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Founder of Oxygen Media Passes along Tips for Moms Who Want to be Entrepreneurs

Oxygen is the only women-owned and operated television network in the world and is in 55 million homes. Gerry created Oxygen in 2000 and has raised more money ($600 million) than any other women-owned business. She shares what it’s like to be a mom and an entrepreneur and how a partner like Oprah has brought value to her business. And just wait till you hear the greatest advice that her mom gave to her! (Listen to the full interview to find out.)

• Being a mother is the best training for any CEO.
  You learn about customer service from your 2- year-old (they are more demanding than any customer can be). You also learn patience, management skills, diversionary tactics and 5-year planning.
• You don’t have to do everything the first 2 years out of college.
  You’re going to have a very long life and many opportunities to create businesses, but your little kids are only gonna be little kids for a short time. I started Oxygen when I was 50.
• Share your enthusiasm for your business with your kids.
  Tell them what you like about your work, don’t make the mistake of complaining about work because the kids will wonder why you are leaving them to do something you hate. It’s a terrible mixed message.
• Be in on the ground floor.
  Even if you don’t start your own business, make certain that you’re a part of the beginning of something. I did that at Nickelodeon and was able to be entrepreneurial within the organization.
• Raising capital is just another business problem.
  It’s a good thing to establish credit and get to know your banker, and figure out how you can get other people supporting your business so it’s not just on your own credit card. Resources like Springboard, Kay Koplovitz’s organization, are fantastic for helping women raise capital.

Highlight clips from Gerry Laybourne: