Generations of gender stereotypes and misogyny have placed womxn at a distinct disadvantage when it comes to entrepreneurship and the world of business. Forging partnerships with other womxn is one of the most powerful ways to reclaim power from a sexist society. The patriarchy––being as ubiquitous as it is––often foils attempts by womxn to ally with each other. How? By conditioning womxn to participate in a culture of competition, pitted against each other, where winning requires apathy and intolerance.

“My entire career has been built around my ability to build relationships that lead to sales,” says Madeline. “I believe that we should sell like we would want to be sold to. Great selling is about educating and empathizing with the customer to build connections, and when the time is right, that customer will trust you enough to transact with you. It should never be about pushing or selling someone on something they don’t need or aren’t ready to invest in.”