Marika Frumes, the Founder and CEO of Mysha, created the community she wished existed when she was a first-time mom-to-be.
In December 2019, feeling isolated and without a network to lean on, Marika realized that she needed genuine connections with other women going through the same experiences. With a deep desire to build community, she brought together 18 women in a WhatsApp group, forming the first Mysha pod. What started as a small, virtual gathering quickly blossomed into a vibrant, supportive network where moms could form real, lasting friendships. Mysha now serves over a thousand moms across the country, offering a lifeline during one of the most transformative times in a woman's life.
We asked Marika about the personal challenges she faced while building Mysha from the ground up, the impact it has had on its members’ lives, and what she would tell her younger self if she were to start her entrepreneurial journey over again.
Tell us the story behind your company’s founding. How and why did you start working on Mysha?
When I was pregnant, I felt a deep desire to connect with other women going through the same things and, despite trying, couldn’t find an avenue to do so. When I couldn’t find my “village," I took matters into my own hands. Using Facebook, I rallied together the pregnant women in my network, starting the first “Mysha pod.” I had no idea I was building a community. I was simply creating the space that I was craving at that moment. It turns out many other women had the same need.
What problem does Mysha solve?
No one will understand your experience as a new mother as well as another mother who’s going through it at the same time. We exist to support women in their transition to motherhood by creating intimate connections and facilitated experiences. We save our members countless hours thanks to our crowdsourced resources, information, and vetted recommendations.
What are some of the most meaningful impacts Mysha has had so far?
The most powerful element of Mysha is our community. Our members are some of the most inspiring new moms in America. They live bold lives. Optimizing everyone’s wisdom, we’ve cultivated a culture of “asks and gives” that creates an abundant environment of support and resources for all of life's various needs. We believe that the right connection can change your life. Mysha is instrumental in making these connections and, as a byproduct, truly impacting our members’ lives. From mental health resources and support to helping them connect with their next job, our network has been a priceless resource for more than a thousand moms.
What makes Mysha different from other similar companies in the industry?
Mysha is the most engaged and helpful community that I’ve ever been a part of. Everything we do at Mysha is grounded in a deep sense of purpose. Our members feel that and respond accordingly. We also facilitate our virtual pods and events to ensure everyone is getting maximum value. In my experience, this level of thoughtfulness is very unique.
Have you ever felt like you’re “different”? If yes, in what ways has this contributed to your journey as an entrepreneur?
I have always created from the heart and from a place of deep intuition. When I first started Mysha, I was trying to mold myself into the founder who operated based on data and processes. However, time and again, when I deviated from what I felt and followed some scripted process, the outcomes were never ideal. Now, even if it doesn't make “business sense” at first, I defer to my instinct.
When I couldn’t find my village, I took matters into my own hands. I created the space that I was craving, and as it turns out, something many other women had the same need for.
Did you always know that you wanted to be an entrepreneur?
As far as I knew, I never wanted to be an entrepreneur. I didn’t even consider it as an option for myself. I had a fruitful career in hospitality before I naturally grew into a community builder with my first company, HER. This journey has been a total surprise. With that said, I always liked working on my own terms—personal freedom is a core value.
Have you felt like giving up? What made you persist?
At my lowest moment, I continued because another founder friend kept pushing me. She reminded me of the value I was bringing to so many moms. She encouraged me to dramatically increase our membership rates. The moment I did that, the business started to expand.
What would you tell your younger self if you were to start your entrepreneurial journey all over again?
Recognize your superpowers early and really lean into them as you build your business. Your strengths will always bring you the wins. Don't get swayed by advice from others. If you allow your values to guide you, you’ll ultimately build a company that you really love working at and success will come.
How would you describe the journey you’ve had in a few sentences?
I built this company during nap time. I continue to ensure there is plenty of flexibility for my family. I’ve hired most of my employees from within the community and allowed them maximum flexibility, which I know is essential in this motherhood era. The results of this flexibility have been fruitful both financially and in that my colleagues also feel like family.
