March 26, 2024

From Hard Hats to Hashtags: A Trailblazer’s Path to Entrepreneurship | TLB009

From Hard Hats to Hashtags: A Trailblazer’s Path to Entrepreneurship | TLB009

Today, I'm thrilled to share the journey of Mathilde Turco, a trailblazer transitioning from the construction industry to entrepreneurship and content creation.

Despite being in a male-dominated field, she embraced the challenges, turning them into opportunities for growth and empowerment. Her story is a testament to the resilience and tenacity of women paving their own paths in traditionally male sectors.

However, Mathilde's narrative doesn't end there. Today she's on a mission to redefine her passion, embarking on a self-discovery journey that led her to entrepreneurship

Through our conversation, you'll discover how Mathilde navigated the hurdles of leaving a secure job, facing societal judgments, and the daunting leap into financial uncertainty. Her insights on overcoming naysayers, maintaining confidence amidst change, and strategically planning for financial stability are invaluable.

Let's dive into this transformative tale of courage, innovation, and the pursuit of genuine fulfilment.

Key Highlights:

  • Entrepreneurship journey, networking + fears
  • Overcoming obstacles in career transitions
  • Finances + pursuing dreams

Connect with Mathilde

Mathilde was named after her great grandmother. She was raised between the French/Italian Riviera, at the heart of ‘dolce vitta’ lifestyle, and the fast-paced life of New York City. She is half Italian, half French, and also grew up with an American stepmom and a Gypsy stepdad. Her childhood was spent alternating between housing projects and some of the wealthiest places on Earth, giving her a unique perspective on life, and other people.She graduated at a young age with a B.B.A. at the International University of Monaco and with a master’s degree in international business from Skema University in France. She then moved to NYC and worked in the construction industry for about 9 years. After which she decided to pursue her passion.Mathilde is a traveler and a spiritualist, who loves to inspire as much as she loves to be inspired.Art &travel has played a major role in helping her make important life changes and manifest the life that she always wanted.

Website: https://linktr.ee/mathi.nicole

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/mathi.nicole/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mathi.nicole/

About the Host

Hugh Zaretsky, was an IT executive until his wake-up call came on 9/11. Realizing how short life can be, Hugh transitioned his career to become a real estate investor, international speaker, best-selling author, philanthropist, and advocate for empowering individuals. Hugh started investing in the precursor to Short-Term Rentals back in 2005. His expertise in cash-flowing properties (STR, SFH, and multi-family) has allowed him to successfully train over 12,500 real estate investors and entrepreneurs to complete profitable real estate transactions, launch businesses, or take them to the next level.

Hugh has been a certified real estate continuing education instructor in 4 different states. His latest book "The Launch Button" was an Amazon best seller in 4 categories including all of real estate. He recently spoke at the Humanity Summit in Portugal on the global issue of "Sustainable tourism (including STRs) and how to work with local communities". His dedication to mentoring and coaching aspiring entrepreneurs makes Hugh a highly sought-after speaker. Get ready to be inspired and gain invaluable insights from Hugh's wealth of experience. 

http://www.HughZaretsky.com

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Purchase Hugh’s book, The Launch Button here: http://bit.ly/launchbuttonbook

Private Community: http://www.eframily.com - Want to work, train, or get coached by Hugh?

IG - @hughzwealth

FB - @hughzWealth 

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Transcript
Hugh Zaretsky:

Welcome, everybody to the launch button podcast. We're here for another wonderful week, and it's women's month. So I felt I should bring out one of my good friends that's in construction and transitioning to be an entrepreneur, I content creator, and she has been blowing up her Instagram, get things rocking and rolling in yet maintaining her balance in life. So I've got my good friend Mathilde Turco here. Now, Shane, welcome until, and she went to her time between France and the US, and decided to come over and work in an industry with her uncle in construction, and that is not a traditional for most women. So Mathilde tell everybody a little bit about yourself and how you got into construction. Yes,



Mathilde Turco:

thank you. I'm so excited. Well, I am from friends and friendships and like came to work with my uncle. And we designed together new kinds of mechanical equipments for pre war buildings. So when you kind of H facts for pre war buildings in New York, so it's not so typical, it wasn't such a glamorous career. But I really enjoyed that time, I learned a lot. I had a training, I was traveling back and forth between Italy because the manufacturer was in Italy in Venice. So I was very lucky with that. But yeah, I was very young, I was about 2122 years old when I started this career. And obviously, I had a lot of challenges and obstacles, because I was a young woman in a very male oriented industry. And I'm sure that that kind of



Hugh Zaretsky:

beautiful woman at that in the mill industries on all the job sites, right.



Mathilde Turco:

Thank you. Well, I mean, I think that being a woman, sorry, my camera just got but I think that being a young women in the construction industry is already, you know, something that you can use that to your advantage. But it's also something that can bounce bounce back between being at your advantage and being, you know, a challenge. Because you know, the way people are gonna look at you, the way people are going to treat you is going to be very different than if you were a man and older. So, I think that it's one of the biggest lesson of my life, I learnt so much. And it's something that made me really tough. When I came, I was young. And I learned so much, just by being in that industry, I was very grateful to be surrounded by by people that were that had good intention. And that became my mentors. And I even started having that kind of hustle bustle News, New York, Mel mentality myself, because I was surrounded by so many. So many men. And I also met incredible women in construction. And that's why I slowly transferred from working with my uncle to this woman on electrical company. And I'm so proud to actually support women in the industry. So yes, that's, that's my, my journey. That's how, that's why we came to stories. That's why I came to New York in the first place. And I am now slowly transitioning into, though, still doing what I do, because I love to support women, especially in the construction industry, because it's something that's in me, it's something you know, I, I know the whole story, and it's something that is dear to my heart. But I am also for the first time in my life, thinking about what I really want. Inside of me, what are we my what is my true passion because I came to New York to support my uncle, and to work with my uncle. And he supported me to that, thanks to him that I that I came to New York, and I'm very grateful for it. But it wasn't really my true passion to develop a mechanical equipment. It's something it was an opportunity that I saved. And now I'm in my 30s and I'm finally you know, after the pandemic had a lot of time to travel and to think and time alone to reflect. And that really helped me to decide that I finally wanted to work for myself as well. So now I'm slowly transitioning, it's been almost a year now that you know, I came with this new idea and this new business idea, and I'm slowly but surely, you know, growing and making it happen. So



Hugh Zaretsky:

That's about when we met, right? We met about a year ago. And yes, it was, yeah. I met Mathilde at a networking event on sort of real estate business networking event, and we hit it off there. And then we started talking, and we ended up doing our own events together. Right. And then I watched her go on this, you know, spiritual slash entrepreneur journey over the last year. And we decided to do another podcast focused on that. So you guys will be hearing about that. So if you'd like that, just put the hearts in the comments down below, ensure we get you invited to that one as well. And then I'll focus more on that journey, right from the different perspectives as we bring on entrepreneurs, but she's got an amazing story that you guys just need to hear. And as we do this, and she's, you know, now making that transition, you know, what I really respect about her was the women in business having that toughness to I watched her at the event stand up, you know, stand up for herself to the other guys that were there, hold her own in the conversations, and then we just started, you know, building that rapport and realize we very similar mindset.



Mathilde Turco:

Yes, I think it was definitely meant to be the universe just connected us at the right time, was really amazing how we connected how we bounded and the ideas that we came, we came out with the podcast was definitely something that actually pushed me even more, to pursue my dream. And just to keep going, and I'm actually pretty satisfied of where I am now. You were definitely you a big part of, you know, I guess my main motivation. Because even even if I have a certain confidence level, and actually due to, I actually do that to the construction industry, maybe. But I still had some fears. When you when you start an entrepreneurship journey, there's definitely the financial stability, fear and the fear of being judged your reputation. So I still had that really built in me, the fact that I connected with like minded people, like you will be helped me to just keep going and, and just pursue those dreams. So I'm very thankful for that.



Hugh Zaretsky:

I'm thankful for meeting you as well. We did some amazing events last year. And we'll probably get back to doing some of those this year. Yes,



Mathilde Turco:

and will be many more I'm sure. You know, as we as you know, as time goes on, I took a little bit of a break. And I'm also traveling a lot, but I'm gonna be here in New York for a few months. And I am looking forward to network again, that's something that in me, I've been doing it for so long. So I'm definitely looking forward to connect with more people and share, you know, the stories and tips. So, yeah.



Hugh Zaretsky:

Awesome. So let's just quickly hit on those three little figures that you just brought up. So one was, right, the naysayers in our lives, the people that we sort of got to grow through and pass to that was reputation, right being I judge that to being associated with your title or position, you know, hey, I'm this. And also, then when we become an entrepreneur, we're no longer that person. And then three was a financial one. So let's give some a little quick tips there on you know, talking about the naysayers and how you are moving past those naysayers that are trying to hold you back.



Mathilde Turco:

Well, um, well, first of all, you're gonna have to identify who really wants your best, and who doesn't, genuinely wants you to grow for whatever reason. And my first tip is, don't be scared to spend time alone, and to switch your environment. So maybe you need to collab with some people for why it doesn't mean forever, but, you know, maybe they're draining you right now, or they're judging you or giving you advice that are not really helping you. So, you know, don't be scared to isolate, you know, you need to grow and in order to grow you, you cannot have noise around you. So isolate, but, you know, that doesn't mean that you're not seeing anyone, you need to stay connected with the good people around you. And don't be scared to make new connections. So you to be like you and I, you know, I met you at this networking event about a year ago, connected very well and you've been the important component of my growth. So don't be scared of meeting new people that are like minded, that are on the same frequency or that are aligned with your new path in your journey. And also you're going to have to work on your confidence level. Because confidence in my opinion is definitely one of the most important key to success. You You have to trust yourself, you have to be confident with the decisions that you're making. And I have a lot of tips about that. So if you're interested, feel free to get in touch with me or follow my Instagram page. So yeah, those



Hugh Zaretsky:

are certainly right. It's that entrepreneur journey, that ups and downs, making sure you identify the people that truly support you. And the people that want to see you grow, versus the people that want to hold you back. So that's a big thing right there. quickly switch to like the title, right? Because you have a pretty high title in your your woman's own business, which is an amazing business, right? It's only women in construction. And you're working with one of your friends. So that was a big concern of yours, as you're shifting out of that about the friendship about the relationship. So a little tip on that?



Mathilde Turco:

Yes, yes, yes, yes, definitely. I mean, that was an extra layer of, you know, the, the obstacles that you're going to have when you switch careers, but if you actually work with someone that you're in intimate with, it's even harder. So that's why I still love what I do. And I'm still happy to support the industry, and especially women, and especially working with my best friend, she's absolutely amazing. And she's been actually very supportive. So I'm very grateful for that. And she's an amazing human being. So I'll still support as much as I can. And yes, I think communication is key, you know, be true to yourself to stay true, stay true to yourself, you're not trying to do anything wrong, you're actually trying to do something right for yourself. So you can be happy on the long run. And some against if someone has good intention, even if it's your bus, that person should understand and should respect, and in the best scenario should even support you. So, yes, awesome.



Hugh Zaretsky:

So yeah, that's right. And don't don't worry about that title. You know, I saw titles,



Mathilde Turco:

yes, I forgot about the title. Well, the title can be something that can be a challenge, maybe psychologically, and emotionally, it's hard to go from here to there. Because when you start your entrepreneurship journey, you, you usually start from scratch. And maybe you're losing your title, but eventually, maybe you're going to become your own CEO, you're going to be your own boss. So don't think about the title so much. Again, it's about confidence. You know, you had this title for a while it's on your resume, it's on your CV, it's great. And you're you're never gonna lose that we need. It's been there, and it's what makes you who you are today. But if you really want to pursue your new dream, you're gonna have to accept that you're gonna start from scratch again. And, you know, life Life is like that. There's always renewal. So, yeah, just,



Hugh Zaretsky:

yeah, I just know that when you drop that title, you may get a little depressed, you may get a little upset. You know, especially in New York, a lot of people's lives are tied to the title, hey, I'm a VP, Hey, um, this, like, you have to be a certain level. And they're always like, for them to feel secure. So just understand that it happens. We all go through it. But you said Simon said it does that, that training on the military, head of the military, got one conference, everybody's, you know, bowed down to him. The next year, he went to the conference, he was no longer the head of the military. And he got a paper cut. So understand, we all deserve the paper cut. It's all what we make of it. So and then the third thing that we talked about was just one quick tip on financial stability. I know we're doing a little long today, but I want to make sure guys you guys get the best information here from Mathilde as she talks about some of the Easter season the transition, right, and we both agree. You're right, don't just fire your boss, start your side hustle on the side. So give them one quick tip on you'd like one



Mathilde Turco:

while trying to save money but without being so strict that you burn out and you feel you know, exhausted and angry, but trying to save money because even if it's a low investment business let's say you do ecommerce freelancing you still don't have to pay apps, you're still gonna have to be still going to have small expenses. So put them on an Excel sheet. And then try to find time to start launching your new side hustle but like you just said keep your daytime job and build your savings you're gonna have you're gonna need some some savings. So build it one way or another, you're gonna have to build that saving. Yeah. And



Hugh Zaretsky:

you had mentioned something about like going through your, you're going through your subscriptions like oh,



Mathilde Turco:

yes, yeah, that's actually the number one tip. That's something that I actually constantly do I use that rocket Money App, too. But it's linked to my bank accounts. So I see, I can see very clearly, I just went update and I see all the subscriptions that I have linked to my bank account. Sometimes we forget those subscriptions, you know, you maybe you're paying for something for the new year or two that you're not even using anymore, but you just don't remember about it. So make sure that you go through your bank statements, or you use an app like rocket money to check your subscriptions, and get rid of the ones that you don't like that you don't need.



Hugh Zaretsky:

Awesome. And to add to that, because I 100% agree. So when you eliminate that subscription, what you can actually do on most bank accounts is set up an automatic transfer for that same amount into like a savings account. So when you eliminate that, right at the same time creating that monthly automatic transfer. So you don't even realize but you're saving money. Right? Yeah.



Mathilde Turco:

That's a great tip.



Hugh Zaretsky:

You're building that up for you. So Mathilde, we appreciate your time, guys, we're gonna have her media, we're gonna have all the different things for the new podcast, we're gonna come up with some spreadsheets where to come up with some budget things for the over on that podcast over here. It's just great having a successful woman in the construction industry that grew up in it, right grew up because you heard she started at like 21 All right, she's grown up in it, it gave her that toughness, but it also allowed her to have some many experiences. So don't be afraid to go into areas that you may not have thought up, follow that passion. And then you can have the life of your dreams. So we look forward to seeing you on the next episode Launch button. Thank you been told anything you want to share with them?



Mathilde Turco:

Well, thank you. I'm, I'm excited for the podcast, and I'm hoping that you guys are gonna, you know, try to find out what it is about. And maybe we can inspire you to pursue dreams and that would be also very exciting to you know, be a source of inspiration.



Hugh Zaretsky:

And you are also inspiration to lots of women. So do out there, launch your dreams. Take your passions to the next level and we'll see you on the next episode. Have a great day. Bye