Springfield, Ill. – On WTAX Morning Newswatch, two local business leaders shared why women‑owned enterprises matter for families and the community. Sara Valhala, president of Growth Corporation, and Dr. Melissa Fisher Paoni, owner of the Springfield Psychological Center, spoke about the benefits of financial autonomy and flexible work for women.
Financial autonomy and family flexibility
Dr. Paoni explained that owning her practice allows her to set a schedule that works for clinicians who have young children. “Financial autonomy, the ability to have flexible schedules, which is super important for, for example, our clinicians who have young children, having a personalized impact and lifting each other up,” she said. The ability to control earnings and work hours, she noted, translates into a healthier work‑life balance for families.
Supporting other women‑owned businesses
Valhala echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the ripple effect of women supporting women in the marketplace. “Being in business in general is about bringing your talents and passions to the world and being able to help people along that path,” she said. “Specifically, being a woman in business means that, you know, out of all the businesses we serve, four out of ten of those businesses are women‑owned businesses. So, I can align with them, also being in that same position, and be able to really help them invest and further grow and expand their business.”
Local impact and future growth
Both guests highlighted how women‑owned firms contribute to Springfield’s economy. Growth Corporation works with a range of local companies, providing capital and strategic guidance. The Springfield Psychological Center offers mental‑health services that support the well‑being of residents, especially parents juggling work and family responsibilities.
Valhala noted that the presence of women‑owned businesses encourages a more diverse and resilient local economy. “When we invest in women entrepreneurs, we’re investing in the broader community,” she said. “Their success creates jobs, strengthens families, and builds a stronger Springfield.”
Community response
Listeners called in to share their own experiences, many praising the flexibility that entrepreneurship provides. Parents expressed gratitude for the ability to design work schedules around school pick‑ups and extracurricular activities. Several local women entrepreneurs reported that hearing Valhala and Dr. Paoni discuss these topics reinforced their confidence to start or expand their own ventures.
The conversation underscored a growing recognition that financial independence for women is not just a personal benefit but a community asset. By fostering an environment where women can own and lead businesses, Springfield is positioning itself as a supportive hub for family‑focused entrepreneurship.
Looking ahead
Valhala and Dr. Paoni both encouraged aspiring women entrepreneurs to seek mentorship, leverage local networks, and consider the long‑term impact of their businesses on families and the community. Their message resonated with listeners who see entrepreneurship as a pathway to both personal fulfillment and broader economic health for Springfield.
Original reporting: Capitol City Now (WTAX 1240 Springfield) — read the source article.
