We had the good fortune of connecting with Molly Terbovich-Ridenhour and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Molly, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I’ve spent my entire professional career in the nonprofit arts and culture sector, first as a performer, then as a leader on the administrative side. Over the years, I often took on side projects and consulting work, but ultimately found myself back in full-time roles within organizations. When my most recent position came to an end, it felt like the right time to fully embrace the idea of working independently and intentionally. That’s when I launched AMR (Arts Management Resources), a consulting practice focused on helping nonprofits build sustainable infrastructure, strengthen strategy, and integrate equity in meaningful ways. Starting AMR allowed me to support multiple organizations through the skills and experience I’ve developed, while aligning more deeply with my personal values and doing the work I find most fulfilling.

The most important factor behind my success, and the success of AMR, is trust, grounded in a deep understanding of both the creative and operational sides of nonprofit work. Having built my career as both a performer and an executive leader, I bring a unique perspective that bridges vision and execution, artistry and infrastructure. This dual lens allows me to connect with clients in a way that feels both strategic and empathetic. Organizations know they’re not getting cookie-cutter solutions – they’re getting a thought partner who understands their challenges from the inside out and is committed to helping them grow in alignment with their mission and values. That combination of experience, trust, and tailored support has been essential to building a business identity that centers service, sustainability, and impact.

For much of my life, my career has been a core part of my identity, especially in the arts, where the line between passion and profession is often beautifully blurred. Early on, I didn’t think much about work-life balance because the work felt so meaningful. But as I began building AMR, I took the opportunity to be more intentional about how I structure my time. I started prioritizing activities that take me away from the screen and reconnect me to myself. That has included returning to yoga, rediscovering my love of roller skating, and spending more time with friends and family, especially outdoors, under the sun, where I feel most at ease. Now, I see balance not as a fixed destination, but as a rhythm that evolves. Creating space to recharge has actually made me a better consultant, leader, and human.

What should our readers know about your business?
AMR (Arts Management Resources) is a consulting practice rooted in the belief that nonprofits, and the people who power them, deserve strategy, structure, and support that’s both impactful and human. I work with organizations to strengthen infrastructure, clarify strategy, engage boards, and embed equity in sustainable, actionable ways. What sets AMR apart is that I don’t bring cookie-cutter solutions. Every engagement is tailored, collaborative, and grounded in the reality of what’s possible – always honoring the unique identity and values of the organization.

AMR was born out of a career spent on both sides of the nonprofit world as a performer and as an executive leader. I’ve led organizations, managed through crises, and built systems from the ground up. When my last full-time role ended, I took that as a sign to finally build the business I had been dreaming about for years. It hasn’t been easy letting go of the security of a traditional role, navigating imposter syndrome, and learning to promote my own work have all been real challenges. But they’ve also been gifts. They’ve forced me to get clear on what I bring to the table, and to build something that reflects not just what I can do, but what I want to do.

Alongside AMR, I launched Joyfuel Findings, a merchandise line designed to bring a little humor, happiness, and lightness to people’s lives. It’s a different kind of outlet, but one that also aligns with my values of creativity and joy.

What I want people to know about my work is that it’s driven by care. I care deeply about the nonprofit sector, about the people doing the work, and about building systems that are equitable, sustainable, and effective. My story is one of reinvention, resilience, and creativity and I hope my work empowers others to embrace those things too.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend came to visit San Diego for a week, we’d do it right. We’d kick things off with a slow morning lounging in our mid-century–decorated home, coffee by the pool under swaying palms, maybe a soak in the hot tub if the mood strikes. We’ve worked hard to make our house a little escape, and I’d want them to experience that first.

From there, the itinerary would be a mix of coast, culture, cuisine, and a touch of quirk. We’d spend a day hiking Torrey Pines, with those stunning ocean views keeping us company. Another day would be all about the arts, exploring the museums in Balboa Park or catching a local performance. Evenings would be reserved for great food and even better company: amazing vegan dishes and cocktails at Kindred or Mothership, a trip to Little Italy for pasta, gelato, and people-watching, and brunch at Breakfast Republic (a must!).

We’d take a coastal drive, windows down, music up through La Jolla, Del Mar, and Solana Beach, stopping for beach walks and maybe a sunset picnic. And at least one night, we’d load up Disco Pickle, our beloved 1976 vintage motorhome, and head east to the mountains to stargaze. There’s nothing quite like watching the sky light up with stars away from the city glow, with snacks, stories, and music playing under the desert sky.

The week would be equal parts relaxing and vibrant, just like San Diego itself. It’s the kind of place where you can find magic in a taco stand or a canyon trail, and I’d make sure they left feeling like they really experienced it, not just visited.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Without a doubt, my shoutout goes to my partner, husband, best friend, and personal renaissance man. He’s a musician, recording engineer, and creative powerhouse with a dreamer’s heart and an incredible sense of humor. His belief in me has never wavered, even in the most uncertain seasons. Now, as he embarks on his own journey of creative entrepreneurship, we’re navigating the world of self-employment together – learning, building, and cheering each other on. He’s the host of The Hot Dog Show on YouTube (yes, it’s as fun as it sounds!), available for hire as DJ Twon Burgundy, and continues to record local musicians at his own Cabana Recording Studio. His ability to blend artistry, joy, and fun inspires me daily. I’m endlessly grateful for his love, support, and the shared adventure we’re on.

Website: https://www.mollyterbovich.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-terbovich-ridenhour/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@The-Hot-Dog-Show

Other: https://joyfuel-findings.printify.me/

https://www.thecabanastudio.com

Image Credits

All Selfies…

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