Mariana Santos, founder of Animame Algarve. (Credit: Courtesy of Animame Algarve)

1,000 Stories

A Burnt-Out Founder Built a Sanctuary – For Herself and Others

Mariana Santos launched Animame Algarve, a refuge for retreats, workshops and regenerative farming, in the Portuguese countryside.

January 20, 2026

By Victoria Flexner

For over a decade, Mariana Santos led the Chicas Poderosas movement, a global community empowering women in media. While Santos’ work in this space resulted in tangible change, it also left her exhausted. Santos told us she was “personally depleted,” and in pursuit of a life change, she “decided to return to my roots in the Algarve, Portugal, to a piece of land that belonged to my ancestors.” When Santos arrived in this passed-down haven, located in the southern region of Portugal, she found the land was “as burnt out as I was.” Thus began a project to not only regenerate the land, but also her nervous system. In 2022, Santos launched Animame Algarve, a wilderness sanctuary that offers retreats and workshops focused on getting guests back in touch with nature through gardening, yoga classes and wild swimming in the nearby Atlantic Ocean. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

In the Algarve, tourism is often an “extractive” industry in that they largely involve big crowds and shallow wellness experiences that disconnect people from the local culture. We are the antithesis of this. Our experiences focus on three main pillars: Land, by restoring biodiversity through agroforestry; people, by facilitating deep reconnection through nature and sport; and culture, by honoring local traditions and slow travel. 

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Experiencing a profound shift in my metric for “a life well-lived.” After being forced to drop the corporate pace due to burnout, I successfully transitioned to a life connected to the wild. The first time I harvested a meal grown entirely from toxin-free soil – which I had nurtured myself – I felt a level of achievement that no corporate board room win ever could have provided. Today, that success is mirrored in the eyes of the people who attend our Wild Women Retreats or our open-water swim gatherings like the Swim Party 10km. Seeing someone arrive “stuck” and leave with a regulated nervous system and a sense of community is my greatest professional point of pride.

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Redefining “impact” in a world obsessed with traditional KPIs, or key performance indicators. It is difficult to quantify the “return on investment” of a rejuvenated ecosystem to traditional stakeholders. I address this by treating my business as a living laboratory for systemic change. Rather than focusing solely on monetary gain, I focus on the “wellbeing economy.” I am building a business model that proves kindness, humanism and a slower pace are not just “nice to have,” but essential for a sustainable future. 

Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?

The fast-paced nature of my previous career eventually broke me. That collapse was the catalyst for every decision I make today. I have intentionally decided to reject shortcuts and the hustle culture that dominates the startup world. This personal history makes me a very different kind of founder. I choose to take things slowly, as I believe that real, lasting growth takes time – much like the soil I tend to every day.

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

I often use the phrase “fail fast, succeed soon,” but I would take it a step further in this case: Embrace failure as a gift of insight. Real growth only happens outside of your comfort zone. If you are trying to create something truly original or groundbreaking, you will likely stumble. Don’t let that stop you. Those moments of failure are actually the most honest teachers you will ever have. They provide the specific data you need to make your next attempt even more powerful.

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How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I turn to the wild. I go to the ocean. Open-water swimming in the cold, salty Atlantic acts as a total reset for my nervous system. It forces me into the present moment, because you cannot worry about the future when you are focused on your breath and the rhythm of the waves. I also practice radical gratitude – I remind myself that every day is a second chance, and I take it with both hands.

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

“Unstoppable” by Sia. 

Who is your most important role model? 

I am deeply inspired by Ernst Gotsch, the Swiss farmer who revolutionized syntropic agriculture in Brazil. He taught me that we don’t need to fight nature to be productive – we need to work in harmony with it. I apply his agricultural philosophy to my journey in that, if we can view humanity as a degraded system, we can use his principles of regeneration to bring our communities – and our individual souls – back to life.

Instagram: @Animamealgarve

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Melva LaJoy Legrand, founder of LaJoy Creative. (Credit: Courtesy of LaJoy Creative)

1,000 Stories

She’ll Plan a Good Time – For a Good Cause

Melva LaJoy Legrand’s business coordinates events for organizations whose work is rooted in social justice, equity, climate change mitigation and education access.

August 26, 2025

By Victoria Flexner

Almost 20 years ago, Melva LaJoy Legrand launched her first events company, LaJoy Event Design. The Washington, D.C.-based entrepreneur spent years planning parties and more for mission-driven organizations, coordinating upwards of 20 events per year at her busiest. But when Covid first began to spread in 2020, Legrand’s company took a huge hit. Despite losing 98% of her business, she remained undeterred, and worked to build the firm back up. And that she did, doubling her yearly revenue each year for the past 3 years and expanding to produce events in 42 states. Legrand, who recently rebranded her business as LaJoy Creative, takes pride in her ability to shift, adapt and pivot as needed – telling us that doing so has helped her become a more resilient leader. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Using my expertise to contribute to conversations around the gender pay gap and blending profit with purpose. Winning coveted awards such as the 2025 Inc. Female Founders 500, SUCCESS Magazine’s Women of Influence 2024, and landing speaking opportunities with IMEX America, IMEX Frankfurt, and four cities of the BizBash Connect Conference. 

What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Whether it’s facing a global pandemic, navigating staff changes, or the loss of clients, I always embrace the pivot. I try to lead with empathy, and find joy in my personal and professional life. 

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Have you experienced any significant personal situations that affected your business decisions? 

The pandemic was a huge challenge for us. At the time, I was also the caretaker for my ailing father, Melvin, who passed in 2021. And, I have had to deal with my own health conditions in recent years. But I’ve always found a way to come out on the other side. 

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

I actually started a YouTube leadership series, “Mondays with Melva,” to share some of the lessons I’ve learned while running my own business. I’m hopeful that this series will help other entrepreneurs navigate imposter syndrome, ensure their work is done with heart and empathy, and learn to understand the difference between “FOMO” (fear of missing out) and leadership rest. 

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How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

My love for my late father, Melvin, is the driving force behind getting through my darkest days. The love he gave me allows me to remain committed to my mission and gives me the confidence to know I can do anything. 

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

“Unstoppable” by Koryn Hawthrone. 

Who is your most important role model?

I have two. Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman to be elected to congress in 1968, and my mother, Joyce Jones. They have both shaped the way I embrace and navigate life as a dark-skinned Black woman. 

Instagram: @LaJoyCreative
LinkedIn: @LaJoyCreative
YouTube: @LaJoyCreative

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Shannon Nelson, founder of Her World. (Credit: Courtesy of Her World)

1,000 Stories

 Sharing the Magic of Travel with Her Fellow Women

Shannon Nelson’s travel agency, Her World, works with women looking to explore the globe, alone or in groups.

December 6, 2024

By Victoria Flexner

Shannon Nelson’s travel agency, Her World, was born from her passion for travel, and her desire to share the profound, life-changing experiences she herself had while seeing the world. Nelson told us, “I wanted to share that gift with my fellow Arkansans, encouraging them to step beyond Little Rock and discover destinations that would open their eyes and hearts.” Since launching Her World in 2021, Nelson has created personalized travel experiences for individuals, groups and corporate clients alike. She experienced a significant setback earlier this year, in the form of identity theft – but her commitment has not wavered to building exciting, luxurious and seamless journeys for all those who share in her wanderlust. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

We’re all about empowering women to explore the world with confidence, creating luxury experiences that feel tailored just for them. As an SBA-certified Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business, we’re proud to stand for excellence and integrity in everything we do. And, our diverse offerings go beyond planning individual journeys — we also support corporations in finding accessible, affordable travel solutions that align with their goals. With our expertise, personal touch and passion for making travel accessible to all, we are working to redefine what a travel agency can be. 

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Being named the “Most Pioneering Luxury Travel Solutions Provider 2024” by the Southern States Business Awards. This recognition feels incredibly rewarding because it reflects the heart and dedication we put into every journey we create. Gaining SBA certification as an Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB) was another milestone that reinforced our mission: To make travel accessible and diverse, as well as truly memorable. 

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Scaling to meet our potential. With our recent SBA certification, we have an incredible opportunity to secure government and federal contracting — a space where we can make a real impact. But to take on these larger projects, we need to build the right foundation, which includes securing the funding needed to bring on new employees, invest in the necessary software, and develop specialized products and services. Growth is both exciting and challenging, but we’re ready to take it on with the right support and resources. We are now focusing on strategic steps to secure both the clientele and the funding required to support this growth. We’re actively exploring partnerships and grant.

Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?

I was a C-level marketing executive in corporate America, trying to balance my career while also building my business on the side. Last year, I took the leap to become a full-time entrepreneur. It was terrifying to walk away from steady benefits and stability, but I made it work — until May 2024, when I was hit by an identity theft crisis that drained both my personal and business resources. Suddenly, everything I had built was gone, and I found myself forced to start over. But despite the setback, my commitment hasn’t wavered. I’m now in the process of rebuilding my legacy from the ground up, and while it’s overwhelming at times, I’m determined to get back to where I was – and then, to continue moving forward.

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Remember that no one will ever care as much about your business as you do. It’s not personal, it’s just reality — your business is like your child, and it’s up to you to nurture and protect it. I was prepared for the sleepless nights, the personal investment, and the stress. But one thing I didn’t anticipate was the loneliness that can come when things get overwhelming – especially here in Arkansas, where the entrepreneurial community isn’t as strong. You have to be your own biggest supporter, keep your mental health in check, and remind yourself every day that, in the end, you’ve got you. 

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How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I find strength by envisioning where I’ll be 10 years from now: Running a premier travel management agency, winning awards, and making waves in a multi-million dollar industry. I remind myself that every successful leader has had to lie in their own trenches, and it’s resilience that separates those who thrive. Meditation and focusing on that future vision keep me grounded and hopeful.

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

“Mount Everest” by Labrinth. It reminds me of my passion, my purpose, and the future I’m building. When I listen to it, I feel reconnected to why I started this journey. 

Who is your most important role model?

I don’t really have a role model in the traditional sense – rather I’m focused on becoming the best version of myself. But my passion for travel was deeply influenced by my late uncle, Charles. He served in the Navy and, as a child, I would sit wide-eyed as he shared stories about the incredible places he’d seen, the foods he’d tasted, and the people he’d met across the world. Even though he had a real fear of flying, he encouraged me to never let fear hold me back and made me promise to get on that plane, no matter how terrified I might feel. His courage, his adventurous spirit, and his belief in exploring beyond our comfort zones are what truly sparked my love for travel – and it’s what drives me every day as I grow Her World.

Instagram: @Its.her.world.now
YouTube: @ItsHerWorldTravels
LinkedIn: @HerWorld

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Sisters Leore and Karen Oren, co-founders of The Ceremony Club. (Credit: Courtesy of The Ceremony Club)

1,000 Stories

These Sisters Bring a Fresh Aesthetic to Wedding Stationery Staples

Leore and Karen Oren are infusing wedding necessities with a modern Millennial flair through their joint venture, The Ceremony Club.

September 26, 2024

By Victoria Flexner

Los Angeles-based sisters Karen and Leore Oren were working in graphic design and marketing before they launched their business, The Ceremony Club. Through their previous work, they had noticed a gap in the wedding market – stationery must-haves like photo albums were often visually traditional, an aesthetic that wasn’t resonating with their Millennial friends who were getting hitched. The Oren sisters decided to fill this gap by launching their own fresh takes on the little details of clients’ big days. Today, the sister co-founders are growing their line of products with their small-but-mighty team, and continuing to bring a modern touch to traditional wedding keepsakes. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A from Leore Oren to The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

We’ve chosen to break away from the traditional styles that have long dominated the wedding market. Instead, we focus on creating products that are fresh, modern, and reflective of today’s digital age. Our wedding newspapers exemplify this approach: They combine a classic visual element, but are executed with a modern twist. Similarly, our photo albums are designed to be bold and colorful, moving away from the typical bridal look to something that feels more like a chic coffee table book.

We also pride ourselves on our online-only, casual approach to customer interaction. This digital-first strategy allows us to connect with brides and couples across the country in a way that many traditional vendors can’t. 

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Our wedding newspaper and photo album collection. The wedding newspaper was our first viral product, capturing the attention of millions of brides and wedding vendors. It allowed us to establish a strong presence in the wedding industry and became a trend that many couples now include in their celebrations. Our photo album collection, which launched in March, has also been incredibly successful. 

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Managing the details of our business with a small team. To address this, we focus on prioritizing tasks and implementing systems that streamline our processes, ensuring we maintain quality while also being efficient. It’s a continual learning experience.

Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?

Balancing the demands of building a business while managing your personal life can be tough, especially when you’re part of a small team. Despite our efforts to maintain equilibrium, it’s an ongoing challenge that affects how we make decisions and manage our time. We’ve learned to prioritize and delegate where possible, and we continually work on setting boundaries to ensure we’re not sacrificing our well-being for our work. 

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What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Dive in, and don’t get bogged down by perfectionism. Many people hesitate to launch their ideas because they’re not flawless yet, but the key is to put your concept out there and see how it resonates with your audience. You’ll never know if your idea will succeed if you don’t take that first step. I’ve started multiple businesses before finding one that truly took off, and each step taught me something valuable. 

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

Pushing through without forcing myself to feel inspired is key. Sometimes, trying to force creativity or motivation can be counterproductive. Instead, I focus on maintaining a steady routine and allow myself the space to recharge. This might mean taking a break, engaging in a different creative activity, or simply stepping away from work for a while.

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

Honestly, we don’t have a specific go-to motivational song for tough days. Instead, what really helps us push through is taking a quick break with a visit to our favorite coffee shop – it provides a much-needed reset and allows us to recharge, which in turn helps us stay motivated and focused. It’s amazing how a simple change of scenery – and a good cup of coffee – can make all the difference!

Who is your most important role model?

Our parents. They inspire us to keep growing our business, and have instilled in us the mindset that when we set our sights on something, we go for it. They have always supported us and helped us pursue our dreams. As our business has grown, they have become more hands-on, assisting in numerous ways. We are essentially a family-run business, which we find incredibly special and heartwarming!

Instagram: @TheCeremonyClub
TikTok: @TheCeremonyClub
Pinterest: @TheCeremonyClub

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Leah Wolf (left) and Ashley Lands (right), co-founders of Provincial Leisure. (Credit: Courtesy of Provincial Leisure)

1,000 Stories

How Two Childhood Friends Wound Up Living Their Italian Dreams

Ashley Lands and Leah Wolf are revitalizing a small Italian town through their travel business, Provincial Leisure.

August 6, 2024

By Victoria Flexner

In the summer of 2016, childhood best friends Ashley Lands and Leah Wolf were both at crossroads in their lives. Lands was learning to live with a chronic illness, dividing her time between her New York City job and frequent trips to Europe, where her condition seemed to always improve. Wolf, meanwhile, was living full-time in Italy with her children while going through a divorce. She found herself living in the small village of San Gregario da Sassola, located just outside of Rome. Around this time, the Italian government declared that thousands of towns across the country, Wolf’s included, were perilously depopulated – some were on the brink of total abandonment, while others were virtual ghost towns. Both craving a fresh start, Lands and Wolf began to seriously consider investing in the revitalization of one of San Gregario da Sassola. And that’s exactly what they ended up doing, by way of their travel and hospitality business, Provincial Leisure. The duo operates a number of nearby vacation rentals while pointing guests toward family-owned restaurants and cafes in town, and leading them on local day trips and tours. Diane Lane would be proud. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from Ashley Lands The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry? 

Our mission is to help small villages thrive while allowing locals to maintain their way of life. We achieve this through extensive research that allows us to target and attract the right visitors. Leah’s design expertise and my background in hospitality marketing combine to help us find the ideal customers — those who want to contribute, not just consume. We seek individuals who aspire to improve the community, not just enjoy a brief getaway.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

My brother, Jason, recently pointed out something that made us all laugh – and made us all grateful. He visited Italy shortly after we opened our third rental property in 2023, and returned this summer. At dinner one night, he exclaimed, “I can’t believe it. There’s so much food now!” We were puzzled and asked, “Food?” He explained, “When I first came, the cafes didn’t even have sandwiches. Maybe a pizza for dinner. Now, every cafe and bar is serving meals all day. This wasn’t here the first time I visited.”

It might seem funny to measure success by food, but it’s very Italian. Historically, food signifies economic growth and prosperity. The businesses here are expanding, and people are thriving. This kind of progress helps places like San Gregorio da Sassola move into the next generation. 

What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Recently, we had to inform investors – who were eager to join us – that we weren’t quite ready for their involvement yet. This journey has been about learning to operate on Italian time. Coming from New York City, the cultural shock was eye-opening. I struggled to understand how things worked – it’s a different world here. Through nearly two years of experience, I now grasp why Italy holds so much untapped potential. You can’t succeed without the support of the locals and the community, and understanding them is crucial to accessing the right resources.

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Have you experienced any significant personal situations that affected your business decisions? 

Suffering from chronic illness. At first, you’re terrified you’ll never become successful again, and it’ll all come crumbling down because your health won’t hold. You wonder why you had to go through it in the first place. And I know for a lot of us, at times, you wish you didn’t have to keep going at all.

The flip side of that is, you learn how resilient people are. You realize that real struggle makes you seek deeper meaning in life. And you truly value life-long friendships, because many of the “fairweather” friends stop calling when you’ve declined too many dinner invitations. All of these things and more have made me the person that I am today. 

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Starting is everything. I’ve seen so many incredibly talented individuals delay their dreams because they couldn’t take that first step. It’s natural to feel uncertain, to worry about failure. But remember, every journey begins with a single step — even if that step feels shaky or unsure.

Embrace the process, knowing that growth comes from pushing through challenges. Surround yourself with a team that supports you through thick and thin – people who believe in your vision, and who will cheer you on when doubt creeps in.

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How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I have almost unwavering faith in my own abilities. Please don’t ask me if I can move a mountain – I will. The only other person I’ve encountered who is like this is Leah. We see a dilapidated house and envision it as a dream vacation home for someone. We see an abandoned cafe and know it could become the next big thing with a little love.

We both believe in ourselves. And it’s our favorite quality about one another. 

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

I love music from the 1950s. Leah and I also make playlists together, which we jokingly refer to as “The Soundtrack of Our Lives.”

Who is your most important role model?

My role model is a combination of characteristics of everyone I love. No one on this planet is perfect. But each person, from the best to the worst, has something special to offer. This approach informs my lifelong philosophy about other people: Find that unique spark that defines them.

Instagram: @ProvincialLeisure

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Nijary Desai, founder of KIS(cubed) Events. (Credit: Courtesy of KIS(cubed) Events)

1,000 Stories

She Brings a Global Perspective to Event Planning

Nirjary Desai, raised on many continents, infuses her KIS(cubed) Events with international flair. 

July 24, 2024

By Victoria Flexner

Nirjary Desai of Atlanta, Georgia, spent years working in the hospitality and travel industries. But it was her multi-cultural background – she is of South Asian ancestry, born in Zambia, raised in South Carolina and educated in London – that ultimately led her to launch her own event- planning company, KIS(cubed) Events, in 2008. Around that time, Desai had observed more South Asians in the U.S. using full-service venues for their events – but many hotels lacked the cultural knowledge for these celebrations. Suddenly, Desai found herself being pulled into meetings to help organize events and weddings, and that was when she realized she had a unique offering to provide the industry. Since launching KIS(cubed) Events, Desai and her events have been featured on Bravo TV, and in Harper’s Bazaar, Bride India and The Huffington Post.

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry? 

I work with a very diverse clientele and my events are centered around hospitality and creating a welcoming environment for everyone. As KIS(cubed) continues to grow and reach new audiences around the world, I hope to keep expanding my business as a socially conscious organization. My focus is on fostering inclusivity within my brand, while working with unique individuals.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Establishing myself as an entrepreneur and aligning my personal growth with my professional goals. Success as a business owner is more than just meeting financial goals. My branding and recognition are a result of hard work, as well as self-growth. 

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

I had to pivot once Covid hit and remind myself why I started KIS(Cubed). If you can remember why you started, you can find ways to continue on your journey. I went back to basics during the pandemic and looked at how I could continue to contribute to the industry while events came to a halt. How could I help our community and build a better industry moving forward? I was forced to confront manufacturing and supply-chain issues, which was challenging but extremely rewarding. 

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Every day is different and brings new challenges. The way that you perform in adversity and how you take on those challenges is what makes you successful. Don’t let what others say about you influence you. You have to take your emotions out of business decisions, and make decisions based on fact and logic.

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I am a firm believer in holding my head down, focusing on doing my job, and being amazing at my craft, rather than looking around and trying to hear the rest of the noise out there.

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What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

I don’t have a particular song – but I do love this playlist. 

Who is your most important role model?

My parents are my role models because of their resilience and the adversities they have overcome. They moved to a different country to make a new life for themselves.

Instagram: @kiscubed
Facebook: @kiscubed

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Yulia Saf, founder of Miss Tourist. (Credit: Courtesy of Miss Tourist)

1,000 Stories

She’s a Globetrotter Sharing Tips With Other Travelers

Yulia Saf is the founder of Miss Tourist, a travel platform packed with  advice, itineraries, and information on destinations around the world.

July 24, 2024

By Victoria Flexner

Eight years ago, Yulia Saf decided to start a travel blog called Miss Tourist. Saf, a seasoned traveler who has been to over 70 countries, wanted to share what she’s learned traveling the world with others – her travel hacks, tips, tricks, favorite destinations and itineraries. Over the years, Miss Tourist has evolved from a blog detailing the experiences of those trips  to a travel platform that boasts an impressive 400,000 users a month. The long-time digital nomad, who is currently based in Lisbon, Portugal, now manages a remote team of 12 employees and has diversified her business model to include a number of revenue streams – all while raising her newborn son and inspiring others to explore somewhere new. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry? 

The breadth of our content, which spans extraordinary destinations worldwide, but also the authenticity and practicality that imbues every piece I create. Having navigated the complexities of globetrotting, my insights stem from a deep well of personal experience. Our platform doesn’t just showcase the glamor of travel; it delves into the real, tangible advice that can only come from someone who’s been on the ground, made the mistakes, and learned how to craft the perfect trip.

As a mother of a newborn, I’ve recently ventured into the uncharted territories of traveling with an infant, adding a rich new layer to my site’s content. Motherhood has expanded my expertise and allows me to connect with a wider demographic of travelers, offering insights on family-friendly travel, without compromising on adventure or professional pursuits.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

The creation and growth of my travel site. When I first started, it was simply a platform for me to share my passion for travel and to document my adventures. But it has since evolved into a significant resource that resonates with a huge audience. Leading a global remote team has not only been a journey in enhancing my leadership and management skills, but also a testament to how technology enables new kinds of work environments and cultures. 

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Maintaining the delicate balance between my personal life and my professional life – especially after becoming a mother. I began by reassessing and restructuring my priorities. I realized that while my work is important, it’s crucial for both my family and myself that I also focus on my personal well-being and family time. 

This meant investing more time in training my team, enhancing our communication processes, and implementing robust project management systems that allow for better tracking of tasks and deadlines. This process was not overnight; it required patience, open communication, and a dose of trial and error. I have learned the power of saying ‘no’ to opportunities that do not align with our company’s vision or my personal values. It was a tough lesson, but it has allowed me to focus more on what truly matters.

Have you experienced any significant personal situations that affected your business decisions? 

With the birth of my son, my perspective on work-life balance and time management transformed dramatically. I realized that to continue thriving both as an entrepreneur and a parent, I needed to delegate more and set clearer boundaries to protect time spent with my family.

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What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Prioritize building a resilient and adaptable business model right from the start. When I began my journey with misstourist.com, I was driven by passion, but over time I’ve learned that passion must be underpinned by a solid structure that can weather the unexpected.

Looking back, I wish I had known the importance of diversifying revenue streams earlier. Initially, my business was heavily reliant on one source of income, which can be quite risky, especially in the travel industry – which can be so volatile. Diversification is key to ensuring stability; if one stream falters, others can buoy the business. For instance, I’ve broadened from just ad revenue to affiliate marketing, sponsored content and even creating digital products over time.

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I remind myself that every challenge is an uncharted territory to explore, much like the unfamiliar streets of a new city. I take a moment to reflect on my past journeys; the faces of people I’ve met, the obstacles I’ve overcome, and the beauty I’ve witnessed. This reignites the sense of wonder and curiosity that originally propelled me into blogging and storytelling. 

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

“Eye of the World” by Tina Turner. 

Who is your most important role model?

Richard Branson. He is a pioneering businessman who has never been afraid to push boundaries and explore new horizons, both figuratively with his entrepreneurial ventures, and literally with his daring adventures.

Instagram: @misstourist
Facebook: @MissTourist
Pinterest: @Misstouristcom

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The post She’s a Globetrotter Sharing Tips With Other Travelers appeared first on The Story Exchange.

Mandi Young experimented with several side gigs before finally launching her business, Juniper Gardens, in 2021. The Missouri-based mompreneur knew she wanted out of the corporate world, and through her business, she’s found a way to combine her loves of architecture, nature and helping others. In her first years of business, Young worked over time to provide the best possible experiences to her clients on their wedding days – eventually burning herself out in the process. She realized she needed to take a step back, and today, Young makes work-life balance a priority – especially as she gets Juniper Gardens’ second location up and running. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Being able to expand our wedding venue into our second location, which offers both indoor and outdoor space. Our bookings were strong enough, and feedback was positive  enough, that we could prove adequate demand for a second location, despite being in a highly competitive market. We have carved out our space,and worked with incredible couples in the process.

What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Figuring out how to balance everything. I was regularly working 15-hour days, plus hours before and after couples’ wedding days to make sure they were taken care of. That was far beyond what couples were expecting and paying for, but I didn’t understand how to set those boundaries. 

Eventually, I realized I couldn’t continue to operate at that pace. But it still took a while to figure out how to enforce boundaries while still offering great customer service. I’m still working on refining and improving in this regard, because it’s important for my mental health  – especially making sure I have the mental space and time to spend time with my kids.

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Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions? 

I was a single teen mom and started my adult life very early because of that. I set aside career aspirations and took the “tried and true” corporate path, both to offer my son stability and to get myself an education. As my self worth and self confidence grew throughout my 20s, I found it harder to accept corporate expectations and employee treatment – which led to exploring many side hustles. Ultimately, I opened my own wedding venue, which ignited in me a bigger passion for serving others, creating beautifully designed spaces, and connecting with other small business owners.

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Don’t worry about crafting the perfect logo, website, or branding strategy to start your business. That can come later, as you get a better handle on what your business is, and who comprises your audience. I see so many great potential business owners spending way too much time trying to get all of these details figured out first. Some just never start their business because they can’t get the right logo figured out. 

It took me three years of running my business to finally design a logo – but it also took me those three years to refine how I talked about my business, to work out what I wanted my business to represent, and to map out how I saw it moving forward. If I had created a logo at the start of my business, I would have changed it anyway, and the original money spent would have been a waste.

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How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I put on reruns of “Golden Girls,” or spend time outside in the garden, or take myself on a hike. I find that inspiration comes from giving myself the time and space to relax and immerse myself in the things that bring me comfort.

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

“The Man” by Taylor Swift.

Who is your most important role model?

Architect and interior designer Florence Knoll. 

Instagram: @JuniperGardens

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The post Her Venues Are Ideal for Nature-Lovers’ Nuptials appeared first on The Story Exchange.

Earlier this year, Kalyn Salinas, launched The Citrine Compass – a travel agency that was years in the making. During Covid lockdowns, Salinas, an avid traveler herself, spent a lot of her time crafting fantasy itineraries for trips to take once it was safe to see the world again. The Los Angeles mom then began considering the concept of launching a boutique travel firm that would help busy individuals plan their dream trips. She realized the best way to plan an adventure in a new place is to confer with locals who know a place’s hidden gems and the roads less traveled. So today, The Citrine Compass has a solid roster of trusted experts around the world who curate vacation plans based on customers’ interests and tastes. 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

I’m doing something disruptive in the travel industry. When planning a trip, most people either spend hours combing social media, travel forums, blogs and articles to piece together a trip, or use a travel agent. But most agents don’t live in the location you want to travel to, come at a premium or don’t offer much flexibility. We, however, are offering a middle ground!

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Announcing to the world that I was launching a new business in a different industry. I had been delaying by debating the right wording, perfect branding, a chic website – the list goes on. Then, I was reminded of a quote I heard on the Female Startup Club podcast that said: “If what you have is 80% perfect, it’s good enough.” So I pulled the trigger on the announcement. I have had more setbacks than “yes” moments to date, but I know this business will be successful. I’m here for the long haul, and determined to enjoy the ride!

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

My top challenge has been marketing the company on a shoestring budget. I have had to be creative about utilizing my resources. I’ve relied on women’s entrepreneurship organizations like Dreamers & Doers as well as Female Founders Collective, and have pieced together a strategy mostly from the advice of other female founders or marketing consultants who are generous with their time. So many women have been in this early start-up phase before, and now they want to see other female-founded businesses win.

Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?

Having my daughter, Margarita Rose. I knew that I wanted to be a working mom, and to show her that it’s possible to be an engaged parent and a badass career woman simultaneously. But my time became a precious commodity. The only time I was willing to spend away from her had to be time spent pursuing my dream – and nothing else.

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

There is never a “good” time to start something new, scary and bold! If you have an idea that you’re passionate about, and believe in your resourcefulness, then act. Imperfect action today is better than perfection tomorrow.

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How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I’m constantly in pursuit of more mindfulness, joy and reflection in my life. Our family loves a mediation app called Waking Up. I just finished its series on stoicism, and find myself frequently reminded of a talk about how there is always someone out there that would trade spots with you, no matter how bad things might seem. Our darkest day might be a dream for someone else. We are the creators of our own realities – and in start-up mode, I am choosing to expect adversity and challenges, instead of being discouraged by them. Without those experiences, we can’t grow as people or in our business pursuits.

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days? 

“Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen when I want to feel energized, and “Rise Up” by Andra Day when I am feeling more sentimental.

Who is your most important role model?

I have found inspiration from other founders’ stories. I am an avid listener of Guy Raz’s “How I Built This,” the Female Startup Club and Goop podcasts. I regard anyone who has persisted and thrived in their start-up as a sort of role model. 

My husband is also an amazing visionary, businessman and believer in what’s possible. He believed in my ability to thrive as an entrepreneur before I even saw it in myself.

Instagram: @thecitrinecompass

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The post Her Company Helps Busy Globetrotters Curate the Perfect Trip appeared first on The Story Exchange.

Vanessa Karel loves exploring the world – sometimes on her own. She especially appreciates the “travel magic” that can occur when you bond with, and maybe even form lifelong connections with, people in a new place. But Karel also knows that not all women feel safe traveling alone, and that said “travel magic” can’t always happen when you’re worried. She decided to start a company that could provide women travelers flying solo with the type of foreign experience she herself relishes. Enter Greether, her travel service that matches international female travelers with local female guides. Whether women are looking for someone trustworthy to introduce them to a new city during a long layover, or a knowledgeable guide to show them around a remote locale for a few days, Greether has someone verified in over 90 countries and 400 cities worldwide to “open the corners that seem scary for us to be in.” 

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

Greether is a travel service helping women, specifically, explore the globe with less risks by connecting them to our verified “Greeters.” Our services are customizable, and every traveler chooses where the Greeter meets them, for how long, and what they want to do or see! Being stranded at an airport during an annoying layover for hours is no fun – what if you could have a quick and safe tour of a nearby town with a friendly local female guide instead?

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

When women share how much they love our company and our mission, it makes me feel like the most successful person in the world. I’m proud that we are creating a friendlier and safer travel environment for women.

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What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Balancing work life and personal life is very difficult when you are building a business – even more so when it’s a startup that went global very quickly. I put a lot of effort into making time to have fun with my partner, my cat and my friends. It refreshes me to be outdoors and to try new things.

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Discipline will take you farther than being fueled solely by your passion. If you aren’t disciplined, it will be difficult to get work done on the hard days when you don’t feel like the needle is moving.

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I look back at all that we have accomplished, and remember why I started – as well as why I should keep pushing.

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What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days? 

“Tu M’as Promis” by Monsieur Perine.

Who is your most important role model?

All the female founders I meet. Their tenacity and passion is incomparable.

Instagram: @greether

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The post She Wants Women to Feel Safe Traveling Alone appeared first on The Story Exchange.