Title: Director of business and innovation
Company/organization: Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR)
Hometown: Rush, Kentucky
Lives: Rush
Hobbies: Adventure-based recipe creation using foraged and harvested finds from the outdoors and homestead for my blog, Eat Wild Appalachia.
Describe what you do.
Our team provides free resources, coaching, direct services, workshops, mentorship and the support of SOAR’s vast network of partners.
Our team services small businesses and entrepreneurs in the 54-[Appalachian Regional Commission]-mandated EKY counties and is the [regional KY Innovation hub].
We work as a unit to serve the entrepreneurs in our region and one of my favorite parts in providing space for my team and the entrepreneurs to grow into their true selves. A lot of what I do is listening, and there is so much magic in that.
How did you get involved in innovation and/or entrepreneurship?
I guess you could say innovation has always been in my blood. ... It wasn’t until I had my first child that I dove into creating my own path. I saw an opportunity for something new in a small town and jumped headfirst into the world of entrepreneurship with only faith and grit on my side.
Little did I know that my small-town idea would turn into a passion for helping others chase their dreams. While I had a business that I loved and succeeded at, I unlocked a part of myself that fulfilled me to my core and it was a no-brainer when I sold my business to pursue helping others grow and scale their business.
What motivates you in your day-to-day work?
I am blessed that each day I wake up with an opportunity to serve Eastern Kentucky. When people ask me to describe EKY in one word, I with a smile always reply, “Underestimated.” What motivates me every single day is the untapped opportunity that is out there to uncover.
What’s a goal your organization has for 2024?
Our goal is to ignite a passion for entrepreneurship through storytelling and intentional connection. Our goal is to ensure that the entrepreneurial pathway and ample opportunities in our region are crystal clear. Imagine a lighthouse calling home its sailors.
