Carina Lepore rose to national recognition after winning The Apprentice in 2019, securing victory in nine out of ten challenges and earning her place as one of the show’s most formidable contestants. Stepping into her father’s bakery business, she transformed a family legacy into a boardroom triumph — blending grit, instinct, and commercial sharpness.
Now bringing that same entrepreneurial insight to SIREN GROUNDS, Carina sits down with us to explore the story behind our brand, the drive behind our cold brew, and the vision shaping the future of functional coffee.
How do you usually start your mornings, and what role does coffee or your favorite fuel play in setting the tone for your day?
My mornings start early, usually in the shop. Before the rush, there’s a quiet moment where I reset, look at the day ahead, and get grounded. Coffee is non-negotiable — a black Americano is how I switch on. It’s more than a drink; it’s a ritual that sets the pace, sharpens my focus, and reminds me why I love what I do. Once the coffee’s in, I’m ready for whatever the day throws at me
Women often juggle so many rolescareer, family, self-care. How do you personally manage your energy levels to keep up with the demands of your lifestyle?
I’ve learned that managing energy is more important than managing time. I’m realistic about my capacity and I don’t try to do everything perfectly. Some days the business needs more of me, other days my family does, and I’ve made peace with that balance shifting. I protect the basics — good routines, enough rest when I can get it, and moments of quiet, even if they’re short. And honestly, listening to myself has been the biggest lesson. When I’m well, everything I run works better too.
When you hit those days where motivation feels low, what’s your go-to ritual, mindset shift, or daily practice that helps you power through?
On low-motivation days, I don’t wait to feel motivated — I focus on momentum. I start with one small, physical action: opening the shop, making a coffee, writing a short list. That usually gets me moving. I remind myself why I started and who I’m doing it for, but I also give myself permission to have off days. Progress doesn’t always look loud — sometimes it’s just showing up and doing the next small thing.
Fuel Beyond the Cup: Outside of coffee, what other habits, foods, or wellness practices do you swear by to stay energized and grounded throughout the day?
Honestly, I’m not someone with perfect wellness routines or strict diet habits, and I don’t pretend to be. For me, staying energized is more about mindset and work ethic than green juices or rituals. I’ve always believed in showing up, working hard, and keeping going even when it’s not glamorous. That consistency keeps me grounded. I listen to my body as best I can, but my biggest driver has always been resilience, purpose, and the determination to see things through.
If you could share one piece of advice with women about how to fuel not just their bodies but also their ambition and spirit, what would it be?
Fuel your ambition the same way you fuel your body: consistently, not perfectly. You don’t need to have it all figured out or do things the “right” way to move forward. Back yourself, work hard, and keep showing up — especially on the days it feels heavy. Confidence and momentum are built through action, not waiting to feel ready.