We are so thrilled to be able to connect with some of the brightest and most inspiring entrepreneurs and creatives from across the city and beyond and this series in particular gives us the honor of introducing these folks to you in a unique way – we go beyond the story of how they got to where they are today by asking them to reflect on a variety of deeper questions that we hope will help you better connect with them, their stories and their brands. Ultimately, our hope is that more of us will spend more of our money with independent artists, creatives and small businesses and we think getting to know one another at a deeper level is step one.
Mikayla Roddan
Recently, as this year is almost complete, I’ve had a few moments that have left me feeling really proud, but the biggest one is realizing that I went full-time with my photography business this year. I feel so blessed to be able to pursue my passion and continue growing as a full-time photographer. Read more >>>
Nichole Frazer
When I was in college I was working at a local chain restaurant. I was hired to be a cocktail server for the tables in the bar. I was enjoying it and a position opened to be a bartender. I wanted to move up but my manager told me I didn’t have what it takes to be a bartender. Read more >>>
Jami Bolduc
I would tell my younger self, “You are enough, even when it feels like you’re not. The words spoken to you were never the truth about who you are. You are worthy of love, kindness, and a future filled with possibility. One day, you’ll see that the pain you carry now will turn into strength you didn’t know you had. Read more >>>
Shelli Nornes
Honestly? No, the public version of me isn’t the full picture. People see the polished parts…the strong leader, the confident entrepreneur, the one who can handle anything. And while all of that is true in many ways, it’s just a piece of who I am. The real me is more private. I carry deep convictions—political, spiritual, personal—but I keep them close. Read more >>>
Toni Glotter
Short answer, yes, the public version of me is the real me. It wasn’t always that way though. I have always valued truth and honesty. I also wanted perfection in all I did. I wanted my life to be compartmentalized. I wanted order and predictability. Now I find those things restraining. Especially in art. My art was reflecting my lifestyle.Read more >>>
Katrina DeWit
Oh, I give up probably weekly. Being a business owner is no easy path, and for every glam Instagram post, there’s ten moments where I’m helping a client navigate a tricky divorce sale, trying to find a rhythm in being both the CEO and janitor of my business, and fielding three phone calls at the same time. Read more >>>
Layl McDill
My latest series of work is focused on farming. I never would have guessed I would be drawn to this subject. I got interested after watching a few documentaries while on a flight back from Europe and then I submitted a grant where I said I would interview farmers and then make art about those conversations. Read more >>>
Angel Godinez
I’m proud of working very hard and building a life for my family and myself. A lot of people dont see it because I choose to keep all the hard work and accomplishments to myself. Once I have gotten to where I want to be, thats when I’ll make it known. Read more >>>
Susan Costello Sepulveda
Mornings are hard for me, but my goldendoodle makes me roll out of bed to let her out. After letting Canilla is in (my ca-noodle doodle), we play some and of course I need a cup of mojo. We watch the news and share some puppy snuggle time, then off I go to attend to errands, appointment or the art studio. Read more >>>
Jaimie Bahl
Visibility. Not physically but afraid of being seen in a spiritual light. Using words like consciousness, Higher Self, intuition, energy healing, lightbeing, heart-centered living. In some rooms that language feels risky, and the old fear says, “Stay small.” I’ve also learned that the brighter the light, the more shadow gets attracted, and that can feel lonely. What’s changed is my why. Read more >>>
Emma Halet
I love this question! This year, I’ve really made it a priority to improve my work/life balance—and it’s been such a rewarding shift. Lately, I’ve been focusing a lot on my health and overall well-being. Read more >>>
Laura Adrian
I love spending time in nature—whether it’s hiking barefoot, meditating under a tree, or spending a few nights in the wilderness. These practices, and the presence I bring to them, are some of my favorite ways to reset and rejuvenate. Read more >>>
Jametta Raspberry
The survivalist in me has fought a good fight. She has managed to defy the odds. Defeat was like a fine sharp blade against her neck and she still pushed through when it was absolutely necessary. Its time for her to rest. Read more >>>
Marlee Olson
Partnering with Make-A-Wish Foundation chapters across the country has been incredibly impactful for us. As well as working with various counties in Minnesota and Wisconsin through waivers and grants, we’ve been able to bring sensory spaces into families’ homes and backyards, often creating life-changing opportunities for play and connection. Read more >>>
ADEJOKE EJIOFOR
One of the most defining moments that shaped how I see the world was when my son was diagnosed with sickle cell disease. As a mother, hearing that news was both heartbreaking and life-changing. It opened my eyes to the harsh realities faced by so many individuals and families living with this condition, especially the lack of awareness, support, and resources available to them. Read more >>>
Kayla Hollatz
I still remember navigating through a season of radical self-discovery in my early 20s after my first business failed. I sought the advice of my closest friends and family to ask them to describe me in three words—not from a business perspective but rather from a personal lens. To this day, I don’t remember anyone else’s words but those from my father. Read more >>>
Liz Walker
I’ve always been a little odd. It runs in the family. I think getting older is a lot about connecting with the things you loved when you were young, finding comfort in those old passions and realizing you never had to outgrow them. Read more >>>
Shalese Sands
Honestly, most days, yes! I don’t work very often on Saturdays (just when there’s time for art) and never work on Sundays, so I legitimately look forward to Mondays. I have never been able to say that before, but it couldn’t be more true since become a full-time artist a couple years ago. Read more >>>
Alysha Riel
As the owner of a Pet Sitting and Dog Walking business serving the southwest suburbs of Minnesota, I’ve seen firsthand how often our profession is misunderstood. One of the most common misconceptions is that our work is simply ‘playing with pets all day,’ or that it’s something a child or hobbyist can easily do. Read more >>>
Tiffany simmons
People sometimes misunderstand that satire and parody can be just as meaningful as serious literature. My book uses humor and even AI illustration as a creative choice, and financial reasons. not a shortcut. Read more >>>
Stephanie Newman
People often think photographers just show up with a camera, snap a few pictures, edit them on the computer, and send them off. But the truth is, running a photography business is so much more than that. Behind the scenes, we’re also social media managers, web designers, accountants, and business strategists. Read more >>>
Jake Robbins
My earliest memory of feeling powerful was when I learned how to alchemize the darkness around me into power to fuel my self. I was probably around 10 years old, standing in the kitchen at my dads old house when it clicked in my head. Read more >>>
Joe Brandmeier
I guess they’re the personal wounds that come from within my own head. I’ve often said that I would never speak to friends or family – and certainly not my wife – like I do to myself – in my head! Read more >>>
Bryce Hegge
My favorite pass time is fishing. I try to get out on the lake at least once a week. I just bought my first boat this year! Crappie are my favorite fish. Read more >>>
Tara Gesy
Integrity. One of my favorite quotes is: ‘Integrity is the choice between what’s convenient and what’s right.’ – Tom Dungy. In a world where convenience and ease are the leading decision makers, it isn’t popular to ask if you’re taking the easy way or the right way. Read more >>>
