Starting a business is a commitment and requires dedication, resources and sacrifice. We asked some of the rising stars in our community how they thought through the idea of starting their own businesses.

Kristen Hornung

When I first started practicing therapy, I worked for large nonprofit organizations in a variety of different settings, including school-based mental health and community mental health clinics. I really enjoyed the training opportunities that these larger organizations provided, but over time, I realized it wasn’t financially sustainable for me to make nonprofit wages and support myself and my family. Read More>>

Jenna Finch Finch

I grew up in San Diego in a family where animals were simply part of everyday life. My mom had a soft spot for strays and was always bringing home animals in need, so my sister and I grew up thinking it was completely normal to share our home with a revolving cast of dogs, cats, and all kinds of pets.  Read More>>

Ginni Sobti

I started my business because I noticed something was missing. I wanted gifts and decor that actually felt personal and inclusive—especially for people like me with Indian and South Asian names and traditions. But I couldn’t really find many options that reflected that. So I decided to create them myself. Read More>>

Whitney Lounsbury

My thought process behind starting Butter Baked Cake Co. was personal. I come from a background in running sales teams in the fashion world, but when my own family’s health needs collided with my love for celebrating around the table, I realized there just weren’t desserts that fit.  Read More>>

Emmi & Olivia Cole

Our names are Emmi and Olivia Cole, and we started Turbulent Mind while living in Bali, Indonesia. At the time, we were working at a marine conservation where life and adventure happened daily. To make extra cash, we began designing tattoos for volunteers and tourists. People gave us creative freedom, and every customer walked away with a one-of-a-kind design from Bali. Read More>>

Laura Adams

Before founding Telamon Travel, I spent many years working for a tour operator specializing in cultural travel to Cuba. Those experiences, through both the travelers I supported and my own trips to Cuba, became my foundation. They showed me how travel could be transformative not only for the traveler, but also for the communities who welcomed them. I witnessed how an exchange over music, art, or shared meals could open hearts and create lasting impact on both sides. Read More>>