CATALYST: Las Vegas Mastermind For The Empowered Entrepreneur
CATALYST is the ultimate podcast for ambitious entrepreneurs who are ready to break free from corporate constraints and build a legacy of wealth and purpose. Hosted by Sonia Petkewich, a dynamic business strategist, this show delivers raw, peer-to-peer insights that transform overwhelmed solo entrepreneurs into connected, motivated business owners through deep dives into business fundamentals, personal growth, strategic processes, marketing mastery, profit optimization, and meaningful purpose. Whether you’re hustling to scale from a side project to a multi-million dollar enterprise or seeking to create more freedom and impact, CATALYST provides the actionable wisdom, networking opportunities, and community support to help driven, self-made professionals turn their entrepreneurial vision into reality.
Episodes

Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
Welcome back to the Catalyst Podcast! Today, we're diving into one of my favorite topics: collaboration. I explore what collaboration truly means and share why it's been a cornerstone of my success. By leveraging others' knowledge, skills, and resources, I've been able to achieve amazing feats in IT staffing, coaching, and more. I'll discuss real-life examples of how collaboration has propelled my business forward and offer practical tips for other small business owners. Whether it's partnering to fill skill gaps or working together on large projects, collaboration can drive innovation and growth. Tune in to learn how you can create win-win situations and move your business to the next level!
What You'll Hear:
The Power of Shared Knowledge and Skills
Real-Life Examples of Successful Collaboration
Collaboration in IT and Business Growth
Strategies for Small Business Collaboration
Building Networks and Finding Partners
Curious About Masterminds? click here to book a call or grab coffee
Connect with us:
@catalystmastermind | Youtube
Produced By: Podcast & Co.

Friday Apr 04, 2025
Friday Apr 04, 2025
In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Brianna Waufle from Garden Interiors Las Vegas, an extraordinary business specializing in holiday interior design. Brianna shares her fascinating journey from being a Montessori teacher to owning and expanding a holiday decorating business. We discuss the hurdles and triumphs of becoming an entrepreneur, especially during the pandemic. Brianna sheds light on the importance of flexibility, creativity, and celebrating wins, no matter how small. We also dive into her plans for future growth and how she balances motherhood with her thriving business. For anyone intrigued by unique business ventures or seeking inspiration in their entrepreneurial journey, this episode is a must-listen!
What You'll Hear:
Brianna's Journey: From Teacher to Business Owner
The Unique Business of Garden Interiors
Challenges and Growth in Business Ownership
Adapting to Changes and Expanding Services
The Importance of Seasonal Decor in Workspaces
Lessons Learned from the Mastermind Program
Celebrating Wins in Business
Core Values and Business Evolution
Balancing Business and Motherhood
Challenges of Running a Business
Future Plans and Advice for Business Owners
Curious About Masterminds? click here to book a call or grab coffee
Connect with Brianna:
website | @garden_interiors.lv | LinkedIn
Connect with us:
@catalystmastermind | Youtube
Produced By: Podcast & Co.

Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
Welcome back to the Catalyst Podcast! Today, I'm diving into the various ways you can acquire a business. I've shared my personal journey of buying my company, and we'll explore options like forming partnerships, buying equity, and working with brokers. I'll discuss the importance of due diligence—doing your homework is crucial. We'll talk about rebranding after a purchase, the challenges that come with buying businesses with legacy issues, and understanding why the business is being sold in the first place. I'll emphasize the value of involving brokers, business coaches, and doing thorough evaluations to set you up for success in your business acquisition journey. Let's get started!
What You'll Hear:
Different Ways to Acquire a Business
The Role of a Broker in Business Acquisition
Importance of Transition Planning
Rebranding After Acquisition
Challenges in Business Acquisition
The Importance of Due Diligence
Conclusion: Setting Up for Success
Curious About Masterminds? click here to book a call or grab coffee
Connect with us:
@catalystmastermind | Youtube
Produced By: Podcast & Co.

Friday Mar 28, 2025
Friday Mar 28, 2025
In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Elyse Petersen, the brilliant mind behind Tealet. Elyse shared her journey from being a disenchanted food scientist to launching a groundbreaking B2B marketplace connecting independent tea farms with buyers. We delved into her eye-opening experiences with tea farmers in Hawaii and Japan, her struggles with sustainable business practices, and the unique challenges she faced in securing venture capital. Elyse also revealed exciting future plans, including integrating cryptocurrency into her business model and acquiring a sailboat to transport tea. Her inspiring story is a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and intentional entrepreneurship.
What You'll Hear:
Introduction: Meet Elyse Petersen, Founder of Tealet
Elyse's Journey: From Food Scientist to Tea Entrepreneur
Building Tealet: Global Network and Launch
Business Strategy: Relocation and Market Challenges
Tea Industry: Wellness Trends and Consumer Education
Business Philosophy and Values
The Sailboat Project and Future Innovations
Balancing Entrepreneurship and Personal Life
Curious About Masterminds? click here to book a call or grab coffee
Connect with Elyse:
website | elyse@tealet.com
Connect with us:
@catalystmastermind | Youtube
Produced By: Podcast & Co.

Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
In today's episode, we dive into the health and wellness of entrepreneurs. I share my personal story of overcoming weight issues and family health challenges, and how redefining my values and mindset led to lasting change. Learn how shifting your language and aligning your actions with your core values can transform your health and business success. Don't miss this intimate and inspiring conversation on achieving a balanced, healthy entrepreneurial life.
What You'll Hear:
Introduction to Entrepreneurial Health
The Stigma of Busyness
Personal Health Struggles
The Turning Point
The Power of Language and Values
Achieving Health Goals
Redefining Work-Life Balance
Conclusion and Call to Action
Curious About Masterminds? click here to book a call or grab coffee
Connect with us:
@catalystmastermind | Youtube
Produced By: Podcast & Co.

Friday Mar 21, 2025
Friday Mar 21, 2025
In today's episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Rubi, my podcast producer and founder of Podcast & Co. We had a blast talking about how Podcast & Co. came to be, and Rubi shared her fascinating journey from the music industry to becoming a successful podcast entrepreneur. She opened up about her struggles, finding herself through podcasting, and how one podcast changed her life. We also dived into some highs and lows, the importance of mastermind groups, and how community support can make all the difference. Plus, Rubi gave some awesome insights on starting your own podcast, whether it's for a business or just sharing your passion. If you’ve ever thought about starting a podcast or love hearing about entrepreneurial journeys and the power of storytelling, you won’t want to miss this one! Check out all the details and links in the show notes. Enjoy!
What You'll Hear:
Rubi's Journey in the Music Industry
Discovering Podcasts and Personal Transformation
Starting a Podcast and Finding Purpose
Building a Podcast Business
Challenges and Successes in Podcasting
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Self-Sabotage
The Power of Mastermind Groups
Launching and Managing a Podcast
Curious About Masterminds? click here to book a call or grab coffee
Connect with Rubi:
@rubiskilton | @podcastandco | @podcostudio
Connect with us:
@catalystmastermind | Youtube
Produced By: Podcast & Co.

Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
in today's episode, we're diving into the concept of core values, or as Mike Michalowicz calls them, immutable laws. I'll share insights from 'The Pumpkin Plan' and discuss how these laws define both personal and business ethics. We'll explore the influence of core values on hiring, partnerships, and vendor agreements, drawing from my own experiences and the Mastermind group's discussions. I'll also outline my core values for Catalyst, such as self-advocacy and community with a purpose. Join me as we reflect on how these principles can drive your business forward. Don't forget to check the show notes for ways to connect and dive deeper into your own immutable laws.
What You'll Hear:
Defining Immutable Laws
Applying Immutable Laws in Business
Personal Core Values
Community and Generosity
Curiosity and Exploration
The Importance of Accountability
Conclusion and Call to Action
Curious About Masterminds? click here to book a call or grab coffee
Connect with us:
@catalystmastermind | Youtube
Produced By: Podcast & Co.

Friday Mar 14, 2025
Friday Mar 14, 2025
In this episode of my podcast, I sit down with Ashley, an inspiring insurance agency owner, to discuss her unique journey from sports management to running her own insurance agency. Ashley shares insights into the challenges and rewards of her profession, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and understanding the nuances of business insurance. We also talk about her role as a mom to twin toddlers and how she balances motherhood with business ownership. Additionally, Ashley highlights the value of mastermind groups for professional growth, shares her approach to team transparency, and reveals her ambitious goals for the future. This episode provides a deep dive into both the insurance industry and the personal experiences that drive professional success.
What You'll Hear:
Journey into the Insurance Industry
Challenges and Nuances of Insurance
Business Ownership and Team Management
Personal Life and Parenting
The Reality of Parenting a Three-Year-Old
Balancing Business and Personal Life
The Importance of Self-Care
Mastermind Groups and Networking
The Value of Coaching and Community
Looking Ahead: Goals for 2025
Final Thoughts and Contact Information
Curious About Masterminds? click here to book a call or grab coffee
Connect with Ashley:
Website
Connect with us:
@catalystmastermind | Youtube
Produced By: Podcast & Co.

Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Today, we're diving into the next steps for your budding business—transitioning from a side hustle to a full-fledged enterprise. We'll cover the essentials of setting up business bank accounts, managing inventory, and why the right insurance and cybersecurity are critical as you scale. Plus, don't miss upcoming episodes with Ashley on insurance and asset protection. Tune in for tips on keeping your growing business safe and thriving!
What You'll Hear:
Scaling Your Business
Managing Business Finances and Assets
Upcoming Episodes on Asset Protection
Common Mistakes in Business Growth
Structuring and Insuring Your Business
Final Thoughts and Resources
Curious About Masterminds? click here to book a call or grab coffee
Connect with us:
@catalystmastermind | Youtube
Produced By: Podcast & Co.

Friday Mar 07, 2025
Friday Mar 07, 2025
In this episode of the Catalyst podcast, I welcome my longtime friend Ruth Furman, founder of Image Words Communications, to share her 24-year journey in the public relations industry. Ruth delves into the inception of her business following a job termination in 2001, discussing the evolution of PR from traditional methods to contemporary digital strategies. She highlights the challenges she faced as a solopreneur, the importance of collaboration, and her relentless adaptability. Ruth also touches on the significance of understanding client needs, the power of self-awareness, and the lessons learned from joining a Mastermind group. Our conversation provides valuable insights into balancing personal values with business growth and the continual process of reevaluating and honing one's strengths.
What You'll Hear:
Starting Image Words Communications
Evolution of PR and Digital Storytelling
Lessons Learned as a Solopreneur
Navigating Challenges and Growth
Understanding PR and Marketing
Balancing Business and Personal Life
The Power of Being Uncomfortable
Looking Ahead and Final Advice
Curious About Masterminds? click here to book a call or grab coffee
Connect with Ruth:
Website
Connect with us:
@catalystmastermind | Youtube
Produced By: Podcast & Co.







