#198 - Making Friends Through Work: Collaboration Over Competition (Kim Oster-Holstein and Mara Smith)

#198 - Making Friends Through Work: Collaboration Over Competition (Kim Oster-Holstein and Mara Smith)

June 7, 2026 · 27 min · Season 1 · Episode 198

About this episode

The episode discusses how two entrepreneurs built a genuine friendship through their work in the beverage industry.

Can work be a source of friendship in adulthood? This week, I talk with Mara Smith, founder of Inspiro Tequila, and Kim Oster Holstein, co-founder of Twisted Alchemy, about the friendship they built while growing businesses in the same industry. We discuss entrepreneurship, collaboration, networking, and the importance of staying open to new friendships later in life. Mara and Kim share how a professional connection evolved into a genuine friendship rooted in shared values, mutual support, and a belief that there's room for everyone to succeed. Whether you're a founder, work in a traditional office, or are simply looking for new ways to meet people, this conversation is a reminder that meaningful friendships can begin in unexpected places. Special thank you, as always, to my assistant producer, Rebekah Jacobs!

People in this episode

Host: Nina Badzin

Guests: Kim Oster-Holstein, Mara Smith

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Inspiro Tequila, Twisted Alchemy

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