At Elevator we rarely work alone, and for our Accelerators this is no different. Across all programmes we work with a vast amount of inspiring, supportive, talented and knowledgeable Agitators to help nurture, develop and essentially positively shake-up our Founders thinking.
We caught up with Lisa-Marie Cabrelli, Elevator Agitator, to hear about her own entrepreneurial journey and her role as an Elevator Agitator.
Tell us about you?
"My name is Lisa-Marie Cabrelli. I was lucky enough to retire at 45 after selling my business. On my 50th birthday, I pledged to myself that from this moment forward I will focus exclusively on engaging in projects I am passionate about, that also fulfil my ultimate whys. I have wiped the slate clean and have just started building a brand-new personal website to reflect this change."
What is your role as an agitator?
"I have spent many years coaching entrepreneurs in life and business, so I base my agitation on that approach. However - in my agitation role with Elevator I concentrate more on asking the questions, and less on offering solutions. Folks who are new to entrepreneurship often don't know what they don't know. It's my job to ask the questions that will prompt them to think deeper about those things they might be pushing out of their mind, either because they don't know the answer so have been avoiding the question, or because they know the answer and it conflicts with what they would like to believe about what they are doing.
"Agitation can be painful for the Founders; but, when they are open to receiving the opinions and viewpoints of experienced people from many different backgrounds, when they truly listen, they could hear the spark that starts their fire. It's my job to ask the question that ignites the spark."
Was there a specific reason for joining as an agitator? Passion for helping others, interest in Scottish SMEs etc?
"I have a passion for helping young entrepreneurs, especially women entrepreneurs who are under-represented. I know that sharing my experience and success in business and - more importantly, my past failures, can help give others a sense of direction as they walk down what can be a very lonely path. As I am now embarking on a Ph.D. in an entirely different field and have no time to keep up my coaching practice, working with Elevator Founders helps me keep up my coaching skills."
What has your agitator experience been like?
"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time volunteering as an agitator with Elevator. I learn as much from the Founders as I hope they learn from me. Spending time with folks who are just beginning the adventure I began more than fifteen years ago, seeing their passion and commitment, inspires me and motivates me.
"The pandemic certainly threw a spanner in the works. I really miss the face-to-face aspect of the experience, and Zoom calls can be particularly draining, but Elevator has transitioned quickly and successfully to a physically distanced program that still works.
How long have you been working with Elevator?
"I have been an agitator with Elevator for two cohorts now. Prior to joining as an agitator, I spent a day with two other cohorts to share my experiences and conduct impromptu coaching sessions."
Final comment...
"If you are thinking about joining Elevator as a Founder, don't hesitate. It is a friendly, supportive, non-threatening environment where you can explore your passions and refine your ideas."
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