Stacked Keys Podcast
The idea to talk to women who are out there living and making a difference is where the Stacked Keys Podcast was born. There are women who make a difference, but never make a wave while paddling through life. Immediately I can think of a dozen or more who impacted me, but I want more. I want to talk to those I don't know and I want to share with an audience that might need the inspiration to find their own beat. This podcast is to feature women who are impressive in the work world-- or in raising a family -- or who have hobbies that can make us all be encouraged. Want to hear what makes these women passionate and get up in the morning or what they wish they had known earlier in life? Grab your keys and STOMP to your own drum.
Stacked Keys Podcast
Episode 223 -- National Small Business Week Celebration 2025 -- Panel One -- What happens when you finally bet on yourself?
Step into the world of small business ownership with host Amy Stackhouse and guest Katrina Paraskevopoulos (Kat), founder of EYIA Retreats, as they peel back the layers of entrepreneurship during National Small Business Month.
Kat shares her transformative journey from corporate life to creating a boutique retreat and travel company specializing in meaningful Greek experiences. The pivotal moment came during a pandemic-era trip to Greece in 2020, when clarity struck and she decided to leave her corporate position by January 2021. That decision point highlights one of the conversation's key themes: creating space for clarity and establishing accountability for our dreams.
What began as a focused retreat business organically expanded when clients requested extended stays and custom itineraries. This natural evolution demonstrates how listening and remaining flexible can reveal unexpected opportunities. As Kat notes, "I definitely didn't set out to do travel design, yet this has become a significant part of my business."
Both women candidly discuss the challenges small business owners face: perfectionism, boundary-setting, and avoiding the urgency trap that leads to burnout. Kat shares her strategy of building a one-year financial runway before quitting her corporate job, allowing her to invest in her business with confidence. Amy emphasizes the dangers of isolation, stressing the importance of community support while being selective about commitments.
For those contemplating entrepreneurship, Kat offers this powerful motivation: "Your worst case scenario is exactly where you are now, so it's time to go." Amy adds, "Stop dreaming about what could be and find out what can be. Time flies, and there's no time like right now."
Whether you're running a business or dreaming of starting one, this conversation offers practical wisdom from women who've walked the path. Ready to bet on yourself? Listen now and take that first step toward clarity and purpose.
Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff