally designed & printed t-shirts. Listen to The Nouveau Podcast Follow Meredith on Instagram The Nouveau Podcast Instagram Join Our Email Shop Sweet Baton Rouge®
Transcribe →Episode 10: Grit, Grace, and Getting Started: My Story
Mar 31, 202500:21:00Tap to summarizeEver wondered about the voice behind The Nouveau Podcast? In this deeply personal episode, I'm stepping out from behind the microphone to share my story – a journey filled with unexpected turns, unwavering grit, and the grace that carried me through.From growing up in North Louisiana to a less-than-stellar academic start (think 12-14 ACT scores!), I'll take you through the moments that shaped me: being a determined, navigating the complexities of young adulthood, and finding my footing in Baton Rouge.Discover the origin story of my business, born from a $500 loan and a whole lot of hustle selling t-shirts out of my car. I'll share the challenges and triumphs of bootstrapping a business for 15 years, from online beginnings to launching a brick-and-mortar store (right before a global pandemic!), and the lessons learned about resilience, delegation, and trusting your gut.This episode is more than just a personal narrative; it's a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of giving back (through initiatives like our Cajun Navy fundraiser and The Petey's Initiative scholarship), and the unwavering belief that even with a non-traditional path, you can build something meaningful. Join me for a heartfelt conversation about the journey that led me here, hoping to offer a little encouragement along the way.Connect with Meredith:I am a mom to three, big maw maw to seven. I've been married for 18+ years, counting the days down to the BIG 20 so we can open up a great bottle of wine.My husband and I also own a wine bar in our town we live in, called Library Wine & Provisions. I am the founder of Sweet Baton Rouge®, a local Louisiana business I created from scratch with no marketing plan, just a little grit and lots of geaux! This business will hit 15 years in October and by far has been my most professional career doing what I love, marketing. I have built systems and habits to stay consistent and vision focused on our goals at hand. In 2024 I started a second business, Petey’s Press, to bring all of our production in-house to screen print as our business has always been centered around locally designed & printed t-shirts. Listen to The Nouveau Podcast Follow Meredith on Instagram The Nouveau Podcast Instagram Join Our Email Shop Sweet Baton Rouge®
Transcribe →Episode 9: Unlocking Your Audience's Pain Points: The Question-Driven Approach
Mar 24, 202500:31:05Tap to summarizeIn Episode 9, we're understanding your audience's actual struggles. Because let's face it: creating content or products in a vacuum? That's a recipe for disconnect. We’re moving beyond assumptions and taking a "question-driven" approach to build genuine customer connections.We'll explore why understanding pain points isn't just a "nice-to-have," but the foundation of strong customer relationships. We'll delve into how to build emotional connections, making your brand feel meaningful and unique. Think about a time you were frustrated as a customer – that's the level of understanding we're aiming for!We'll cover how to build your "question arsenal," categorizing questions by demographics, psychographics, challenges, goals, and buying behaviors. We'll discuss open-ended, closed-ended, scale-based, and scenario-based questions, and how to use the "5 Whys" technique to dig deeper. We'll also cover where to find answers: surveys, social media polls, customer feedback, online reviews, and more.Then, we'll turn insights into action! We'll discuss creating customer personas, prioritizing pain points, tailoring messaging, developing solutions, and iterating based on feedback. We'll even give you a real-world example using Sweet Baton Rouge (SBR) to illustrate how to build personas and understand customer motivations.Ultimately, it's about creating a brand that resonates, solves real problems, and makes customers feel like they belong. Let's make 'em obsessed! Connect with Meredith:I am a mom to three, big maw maw to seven. I've been married for 18+ years, counting the days down to the BIG 20 so we can open up a great bottle of wine.My husband and I also own a wine bar in our town we live in, called Library Wine & Provisions. I am the founder of Sweet Baton Rouge®, a local Louisiana business I created from scratch with no marketing plan, just a little grit and lots of geaux! This business will hit 15 years in October and by far has been my most professional career doing what I love, marketing. I have built systems and habits to stay consistent and vision focused on our goals at hand. In 2024 I started a second business, Petey’s Press, to bring all of our production in-house to screen print as our business has always been centered around locally designed & printed t-shirts. Listen to The Nouveau Podcast Follow Meredith on Instagram The Nouveau Podcast Instagram Join Our Email Shop Sweet Baton Rouge®
Transcribe →