Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Maritza Marie Berger. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Maritza Marie, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?
I realized that starting a successful business required me to prioritize my personal growth. Through years of therapy and self-reflection, I discovered the essence of who I am and the importance of sharing my journey with others. Inspired by the words of MLK Jr. – “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about the things that matter.” – I recognized the significance of taking action. It was time to speak up about mental health and create a platform where I could connect with people authentically, encouraging them to do the same.
Through “The Things That Matter” podcast, I aim to inspire and empower my audience to embark on their own paths of self-improvement. I understand that personal growth is a continual journey that demands dedication and effort. By fostering a sense of community and collaboration, my goal is to provide a supportive space where listeners can feel motivated to make positive changes in their lives.
In essence, “The Things That Matter” is more than just a podcast; it’s a source of hope and encouragement for those facing mental health challenges. It serves as a reminder that each individual possesses the power to enact change, not only in their own lives but also in the lives of others.
Maritza Marie, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I view myself as a dynamic leader adept at navigating the intersections of business, fashion, and mental health advocacy. With over 14 years of experience in sales, marketing, and strategic development, I currently hold the role of Strategic Account Executive at Piaggio Fast Forward, a pioneering robotics company specializing in innovative mobility solutions.
My journey into the fashion industry began in my youth, where I cultivated my passion for design while learning to sew alongside my grandmother. This early exposure ignited my interest in fashion, leading me to pursue formal training in Apparel Design & Technology at the Florida State University. Later, I transitioned to Business Marketing to broaden my skill set.
Throughout my career, I’ve gained experience working with a diverse range of companies, from Fortune 100 corporations to startups, refining my skills in business development, management, and strategy. My role at Piaggio Fast Forward perfectly aligns with my passion for forward-thinking industries and my desire to positively impact people’s lives.
In 2020, driven by my entrepreneurial spirit and creative ambitions, I founded Maritza Marie—a fashion brand specializing in heels that prioritize both style and comfort. These heels address common pain points experienced by women, empowering them to feel confident and comfortable in any setting. What sets Maritza Marie apart is our unwavering commitment to quality, comfort, and style, with meticulous attention to detail in sourcing materials and designing ergonomic heels.
I take immense pride in the journey that led to the creation of Maritza Marie, from my humble beginnings sewing with my grandmother to establishing my own fashion brand. I am dedicated to providing women with footwear that not only reflects their personal style but also enhances their everyday experiences.
For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that Maritza Marie is more than just a footwear brand—it’s a celebration of confidence, comfort, and empowerment. With each pair of heels, we aim to inspire women to step into their power and embrace their unique style with confidence.
Beyond my entrepreneurial ventures, I host “The Things That Matter,” a podcast on mental health where I share stories and insights to uplift and inspire listeners. My personal journey underscores my belief in prioritizing physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health as the foundation for success and fulfillment.
I am not only a business leader and fashion entrepreneur but also a mental health speaker and advocate deeply committed to making a positive impact in the world. My dedication to understanding human behavior, fostering innovation, and promoting holistic well-being sets me apart as a thought leader and influencer in my fields of expertise.
We’d really appreciate if you could talk to us about how you figured out the manufacturing process.
It took some time and effort to find the right manufacturing partner for our product. I highly recommend leveraging platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and Brickwork India for consulting or research at reasonable rates. Networking is also crucial when entering a new industry. Attending trade shows and industry events has connected me with numerous individuals who have been instrumental in guiding me to the right partners.
Initially, I had identified a manufacturing company that seemed like a good fit. However, they became overwhelmed with existing client demands. Fortunately, because we had established a strong relationship, they referred me to another manufacturer in their network.
When engaging with potential partners, it’s essential that they not only understand your story and vision but also have the capabilities to produce your product. Since I was just starting out, I found a partner who was willing to work closely with me. Regular meetings were crucial to establish accountability, typically occurring once or twice a month, aligning with the pace of the industry.
Key lessons learned throughout this process include the importance of building strong relationships and the value of referrals. People are often eager to assist those they like, so establishing a positive rapport from the outset is essential. While timelines may experience delays, consistent meetings help drive progress and keep everyone aligned towards achieving goals.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
Reading has been instrumental in shaping my management and entrepreneurial philosophy. Among the most impactful books I’ve come across are “Zero to One” by Peter Thiel (Co-Founder of Paypal and Palantir) and Blake Masters, which offers invaluable insights on entrepreneurship, innovation, and building successful companies from scratch. “The Compound Effect” by Darren Hardy has been instrumental in refining my strategic approach, emphasizing the significance of small actions in achieving significant outcomes. Additionally, “Start with Why” by Simon Sinek is a timeless classic that reignited my passion and drive for purposeful endeavors.
These resources have significantly influenced my thinking and continue to guide my approach to management and entrepreneurship. I firmly believe in the power of lifelong learning and reading, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking growth and development in their journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.maritzamarie.com
- Instagram: marimariber
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/maritzamarieberger
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@marimariber
- Other: https://www.thethingsthatmatter.me/ https://open.spotify.com/show/7nf55AIn2dc1xH6tUsyT7G?si=ef4b49479d1243b5 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-things-that-matter/id1693605336
Image Credits
Easterday Creative (images in black suit jacket) IG: @easterdaycreative Asher Queen (images on stage with floral print shirt) IG: @asher_queen Alyssa Hogan (images in blue shirt) IG: @achogan5