We asked some of the city’s rising stars to reflect on what made a difference in their journey. We asked them to tell us about what they think the most important factor has been behind their success.

Kyle Shirley | Commercial Roofing Contractor

Simply put, I lead a team that keeps their promises. We do what we say we are going to do. In construction, we have found there are a lot of empty promises and methods of maneuvering out of responsibilities. For us, when we let a customer or vendor know that we intend to do something, we honor that promise, and we give it our all. Read more>>

Mike Bickelhaupt | President & Creative Director

As a successful small business owner, I do not feel any one factor contributes more to our success than all others. Our success is like a well put together sauce. Some ingredients contribute more than others, but all ingredients are essential. Success can still be attained with one or two missing components, but when everything is working together in harmony, success is realized in a shorter timeframe and with greater results. Read more>>

Rodrigo Antunes | Martial Artist

The word Jiu Jitsu means “gentle art” due to its principle of giving in to win, using the weight and strength of your opponent against himself and also to create for each technique, a leverage that allows you to move an opponent much stronger and heavier. This guiding principle is to make the most efficient use of mental and physical energies. Read more>>

Sarah Reinhardt | CAIRO MOON Psychic Medium/Past Life Psychic/Reiki Healer

Success to me, is all about my connection with the person I am reading for. I accidentally fell into starting this business and I have never been more grateful! It started with just wanting to help people in my life understand themselves better, what was blocking them from their goals and healing and how their past incarnations were affecting their decisions, fears and energy. Read more>>

Dan Carlson | Woodworker

I know it’s cliche but honestly, hard work and not giving up. Once I made up my mind to strike out on my own, there was no turning back. Having the opportunity to make my own schedule, set my own payscale, and work for something I truly believe in game me a taste of freedom that made it very hard to give up. Once you’ve experienced that, there’s no going back. Read more>>

Misti Hughes | Artist, Art Teacher, Painting Party Entrepreneur

I am a warm, and easy going. I am a high energy person with a fun personality. People feel comfortable, encouraged, lifted, and inspired by me in my art parties and events. I focus on the creative process, and the zen time spent creating rather than the outcome, and that is where the true peace of mind magic of art can be found. Read more>>

Soley Maria | Realtor

“There’s no such thing as luck. Luck is where preparation meets opportunity”, is a quote by Amy Hempel that resonates with me. While we can only partially control opportunity (we can be open to and seeking out opportunities, but the fact is not everyone gets the same opportunities), we can absolutely control our own preparedness. Read more>>

Rachel Blunk, LAc | Fertility Acupuncturist & Traditional Chinese Herbalist

The answer to this is three-fold. The credit first goes to my patients. I am deeply grateful to have amazing patients who refer their friends, family and even strangers they meet at the salon to me. I would not be as successful without them! Read more>>