67. Startups, Parenting and Unexpected Caregiving with Three Time Founder Ellen Hockley

AND/BOTH Podcast

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In this episode, we're sitting down with Ellen Hockley—a seasoned entrepreneur, mom of two, and caregiver—to explore what it truly looks like to build and grow businesses while managing life’s most demanding roles. Ellen shares her journey from founding a sustainable event planning company in NYC, to launching a maternity activewear brand during the pandemic, and most recently, starting her consulting firm that supports postpartum and purpose-driven female founders.

The conversation also dives into Ellen’s unexpected role as a caregiver to her husband and the emotional toll, time demands, and isolation that can come with it. Ellen speaks candidly about postpartum depression, building businesses without social media, and the misconceptions moms face when stepping into entrepreneurship.

What you’ll learn:

• The real challenges and triumphs of starting and sustaining multiple businesses while raising young children
• Why paid parental leave and postpartum support matter deeply in the U.S.
• How Ellen helps early-stage female founders build realistic, sustainable businesses with strategic guidance
• The power of honest entrepreneurship—and why the “six-figure in six months” promise isn’t what it seems
• Insights into caregiving as a young spouse and the impact it has on identity, relationships, and business
• That you can build a successful business without social media

Connect with Ellen:

Website: www.ellenhockley.com

Connect with Ashley:

Website: https://dovetaildesigns.co

Podcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/

AND/BOTH Community: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/andboth-community

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Social:

Instagram: @dovetailapp

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dovetaildesigns.co

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/