There are all kinds of entrepreneurial moms—ranging from stay-at-home moms to soccer moms to CEO moms. Kim DeYoung is all three. She’s really the original Metromom—a driven, evolving woman committed to her family, her career and to managing her own home-based business with class. Dynamic, creative and eminently entrepreneurial Kim is the founder of Metromom.com and The Metromom GET IT DONE Circle.

Kim never sacrificed her family to succeed. Instead, she designed a work/ life balance on her own terms by creating a company that helps other women do the same. Metromom is more than just a brand. It’s a tangible extension of Kim, reflecting her values and passions. The story is really in Kim’s journey, how her open personality and diverse life experiences inspired her to create this unique resource for mom entrepreneurs.

Metromom is more than just a brand. It’s a tangible extension of Kim, reflecting her values and passions. The story is really in Kim’s journey, how her diverse life experiences inspired her to create this unique place for women to connect.

CG: How did you get started Kim?

DeYoung: Metromom was started eleven years ago. After being downsized out of my position as a product developer/fashion merchandiser, while pregnant with my first child, I saw the need for a great line of maternity clothing and founded Metromom. I saw the potential for Metromom to be so much more. As my customers shared their product and business ideas with me and I begin to connect these customers with others who would benefit or could possibly assist them in moving forward with these product and business ideas.

CG:  What keeps you motivated?

DeYoung: In all honesty, the people that I interact with. Seeing them have their ideas come to life and the connections that are made from woman to woman.  It really does keep me motivated.

CG:  How does being in business affect your family?

DeYoung: It’s hard to create a balance between doing business (at home) and being available for family. I have 3 children ages 7, 10, 11 and there are times I need to send one last email or follow through on one last detail but one of my children may need my attention at that time.  I have to then make a decision as to what takes priority at that moment. While creating that balance can be difficult at times, I like the fact that I’m setting an example for my children showing them the success that hard work and dedication can bring. I like that their witnessing my dreams come true along with the financial ups and downs of being an entrepreneur.

CG: What makes you tick?

DeYoung: Connecting/Interacting with people. Being with people and brainstorming exciting new ideas. Bringing women together in a way that is beneficial for both parties.

CG: What does the future hold for Metromom?

DeYoung: Currently I’m focusing on the “Get It Done” offerings within my business that were created due to my seeing so many entrepreneurs struggle with getting their brilliant ideas out into the marketplace.  The “Get it Done” system appeals to women, men and entrepreneurs that have dreams for new business concepts, product lines, etc, but are not quite sure on how to proceed. I offer simple steps to take from A to Z so that they don’t get stuck or forgo their dreams because they don’t know quite what to do.

CG: New Horizons for 2010?

DeYoung: Really expanding the “Get It Done” offerings. I’m most excited to support a dozen women with really big ideas, getting them out into the world, and to the see the ripple effect. Also I’ll be hosting the Prosperity Summit in early 2010. My goal is to pull back the veil on money issues that entrepreneurs deal with and to really speaking the truth and shatter the myths.

CG: What is a fun day for you?

DeYoung: Getting myself a pedicure and a massage, going on to have a yummy lunch with a good friend or new business connection and then having some quiet time just to myself.  I don’t get this opportunity often so I really enjoy it when the time presents itself.

CG:  Where does your husband fit into all that you have going on?

DeYoung: This year has been challenging for me and my husband as a couple.  I’ve wanted him to really come on board with Metromom, but that’s not his dream and I’ve had to accept that. Regardless, he is my big fan and is always supportive of my dreams. I still hope that he’ll become more involved once Metromom reaches it full potential and our family can be financially sustained from its success.

Facts about Kim DeYoung:

Favorite Statement:  I’m a Weeble. I may wobble, but I won’t fall down. I will always pick myself up, dust myself off and move forward.

Desire for women:  To stop being so territorial and closed off when it comes to business and achieving success. For us to be willing to freely share contacts and useful information.  To realize you get back much more when you give.

Kim and a friend came up with the concept of merging the ideas of her “Get It Done” and the friend’s “Get It Back” (Get It Back focuses on health, body image, and reclaiming one’s self esteem) into a reality show that supports entrepreneurial moms as they learn to implement their dreams, pursue having the kind of life they desire while they look and feel good doing it. The project is now in the hands of a TV producer who believes, like Kim and her friend, that this is information that can and will benefit many.

Tags: business, Entrepreneur, interview, Metromom, mom