MARA SHAPIRO SMITH began her legal career at Mayer, Brown & Platt in Chicago before joining the corporate strategy team at a Fortune 500 Company. After her twins were born prematurely, Mara decided to leave the corporate world to focus on her family. She never stopped thinking about what was next. In 2020, Mara followed her dream of starting her own company—Inspiro Tequila. Mara saw an opportunity to make an impact by adding another female perspective to the male-dominated spirits industry.

Who is your role model?

Inspiro is the Spanish word for “inspired,” and Inspiro Tequila is named in honor of my biggest inspirations, my grandmother and my mom—role models of confidence, loyalty, and determination.

What are the hardest lessons you have learned as an entrepreneur?

The hardest lesson I have learned is that things rarely go according to my plans. This has required me to become more flexible. Every day brings a new challenge, and I am constantly problem solving and pivoting. I may have honed my adaptability skills later in life, but I’m glad I did.

What advice would you give to future Power Women?

It is never too late to get started. Re-entering the workforce after years at home was really daunting. It took a lot of research to learn about a new industry as well as all the aspects of starting a company, but there are so many resources out there to help you get up to speed quickly. As prepared as you may be though, you can’t do it alone. Reach out to some of the many collaborative and supportive women’s organizations and surround yourself with inspiring female founders and leaders to help guide you on your journey.

For more information, visit inspirotequila.com.