Storytelling and Strategy in Creative Entrepreneurship

In this powerful episode of The Woman’s Hustle: Thrills and Spills of Entrepreneurship, Kira Hartley shares how she launched her business at 40, rebuilt from debt, and transformed her passion for resale, upcycling, and fabric into a thriving creative business. Her journey highlights what so many women in business need to hear: it’s never too late to start, pivot, or reinvent your path.

In this episode, Kira breaks down: How Kira uses storytelling to elevate her resale and upcycling brand The marketing strategies that helped her grow a purpose-driven fabric business Why women in entrepreneurship should trust their creativity, timing, and voice This is a motivating conversation for anyone ready to start, restart, or reinvent their entrepreneurial journey. TAP IN!

Kira Hartley Klinger is a longtime force in e‑commerce, launching her first online shop in 2003 and carving out a niche in resale and upcycling. Inspired by the treasure‑hunt spirit of shows like American Pickers , Pawn Stars , and Storage Wars , she built her success by uncovering valuable gems hidden in discarded textiles and forgotten inventory.

Her storytelling talent led to the release of Fabric Wars in 2023 and Fabric Wars & MORE! in 2025—both top sellers in the Antique & Collectible Textiles & Costumes category. Kira now takes her stories and expertise on the road, speaking at quilting guilds across the Midwest, and continues to innovate with products like the Grammy Whammy, a fan‑favorite solution for eliminating odors in vintage fabrics.

Kira Hartley-Klinger on Instagram Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:15 From Divorce to Entrepreneurship 05:25 The Evolution of a Side Hustle 10:01 Adapting to Change in Business 14:18 The Power of Storytelling in Marketing 18:40 Scaling the Business: Books and Public Speaking 23:31 Creating a Unique Brand in Fabric Resale 26:26 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs Let us know what you think! Support the show About Upgraded MindsetZ - Kisha Woods - Founder and CEO Kisha is an award‑winning Certified Life & Business Coach, author, speaker, resource and advocate.

As the Founder and CEO of Upgraded MindsetZ, she leads a mission to help women break free from outdated cycles, find their voice, and step confidently into their purpose in life, career and entrepreneurship. Follow Kisha on Socials: *LinkedIn: *Facebook: *Instagram: Learn more: