Here at Belly Bandit HQ, a women-owned and operated company, we believe in celebrating the success of all women in business! Our “Moms Who Made It” series is our way of honoring Mompreneurs who inspire us every day.
This week we're featuring Samantha Rudolph the co-founder of Babyation, a wearable, discreet breast pump. Sam designed the pump after reading a New York Times article lamenting the current state of breast pumps and with her engineer husband, Jared, decided to do something about it!
Describe your business philosophy in 5 words:
Do right by your customers.
What inspired you to start your business?
After nearly a decade working in sports, I definitely didn’t expect to switch gears and enter the parent-tech space! I read an article in The New York Times about the state of breast pumps (before I even got pregnant!), and I got fired up about what my future would look like as a working, breastfeeding and breast-pumping mom. I’m lucky to be married to a gifted an engineer, and he said “I can build something better.” And just like that, Babyation was born!
When did you know you, “made it?”
When did you know you, “made it?” I’m pretty sure I haven’t made it yet! The closest I’ve come was one time I was recognized in Whole Foods as the “Babyation Girl.” It made my entire night! I still get goosebumps every time I enter the store!
Who is your mentor?
I don’t have just one mentor, but rather I have a network of fabulous women that I can go to when I need someone. For instance, I have some other amazing founders who really understand what it’s like to start a business. Their insight and support are invaluable. My best advice is to find people to help you in various situations – it doesn’t have to be only one person. But no matter what, find at least one person who you can vent to…and who won’t judge or tell anyone else!
What's your #1 tip for moms interested in starting their own business
Make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into! This isn’t specific to moms, but to anyone who wants to build a business from scratch. It will take everything you have, and you’ll make a lot of sacrifices along the way. The rewards are worth it, but you have to understand how all-encompassing the journey will be.
What does “me” time mean to you?
My absolute favorite way to recharge is by watching TV. But I take “me” time wherever I can get it. Flying by myself has become a luxury, and that’s when I love to dig into a good book. If nothing else, every night, I climb into bed and check Into the Gloss. I won’t go to sleep until I’ve read at least one article. It’s my way of signaling to my brain that it’s time to relax.
What‘s on your bedside table?
My Kindle! I just downloaded Shoe Dog and #GIRLBOSS.
Words to live by - Share you favorite quote!
For every obstacle, there is a solution: over, under, around or through.
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To learn more about Sam, this amazing Mom Who Made It, head to: www./babyation.com
