We had the good fortune of connecting with Brian Chontosh and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brian, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I realized; maybe more like accepted, that I had a lot to offer to the world outside of punching the clock for a paycheck to make ends meet. Starting a business was never something I had aspired to do or thought I would ever attempt.

After spending 21 years in the Marine Corps I don’t really know what I was expecting. I didn’t really have a plan or any specific ambitions. I generally figured I would find a 40 hr/wk job trying to do something outdoors and physical in nature.

I was also in an advantageous position to be able to take my time figuring out what I wanted or needed to do. I was collecting a retirement and was in a relationship with a financially secure partner. Then opportunities started falling into my lap at random.

What should our readers know about your business?
Crooked Butterfly Ranch is an experiential leadership company. It’s largely unique because my background in the military and through the endurance / ultra adventure racing community and crazy explorations brings me to who I am. I leverage my experiences and story coupled with mindset practices and strategies to help others explore themselves. I have a saying – “I bring lessons from the battlefield and ballfield and make them available to the boardroom and breakfast table.”

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We would come up to our property in the foothills above Boulder, CO. We’d do a little outdoor activity/ workout, do some yard work, play with the dogs and drink some beer. Then we’d either BBQ or head down to Steakhouse 316 for dinner.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Nicole Carroll

We’ve been in a relationship for 16 years and through my transition into the civilian world. She’s been my support through a lot of uncertainty, challenge, and tough times. Without her patience and encouragement I wouldn’t have had half of any success I might indulge to accept.

Website: https://www.crookedbutterfly.com

Instagram: tosh.crookedbutterfly and crookedbutterfly

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.