In this inspiring episode of This Mother Means Business, Laura Sinclair sits down with Chris McMartin, the National Business Banking Lead at the Scotiabank Women Initiative. Together, they dive into what it really takes to support and uplift women in business—from access to funding and mentorship to building confidence and community.
Chris shares her own journey through the world of banking and opens up about the unique challenges women entrepreneurs face—especially when it comes to financial literacy, self-belief, and showing up authentically in often male-dominated industries.
If you’re a woman building your business and craving more connection, practical support, or a reminder that you’re not alone, this episode is for you.
Takeaways:
In this episode you will hear:
00:00 – Meet Chris McMartin & Intro to Scotiabank Women Initiative
02:54 – Real Tools & Resources for Women in Business
05:42 – Confidence, Financial Literacy & the Power of Asking Questions
08:38 – Why Authenticity Matters at Work
11:26 – Thriving in Male-Dominated Spaces
14:39 – Finding Your Voice in Leadership & Public Speaking
17:45 – Bringing Authenticity to the Stage and Boardroom
20:27 – Embracing What Makes You Unique
24:03 – Why Community is a Key to Growth
25:21 – Inside the Scotiabank Women Initiative
28:43 – The Role of Mentorship in Business Success
32:48 – Connection, Encouragement & Taking the Next Step
Chris's Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris_m_mcmartin/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-mcmartin
Scotiabank Women Initiative: https://www.scotiabank.com/women-initiative/ca/en.html
Join This Mother Means Business : www.thismothermeansbusiness.com
Laura's Links:
• Website
• Laura's Instagram
• LJSocial Instagram
• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Pinterest
• TikTok