Jill Frechtman

Member of the New York City Incubator

My business is … Fretzels by Jill, which are hand-dipped gourmet chocolate-covered pretzels like you’ve never seen or tasted before. These sweet treats are drenched in milk, white, and dark chocolate and adorned with toppings like mini M&Ms, mini chocolate chips, and toffee. They make the perfect gift for yourself or someone else … if you’re willing to share.

My dream is … to make the world a sweeter place, one Fretzel at a time.

I launched because … I was encouraged by my bosses (no joke) and coworkers. After making my chocolate-covered pretzels for an office holiday party, I was told I had to get them out there for other people to try. I really wasn’t happy working in corporate America, and pursuing Fretzels as a business allowed me to incorporate three of my greatest loves into a more fulfilling way of life: my love of chocolate, my love of design, and my need to feed people (which I proudly inherited from my Bubby).

One day you’ll see me … on “Oprah”! It was an Oprah show back in 2003, with Po Bronson (author of the book What Should I Do With My Life?), that really inspired me and pushed me to launch Fretzels.

Ladies Who Launch has helped me … realize that I’m not alone. Launching can sometimes be a seemingly lonely process, but it’s a great feeling to know that I’m surrounded by other launching ladies who are going through the same ups and downs, the same challenges, and conquering the same fears. The wonderful women of Ladies Who Launch have been a tremendous source of support, resources, encouragement, and inspiration for me.

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