Episode Overview
Welcome to the first episode of Big Dreams & Little Things! Join hosts Karina Kampe, a certified transformational coach, artist, creative entrepreneur, and songwriter, and Maria Wronski-Ellis, an artist, songwriter, educator, and author of the upcoming The Mindful Songwriter, as they delve into the empowering concept of “starting scrappy.” This episode emphasizes the importance of taking action rather than waiting for the perfect conditions to pursue your dreams. Through personal anecdotes and inspiring stories from literature and real life, the hosts offer practical challenges designed to help you move forward with your goals, even when circumstances aren’t ideal.
Topics Covered
- The pitfalls of perfectionism and its impact on taking action
- Embracing the “starting scrappy” mindset for success
- Shonda Rhimes’ transformative “Year of Yes” and its life-changing effects
- Elizabeth Gilbert’s idea that creative ideas need to be acted upon promptly
- The freedom that comes with age and reduced concern for others’ opinions
- Stepping outside comfort zones, highlighted by Karina’s audition experience
- How limited resources can fuel innovation and entrepreneurial success
- Humble beginnings of major companies like Amazon, Apple, and Airbnb
- The “make do” approach leading to entrepreneurial achievements
Timeline with Key Moments
- [00:02] Opening reflection on procrastination due to the pursuit of perfection.
- [00:35] Episode introduction and overview of topics, including personal stories and research insights.
- [01:24] Hosts Karina and Maria officially launch the podcast.
- [01:49] Exploring the meaning of “Starting Scrappy.”
- [04:08] Shonda Rhimes’ transformative journey through her “Year of Yes.”
- [10:10] The courage to start over, even after achieving success.
- [11:43] Karina’s story of saying “yes” and its role in her marriage.
- [12:15] Discussion on the liberation that comes with age.
- [13:14] Elizabeth Gilbert’s concept of ideas needing action.
- [15:06] Mel Robbins’ philosophy on focusing on what matters to you.
- [16:12] Byron Katie’s framework for staying in your lane.
- [17:26] Overcoming performance anxiety through Karina’s audition story.
- [20:40] Maria shares her experiences with creativity and resourcefulness.
- [21:56] Research on how successful entrepreneurs often start with limited resources.
- [27:04] Introduction of the two-week challenge for listeners to practice “starting scrappy.”
- [28:38] Announcement of ECTA Accountability Hub and its upcoming project.
- [29:47] Preview of the next episode focused on overcoming imposter syndrome.

Books, Inspiration & Creative Wisdom
Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes: A game-changing TED Talk and bestselling book encouraging you to embrace fear.
Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert: A manifesto for catching creative ideas before they slip away.
Let Them by Mel Robbins: A liberating concept for freeing yourself from others’ judgments.
Three Businesses Theory by Byron Katie: A framework for focusing on what you can control.
Digital Marketing Queen by Amy Porterfield: Insights on starting before you feel ready.
Success Stories Mentioned
Free Download: The Starting Scrappy Challenge
- Make meaningful daily progress toward your goals (even small steps count!)
- Break free from perfectionism (goodbye excuses!)
- Build momentum with consistent actions
- Track your progress and celebrate your wins (victory dances encouraged!)
Starting Scrappy Challenge guide, a two-week experience designed to help you: