Articles from Small Business Trendsetters

Jacob and Arleen Garza’s new book, A LEAP OF FAITH: A MULTIFAMLY REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT FABLE – BUILDING WEALTH THROUGH REAL ESTATE, has reached the #1 spot in multiple categories, including Commercial Real Estate, Real Estate Investments, and Real Estate Sales in the United States. It also claimed the top ranking in real estate in Canada, […]

Listen To This Article With technology evolving, having a strong online presence isn’t just an option, it’s a necessity. Drizzle Digital, a woman-owned, woman-led digital marketing agency based in Denver, Colorado, is redefining what it means to be a digital partner. Specializing in social media management, website development, email marketing, and paid advertising, Drizzle Digital […]

Listen To This Article Transitioning from an employee mindset to owning and thriving in your own business is no small feat. Michele Cochran, founder of Six Twenty Six, exemplifies resilience and determination as she shares her story of turning challenges into opportunities. Her company, which specializes in promotional products with “soul and substance,” has become […]

Listen To This Article The intersection of technology and public service takes center stage this February as Folsom prepares to host one of Northern California’s most anticipated technology gatherings. Scheduled for February 24-28, 2025, Folsom Tech Week promises to revolutionize how we approach technological innovation in both public and private sectors. Transforming Ideas into Action […]

Listen To This Article VALC Consultants was born from founder Valerie Crafton’s hands-on experience in the construction industry. Recognizing inefficiencies in large-scale projects and a culture of reactive problem-solving, Valerie saw a critical gap: businesses often adopted technologies that didn’t address their core issues. Instead of fitting solutions to problems, many organizations applied Band-Aids to […]

Listen To This Article For over three decades, Janet Lienhard has dedicated her career to helping professionals harness the full potential of software tools. Specializing in Microsoft 365 applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams, Janet empowers businesses to improve productivity by revealing time-saving strategies and techniques.  The Journey to Expertise  Janet’s extensive experience […]

Listen To This Article In a fast-paced world that often leaves individuals grappling with stress, grief, and a sense of disconnection, Cali Rossen has emerged as a beacon of hope. Through her innovative practice, Sacred Frequencies, she is reshaping the conversation around wellness by offering transformative healing modalities that harmonize the mind, body, and spirit. […]

Listen To This Article Souliotes Garage Doors & Gates is a residential and commercial specialty subcontractor based in San Diego, offering customers high-quality garage doors and gates. With a commitment to delivering tailored solutions for each client, the company has become a trusted name in both home and business security solutions. What makes Souliotes truly […]

Listen To This Article By Alena Wiese In the heart of Atlanta, LaWanna Bradford reflects on a journey that has touched lives and shaped futures. Eighteen years ago, she joined The Bradford Group, LLC, with a vision to empower individuals, families, and businesses to achieve their financial dreams. What began as a small family venture […]

Listen To This Article In today’s fast-paced business environment, CEOs and leaders often find themselves bogged down by operational tasks, preventing them from focusing on strategic growth. That’s where Vannin Chief of Staff comes in. Founded by Keziah Wonstolen, Vannin Chief of Staff provides tailored support to business leaders by offering a flexible, scalable solution […]

Listen To This Article Maternal health in the U.S. faces a critical crisis. With the country ranking as one of the most dangerous and expensive places in the developed world to give birth, the situation demands urgent solutions. Emagine Solutions Technology, led by Courtney Williams, is addressing this issue through innovative technology designed to make […]

Listen To This Article Holidaily Brewing isn’t just another craft brewery—it’s the largest dedicated gluten-free brewery in the United States, transforming the craft beer scene for people with dietary restrictions and those simply seeking exceptional beer. At its heart lies a story of resilience, determination, and innovation. Founder Karen Hertz took her personal health challenges […]

Listen To This Article Leadership development plays a pivotal role in driving organizational success. Jahnavi Brenner, an expert in coaching and talent development, emphasizes that leaders are not born but built. Effective leadership development programs not only equip individuals with essential skills but also foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and engagement within companies.  From […]

Listen To This Article American Solar and Roofing, based in Phoenix, Arizona, stands as a pioneer in the solar energy industry. Established in 2001 as the original solar installer in the region, the company has consistently evolved to meet the needs of its residential and commercial clients. To ensure exceptional quality, they acquired a roofing […]

Listen To This Article Packaging design is all around us, but it often goes unnoticed. Whether it’s the sleek bottle of your favorite skincare product or the textured box of a fine wine, great packaging not only catches the eye but also tells a story. For Sharon Eucce, founder of Packaging Chic, the artistry and […]

Listen To This Article In the ever-evolving world of event production and entertainment, there are stories of transformation, innovation, and perseverance. One such story is that of Dr. Julie Robinson, the founder of Undercover Productions. With over 26 years in the industry, Dr. Robinson has taken her experience as a performer and turned it into […]

Listen To This Article Tammy Cooper, the CEO and CFO of Technologent, has guided the company through a transformative period, evolving it into a globally recognized provider of IT solutions and services. Founded in 2002 as a startup by a husband-and-wife team, Technologent has grown to serve Fortune 1000 companies, a trajectory significantly influenced by […]

Listen To This Article For nearly two decades, Laura Nowlan has been a cornerstone of the staffing industry in Las Vegas. Her career began 18 years ago, and for the last ten years, she’s been at the helm of her own staffing agency. With a focus on creating long-term partnerships rather than quick fixes, Laura […]

Listen To This Article Background screening is a cornerstone of modern hiring practices, ensuring that potential employees meet the standards and expectations of the businesses they join. Vertical Identity, a boutique background screening company founded by Sarah Hope, has spent a decade helping organizations protect their workplaces and reputations by thoroughly vetting candidates. Their expertise […]

Listen To This Article Safe Haven Solutions has established itself as a global leader in IT consulting and managed services, with nearly 20 years of experience helping businesses thrive. The company specializes in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and global network solutions, partnering with renowned Fortune 500 clients like Louis Vuitton, AT&T, Hallmark, and Wells Fargo. By […]

Listen To This Article For over 28 years, Kary Sinkule has been dedicated to the transformative practice of yoga. Yet, it wasn’t until a deeply personal journey prompted her to step away from teaching in traditional settings that she found a purpose beyond the studio. As a young teacher, Kary had to take time off […]

Listen To This Article Elizabeth Hall, founder of eeze Natural Health, knows firsthand the challenges of maintaining gut health, especially while traveling. Her flagship product, Travel-eeze, is designed specifically for travelers facing discomforts like bloating, constipation, and immune issues caused by changes in routine and diet while on the go. Elizabeth’s journey from a flight […]

Listen To This Article Michelle Manire’s story is one of growth and a commitment to building strategic partnerships. What began as a small venture working with Catalina Island clients has now evolved into Coast to Coast Conferences and Events, a national event management company specializing in conferences, trade shows, and corporate events across the U.S. […]

Listen To This Article Brianna Birdwell’s path to success wasn’t linear, but it’s a story of deep connection between business growth and community impact. She’s the founder of EID Solutions, a professional services company that spans a broad range of fields, from environmental sustainability and construction management to people development. But Brianna’s entrepreneurial journey started far […]

Listen To This Article Karen Posey has carved a path of excellence in business leadership, from starting her own ventures to revitalizing struggling organizations. With a career spanning sales, operations, and strategic leadership, her expertise lies in helping CEOs drive growth and overcome challenges. Here are the key takeaways from her journey and strategies.  A […]

Listen To This Article Storytelling has always been a cornerstone of human connection. It draws us in, evokes emotions, and leaves a lasting impression. At DuckPunk Productions, Mellissa Tong and her team harness the timeless art of storytelling to help businesses connect with their audiences in meaningful ways. With over 24 years of experience, DuckPunk […]

Listen To This Article Introducing Ms. C’s Home-Style  Pamela Coleman, also known as Ms. C, has built a successful business by combining her passion for food with a dedication to the community. Ms. C’s Home-Style offers private chef services and catering for private and corporate events across Arizona, Nevada, and California. What distinguishes her business […]

Listen To This Article Christine Ferns is a dynamic entrepreneur juggling two thriving ventures—Step Up Consulting and Step Up Foods. Based in Los Angeles, she has carved a niche for herself in both the technology consulting and culinary industries by addressing gaps in the market and staying true to her passion for simplicity and impact.  […]

Listen To This Article Some of the most inspiring success stories are born from life’s toughest challenges. Nada Lena Nasserdeen, the founder of Rise Up For You, turned personal hardship into a mission to empower leaders worldwide.  From Performer to Leader  Nada Lena’s professional journey began in the world of performing arts, where she toured […]

Listen To This Article The Founder’s Inspiration  Shannon Kehrer’s journey into the world of business began with an annoyance that most of us can relate to: slipping no-show socks. At 19, Shannon decided she had had enough of dealing with socks that wouldn’t stay in place. Without any design or sewing experience, she crafted a […]

Listen To This Article On the most recent episode of Women in Motion, we had the privilege of learning from Hawa Dicko, founder of Compassion Adult Daycare in Aurora, Colorado. Hawa’s story is one of determination, compassion, and community-centered care. Originally from Ghana, Hawa drew on her background in healthcare and her values of hard […]

Listen To This Article During the most recent episode of Women in Motion, we were thrilled to feature Norel Mancuso, the inspiring founder behind Social House, a digital growth agency that’s reshaping the way brands engage online. Norel’s journey began with a bold move from L’Oreal in New York City to Los Angeles, where she […]

Listen To This Article In today’s fast-paced digital world, businesses must stand out—and one of the best ways to do that is through storytelling. Marci Klein, founder of Klein Creative Media, has built her entire career on this idea. What started in the high-energy, unpredictable world of reality TV has evolved into a thriving video […]

As the events industry rebounds with full force post-pandemic, event planners face new challenges in sourcing venues—one of the most essential components of any successful event. High demand, limited availability, and increased costs are reshaping the market, making hotel sourcing more complex and competitive than ever. Jackie Baker, founder and CEO of Spark Events, a […]

Listen To This Article Karen Kelly, founder of K2 Ultimate Incentives, has dedicated her company to enhancing employee engagement through thoughtfully designed incentive programs. In a recent conversation, she shared insights into how K2 Ultimate Incentives serves companies of all sizes, helping them boost productivity, retain employees, and build a culture that values recognition.  The […]

Listen To This Article In the evolving landscape of fitness, Tussle, a fight fitness gear company, has carved a niche by focusing exclusively on women. Unlike brands that “shrink and pink” men’s gear, Tussle offers form-fitting gear for women, tailored for boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, MMA, and fitness activities. Founder Cary Williams explains, “We specialize […]

Listen To This Article On the most recent episode of Women in Motion, Lee Kantor chats with Jane Hartgrove, the driving force behind Tres Picosos, a company that has turned the burrito business into a nationwide success story. Jane shares the fascinating journey of how Tres Picosos grew from a family venture into a major […]

Listen To This Article In the latest episode of Women in Motion, host Lee Kantor sits down with Selena Porter, the innovative founder of NurtureLux. Selena has dedicated the past five years to transforming the way we experience sleep with her unique and functional sleep products. Here’s a closer look at her inspiring journey.  Starting […]

Listen To This Article In the latest episode of Women in Motion, Lee Kantor sits down with Rhoda Johnson, the dynamic force behind Rhoda Design Group. With a background rooted in Hollywood’s glamor and a passion for helping others express their true selves, Rhoda has spent decades perfecting her craft as an image brand strategist, […]

Listen To This Article As the world is increasingly becoming disconnected from nature, Jenny Curtis is on a mission to bring wildlife education back into homes with her innovative venture, EdZOOcation. In a recent conversation on the Women in Motion podcast, Jenny shared the journey that led her to create EdZOOcation, a subscription box service […]

Listen To This Article Angeline Gillings, the dynamic Founder and CEO of AMP-G LLC, has been featured in Women’s Journal, a leading publication dedicated to empowering women in business, leadership, and personal growth. Known for her innovative approach to leadership development and her passion for helping others unlock their full potential, Angeline shares her insights […]

Listen To This Article Elani Kay, a multi-hyphenate entrepreneur, life coach, and founder of CEITA TV and Talent Agency Guide, has been featured in Women’s Journal for her groundbreaking insights on leadership, wellness, and success. In the feature article titled “Success from Within: Perspectives from Four Influential Women on Achieving True Fulfillment,” Elani shares her […]

Listen To This Article In a move set to revolutionize the small and medium enterprise (SME) landscape across the Asia-Pacific region, California-based Craftsman AI has announced a groundbreaking partnership with LEADimpact Asia Inc. and LEADimpact Singapore Pte. Ltd. The collaboration aims to bring cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) tools and strategies to millions of businesses through […]

Listen To This Article In a recent episode of the Women in Motion podcast, hosted by Lee Kantor, we had the pleasure of hearing from Valerie Emanuel, co-founder of Rif Care, a groundbreaking period care company that’s shaking up the industry with biodegradable products made from hemp fiber.  The Genesis of Rif Care  Valerie Emanuel, […]

Can you tell us a little bit about your app HappierMe? HappierMe is an emotional intelligence app, with separate sections that offer tailored support for teenagers and adults. The goal of the app is to help users feel better now by not only dealing with current challenges, but also inviting them to go deeper, understand […]

Listen To This Article On the most recent episode of “Women in Motion,” hosted by Lee Kantor, Allison Monette Cordova shares her journey from being a one-woman-band reporter to leading a successful PR and digital consulting agency. This post delves into her career evolution, insights on PR’s changing landscape, and her involvement with WBEC-West.  From […]

Listen To This Article In a recent episode of Women in Motion, hosted by Lee Kantor, we were introduced to Melanie Cristol, the founder of Lorals. Lorals is revolutionizing the sexual wellness industry with its innovative products designed to enhance intimacy for women.  The Birth of Lorals  Melanie Cristol had been dreaming of Lorals for […]

Listen To This Article In the latest episode of Women in Motion, hosted by Lee Kantor, we delve into the inspiring journey of Lizette Espinosa, co-founder of Infanttech, a company revolutionizing parenting with innovative tech solutions. This episode, sponsored by WBEC-West, sheds light on Lizette’s transition from a legal career to entrepreneurship, driven by her […]

Listen To This Article In the world of parenting, innovation can make a significant difference in the daily lives of parents and their children. Lindsey Shores, the founder of Baby a GoGo, has taken on the challenge of creating essential, modernized baby products to ease the stress of parenthood. In this blog post, we explore […]

Listen To This Article In a recent episode of the Women in Motion podcast, Lee Kantor sat down with Michelle Roberts, the force behind Roberts Ranch and Garden. What started as a humble family project on a 7-acre plot has blossomed into a thriving business that provides hoop houses to farmers, communities, and individuals across […]

Listen To This Article In the dynamic world of advertising, Mariya Palanjian, founder of Globafly, has carved a niche in the industry with her unique approach to city takeovers and multi-channel advertising. In this blog post, we delve into her journey, the innovative concepts behind Globafly, and her advice for entrepreneurs.  The Genesis of Globafly  […]

Listen To This Article In December 2019, Kim Wilson founded 40 West Xpress, initially as a logistics company focused on hot shot trucking and freight transportation. Little did she know that her entrepreneurial journey would take a significant turn due to unforeseen global events. This article delves into her inspiring pivot from logistics to waste […]

Listen To This Article In a recent interview, Monica Coburn shared her inspiring journey from a successful banking career to founding Nevada Business Advisors, a firm dedicated to supporting small businesses in various aspects, from certification to financing and strategic consulting. This blog delves into Monica’s transition, the challenges she faced, and the impactful work […]

Listen To This Article Anise Fuller, the founder of Walk By Faith Productions, has not only carved a niche for herself but also paved the way for countless others to follow. Her journey demonstrates the power of determination, resourcefulness, and a steadfast commitment to diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry.  A Detroit Native with […]

Listen To This Article In a recent interview with Lee Kantor, Claudia McMullin shared her unique journey from being a seasoned attorney to founding Hugo Coffee Roasters, a coffee business deeply intertwined with her passion for animal rescue.  The Genesis of Hugo Coffee  Claudia McMullin, a reformed attorney, moved from New York to Park City, […]

Listen To This Article Katie Weber, the creative force behind Demetre Design, launched her design and animation studio in Los Angeles in 2020. With services spanning motion design and traditional graphic design, her studio caters to a broad spectrum of needs, from web design and consumer packaging to digital marketing.  A Lifelong Passion for Art  […]

Listen To This Article Global IP Innovation Awards Ceremony is planned to acknowledge the power of the Madrid Treaty benefiting the economic growth for countries that joined after the shrowd of the COVID-19 Pandemic. ArtWorks™ is has announced an unparalleled Continuing Legal Education (CLE) experience in Paris from October 11-14, 2024. This immersive weekend is […]

Listen To This Article Celebrating 15 Years of Authentic Artisanal Tequila  In a recent podcast episode, Debbie Medina-Gach shared the heartfelt journey behind Senor Rio Tequila, a boutique artisanal tequila celebrating 15 years on the market. The brand, which Debbie started with her husband Jonathan, is dedicated to her father, Senor Rio, and stands out […]

Listen To This Article In the heart of Maui, Brandy Cajudoy and her team are dedicated to creating beautiful, safe, and enduring homes. Serving the island with a deep love for its people and land, Brandy’s journey from a high school Algebra 2 teacher to a key figure in residential construction is both inspiring and […]

Listen To This Article In a recent interview on the “Women in Motion” podcast, Melia Foster shared the inspiring story of Meli Wraps, an innovative and eco-friendly alternative to plastic wrap.  Melia Foster, a mother of two boys, often found herself frustrated with traditional plastic wrap while preparing lunches and snacks. This everyday inconvenience sparked […]

Listen To This Article In the realm of occupational safety and health, Tracy Lawson and her team at Lawson Safety are making a significant impact across various industries. Their mission is clear: to help companies stay in business by ensuring they are both productive and safe.   The Journey to Safety  Tracy Lawson’s path to occupational […]

Listen To This Article In a recent interview on Women in Motion, Heather Bailey, the driving force behind Audio Visual Services (AVS), shares her journey and the unique value her company brings to live corporate events. From humble beginnings in Hawaii to nationwide recognition, AVS exemplifies the power of blending advanced technology with heartfelt service.  […]

Listen To This Article In a recent conversation on Women in Motion, Sarah Kalicki Nakamura, the co-founder of Th!nk, shared her inspiring journey from the hospitality industry to establishing a thriving learning and development company. Here’s a closer look at her story and how Th!nk helps leaders and teams reach their full potential.  The Genesis […]

Listen To This Article When Caroline Granelli founded Waikiki Beach Services in 1955, she was ahead of her time, setting a precedent for women in business. She started a beach service that taught surfing lessons, offered canoe rides, and rented surfboards to tourists. Today, her legacy is carried forward by Traci Bush, the current leader, […]

Listen To This Article In the vibrant and diverse staffing industry, Aloha Hospitality Professionals (Aloha HP) has carved out a unique space. Founded and led by Kathleen Hurtubise, Aloha HP is more than just a staffing agency in Hawaii. It’s a community-driven enterprise focused on providing exceptional hospitality, light industrial, and administrative staffing services across […]

Listen To This Article In today’s complex corporate landscape, businesses face numerous risks that can jeopardize their operations and reputation. Recognizing these challenges, Wendi O. Brown, Founder and CEO of iSupportYou, leverages her extensive military experience to provide strategic consulting services to Fortune 500 companies. Her firm specializes in risk management, helping businesses identify, prevent, […]

Listen To This Article Orion Brown, the visionary behind BlackTravelBox, shared a bit about her trailblazing brand at the intersection of beauty and travel on the most recent episode of Women in Motion. Orion’s journey from corporate brand strategist to entrepreneur offers a wealth of inspiration and lessons for aspiring business leaders. In this blog, […]

Listen To This Article AR Naturals Skin is a handmade natural skincare company founded by Ashley Rankin. With a mission to provide effective skincare solutions and support rest repair and burnout recovery, AR Naturals stands out for its commitment to holistic well-being.  The Origins of AR Naturals  Ashley Rankin’s journey into natural skincare began with […]

Listen To This Article The Adinek Group has emerged as a pivotal player in workforce management, reshaping talent acquisition and workforce planning. Founded by Kenida Lewis in 2020, the company has quickly established itself as a leader in the industry, leveraging Kenida’s nearly two decades of experience. The Adinek Group’s innovative approach and commitment to […]

Listen To This Article In a recent interview, Crystal Whiteaker, an L.A.-based inclusive branding and leadership development consultant, shared her journey and insights into creating inclusive, values-aligned, human-focused environments. Crystal’s multifaceted career spans photography, coaching, consulting, and training, all aimed at fostering inclusivity.  The Journey to Inclusive Consulting  Crystal Whiteaker’s path to becoming an inclusive […]

Listen To This Article In a recent interview with Lee Kantor, graphic designer Stacey Leong shared her inspiring journey and the unique aspects of her Honolulu-based design firm. Specializing in branding and graphic design, Stacey’s firm stands out for its authentic representation of native Hawaiian culture.  Stacey Leong’s Journey  Stacey has always been passionate about […]

Listen To This Article Wendy Awai-Dakroub, the founder of Ohia Technology, is spearheading a unique initiative in Hawaii. Her company, a tech startup, focuses on customized software development with a particular emphasis on serving the indigenous Hawaiian community. Wendy’s journey, marked by her return to Hawaii after years abroad, highlights the challenges and triumphs of […]

Listen To This Article In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, the journey can often feel like a solo expedition. However, for Cora Spearman-Chang and Bernadette Rivero, their involvement with WBEC-West and WBENC turned their solitary paths into a shared adventure filled with success, camaraderie, and mutual support. Their story exemplifies the profound impact of community […]

Listen To This Article In a recent conversation with Lee Kantor, Lori Teranishi, the dynamic leader of iQ 360, shared her unique approach to business advisory and communications consulting. This post delves into their discussion, exploring the innovative strategies employed by iQ 360 to help companies navigate complex crises, strategic transformations, and more.  A Unique […]

Listen To This Article Cornerstone Estates’ Safeguard Trust Offers Comprehensive Asset Protection and Medicaid Planning for All In a captivating episode of the Cash Flow Hacks podcast, host Chris Quintana and co-host Stephanie Georgakopoulos welcomed Jim Seifrid, the owner and founder of Cornerstone Estates, to discuss the game-changing Safeguard Trust. This innovative estate planning solution […]