Meet Nikki Frechette | Founder of Mentor ConnectHer, Bestselling Author, Speaker & Workshop Coach

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nikki Frechette and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nikki, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
In the beginning of my healing journey, starting a business wasn’t even on my radar. My intention was simply to better my life—to shift out of a victimhood mindset and create real, lasting change. I immersed myself in personal development, and over time, I began to feel empowered in a way I hadn’t before. The tools, support, and mentorship I received completely changed my life—and that transformation sparked a passion in me. I realized I wanted to help others experience the same kind of breakthrough.

What started as a deeply personal path of healing evolved into a purpose-driven business. Today, Mentor ConnectHer is a space where I pour into others, guiding women through their own breakthroughs and building a community rooted in growth, connection, and impact.

Over the years, my work has expanded beyond one-on-one transformational life coaching. I now blend this approach with workshop strategy coaching to help female entrepreneurs craft and deliver impactful workshops that not only amplify their message but also increase their revenue and deepen their influence. It’s about helping women package their wisdom into experiences that truly move people—and move their businesses forward.

At the heart of it all is community. I’m deeply committed to creating meaningful spaces that support small women-owned businesses—whether through curated networking events, visibility platforms, or strategic brand partnerships that align with purpose. When women are equipped with the right tools, supported by the right people, and seen for who they truly are, there’s no limit to what they can achieve.

And that’s become my mission—to build something bigger than myself. To help women grow, connect, and rise—not alone, but side by side. Because when one of us shines, the whole room lights up.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business, Mentor ConnectHer, was born from a deeply personal place—my own healing journey.

After navigating one of the most difficult seasons of my life—and what felt like the final lap of a long, exhausting spin through the toxic cycle of domestic violence—I discovered the transformative power of personal development. Fueled by a deep desire to heal and rebuild, I became certified as both a Domestic Violence Counselor Advocate and a Transformational Life Coach. As I began to reclaim my voice and revise the belief systems that had held me back, a greater purpose emerged: I didn’t just want to survive—I wanted to thrive, and bring other women with me.

That calling led to the creation of Mentor ConnectHer, a heart-centered business that empowers women to find their voices, own their stories, and lead with confidence and purpose. Through my personal coaching services, and custom-designed workshops, I focus on building authentic leadership, emotional resilience, and community-based growth.

One of the moments I’m most proud of was co-creating the Design Your Destiny Coaching Program for Treasures, an incredible nonprofit that supports women exiting exploitation. Witnessing their transformation and watching them reclaim their narratives was nothing short of life-changing.

From there, I developed The Women’s Empowerment Mentorship Program for The Rose Bowl Institute, alongside a team of passionate women who volunteered to create opportunities for the next generation. With the support of Programs Director Lauren Hall and the entire R.B.I. team, that initiative grew into something powerful—and ultimately led me to serve as their Mentoring Director, proving that service often opens doors to unexpected and beautiful impact.

I joined EM/POWEREDbyWMN—a visibility-driven platform that uplifts women in business—initially drawn by the desire to be part of a unique, powerhouse community. That spark grew into something greater as I stepped into the role of SoCal Community Director, helping expand our reach beyond the Bay Area. It’s been one of the most fulfilling chapters of my journey.

This year—2025—marked another meaningful milestone: becoming an Amazon Bestselling Co-author. Sharing my story in the anthology Women Who Lead Vol. 2 – Unleash Your Potential was a full-circle moment, affirming that our most painful experiences can become our greatest sources of strength and impact. This project reminded me that even the hardest chapters of our lives can be rewritten into narratives of purpose, growth, and empowerment. What once broke me has now become a beacon for others—and that’s the kind of transformation I’ll always stand for.

None of this has been easy. Entrepreneurship is layered with growth, healing, and lots of trial and error. But the biggest lesson I’ve learned is this: healing and business growth can coexist. When women are equipped with life and business skills—and choose collaboration over competition—the ripple effect is undeniable. My mission is to create that ripple, one empowered woman at a time.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that it’s rooted in resilience, intentionality, and purpose. Mentor ConnectHer isn’t just a business—it’s a movement.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Bestie Week in LA: The Soulful + Scenic Itinerary

Day 1 – Topanga Canyon:
Let’s start with brunch at Café 27, tucked into the winding hills of Topanga where the air is crisp, the trees are tall, and every view feels like a scene from a dream. Afterward, hike through the majestic sandstone formations of Red Rock or take in sweeping ocean views from the Tuna Canyon Trail. As golden hour rolls in, we’ll enjoy a whimsical dinner under the oaks at Inn of the Seventh Ray—a dreamy creekside spot where twinkling lights and nature’s soundtrack create pure magic.

Day 2 – Malibu / Point Dume:
Grab smoothies from SunLife Organics, picnic on the cliffs of Point Dume, and end with an Heirloom Burrata salad at Geoffrey’s Malibu as the sun dips into the ocean.

Day 3 – Rose Bowl Stadium:
Let’s make our way to Pasadena for a powerful day at the historic Rose Bowl Stadium. Each spring, the Day of Empowerment brings together women leaders, mentors, and community change-makers for panels, storytelling, and connection in an iconic setting. Whether you’re attending this event or another inspiring gathering at the stadium, this day is about purpose, visibility, and walking in your power. Be sure to check out the Charles E. Young Locker Room and the 1922 Locker Room Museum.

Day 4 – Bike & Vibe: Los Angeles E-Bike Tour:
Experience the city on two wheels with Gavin Brennan’s guided e-bike tour—an immersive ride through eclectic neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and hidden street art gems. Whether we’re cruising palm-lined streets or pausing for local bites, this day is equal parts movement, culture, and connection. Expect laughter, learning, and plenty of Instaworthy views.

Day 5 – The Huntington Gardens & Hollywood Bowl Magic:
We’ll start with a peaceful stroll through world-class botanical gardens, sip tea under ancient trees, and snag a plant baby from the Garden Center to commemorate the day. It’s a serene, soul-nourishing spot—perfect for hosting a women’s circle or simply connecting and reflecting in nature’s embrace. As the sun sets, we will pack a picnic (or grab one from Joan’s on Third), cozy up under the stars, and catch a live symphony, our favorite artist, or a movie night with an orchestra.
And if the stars truly align and we get to see the legendary Erykah Badu? Prepare to be transported—her hypnotic voice, conscious lyrics, and otherworldly presence will leave our souls humming.

Day 6 – Venice Wellness Vibes:
Ease into the day with guided meditation—either at The Calming Spot in Santa Monica or barefoot on the beach, letting the ocean set the rhythm. Then head to The Den for grounding breathwork followed by a restorative sound bath at Unplug. Wander the curated treasures of General Store, and cap it off with a soul-satisfying meal at Gjelina—because balance is everything.

Day 7 – Ojai Escape:
Let’s day trip to Ojai for spiritual recharging, crystal shopping, vineyard sipping, olive oil tasting, and catching the iconic “pink moment” at sunset. Ojai is all about slow, intentional energy—a reminder to breathe deeper and dream bigger.

Day 8 – One More for the Vibes:
Before heading to the airport, we’ll slow it all down. Start with a relaxing massage at The Now in South Bay—a grounding, sensory experience to help you soak in the magic of the week. Then we’ll squeeze in one last memory-making moment: a playful, styled photo shoot at The Wall Project in Melrose or El Matador Beach at golden hour. Polaroids, outfit changes, and candid joy required.

You’ll leave with keepsakes, a calm nervous system, and a heart full of connection. This isn’t just a goodbye—it’s a groovy send-off worthy of the journey you just lived.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My journey wouldn’t be what it is without the extraordinary people who’ve walked beside me.

My family in New Mexico—they never stopped believing in me, even during the seasons I couldn’t see my own potential. Their unwavering support has been my foundation and my fuel.

My beautiful sons—they are my greatest teachers and daily inspiration. We’ve weathered our share of challenges, and there were times I didn’t always know how to show up as the best version of myself. But their resilience has pushed me to grow and to keep evolving—for them and because of them.

Angelina Christopher, my closest friend and soul sister of nearly three decades—she has been a constant source of wisdom, laughter, and unconditional love. Through every high and low, she’s shown me what true, soul-deep friendship looks like.

Frank Gianotti, my incredible fiancé and life partner—he lights up every room and my heart right along with it. His unwavering integrity and joyful, optimistic spirit remind me to see life through a brighter lens, even on the toughest days. He leads with heart, stands tall in his values, and makes this wild, beautiful journey feel downright groovy.

My mentors and the communities who uplifted me—they saw something in me before I could see it in myself. Their belief, guidance, and encouragement helped shape the woman and leader I’ve become.

A huge shoutout to personal development books that became my lifeline in the beginning—“You Are a Bad Ass” “The Universe Has Your Back,” and “You Can Heal Your Life” were like breadcrumbs on my path back to myself.

And to the many women I’ve had the honor of mentoring and coaching—they remind me every day why I do this work. Watching them rise lights a fire in me like nothing else.

Website: https://linktr.ee/nikki_frechette

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikki_frechette/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkifrechette/

Image Credits
Cee Cee Weaver | Founder of Pink Salt Photos | Bay Area Photographer: https://www.instagram.com/pinksaltphotos/
Ryan Satterfield: CEO, Creative Director, Name Brand Ads: https://www.namebrandads.com/about-us
Natalie Zmeu | Brand Photographer: https://www.instagram.com/nat.visualz/