Build a Heart-Centered Business Through Community with Jean LaVallie, Episode 390

Extraordinary Women Radio

Connection has been at the heart of my success—it’s been the fuel behind my biggest business moves, the foundation of my growth, and the source of some of my deepest friendships. And when I met today’s guest, I knew we shared a belief in the power of women lifting other women.

Jean LaVallie is the founder of WESOS – Women Entrepreneurs Secrets of Success, a thriving network that started as a single chapter in the suburbs of Chicago and has since expanded across multiple states. Her belief in collaboration over competition has brought thousands of women together, proving that when we rise, we rise together.

In This Episode:

• Jean LaVallie shares how being overlooked in the corporate world at age 50 sparked her entrepreneurial journey and inspired the founding of WESOS (Women Entrepreneurs Secrets of Success)—a powerful women’s business network built on trust, support, and authentic relationships.
• Discover how WESOS grew from a local women’s networking meetup in Illinois to nearly 20 nationwide chapters, all rooted in community-building, meaningful collaboration, and a culture of generosity.
• Why collaboration over competition isn’t just a feel-good phrase—it’s a strategic mindset for women entrepreneurs who thrive in abundant, connected business ecosystems.
• Learn why treating your network like a community—not a customer list—is the secret to authentic business growth and deeper entrepreneurial fulfillment.
• Why introverted women in business still need community, especially when friends and family don’t fully understand the path of entrepreneurship.
• The importance of exploring multiple women’s entrepreneur communities, especially low-cost, high-value networks that help you expand your reach and grow with intention.
• Jean’s bold mission to connect one million women entrepreneurs through feminine leadership, heart-centered community-building, and the continued expansion of WESOS across the U.S. and beyond.

Jean LaVallie is the owner and founder of the WESOS Network (Women Entrepreneurs’ Secrets of Success). What began as a single chapter in the suburbs of Chicago has blossomed into a widespread network across several states. Jean’s belief in collaboration over competition has been the driving force behind WESOS’s popularity among women seeking mutual support and empowerment. With a unique perspective on business dynamics, Jean passionately speaks about the differences between feminine and masculine energy in the business world. She highlights how masculine energy focuses on transactions, while feminine energy emphasizes relationship building. Under her leadership, WESOS aims to connect one million women, fostering an environment where they can all achieve success together. Known for her empathetic nature and heart-forward leadership, Jean embodies the principle of wearing her heart on her sleeve.

“Surround yourself with the community.” ~Jean LaVallie

To learn more about Jean, visit her website. You can also connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Jean LaVallie’s Show Notes