The Three Tomatoes Happy Hour

In this week’s Happy Hour episode, host Cheryl Benton explores a theme that’s both timely and timeless—kindness. What does it mean to do good in the world, and how can we amplify it through storytelling, creativity, andconnection? Joining Cheryl is the incomparable Valerie Smaldone, whose iconic voice many will recognize from her award-winning years on 106.7 Lite FM. Sherecently co-founded Just Do GOOD Entertainment, a production company devoted to uplifting, purpose-driven content. From spotlighting everyday heroes to crafting stories that heal and inspire, Valerie’s work is a testament to the power of media with heart.

We’re so excited to shine the spotlight on another womanbusiness owner. Cheryl Benton hosts Marina Monitto, a jewelry designer from Sicily, on the Three Tomatoes Happy Hour podcast. Marina shares her journey, inspired by her grandmother and mother's crochet and sewing skills, and taught the ancient Italian art of crochet by nuns,  and how she reconnected with her roots during her battle with cancer. She founded Seekilia in 2018, creating unique crochetedjewelry and handbags. Marina emphasizes the storytelling behind each piece, such as the "Alma Trio" earrings representing her grandmother, mother, and herself. She aims to teach crochet to help others find peace and creativity. Her advice for other aspiring entrepreneurs is tostart small, enjoy the process, and follow their passion.

Laura Kass, a jewelry designer based in New York City, shared her journey from being a French teacher to a successful jewelry designer. She highlighted her unique pieces, including spectral light gems from Finland and Edison pearls from China, and her preference for Argentium silver. Laura emphasized the importance of creativity,customer interaction, and networking, crediting a jewelry marketing group for her business growth. She also discussed a significant piece she created for a friend's wedding, which touched her friend deeply. Laura advised aspiringdesigners to research their market and join supportive groups. She can be found online at lauracass.com and in stores in Soho and the Upper West Side.

In a new podcast series, called "Spotlight on Small Wonen Owned Businesses , we interviewed Oksana Pidhoreckyj , co-founder of Roman Empire Farms, a company that produced small-batch CBD Hemp products. She discusses her CBD hemp company based in upstate New York. Established in 2019, the company offers tinctures, gummies, and topicals for humans and pets, emphasizing natural, hand-planted, and hand-harvested products. Oksana and her partner, both media professionals, started the business after noticing the benefits of CBD for their senior cat. They use organic fertilizers and biodynamic growing methods. Despite challenges like weather and marketing, they aim to expand their product line and become a household name. Oksana advises entrepreneurs to persist through challenges.