The heart of our mission is to find the amazing souls that breathe life into our communities. In the recent weeks, we’ve had the privilege to connect with some incredible artists, creatives, entrepreneurs and rabble rousers and we can’t begin to express how impressed we are with the incredible group below. Check out our favorite stories from across the Voyage family.
Duol Chut
This was the time during Covid after I lost my job. With the extra time I dived deep into learning entrepreneurship with the help of Earn Your Leisure (EYL) a financial literacy and business education platform. Learned a lot from Rashad and Troy and the endless guests they had one. Plus with the expected legalization coming to Minnesota. I want to get started. Read more>>
Sherry Bartells
Not only do I choreograph the material that we teach at our studios, but in my other life I am an aesthetician, and a phlebotomist. I get to work at a beautiful office and help people look and feel their best. Between the two I am always walking on sunshine. Read more>>
Alisha Wackerle-Hollman
One family, Catalina and her daughter Jennifer enrolled in our preschool. Catalina and Jennifer spoke Spanish, but Jennifer was an emerging bilingual and given the complexity of navigating social programs (such as child care assistance) and schools, Jennifer, at just 5 year olds, was doing a lot of interpreting. Getting to know Catalina, I learned a lot about her strengths and her struggles. I was deeply impacted by how much extra burden it was for Catalina to access many resources because very few systems offered bilingual interpreters or resources at the time. I have pretty rudimentary Spanish skills, but between Jennifer, and Catalina’s deep patience, our preschool was able to help their family access the resources they needed. That experience, and many others similar to it during that time, left a lasting impact on me as I considered graduate school. Read more>>
Lisa Miezwa
I was raised in an entrepreneurial household – my mom owns a travel agency, and she has almost my whole life. She taught me that finding that sweet spot between creativity and making money will bring happiness (& humor!). I started Cheeky Lisa as an ode to women and parents like myself – believing the more we recognize that we’re all in this together – the better we are. Every purchase supports our family, and helps a Minnesota Business succeed. Read more>>
Amber Guetebier
This took a toll on my mind, body, and spirit as I navigated my way in the world. I also eschewed traditional education, so my path to being an experienced editor and writer has been hard fought in a world where academia reigns. Having said all of that I’m 50 now and my mind set has thankfully evolved. Becoming a mother has certainly changed the way I view myself and the world. But also finding “success” and how success is measured has evolved. Is it measured by book sales and royalty checks or likes on a post? Or is it measured by the face of a fellow writer when they have triumphed at an open mic? Read more>>
Leah Martinson
While this journey has certainly presented challenges, it has also been one of my greatest teachers. My disability has not kept me from pursuing big dreams, it has helped me do so with depth, perspective, and grit.
My professional journey began in massage therapy. I fell in love with bodywork and the healing potential of touch. But even before I completed my training, I felt the nudge that I was meant to go deeper. I went on to earn a B.A. in Psychology and then began a Master’s in Social Work. About halfway through, something didn’t sit right. I wasn’t interested in navigating complex broken systems and pathologizing people, I wanted to walk beside others in healing. So I trusted my intuition (a practice I now help others cultivate) and pivoted. Read more>>
Sheldon Zook
Wood Interiors was started in 2007 and transitioned from a custom woodworking shop to a custom kitchen manufacturer. We also do some custom projects like display cabinets, conference tables, and occasional commercial work. We started with one person in a two car garage with minimal tools and now have 3 full time and 1 part time team members in a 3088 sq ft shop. We have cabinet saws, sliding table saws, 5 x 10 CNC router and a fully stocked install rig as well. Read more>>
Bonnie Townsend
So we do it all from the heart if we do anything at all! They love our ice cream products we also sell four different flavor many donuts salted caramel cinnamon and sugar pumpkin spice and cookies and cream. I’m struggling with renewal fees for insurance business licensing permits etc and trying to reload the things we need to make the moneyfor the next year present year. I just do the best I can Read more>>
Stephen Poling
This approach has become central to my practice and how I express emotion through paint. After my time in New York, I returned to Minneapolis to complete a BFA at the University of Minnesota. While the Twin Cities have a vibrant performing arts scene, I found fewer opportunities to exhibit visual art. This led me to relocate to Santa Fe, New Mexico, where I found a supportive community and greater opportunities for showing my work. I exhibited my work in Santa Fe, Phoenix, AZ and Laguna Beach, CA. I was also a member of the Santa Fe Society of Artists, showing and selling my paintings in its outdoor exhibitions. Read more>>
Julie Herrera-LemLer
I am originally from The Silicon Valley and moved to Rochester, MN for a job. I am proud to say that I have been a Minnesotan for 27 years. LOVE IT. I have had different types of jobs while living here. I also started a baking business and ran it successfully for almost 8 years. It became an award-winning business. I am a recipe writer and write articles about food and have been connected with the Taste of Home Magazine as a Field Editor. Read more>>
Andrez Rush
After losing my mother, I fell into a deep depression. Life hit hard, and I found myself struggling emotionally and financially. But in that low season, I remembered something powerful: how my mom used to sell plates when money was tight. I decided to do the same — one plate, one meal at a time. That moment, born out of necessity, sparked something in me. What started as a way to catch up on bills became my purpose. Drez’s Kitchen was born from the ashes of grief and grew into something deeply personal and soul-filled. Read more>>
Douglas Flanders
Some would look at me and say I have had it easy. I have been fortunate to have an international clientele and support of many celebrities. But It has always been hard work. We are the oldest art gallery in Minnesota. We have been in business since 1972. Read more>>
Rachel Pertinen
In May 2024, I opened my studio in Delano in the historic Eagle Printing building. The warm wood tones and exposed brick (not to mention the BEAUTIFUL natural light) were everything I’d been looking for! It’s a space I’ve thoughtfully designed to feel calm, welcoming, and full of care, where parents can truly relax, siblings can play, and little ones can be photographed safely and beautifully. Families love coming here because it feels like an extension of home. I’ve combined years of experience with an eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the love that connects us, and I’m honored to be trusted with these once-in-a-lifetime memories. Read more>>
Mike Rhode
I started woodworking in middle school and continued through high school. I took a short break while attending school for a 2-year degree in mechanical design. I slowly acquired tools and got back into woodworking after I bought a house. I made a few thank you gifts for our wedding party, and started making and giving away gifts. When I decided to go back to school for my 4-year degree in mechanical engineering, I wasn’t able to have a normal job because of classes and homework, so I filed for my LLC. That is when Mike Rhode Woodworking was officially formed. I have continued making custom wood products for friends and family. I have also expanded our company’s reach; we now have products all over the world. Read more>>
Wendy Anderson
Definitely not always a smooth road, like most people in business, I’ve had my fair share of challenges. When I first started my own business, I had to figure out everything from marketing to pricing to shipping on my own, and I made plenty of mistakes along the way. Starting a business during a pandemic was another huge learning curve, there was a lot of uncertainty, and we had to constantly adapt. I’ve also had moments of self-doubt, especially when switching careers or taking on something totally new. But every challenge has taught me something valuable, and I think those struggles are what have made me better at helping other business owners now. Read more>>
Katie Leary
I’ve had my fair share of imposter syndrome too! Those moments of self-doubt that creep in and make you question if you’re really good enough. I still actually have a hard time accepting that I’m a “professional” photographer. But through it all, I’ve found strength in connecting with other moms who get it. Those who are right there in the mess and magic of raising a family while chasing big dreams. Read more>>
Kelly Dahl
After university, I honed my skills as a commercial photo stylist. The job was everything I dreamed of doing professionally: catalog and model shoots, on-set styling, propping, building sets, drawing layouts, traveling…with the added bonus of long hours, stressful studio, and a boss who was difficult, to say the least! I grew up professionally there, then spent the next few years working downtown Minneapolis. Read more>>
Aubree Nelson
Owning a small business where all of my products are handmade, you really have to juggle it all and I have been working fulltime as an Registered Nurse throughout it all. None of these adversities would have been possible with out the support of my husband, building gardens in our backyard, building a flower room in our garage, loving on our kids while I’m doing weddings across the nation. His unwavering support made my dreams tangible, he is my best friend and this was ALL possible because of his support. You really only need one person to believe in you and your dreams, that one person can change your world, he’s mine. Read more>>
Bethy Wienholz
The biggest one by far is the amount of behind-the-scenes work that goes into each event. From sourcing specialty ingredients and prepping garnishes to designing custom drink menus that match the event’s invitations, there’s a lot of labor and planning involved. We once even drove to a farm in Stacy, MN to get fresh lavender for a bride’s cocktail garnish—it’s those kinds of details that make it special, and we love going the extra mile to create something unforgettable. But it is a lot of work. Read more>>
Ella Ritzman
I am most proud of making people feel at home in my shop. Everything about the space and feel is magical (not my words). No one knows what to expect when they walk in. It looks tiny from the outside but I’ve opened up the first floor of the attached house. The house was built in the teens and the shop was added in the 1930’s. I offer coffee in the kitchen. Last weekend a woman came in who had never been in before. She said “This place makes me very happy”. Read more>>
Mauri Friestleben
The journey has been most heartbreaking when that collective intimacy backfires amidst tragedy. When that familiarity has been used as blame or just cause for accountability that another in my work shoes may not similarly hold. Additionally, defining the “who” that I work for as those “under” me rather than those “above” me has proven difficult and nearly impossible, at times. Knowing when and how to balance the passions and priorities of those two (often competing) aforementioned forces has been an incredibly complicated tension along this journey. Read more>>
Angel Yang
I had to learn to trust and listen to my core intuition rather than waiting for external validation or the “perfect timing.” I got tired of not filling my own cup. When I finally launched my first independent project without seeking anyone’s permission, I realized how much opportunity I’d been leaving on the table. That project led to new connections and gave new meaning to how I wanted to move in my life, professionally and personally. Now I make my own table, and that philosophy is built into everything we do—being bold, challenging the norm, and trusting the process. Read more>>
Melissa Groven
A few months later, I opened an online shop while continuing to travel to craft shows. I truly enjoyed going to craft shows where I was able to meet other makers and interact with customers. It really was an enjoyable experience (mostly) for me. There were a lot of early mornings and packing and unpacking and more packing and unpacking all of the things needed for a craft show. And plastic bins. So many plastic bins. I did truly love designing my booth and figuring out the best way to display my items. But holy cow, so much work. Read more>>
Lisa Hackwith
Like any small business, the road hasn’t always been smooth—it’s been full of ebbs and flows, seasons of growth and moments of uncertainty. We’ve navigated everything from supply chain challenges to shifting consumer habits, all while staying committed to slow fashion and ethical production. There have been years of rapid expansion and others of thoughtful recalibration. Each stage has taught us something valuable and helped us refine who we are and what we stand for. Through it all, our mission to create beautiful, sustainable clothing has remained our constant. Read more>>
Angelia Vang
What started as a drive to control my own time and schedule quickly evolved into something so much bigger. I began my journey in the world of PMU (permanent makeup) brows with a deep love for enhancing natural beauty and helping women and men feel confident in their own skin. With a steady hand, a sharp eye for detail, and countless hours of training, I dove into the permanent makeup industry determined to master my craft. Read more>>
Tyler Nesset
After years in the corporate world, both Dylon and I were ready for something different—something more fulfilling, more connected to our community, and more aligned with the life we wanted to build together. In early 2024, we launched Grilled Cheese Galore, a lime green food truck serving up comfort food with personality all across the Iron Range. It was an incredible first season—we were honored to be voted the second-best food truck on the Range—and it gave us the confidence to take our next big leap. Read more>>
Corinne Caouette
We have been really lucky in our ability to maintain a steady fanbase and connection. Our “fans” are our friends and community. Also, overnight success is not real. You have to love what you do and be invested in the journey. That’s most of the fun! We have been able to enjoy some really incredible experiences traveling, meeting people, and sharing the stage with some true icons. We continue to tour and record and are still excited! There is an alchemy to diligence, friendship, and timing that is necessary to creating magic in real time artistically. It’s an experiment that you have to commit to in some capacity. When it’s really not fun, we won’t do it anymore but it’s still FUN! Read more>>
Jennifer Gordon
Covid came March of 2020 and the state shut us down. I was scared and uncertain what was going to happen just like everyone else. I decided during that time to build and license a salon out of my home. That’s when the Jennifer Turri Collection was started.. I chose collection to be part of my brand because I love hair, fashion, skin, home decor and all things aesthetic. The feedback from my clients was that they love the small, intimate and quiet space. Although I do miss being in the salon at times this has been a huge blessing for me and my children. Read more>>
Shelby Monio
My dogs on the other hand possibly have their pictures taken too often?! I am passionate about ethicial responsible dog breeding and will fall down a rabbit hole talking with anyone about the topic. The busy season of photography (Summer and Fall) get shared with the busy season of AKC Hunt tests with my dogs; so if I am unavailable a weekend and I don’t have my camera you’ll know where to find me. Without my animals, I really don’t think I’d be doing photography or where I am at today. They are what started it all! They were my first models and they did and still do put up with every crazy photoshoot idea I toss them in. Read more>>
Betsy Thompson
We love eating, it wasn’t that. It was that we just didn’t want to miss one minute of these precious, beautiful days, where the weather is warm and the three of us just get to be together, and enjoy each other. And we never really had a plan. So, I broke out what is now my most favorite kitchen companion, the crock pot, and challenged myself to make a new recipe, every Sunday, for 4 weeks, so that we could enjoy our summer evenings and weekends as long as possible. Read more>>
Hannah Tohal
I’m a stay at home mom and caregiver to my grandma. I wanted to make some extra money and had been wanting to start a Cottage Foods business for awhile. I finally took a leap of faith and decided to just go for it. I wanted to have a little farmstand/bread shed to sell my cottage food products from. My fiancé did the landscaping and bought me a little bread shed and set everything up for me. I now sell my baked goods from my bread shed and I also take pre-orders as well. It’s going very well, and my community seems to like my bread shed and my products. Read more>>
Kelly Mosa
I moved overseas for the first time about a year and a half ago, when I relocated from Taiwan to Minnesota. K.MOSA started as a way to share the daily life of a cross-cultural couple. My name is Kelly, and “Mosa” comes from an old name for Taiwan, “Formosa,” a name my sister helped me choose. At first, the content was mainly from my American husband Nicholas’s perspective while living in Taiwan. After we moved to Minnesota, K.MOSA shifted to sharing Minnesota through the eyes of Taiwanese. Read more>>
Jordan De Jong
It has been anything, but smooth. When I joined as a loan officer is the same time we saw rates go from 3-4% all the way to the 7s. The market was freaking out and sales were slowing down. This was all while i was trying to learn how to lend. It took me almost 4 months to close my first deal. With this being a commission-based job, it caused a lot of stress and anxiety as to where my next paycheck was coming from. It took about 2 full years to finally feel like i was making good strides in my business. Overall I have loved my choice to get into lending, but the start up period was a lot of hard work. Read more>>
Corey Martin
I grew up in a small town in North Dakota—where you learned to work hard, keep your word, and show up for people whether you felt like it or not. That sense of duty led me to medicine. I became a family physician because I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. And for a while, I did. But over time, I started to notice the toll it was taking—not just on me, but on almost everyone around me. Behind the professionalism and dedication, there was exhaustion. Disconnection. Burnout. Read more>>
Lindsey Bomgren
When I launched nourishmovelove.com back in 2015, my original plan was pretty simple: sell a workout program and a set of DVDs I had created (back when DVDs were still a thing!). But as I got more involved in the online space, I noticed recipe creators and food bloggers were sharing free content—and still building successful, monetized businesses. That really opened my eyes. I started digging into how I could apply that same model to fitness. Read more>>
Benjamin Mangum
Every week looks different for me. Recently, I’ve been producing a show named The Red Light Special for a venue called The Red Light House. I also create content for Water Wave TV, including the Drown The Mic videos, The Water Wave Effect podcast, interviews, social media posts, and assist in operating their music studio. Read more>>
TAIL-Wind Direction
In August of 2020 after much thought and consideration, the Dunns vision became a reality and TAIL-Wind Direction was born. Over the last three years, TWD has worked with a summer horticulture program, selling their garden produce to the public and hosted their first year selling annuals in their greenhouse, which was supported by donations to purchase the Greenhouse. The Board consists of nine members with various backgrounds that bring great attributes to the organization. Read more>>
Rachael Ackerman
Blue Sky Flower Farm began with a few rows of willows and dogwoods planted in a pasture at my husband’s family Brown Swiss dairy farm. We started small and local, and that’s still at the heart of what we do. Today, we grow a wide variety of fresh cut flowers, herbs, fruits, vegetables, and decorative branches on 10 acres just outside of Lakeville, Minnesota. Our flowers are available through our Bouquet Share CSA, our roadside Farmstead, local designers, and fun experiences like our flower workshops. Read more>>
Allison DeRome
I became a critical care nurse because I wanted to be there for people during their most vulnerable times. In the ICU, I care for patients and families navigating some of the scariest, most uncertain days of their lives. It’s intense, emotional, and often heartbreaking—but it’s also incredibly rewarding. It constantly reminds me how precious and fragile life really is. Read more>>
Eric Kiska
I did not want to give up on my passion for writing and creativity though, and I also had a background in audio and video editing. By 2017, my dad Tim Kiska, started a podcast called The Detroit History Podcast, and I managed the Social Media for it. He has a PHD and is a professor at U-M Dearborn and had one of his students edit the podcast, but when that student wasn’t returning his calls or text, I stepped up to the plate and became the audio editor for the podcast. I also edited the scripts that my dad writes. It now has thousands of downloads across 50 countries and has won an award for “Best Media” from the Historical Society of Michigan. Read more>>
Pam Sandlie
Travel has always been a passion of mine, and as I explored more destinations, I realized how much I enjoyed researching, planning, and curating experiences—not just for myself but for others as well. That realization led me to seek out professional training to become a travel advisor. Rather than joining an established agency, I took the leap and founded Blue Emerald Travel Advisors, a boutique travel agency dedicated to creating seamless, well-planned, and unforgettable travel experiences. Read more>>
Nathan O’Malley
Leather Works Minnesota was started in 1999 by my parents Kent and Lee Begnaud in their garage in St. Paul Park, MN. Growing up I would help out in the shop to make some extra Christmas money. In college I would play with my dad’s sewing machines to tailor my clothes, and before I graduated I was offered a part time job. Read more>>
