Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Stephanie Markakis-Plouffe. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Stephanie, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

Our mission is to empower entrepreneurs—especially those with disabilities or mental health challenges—to build sustainable businesses and lead with confidence. This mission is deeply personal. As someone who has navigated the highs and lows of entrepreneurship while managing a disability myself, I know how isolating and overwhelming it can be to pursue your dream when the world wasn’t built with your needs in mind.

The idea behind our work came from seeing firsthand how many brilliant people were sidelined—not for lack of ideas or drive, but because they didn’t have the right support, mentorship, or community. We believe entrepreneurship can be a powerful path to self-determination and financial freedom, especially for folks who don’t fit the traditional mold.

That’s why we do what we do—not just to teach business skills, but to create safe, inclusive spaces where people feel seen, supported, and capable of succeeding on their own terms. Our mission is about changing the narrative around who gets to be an entrepreneur—and helping more people see themselves in that role

Stephanie, 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’m a mental health-informed business coach and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in the industry. My journey has been shaped not just by the businesses I’ve built, but by the deep belief that entrepreneurship can be a powerful path to self-determination—especially for those who’ve been overlooked or underestimated.

Through my work with Entrepreneur Connection, I mentor and coach individuals with and without disabilities, helping them move from idea to launch. What sets my approach apart is the integration of practical business strategy with mental wellness. I support clients in navigating self-doubt, burnout, fear of failure, and the complex emotional terrain that often comes with building something of your own.

I work with people who are driven by purpose but may not fit the mold of a “traditional” entrepreneur. My role is to help them find clarity, build confidence, and develop businesses that align with their values and needs.

What I’m most proud of is creating a supportive, judgment-free space where clients feel truly seen. I want people to know that this isn’t just about business—it’s about building a life that feels good to live. My coaching isn’t about chasing someone else’s version of success; it’s about defining and reaching your own

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

I have owned a few business over my 20 years of being an entrepreneur but one business stands out that showed me that I could be resilient in the face of doubt and worry.
I had a real estate business in which I was a real estate assistant for several agents and as well had a real estate sign business, put up and taking down for sale signs.
I was struggling at first but things started to run smoothly after a year or so until disaster struck, were the housing economy crashed and I was left with a huge debt to pay and no business to run. I was overworked, burned out, stressed which ultimately lead to major health issues. All in all it was a horrible situation to be in. I felt I hit rock bottom.
However, after a year of mental and physical recovery, I picked myself up and wrote down everything I had learned from that experience. And oh boy did I learn an awful lot. I reflected on what I wanted to do next and what brought me joy and so I started a bakery.
If it wasn’t for that experience I wouldn’t be where I am today. It taught about how to run a business, the dos and don’t of business and it taught me that even if it didn’t work out I could always try again or something new.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Like most 2020 was a defining year for businesses to pivot. Before Covid hit I was doing very well, with many clients in the food industry and doing food safety plans for restaurants and bakeries. However, when we went into lockdown I had to figure out how to pivot my business and still be successful. That is when I decided it was time to start teaching, and coaching entrepreneurs. I got certified as a coach, mental health first aider and trauma informed care trained.

I began teaching baking classes (as I am a professional baker) through a local library and it became one of the most popular classes. I then began reaching out to organization to collaborate with them to do mentoring and coaching.

Pivoting my business, opened doors for me to connect with people, gain friendships and colleagues across the country.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.EntrepreneurConnectionEDM.com
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-markakis-plouffe-506938339/