In the realm of health technology, where innovations often emerge from a male-dominated landscape, the stories of Jess Toolson and Courtney Williams stand out as beacons of empowerment and resilience. Their journey, as shared in a recent podcast, not only sheds light on the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs but also underscores their unwavering commitment to addressing critical health issues affecting women.
Founding Stories
After experiencing firsthand the challenges of hormone imbalance during her postpartum period, Jess Toolson embarked on a mission to find a solution. Recognizing the lack of support for women grappling with similar issues, she co-founded Mixhers, a health-focused company offering products tailored to women’s hormonal health. Her journey from a stay-at-home mom to a successful entrepreneur highlights the transformative power of personal experience in driving innovation.
Courtney’s entrepreneurial journey began with a pressing need—her sister’s difficult pregnancy. Witnessing the challenges her sister faced in accessing prenatal care due to mobility issues sparked Courtney’s drive to develop accessible health technology. This led to the creation of Emagine Solutions Technology, specializing in handheld ultrasound devices and maternal health apps. Her story underscores the vital role of empathy and real-world problems in shaping innovative solutions.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
Jess and Courtney have confronted imposter syndrome in their respective fields. In industries where women are underrepresented, navigating biases and self-doubt can be daunting. However, Jess and Courtney found ways to overcome these challenges. While Courtney pursued non-dilutive funding routes to bypass traditional venture capital hurdles, Jess embraced her unique leadership style, drawing from her experiences as a mother to foster a supportive work environment at Mixhers. Their journeys serve as inspirations for aspiring female leaders grappling with imposter syndrome.
Addressing Gender Disparities in Health Tech:
Jess’s Mixhers stands out as a trailblazer in addressing gender disparities in the health tech sector. By focusing on women’s specific health needs and conducting research tailored to female physiology, Mixhers challenges the status quo in supplement formulation and testing. Jess’s commitment to providing evidence-based solutions highlights the importance of inclusivity in health product development.
Similarly, Emagine Solutions Technology aims to bridge gaps in maternal healthcare through its innovative products. By developing user-friendly apps and handheld ultrasound devices, Courtney’s company empowers women to take control of their health during pregnancy and postpartum. Her emphasis on accessibility and patient-centered care embodies a paradigm shift in women’s healthcare technology.
Cultivating Healthy Work Cultures:
Both entrepreneurs prioritize creating supportive work environments where employees feel valued and empowered. Jess’s emphasis on work-life balance at Mixhers, including initiatives like flexible work hours and dedicated self-care breaks, fosters a culture of well-being and productivity. Courtney’s commitment to hiring diverse talent and promoting open communication underscores the importance of inclusivity in driving innovation.
Listen to the Women in Motion Podcast by WBEC-West to Learn more about Jess & Courtney
The stories of Jess Toolson and Courtney Williams exemplify the transformative potential of women in health. Through their innovative ventures and unwavering dedication, they not only challenge gender norms but also pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive future in healthcare. As trailblazers in their respective fields, their journeys serve as inspirations for aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to make a meaningful impact on women’s health and well-being. To reach Jess at Mixhers, visit mixhers.com. To reach Courtney with Emagine Solutions, visit emaginest.com. To hear the whole podcast, listen here: https://businessradiox.com/podcast/women-in-motion/womens-health-and-maternal-care/
About Women’s Business Enterprise Council-West (WBEC-West)
WBEC-West is a regional partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), a coalition of corporations, WBEs, and regionally focused women’s business organizations. As an affiliate organization, WBEC-West implements the certification standards of WBENC throughout Arizona, Colorado, Southern California, Utah, Wyoming, Nevada, Hawaii, and Guam. WBENC is the largest certifier of women’s business enterprises in the U.S. and a leading advocate for women business owners, leaders, and entrepreneurs. WBENC certification is nationally recognized and accepted by more than 10,000 major corporations. We also support corporations in their efforts to include WBENC Certified WBEs in their supply chain.
