Kathryn is the Founder/CEO of Dye Candy. Read our interview with Kathryn about her experiences with Xcelerate Business Advising.

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What sparked the idea for your business–and what vision or purpose drives the work you do today?

The idea for my business began with a simple need–I wanted a better way to color my own hair, and the tool I needed didn’t exist. Drawing on my experience as a professional hairdresser and as a home colorist, I created and patented the Hummingbird applicator. Today, my vision is to expand into a suite of products that support home colorists and grow awareness of our brand and mission.

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When you first connected with Xcelerate, where were you in your business journey? What challenges or aspirations brought you to us?

I was introduced to Xcelerate at an entrepreneur event called She Flies, right when I was facing a crossroads in my business. I knew I needed direction and mentorship from someone with real experience in personal care and CPG–and Xcelerate felt like the support I had been searching for.

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What goals did you focus on with Xcelerate this year, and what progress are you most proud of?

My main goal with Xcelerate was to get clear and committed to which product category would move us forward. With coaching and the network it provided, we gained direction and new momentum. I’m proud that Dye Candy is now strategically developing and preparing to launch new product lines through 2026–something that came from renewed focus and confidence.

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Can you share a moment this year when something clicked for you as a business owner–something that changed the way you think or lead?

A turning point for me was realizing I didn’t have to build alone. Working with a woman coach who treated me as a peer while sharing her experience gave me both validation and clarity. It helped me feel more confident in my voice as a business owner and more connected to a community that understands this journey.

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What were some of the biggest challenges you navigated this year, and how did Xcelerate’s support help you move through them?

This year brought both excitement and challenge as we discovered that our product, the Hummingbird, could succeed in multiple categories. Exploring those possibilities stretched my focus, and my core business began to feel diluted. Coaching helped me step back, evaluate each opportunity strategically, and reconnect with what mattered most. With that clarity–and the connections and guidance provided–I was able to refocus my energy with purpose.

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If you’ve been part of Xcelerate for multiple years, how would you describe the ongoing impact of that support over time? And if you’re newer to the community, what early changes or wins have you already noticed?*

Though I’m still relatively new to the Xcelerate community, I’ve already experienced a major shift. I was feeling stuck, growth had stalled, and so had my enthusiasm. Coaching helped me regain clarity and purpose, and that momentum has translated into action. We now have new product lines in development and planned launches rolling out through 2026.

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What milestones or wins have felt especially meaningful along the way–whether in growth, confidence, or community impact? 

One of the most meaningful wins has been discovering that I can lead without shrinking –that vulnerability and authenticity are strengths. Feeling supported by a woman peer helped me step forward more confidently. That shift has translated into real movement in our business, including new product lines and upcoming launches planned through 2026.

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What about Xcelerate’s approach feels uniquely impactful or aligned with the way you do business?

The blend of deep CPG/personal care category expertise and personal, face-to-face support is what made Xcelerate so impactful for me and my business. Having a woman coach with experience and success in both the startup and corporate worlds was exactly the guidance and experience I needed to draw from–and something I hadn’t found anywhere else.

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How has your identity–as a woman and through your intersecting experiences–shaped the way you lead, make decisions, or build community through your business?

My lived experience as a woman has influenced my leadership through connection, empathy, and a hunger for continuous learning. Throughout the three careers, I’ve built success not just through numbers and metrics, but through relationships, collaboration, and the personal touch that creates trust and community. I’m becoming a stronger leader while staying grounded in what makes me who I am.

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How do you personally define success–for yourself and your business? Has that definition evolved since joining Xcelerate?

I used to define success mainly through sales, and in that mindset, I lost some of the joy that originally sparked my business. Since joining Xcelerate, my definition has expanded. Financial success still matters, but now I see success as also enjoying the journey–staying centered, energized, and happy in the work. That balance is better for me and for my company.

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Looking ahead, what are you most excited to create or grow next–and how has Xcelerate helped prepare you for that next chapter?

I’m excited to expand our product lines strategically in 2026, and as we grow, I know new challenges will come with that– in the best way. Having Xcelerate as a resource gives me confidence, knowing there’s a wide range of expertise I can lean on. It makes me feel supported and brave stepping into the next chapter.

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Is there anything else you'd like to share about your Xcelerate experience?

I’m deeply impressed by the quality and expertise of the coaches–but what has meant even more is being supported by women who show up as peers, not just advisors. There’s something uniquely powerful about being coached by other women who see you, understand you, and walk the journey with you.

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