Meet Trailblazer Vonna Matthews

Vonna, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I launched CEOMOM Magazine, April 21, 2016. It stemmed from my lifestyle brand, Bottles, Bibs & Pumps, which provides resources and information for mompreneurs. I wanted to create a platform that would allow me to extend my reach and engage in conversations about what it means to be a woman who is pursuing it all. I’ve learned that the modern woman has dreams and aspirations that extend beyond motherhood. CEOMOM Magazine aims to feature and celebrate those women and remind them that we share some of the same challenges and desires when it comes to motherhood and career. CEOMOM also provides tips, information and resources to help moms streamline their busy lives.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Haha. No, it has not been a smooth road. From my experiences, the pursuit of greatness is always met with challenges. It’s those challenges that build the character you need to produce something that will have incredible impact. I’m grateful that the road has not been easy. It pushes me to work harder and discover better and more efficient ways to do what I do.

Some of the initial challenges involved just getting the magazine started. There is so much work that goes into creating a new publication. From connecting with the right people, to getting the word out, to producing a quality product to funding, it’s all hard work that will stretch and test you. You’re not just creating a magazine, you’re developing a brand and that requires big picture thinking and honestly, taking risks.

My advice is to START. I say it all the time, but there is value in taking that first step. Baby steps are still steps. Embrace challenges and learn how to manage them rather than allow them to manage you. They are there for your growth, not your demise.

We’d love to hear more about For Her Media, the publisher of CEOMOM Magazine.
I’m the Founder and Creative Director of For Her Media, a socially responsible media company that raises funds and awareness for organizations and ministries that impact women and young girls. As a part of that we provide pro bono work for these organizations, as well as media coverage. Our work includes magazine publishing, web development, graphic design and video production. I specialize in helping small businesses and non-profit organizations with their brand identity.

I am most proud of our partnerships with various organizations that are on the frontlines for issues that impact women. My company is in awe of the work they do and it is our privilege to play a part in that. I believe that is what separates us, having a company mission that is centered on making a difference in the world and partnering with others who are doing the same.

Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
When it comes to networking, the first step is to have a clear message about who YOU are and what your BRAND is. Be able to articulate your brand (nowadays that is the combination of your personal and professional identity) as it relates to your mission, products and services, audience and problem(s) you’re solving in a clear and concise way. In other words, have your elevator speech.

The ultimate goal of networking is to identify potential strategic partners, mentors and buyers. I’m not a fan of networking just to get my name out there. I like action. You want to present yourself in a way that shows you have a viable plan that can be executed and will benefit all parties.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://ceomommagazine.com
• Email: info@ceomommagazine.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceomommag/
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/ceomommag
• Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/ceomommag