What’s your “elevator pitch”?

I’m Jeremy, one of the co-founders of UBAE—short for “Ube Before Anything Else.” We’re a

dessert shop based in Hawai‘i, and we specialize in ube-based sweets that are as vibrant as island life itself! From creamy cheesecakes to crave-worthy cookies, we put a modern twist on traditional Filipino flavors, all with a local touch. Whether you’re a first-timer or a longtime ube lover, we’re excited to share a piece of our culture with you!

What’s one lesson you’ve learned the hard way—but are grateful for?

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned—and one that I’m truly grateful for—came from

hitting rock bottom financially. Going broke was humbling, but it forced me to reassess everything: my mindset, my priorities, and how I approached risk and resilience. Picking myself back up wasn’t easy, but it gave me a deeper sense of grit, purpose, and perspective. That experience shaped not only who I am as an entrepreneur, but how I lead, build, and connect with others today.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your industry?

My advice for anyone just starting out in the food industry is to plan thoroughly, but stay flexible.

Having a solid foundation and clear goals is important, but things rarely go exactly as expected, especially in food. Being able to adapt, pivot when needed, and respond to real-time feedback is just as critical as the original plan. The balance between preparation and adaptability is where real growth happens.

How do you define success for yourself right now?

To me, success is more about freedom and balance. If I can run a thriving business and still have the time and presence to truly enjoy moments with my family, that’s real success. I don’t want to wake up each morning worried about clocking into a job or answering to someone else. Having balance and the freedom to be flexible means I’ve built something on my own terms that supports my life, rather than controls it. That harmony between personal fulfillment and professional achievement is what I value most.

What legacy do you hope to build as a young professional?

As a young professional, the legacy I aspire to build is one of financial stability for my family. My goal is to provide my children with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive, and to create a foundation they can confidently pass down to future generations. I want to build a lasting legacy that empowers my children and future generations.

What’s your “elevator pitch” and very briefly share what your company or organization does?

I help agents and their listings stand out in O‘ahu’s competitive market with high-end photo, video, and branding content. From HDR imagery, twilight, drone shots, Matterport 3D tours, and cinematic walkthroughs, lifestyle branding, and Instagram Reels.

I provide the visuals that elevate both the property and the agent. Whether you’re showcasing a luxury home or building your personal brand, I deliver media that captures attention and drives results.

What inspired you to pursue the path you’re on today?

I grew up in a family of Realtors, so I’ve been around the real estate world from a very young age. Open houses, showings, listings, it was part of everyday life. Growing up on O‘ahu, I also developed a passion for photography through shooting surf and landscapes, which taught me how to capture beauty, light, and movement.

Eventually, I realized I could bring those two worlds together and that’s how my real estate media business was born. It’s a blend of creativity, technical skill, and an understanding of what agents really need to market properties and build

their brands.

What’s one thing you’re working on right now that excites you?

Right now, I’m building a one-stop-shop marketing agency for realtors who want to consistently grow their business. It’s a monthly bundled service that covers everything. listing media, headshots, Instagram Reels, YouTube content, e-mail marketing, and more. It gives agents high-quality, consistent branding without having to manage a bunch of different vendors.

I’m also partnering with a major real estate tech startup that’s poised to be one of the biggest platforms in the industry, so we’re building something scalable and future-ready.

What local Restaurant or food truck are you obsessed with right now?

Rigo’s is my favorite restaurant. It’s an Italian Mexican fusion with the best atmosphere and service on the island.

How do you want to make a difference in your community?

I’m committed to raising the standard of media production on the island. Outdated, low-quality marketing not only hurts sellers but also limits agents’ success and commissions. By delivering professional, impactful content, I want to help agents stand out, sell faster, and grow their business.

What’s your “elevator pitch” and very briefly share what your company or organization does?

At Goodmerch Supply, we can put your logo on LITERALLY anything you want. From classic tees to custom creations, we’re all about making merch that people actually keep and love. We work closely with our clients every step of the way to bring their vision to life, and our team is dedicated to providing friendly, reliable service that makes the process smooth and enjoyable. We want your brand to stand out in a way that feels fun, useful, and totally you!

What inspired you to pursue the path you’re on today?

I’ve always tried to stay excited about life and open to whatever comes my way! I love finding the fun in things, whether it’s in work, new experiences, or even little everyday moments. That curiosity and energy have really shaped the path I’m on today, helping me approach challenges with a positive mindset and a willingness to try new things.

If your career had a theme song, what would it be?

The Home Depot theme song. It’s kind of silly, but every time I hear it, I just want to work hard and slay my goals!

How do you define success for yourself right now?

Success for me is about staying positive, keeping life fun, and bringing a light energy into everything I do. Living and working in Hawaiʻi has shaped that perspective because there is such a strong sense of community and balance here that reminds me to slow down, appreciate the moment, and lead with kindness. In my work, success also means building great relationships with clients and colleagues, approaching challenges with creativity and collaboration, and creating results that people feel proud of. I want to be part of projects that leave a lasting, positive impact on our community and the businesses I work with!

What legacy do you hope to build as a young professional?

I hope my legacy is all about keeping Hawaiʻi’s amazing talent here! I want to help build fun and meaningful projects, create jobs that people love, and show the next generation that they can shine without having to leave the islands. I want to make Hawaiʻi feel like a place where dreams happen, creativity blooms, and the future is full of exciting possibilities!

What’s your go-to local coffee or smoothie order?

I’m obsessed with Pō‘ai by Pono Potions and my favorite drink is the Aloha Tower. The shop is so cute, the staff are the sweetest, and there are so many other amazing drinks to try. Every visit just makes me happy.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your industry?

Always give your best and stay genuine. Hard work really does pay off, and when you lead with authenticity and love what you do, everything else will fall into place!

How do you stay motivated when things get challenging?

When things get challenging, I remind myself to believe in my abilities and remember that it’s okay to be human. Mistakes and setbacks happen, but it’s how we bounce back and grow that really counts. I also make time for myself, whether it’s pilates, yoga, or a fun day at the beach with friends. Life has so much to enjoy, and getting through tough moments is so much easier with the love and support of friends and family. Keeping those relationships close and genuine is everything!

Early bird or night owl—and what’s your morning routine like?

Some months I’m an early bird and other months I’m a night owl! My mornings always feel a little different, but I never skip my Nescafé Gold espresso latte while I check my e-mails. I also love starting the day with little positive affirmations like “I am the luckiest girl in the world,” “I am kind,” and “I am hardworking” to put me in a happy, confident mood. It’s my little morning sparkle to set the tone for the day!

What local restaurant or food truck are you obsessed with right now?

I’m honestly always obsessed with Fête. Their quinoa cakes and carbonara are my favorites and I love it with spinach and mushrooms. Their drinks are amazing too so you really can’t go wrong with anything there. I also love their story and their passion for food while staying so connected to the local community. It just makes everything feel extra special!

Who is a local mentor, friend, or role model who inspires you?

Tiana Gamble, Goodmerch’s fearless leader! She not only guides Goodmerch Supply with incredible vision but also manages seven Bikini Bird stores across Hawaiʻi. I am inspired by her creativity, drive, and genuine care for everyone around her, especially her team. What I admire most is how she stays humble, true to her roots, and leads with honesty and heart. She has an energy that is bold, passionate, and contagious, and working alongside her motivates me to bring my best every day.

What’s your “elevator pitch” and very briefly share what your company or organization does?

If you’re looking for talent, you can utilize our services on top of your in-house recruitment for free*** (just kidding—but we do only charge a fee if you love our candidate so much that you select them for the job)!

What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?

I’ve been splitting time between Hawai‘i and NYC trying to get my first app (Spilt) off the ground! Spilt is a social media app that helps you see what your friends are watching and what they’re saying about it. It keeps track of what episode you’re on and only shows you posts up to that point—say goodbye to annoying spoilers!

It’s also great for live sporting events (i.e., teasing your Chiefs friends during the Super Bowl all at once instead of in multiple group chats…six sacks on Mahomes anyone?). It allows you to connect with friends despite watching things from different geographies and time continuums. In other words, watch together even when you’re apart. Download it on the App Store by searching “spilt-tv.” It’s still in the early stages so I would love your input (and/or investment—haha)!

You have one day off and no responsibilities—what’s your dream way to spend it in Hawai‘i?

I would hit the golf course early in the morning (you can’t keep a washed up softball player down) and then I’d go on a food tour. I’d hit Chun Wah Kam for breakfast (the pork hash there is unmatched), then Paradise Poke for their spicy ahi (big fan of spicy ahi with tobiko in it), then Millions for their BBQ chicken and kimchi jjigae (need I say more?), followed by Kim Chee II in Kaimuki (best fish jun in the world), and finally Genki Kapahulu (I usually mop 10 plates—light work). After that…does anyone have any recommendations for lunch or dinner?

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your industry?

I am obsessed with connecting with people (not sure what gave it away between building a social media company or being a recruiter). I am a strong believer that your network really is the greatest asset you can have in any role. Channel your inner extrovert (or fake it ‘til you make it), and get out there and leave an impression!

Don’t be afraid to take high-level executives out for coffee (or a pau hana if you need a bit of courage), and build relationships where you can ask for advice and feedback on projects. Be brave and go to networking events by yourself. You won’t be the only person there alone, and the colleagues and friends you meet along the way will play a big role in your professional and even personal life.

The people of Hawai‘i are the most warm and welcoming in the world, and the business professionals here are no different. They are always willing to go above and beyond to help the next generation of young professionals, and their advice and mentorship is invaluable. Never be embarrassed to admit you’re not an expert (yet) and make an effort to learn constantly.

Pro tip: Learn how to golf, it’s way more fun networking and making deals out on the course with a few Heineken Lights than it is over the phone or in the office (don’t tell my boss I said that)!

How do you define success for yourself right now?

Luckily for me, I grew up watching a parent start her own business and have seen the ins and outs of what that takes (shoutout Marie!). As I embark on my own venture with Spilt, I feel well equipped to deal with the ups and downs that lie ahead. Yes, I’ll feel successful when Spilt takes off and I am relaxing on my beachfront mansion in Kahala as I close deals with Netflix, Hulu, and the like…but I think my biggest measure of success will be when people go up to my mom and say, “You’re Jenna Kumabe’s mom” instead of coming up to me and saying, “You’re Marie Kumabe’s daughter!”

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What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?

How much I love to read! I must pace myself in between fictional series or else I have no social life until it’s finished. It gets obsessive and I literally can’t put it down—which sadly, I have always been like this—I used to get in trouble in school for reading my books under my desk during math class.

What’s one thing you’re working on right now that excites you?

I am starting to get involved with volunteering at local non-profits and focusing on giving back to the community more. I grew up volunteering my whole adolescence but when I was in college and just graduated, I felt like I never had enough time to do everything I needed/wanted to get done. Now that I have more of a work/life balance I am so excited to start spending time volunteering again, it’s been a huge passion of mine!

What’s one item on your 2025 bucket list—personal or professional?

Mastering our AI chatbot, and just AI in general! It’s been a steep learning curve figuring out how to automate/optimize it, but the future is clearly AI. I’m really inspired to learn all the new ways to integrate AI with marketing.

Who is a local mentor, friend, or role model who inspires you?

My mother. Watching her grow a non-profit from the ground up into raising millions for childhood cancer research all while raising me and my brother has always set such a high standard for me professionally. She is the first person I call for any professional advice, she reminds me to be a student of life, she continually encourages me to give back to the community and constantly sets the unmatched benchmark with her work ethic.

How do you define success for yourself right now?

Success used to equate to a dollar amount to me, but now I scale success on who I have helped/supported and the community I create both professionally and personally. If the people I surround myself with can say that I push them to be better people—that’s what truly matters to me. That means I’m doing something right.

What inspired you to pursue the path you’re on today?

I’ve always loved my teachers growing up and the world of education. I solidified my choice to pursue a career in education after being a Big Brother in the Big Brothers and Big Sisters program in high school. I had three little bros who showed me the value of supporting someone to grow. I remember one of my Little Bros shared he didn’t have friends, so we worked on that in my time with him. At the end of the school year, it was a highlight when he shared that he had made friends, one of them being me. Those small moments are what I love about education.

What advice would you give someone just starting out in your industry?

I would definitely say find time and space for self-care! Education is such an emotional job because you get connected to your students, other educators, family, etc. and you really just want people to succeed. That can get very emotional when you invest in that work. Finding a self-care activity is so crucial to keeping you afloat. Also, counseling/therapy is not a bad thing if you need it!

What local restaurant or food truck are you obsessed with right now?

I want to answer this question so I can give my friends a shout out at Moku! The mai tais there are my go-to for a celebration, stressful day, a friend catch-up, and more. If you’ve been to a happy hour with me there, you know exactly what I’m talking about. A Moku happy hour is a right of passage in building a relationship with me! Super appreciate the team there and thank you for remembering my order every time I’m there!

How do you want to make a difference in your community?

I think visibility of diverse leaders is so important. As a proud Filipino queer man with a public school education from a first generation household, showing youth that it’s possible to enter spaces of influence and power is critical. I hope that the students I work with find inspiration in seeing me as a leader and the many leaders they encounter in our work so we can continue to nurture leaders of all identities.

Who is a local mentor, friend, or role model who inspires you?

I’ve been truly so fortunate to have so many incredible women who inspire me. I’m inspired by my former teacher, Amy Rabago, who inspired me to carry authenticity and empathy as a leader; my fearless leader, Sherry Menor, who broke barriers as the first Asian American woman CEO of a state Chamber; my former boss, Keala Peters, for teaching me the importance of confidence, poise, and relationship building in the workplace; my former student, Kaya Ishimine, who I watched as her teacher grow from a freshman to now winning awards in the business community. I truly feel strong women have raised me into an incredible leader, so to that I say thank you for inspiring me if you’re reading this.

What’s your “elevator pitch” and very briefly share what your company or organization does?

I’m Trang Ly, founder of Studio Elegance Hawaii, an advanced, results-driven esthetic business based in Honolulu. We specialize in science-backed, non-invasive facials that restore confidence without needles or harsh procedures. Beyond skincare, I train and mentor estheticians through hands-on education and business development to help them build thriving practices. Studio Elegance exists to redefine beauty through results, purpose, and human connection—where science meets self-care.

What inspired you to pursue the path you’re on today?

My journey began with a one-way ticket from Vietnam to Hawai‘i at 17, chasing an education and a better life. I built a career in hotel management, leading front office teams at Waikīkī’s top resorts. But during the pandemic, I felt an undeniable calling to create something that was mine—a space where care, healing, and confidence could coexist. Leaving my management career was terrifying, but I’ve always believed that faith and courage open doors comfort never will. What started as a solo esthetic room has become a thriving business built on purpose and transformation. My inspiration comes from seeing people’s confidence return—sometimes with tears of joy—when they finally love their skin again. That’s when I know I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.

What’s one lesson you’ve learned the hard way—but are grateful for?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that growth often disguises itself as struggle. There was a season when I invested everything into my business—emotionally, financially, and spiritually—only to face debt, uncertainty, and self-doubt. I learned that success isn’t a straight line; it’s a rhythm of breakdowns and breakthroughs. That experience taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and the importance of surrender. I realized that faith isn’t just believing things will work out—it’s trusting even when they don’t, yet moving forward anyway. That mindset shift turned pain into purpose, and now I use that same energy to mentor other entrepreneurs who are walking through their own storms.

What has been your proudest “pinch me” moment so far?

Without a doubt, receiving the Next Horizon Award from the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii earlier this year was my proudest moment. Standing on that stage, sharing my story as an immigrant woman who left a stable career to build a business from scratch, was surreal. But beyond the award itself, it was the realization that all those nights of cleaning my studio alone, studying until midnight, and holding onto faith through uncertainty had finally come full circle. I wasn’t just being recognized for success—I was being seen for my perseverance. That moment reminded me that dreams don’t happen overnight. They happen when you refuse to quit, even when no one’s watching.

What legacy do you hope to build as a young professional?

I want my legacy to show that you can build success with both heart and hustle. I hope to inspire the next generation—especially young women, immigrants, and aspiring entrepreneurs—to believe that their beginnings don’t define their potential. Through Studio Elegance, I aim to elevate Hawai‘i’s esthetic industry by blending global techniques with local values creating pathways for estheticians to thrive financially and professionally.

But more than that, I want to normalize faith-based entrepreneurship where business is not just about profit, but purpose and people. My dream is to build Hawai‘i’s premier esthetic destination and training center that empowers future estheticians with skills, mindset, and mentorship so they can rise above fear and create lives they’re proud of. If my story can remind someone that it’s never too late to start over—or to start small—then I’ve already made my mark.

What’s your “elevator pitch” and very briefly share what your company or organization does?

The team at Kim Orthodontics has dedicated itself to making aligner treatment simple, convenient, and rewarding so patients can focus on living their lives while we perfect their smiles without the inconvenience of braces. Having served Hawai‘i’s families since 1979, we combine decades of expertise with today’s most advanced technology. With remote monitoring, anyone across all the Hawaiian islands can enjoy the same expert care without needing frequent office visits. Our clinic is conveniently located in the Ala Moana medical building with sprawling views of Honolulu.

What inspired you to pursue the path you’re on today?

My father is an IT Director and my older brother works in digital marketing, so I grew up naturally curious about technology and its impact on businesses and their customers. After high school, I worked in design in San Francisco and later in sales in Los Angeles. Through those experiences, I developed a strong understanding of how to guide users from awareness to sales conversion by leveraging digital funnels, intuitive UI, and by designing user journeys that drive decisions.

You have one day off and no responsibilities—what’s your dream way to spend it in Hawai‘i?

I’d start the morning off with pickleball at the Pacific Club downtown followed by a pot roast loco moco for breakfast. In the afternoon, I’d head west for a round of 18 at Ko Olina Golf Club, grab a couple drinks, and watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your industry?

If you’re in your 20s today, remember that the generation right behind you will be even more tech-savvy and quicker to adopt new tools. Your ability to not only keep up with trends but to adapt and execute on them will be synonymous with your success in marketing or any field that involves software utilization. The major question that business leaders asked the younger generation in the last five years: “How can social media help our business?” I believe that question is quickly pivoting to: “Can we automate that?” and “Is there an AI tool that can do this manual task?” Whoever can bridge the gap between how AI works and how business works will come out as the winner for the next five years in my opinion.

What local restaurant or food truck are you obsessed with right now?

Nori Bar in Kaka’ako opened up in the past couple years and I’ve been many times. Great ambience, incredible sushi and a stellar beverage selection. The smaller space allows for a more intimate experience with both the friends you are dining with as well as the chef preparing your omakase. I’ll definitely continue to go here for the foreseeable future!

What’s one item on your 2025 bucket list—personal or professional?

Continue developing deep expertise in the latest AI tools, how to use them, and how they will affect businesses’ workflows. There isn’t a single person I talk to who is not interested in this topic and there are very few if any at all “experts” in the field yet.

How do you want to make a difference in your community?

I hope to connect more people around my age with technology and the skills required to impact a business, agnostic of geographic location. Although Hawai‘i is beautiful, living on an isolated island can insulate us from growth and make it harder to stay on par with innovations on the mainland.

If we don’t keep up, technology will outpace us and replace us in the workforce. Additionally, with the current economic forecast, especially in Japan tourism to O‘ahu is on a large downtrend right now. It’s my personal opinion that many jobs related to hospitality, particularly in Waikīkī or other tourist hotspots, will be reduced if travel to the state continues to decline. I believe the best way to combat this is to equip more individuals with abilities they can perform remotely or in industries unrelated to Hawai‘i’s tourism trends.

What’s your “elevator pitch” and very briefly share what your company or organization does?

At Hawaii State Federal Credit Union, we’re dedicated to empowering a lifetime of personal and financial wellness for our members and the communities we serve. As Hawaii’s largest credit union, we have the privilege of helping more than 136,000 members navigate everything from their everyday banking needs to their long-term financial planning goals. With a growing network of innovative branches and digital tools, we’re making it easier than ever to stay financially confident and connected.

In my role leading Marketing, Communications, Product Strategy, and Analytics, I champion the voice of our members, translating insights into meaningful products and services that truly improve lives. Our promise to be Always Right By You isn’t just a tagline—it’s the heartbeat of how we serve our community every single day.

What inspired you to pursue the path you’re on today?

After more than a decade in banking, I found myself searching for something deeper—a way to use strategy and analytics not just to drive business outcomes, but to uplift people and strengthen communities. Hawaii State FCU gave me that opportunity. What inspires me most is seeing the real-world impact of our work: Helping a family buy their first home, supporting a parent savings for their child’s future, or guiding someone through financial hardship with compassion and clarity. These stories aren’t just testimonials, they’re reminders of our purpose: To build a financially healthier Hawai‘i, one member at a time.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your industry?

My advice is to say yes and stay curious. Early in my career, I volunteered for projects outside of my job description. At the time, I didn’t realize how much those experiences would shape my future. They introduced me to new areas like analytics that I may not have considered otherwise.

It’s easy to think of a career as a straight path, but I see it more as a journey with unexpected turns. Each opportunity, especially the challenging ones, helps you build skills and perspectives that prepare you for leadership roles down the road. I also highly encourage young professionals to seek out mentors and colleagues who can broaden their perspectives. Listening to others, asking questions, and being receptive to feedback promotes growth in ways that formal training alone cannot.

How do you want to make a difference in your community?

I’ve always believed that personal health and financial health are closely connected. At Hawaii State FCU, my goal is to help individuals feel more confident and secure in their financial decisions, because that kind of stability doesn’t just affect bank accounts, it transforms lives. When people feel financially empowered, they’re better equipped to care for themselves, their families, and their communities.

Beyond the credit union, I’m honored to serve as President of the Board of Directors at Waikiki Health, a non-profit committed to providing accessible, compassionate healthcare to those who need it most. For me, financial well-being and physical well-being go hand in hand. And being able to contribute to both—through HSFCU and Waikiki Health—is a fulfilling way to serve and uplift the people of Hawai‘i in meaningful, lasting ways.

What’s next for you?

At HSFCU, I want to keep expanding my role and responsibilities while helping the credit union grow in ways that matter to our members. That means keeping up to date with evolving member needs and ensuring our products, services, and digital experiences continue to meet them with relevance, empathy, and innovation.

I’m equally committed to growing as a leader. For me, leadership is about creating a culture where people feel empowered to think boldly, speak openly, and take pride in the difference they can make. I want to lead with intention, inspire meaningful change, and help shape a future where financial well-being is accessible to all. The opportunity to do that alongside a team which shares that purpose is what motivates me every day.

What inspired you to pursue the path you’re on today?

The passing of my late brother-in-law, Daniel, started my husband, Zach, and me on our path into entrepreneurship. Honoring his life and legacy of authenticity has been both our inspiration and our lighthouse. He was only 36 when he passed away from lymphoma. Witnessing his transition from being an active, healthy, aspiring entrepreneur to facing sudden illness was a powerful reminder of how precious our health and time truly are. His death brought deep grief, but also opened me to a greater spiritual awareness and sense of purpose. Even after his passing, we felt Daniel’s presence in small ways—through messages, confirmations, and “breadcrumbs” that strongly encouraged us forward.

We chose to pick up where Daniel left off as an aspiring entrepreneur. Zach brought his passion for local artisans and delicious ice cream, while I contributed my strength in building systems, processes, and teams. These were the foundations of the business we have today.

What’s one thing you’re working on right now that excites you?

I’m working on facilitating a program for fellow entrepreneurs and managers to audit the “spiritual fitness” of their businesses. While most companies focus on profitability metrics, I want to focus on how sustainable their operations are. In my experience, the more fulfilling and meaningful your work is, the better the quality and increase the longevity of results. Less, more intentional work, can lead to greater long-term growth. I’m excited to combine my business background as a CPA with the hands-on lessons I’ve learned from building Sage Creamery alongside my husband.

I’m also working to get my Human Design Professional Analyst Certification. Human Design is a modern framework that blends insights from astrology, the I Ching, the Kabbalah, and the chakra system. An “energetic blueprint” is created that highlights an individual’s strengths, decision-making style, and interaction patterns. For professionals, it offers powerful insights for self-awareness, leadership development, and team dynamics—helping align strategies with natural strengths.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your industry?

My biggest advice is to lean into your own gifts. In entrepreneurship, people will always have opinions about how you “should” run your business. But there are endless paths to success, and the right one is the one that aligns with you. Learning to tune out the noise and trust what actually works for you will save time, reduce resistance, and create more ease in your journey.

Remember that you’re under no obligation to live up to others’ expectations—or even industry standards. Innovation and originality can feel uncomfortable at first, but they’re what resonate most with customers and help you build an authentic community. Set your own timelines and define success in ways that benefit your life, not just your business.

And finally, listen to your body. Entrepreneurship is demanding, and exhaustion or illness is a sign to pause and reset. Sustainable success requires taking care of yourself along the way.

How do you define success for yourself right now?

For me, success is measured through the lens of my personal life. When my teams are happy and performing at a high level, it creates financial stability and abundance that allow me to step back from daily operations and focus on wellness, creativity, and growth. That balance helps me show up as my best self for my team, my family, and my community. Creating a safe, supportive environment where our team can grow and feel fulfilled is equally rewarding. This more unconventional—but deeply universal—definition of richness is the kind of success I prioritize over rapid expansion.

Another marker of success for me is, frankly, staying married. Running a business with my husband has been the ultimate “marriage boot camp,” requiring constant communication, compromise, and resilience. It hasn’t always been easy, but navigating both business milestones and personal milestones together has been incredibly rewarding. I’m proud and grateful that we’ve grown through all of it together.

What’s next for you?

After more than 18 years together and over five years building Sage Creamery, my husband and I are entering our most exciting—and likely most challenging—chapter yet: We’re expecting our first baby in 2026. My intention is to give myself grace throughout this transition into motherhood, trusting the process and knowing I’m doing the best I can as it unfolds.

I don’t know exactly what to expect, but I’m most looking forward to the joy and fulfillment of starting our family. In many ways, everything we’ve worked so hard to build has been for this moment—creating stability, purpose, and a legacy for our future family.

For our business, the priority will be to remain intentional and focused on quality. We recognize this season will demand more from us personally, so we’ll likely need to get creative with operations, and step outside our comfort zones. But just like every chapter so far, we see it as an opportunity for growth.