bizNEVADA North Vol. 2 Issue 19

Vol. 2 | ISSUE 19 | december 2018

IN THIS ISSUE:

Celebrating Women-Owned Businesses Profiles of Success Nevada Commission for Women How Nevada’s Business Environment is Empowering Women Entrepreneurs Diane Fearon, Nevada Commission for Women, chair (Jeff Scheid photo)

LETTER FROM THE

LETTER FROM THE

CR AIG A . RUARK

CHRIS O’SULLIVAN

EDITOR As we close out 2018 with this December issue of bizNEVADA magazine and prepare for the birth of 2019, it’s quite appropriate that we focus on the topic of women-owned businesses.

Over the past month, I have had the pleasure of interviewing a variety of very successful women with various backgrounds, degrees of education, and interesting stories of their journeys.

For the most part, they all had one thing in common – the drive and ambition to succeed.

According to the 2017 State of Women-Owned Business Report, commissioned by American Express, as of January 2017, there are an estimated 11.6 million (11,615,600) women-owned businesses in the United States that employ nearly 9 mil­lion (8,985,200) people and generate more than $1.7 trillion ($1,663,991,700,000) in revenues. Over the past 20 years (1997–2017), the number of women-owned businesses has grown 114% compared to the overall national growth rate of 44% for all businesses. Womenowned businesses now account for 39% of all U.S. firms, employ 8% of the total private sector workforce and contribute 4.2% of total business revenues.

Nevada, according to the report, has an estimated 98,800 womenowned businesses, employing 74,400 and attributing to roughly $16,248,300,000 and is ranked No. 1 among the top ten states where women-owned businesses have most increased their economic clout (defined as the growth in the number of firms and growth in employment and revenues) between 1997 and 2017.

Las Vegas, Nevada is ranked 5th in growth of number of women-owned firms among the top 50 U.S. metropolitan areas with a 118.7% increase over the past 11 years, 13th in growth of jobs created with a 33.2% increase and 36th in growth of firm revenues with a 24.4% increase.

Nevada’s ranking is not surprising, given the state’s economic advantages, lower cost of living, no corporate income tax, and continued population growth.

Featured on the cover of this month’s issue is Diane Fearon, the current chair of the Nevada Commission for Women; a Governor-appointed committee of ten women from around the state that have achieved personal success in their business careers. This committee is diligently working with government officials and providing public workshops with the goal of honoring and encouraging the advancement of women.

While it would take thousands of pages to tell all of the incredible stories of successes of Nevada’s women entrepreneurs, we hope that you will find inspiration and encouragement from the few that are highlighted in this issue.

As we end the year, let me say thank you to the advertisers that have supported this publication and allowed me to present quality business-related articles to our readers. I look forward to seeing you in 2019 and wish everyone continued joy and success in the new year.

We look forward to your continued support of our magazine and our advertisers. If there is a subject that you would like to see covered in the future, please feel free to send your comments and requests to Craig@biznv.com.

PAGE 2 • VOL. 2, ISSUE 19 • DECEMBER 2018

PUBLISHER Happy Holidays from all of us at bizNEVADA! For many of you, this is your make-or-break season! For others, it’s a chance to pause and look back over the year, take some time off, and spend time with family. Whatever the holidays look like in your industry, I hope you’re making the most of it. For us, it’s been a time to scramble, get in front of potential advertisers for 2019 and try and get them to set aside that little piece of their budget to reach our readers over the next year!

It’s also a great time to give thanks to all of our current and past advertisers! Over the past year, bizNEVADA has had the support of over 50 different advertisers and sponsors, written over 100 stories, highlighted 20 different nonprofits and charities, and done our very best to live up to our mission, to connect and empower Nevada businesses.

We’ve had some struggles, plenty of victories, and we’re ready for a great 2019!

We would love to hear from you. What were some of your victories over the past year? What are you most proud of looking back at 2018? How did you and your team make a difference this year? Post up your answers on social media, and tag @biznevada. We’d love to hear about it!

Finally, I want to give a shout out to Laura Howard at Howieloo Photography, LLC. Laura did such a wonderful job in our October issue of photographing Rachel Dahl from the Small Business Administration! Thank you Laura!

Check out Howieloo.com or on Facebook @howieloo.live to see more of her amazing work!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Vol. 2 / ISSUE 19

INTHISISSUE

bizNEVADA PUBLISHING TEAM PUBLISHERS: Richard Moore and Chris O’Sullivan EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Craig A. Ruark GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Nickie Price PHOTOGRAPHER: Marcello Rostagni COVER PHOTO: Diane Fearon, Nevada Commission for Women, chair (Jeff Scheid photo)

PG 4

How Nevada’s Business Environment is Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

PG 6

Nevada Commission for Women Seeks to Honor and Encourage the Advancement of Women

PG 10

Mixing Family with Business

PG 12

Denise Barcomb: Using Experience to Create Success

ADVERTISING Chris O’Sullivan chris@biznv.com Richard Moore richard@biznv.com

PG 14

When Passion Turns to Business

PG 16

K.J. Smith: A Knack for Uncovering the Truth

PG 18

Gloria Petroni: How to Protect Your Woman-Owned Business

PG 20

Michelle Sherven: Successful Entrepreneur and Community Philanthropist

PG 22

Calendar of Events – December/January

PG 23

The Haus That Reed Built

PG 24

Is Your Business Ready for a Disaster? Are You?

PG 26

Three Tips to Unleash the Creative Entrepreneurs in Your Community

PG 29

Book Review: A Love Letter to Reno

PG 30

Coffee Talk

FEEDBACK/IDEAS We welcome your feedback and ideas regarding bizNevada. Send a message to info@biznevada.com ©2018 Richard Moore and Chris O’Sullivan.

All rights reserved.

CONTACT US info@biznevada.com www.biznevada.com

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bizNEVADA MAGAZINE • WWW.BIZNEVADA.COM • PAGE 3

How Nevada’s Business Environment is Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

By Michael Vallante, Special to bizNEVADA

T

HE ECONOMY has not only rebounded, but econo­mic empowerment for women is at historic heights.

Women now make up 40 per­ cent of new entrepreneurs in the United States, the highest percentage since 1996. Nevada was recently named the No. 1 state where women-owned businesses have grown the most in the last decade.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act created incentives across the nation for entrepreneurs to start or invest in their business. Women entrepreneurs in Nevada who have taken advantage of the thriving economy have seen their business grow – and it’s paying off.

Fertility Center, in 2008. Red Rock Fertility Center pro­v ides treatment in the areas of Dr. Eva Littman in vitro fertilization, intrauterine insemination, egg donation, gestational carriers, and egg, embryo, and sperm freezing.

In 2014, Dr. Littman received an SBA 504 loan for equipment, as well as the purchase and renovation of a 10,444-square-foot medical office and surgery center, which she opened in early 2016.

But much more can be done to ensure economic equality and prosperity for women entrepreneurs. That is why the SBA is focusing its contracting and business loan efforts to ensure women entrepreneurs have access to capital and business resources.

The new space provided Dr. Littman with more than 4,000 square feet of additional space and allowed the combination of the two interrelated businesses into a state-of-theart facility. As a direct result, Dr. Littman was able to grow her staff to 32 employees.

In the last year, the SBA has guaranteed more than $28 million in business capital to women-owned businesses in Nevada. Women are following their dreams, starting successful businesses and creating jobs.

In the next few years, Dr. Littman hopes to hire several additional employees and expand her existing operation with a satellite facility in a Nevada underserved market. Additionally, improved business conditions have allowed Dr. Littman to recently complete an overseas medical mission trip to the Far East and

A prime example is Dr. Eva Littman, who started her medical practice, Red Rock

PAGE 4 • VOL. 2, ISSUE 19 • DECEMBER 2018

the potential creation of a satellite operation in China.

Dr. Littman’s story is an inspiration to women entrepreneurs thinking of starting a business.

Small business optimism is strong – reaching its third high­est level on record since the National Federation of Independent Business began its survey 45 years ago. Nevada’s economy is booming with the number of job openings surpassing the number of job seekers for the first time on record.

The SBA is committed to supporting women entrepreneurs and helping them chart their path forward. For example, the SBA Nevada Women’s Business Center provides free business education and training to support entrepreneurs. SCORE partners provide business mentors that offer one-on-one support for entrepreneurs. SBA resource partners also provide the tools to receive women-owned business federal contracting certification so that they may compete in the federal marketplace, where more than $500 billion in contracts are awarded to small businesses every year.

The SBA will always be an ally for our nation’s small businesses. More information about SBA’s services can be found at www.sba.gov u

In the last year, the SBA has guaranteed more than $28 million in business capital to women-owned businesses in Nevada.

bizNEVADA MAGAZINE • WWW.BIZNEVADA.COM • PAGE 5

Diane Fearon, Nevada Commission for Women, chair (Jeff Scheid photo)

PAGE 6 • VOL. 2, ISSUE 19 • DECEMBER 2018

NEVADA COMMISSION FOR WOMEN SEEKS TO HONOR AND ENCOURAGE THE ADVANCEMENT OF WOMEN

by Craig A. Ruark After nearly two decades of inactivity, the Sunset Subcommittee of the Interim Legislative Commission recommended to Governor Brian Sandoval that he reactivate the Commission for Women. The Governor supported the recommendation with Legislature approval, and in December of 2015 appointed ten members to sit on the Commission.

C

URRENT appointed Commissioners are Diane Fearon, chair, Brooke Westlake-Kelley, vicechair, Richann Bender, Constance Brooks, Jo Etta Brown, Elisa Cafferata, Durette Candito, Cynthia Cicero, Brenda Hughes, and Jennifer López.

Chair Diane Fearon, a successful businesswoman, resident of Las Vegas since 1979, and currently the vice president of philanthropy and strategic partnerships for Nathan Adelson Hospice. Fearon is starting her second term on the commission.

Some of the Commission’s 2019 goals are a continuation of work that has been started and when complete will be regarded as significant accomplishments.

Over the past two years, the Commission worked with legislators and other women’s groups to initiate a voluntary gender equity survey through the Nevada Secretary of State’s Office that enabled corporations, when updating their list of officers, the opportunity to also complete a survey that identifies the representation of women within the management ranks of their company structure. This survey also helped to determine the quality of their diversity efforts in their hiring practices. As of October 2018, more than 800 Nevada businesses have voluntarily completed the

survey. The results will be released in a report through Nevada Secretary of State’s Office. The goal of the report is to show a parity, or state of equality, regarding status or pay, among some of Nevada’s most successful companies, and that diversification is a sound business practice.

The Commission’s Goals for 2019 include: • Address gender disparity/equality issues in Nevada • Increase the number of women in public and private leadership • Provide education about issues relating to equality for women during the legislative session • Participate in women’s suffrage events • Recognize the historic role of Nevada women • Promote awareness of the Commission

Instrumental in the initiation of the survey was Jan Jones-Blackhurst, former mayor of the City of Las Vegas, prominent business leader, executive vice president, public policy & corporate responsibility of Caesars Entertainment, and women’s advocate for bizNEVADA MAGAZINE • WWW.BIZNEVADA.COM • PAGE 7

“Another goal of the commission is to increase representation of women on State boards and commissions as well.” equality. Blackhurst helped to frame the questions and provided both personal and corporate support to the Commission in the execution of the survey.

Caesars proudly boasts that 41 percent of their management positions are held by women.

Also supporting the Commission is Bank of America, which has provided some capacity-building funding support, and proudly boasts of their high percentage of women in management as well as, its more than $30 million in affordable loans to women entrepreneurs nationwide since 2014.

“Another goal of the commission is to increase representation of women on state boards and commissions,” stated Fearon. “Research indicates that the current makeup of boards and commissions is about 60 percent male to 40 percent female. In addition, studies have shown that a woman is more likely to disqualify herself from seeking leadership positions, either on a voluntary basis or in business.”

Based on those initial research and study figures, the Commission put together two ‘women’s empowerment workshops’ with prestigious panels of women speakers from both the public and private sectors.

The workshops were held in Carson City on September 28, 2018, and in Las Vegas on October 4th.

“The speakers shared their personal journeys in the pursuit of greater involvement and leadership positions within their organizations in an effort to plant the seeds with women who seek to have their community and state be a better place, and encourage them not to hesitate to become actively involved and seek positions of leadership,” said Fearon. “The workshops also alerted attendees of the number of boards and commissions within the state that had available vacancies.”

While it may not seem possible, over the course of the United State’s 242 years of history, women have only been allowed to vote for 98 of those years, and 2020 will mark the 100-year anniversary of the PAGE 8 • VOL. 2, ISSUE 19 • DECEMBER 2018

success of the women’s suffrage movement. To highlight that success, the Commission is in the planning stages of a celebration for women in Nevada to commemorate that century mark. “We have come a long way and have quite a way to go,” stated Fearon.

However, on September 14th in advance of that commemoration, the Commission installed the Silver State Sisters: Women Transforming Nevada exhibit in the State Capital Building outside the Lieutenant Governor’s office, to display the significant accomplishments of over 300 Nevada women. The exhibit was funded by Nevada Humanities, National Endowment for the Humanities, Caesars Foundation, Nevada 150 Foundation, Inc., and Kathleen and Ernest Becker. While the Commission does not currently have a budget for a companion exhibit in Southern Nevada, they do have a continuous loop video, provided by the Women’s Research Institute of Nevada, highlighting the many women who have made contributions to Nevada at the Grant Sawyer State Office Building on Washington Avenue in Las Vegas. The Commission is also working toward a traveling display that would make the accomplishments of Nevada women more accessible to a wider range of viewers.

The Commission meets no less than quarterly and all meetings are open to the public. It is interesting to note that the Commission does not have an operational budget. However, they are provided with one full-time employee, Molly Walt, who is on staff with the State of Nevada Department of Administration.

“We are very appreciative of Patrick Cates, director of the Department of Administration, for providing the resources of his department,” stated Fearon.

Fearon has over 24 years of experience in the banking industry holding executive positions as vice president, regional vice president, and president/ CEO. She also served as the chief executive officer of Communities in Schools of Nevada and the

Nevada Commission for Women: (pictured from left to right) Cynthia Cicero, Diane Fearon, Durette Candito, Jo Etta Brown, Brenda Hughes, Elisa Cafferata, Brooke Westlake, Debbie Mack (Not pictured – Richann Bender, Constance Brooks, and Jennifer Lopez).

Photo courtesy of Brooke Westlake, BMW Photography

admissions and transitions optimization program director of Health Insight.

serving as a commissioner has been very mindexpanding, enlightening, and rewarding for me.”

Fearon became involved with the Nevada Commission for Women when long-time friend, Richann Bender, senior economic development officer at the City of Las Vegas, alerted her to an open position. “This is an easy subject, topic, and purpose for me. I have been very fortunate in my career of not having an inability to get through some barriers professionally, but I am also aware that the job is far from done,” said Fearon. “Becoming involved and

Fearon also pointed out that, “Nathan Adelson Hospice has been very supportive of my involvement with the Commission and four of the six executive positions, including my own and the president/CEO of Nathan Adelson, are held by women.” u To find out more about the Commission, their upcoming meetings and agendas, go http://admin.nv.gov/Boards/ Women/Home_Page/

bizNEVADA MAGAZINE • WWW.BIZNEVADA.COM • PAGE 9

Caitlin Fletcher and Krista Phillips

MIXING FAMILY WITH

BUSINESS

By Craig A. Ruark

T

HE CHEESE BOARD American Bistro & Catering Company has been a staple in Reno since 1981 and is a great example of a womenowned business.

Debbie Branby started the Cheese Board from scratch (to use a cooking term) and over the next 36 years, built the restaurant and catering business into the icon that it is today. But Branby didn’t do it alone. For the past twelve years, sisters Krista Phillips and Caitlin Fletcher had become progressively involved in the business, learning everything from waiting tables to working in the kitchen and taking on management responsibilities.

In March of 2017, when Branby decided to retire, the sisters saw an opportunity to carry on the legacy of the Cheese Board and continue its status as a women-owned business.

However, both sisters are married and owning a restaurant is a much bigger responsibility than being managers.

Partnering with a family member also had its own considerations, so taking on ownership was something they had to decide individually and then agree on mutual goals.

“In all honesty,” said Krista. “Our relationship has gotten closer because we have learned more about each other

PAGE 10 • VOL. 2, ISSUE 19 • DECEMBER 2018

than we ever have. We fought until I graduated high school and, once we were apart we realized how much we missed each other. We actually function quite well together, but we had to grow apart first.

[As partners] you are forced to deal with issues right then and there, because if you take it home or leave it for a long time you won’t move forward.

We’ve really come together in using each other as a team at work, like when we have to watch each other’s kids, or one of us is going to an event and the other has to cover something else, we know that the other has our back.”

In addition to the years the sisters spent working at the Cheese Board, the two of them have different strengths and complementary talents that allow them to function so well as a team.

“We respect each other’s strengths and weaknesses and can pick-up where we need to and fill in the gaps,” says Krista.

Born in Reno, two years apart, Krista, the older sister, received a bachelor’s degree in art and design from UNR. While in school, she worked as a bartender and waitress for other establishments before joining her sister at the Cheese Board.

Now, as co-owner, Krista has taken on the role of director of catering sales.

“You don’t realize until you become an owner that nobody cares about your business as much as you.”

“I think that Krista is able to use her art degree in a lot of ways to enhance what we do. She has a good eye for food presentation, as well as décor and ambiance for catering events and the restaurant,” said Caitlin.

hospitality end of it and seeing how it all comes together.

So, becoming a co-owner of the Cheese Board with my sister is just a natural transition,” said Caitlin. She has taken on the role of the restaurant manager.

Caitlin headed south to UNLV to complete her education, receiving a bachelor’s degree in culinary arts management. Her studies sent her abroad to Switzerland, which allowed excursions to neighboring countries including Italy, France, and Germany to further her education in cuisine. It was in Europe that she also developed a passion for wine. After receiving her degree, Caitlin returned to Reno and was immediately hired as the assistant manager of the Cheese Board.

“Being owners is 100 percent different than being managers,” said Caitlin. “You don’t realize until you become an owner that nobody cares about your business as much as you. Even though Krista and I were managers and took pride in what we did and our jobs, once you become an owner it becomes part of you. You’re taking care of families and humans, so it’s a bigger responsibility – that business owners understand. We take a lot of pride in trying to provide a good life for our employees because if they are happy, they come to work happier, they treat our customers better, and that energy is what drives our business.”

“Not that many people know what they want to do right out of high school and I kind of did. I always had a passion for food but didn’t know where it would take me. I thought I wanted to be a chef and be in the kitchen, but my true passion is for the business side. I love people, I love the

Today, the sisters are responsible for the livelihood of 20 full and part-time employees and have a pool of approximately ten on-call employees that work catering events. u

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Denise Barcomb: Using Experience to Create Success

By Craig A. Ruark

“When I was a kid growing up there weren’t these big grocery stores. ...Everybody had their neighborhood, and every neighborhood had a neighborhood grocery where you could get everything you needed.”

I

T’S a long way from Portland, Maine to Reno, but then again, it is also quite a leap to go from a career in high-tech to owning a grocery store.

However, those are the transitions that Denise Barcomb, chief inspiration officer and president of THE Urban Market has made in her life, and she has never looked back.

“That experience opened my eyes to the world, and it [quitting college] is probably a good thing because I found out that I am way more entrepreneurial than I realized,” commented Barcomb.

After Europe, Barcomb tried many fields of employment that included merchandising, THE Urban Market at 303 3rd Street, is a 2,800marketing, sales, retail, and business developDenise Barcomb square foot neighborhood grocery. In addition to a ment, but in 1988, she ended up gravitating to complete selection of grocery items, THE Urban Market the computer world and working for an Apple also has a full-service espresso and smoothie bar, which also computer retailer in her hometown of Portland. That job doubles as a beer and wine bar where customers can either lead her to another small computer company and a move to take home or sit down with a friend to enjoy a variety of Denver, Colorado in 1991. A lifelong outdoor enthusiast, roughly 100 craft beers and 60 labels of wine.

Barcomb fell in love with the mountains, the wide-open spaces, and the sunshine. She enjoyed over six years living Thinking that she wanted to become a veterinarian, in CO when, in 1997, a new start-up opportunity presented Barcomb initially enrolled at the University of Maine as a itself in Reno. “Single at the time, and feeling the wanderpre-med student. “The spring semester of my sophomore lust, I decided to write the next chapter of my life in year, my schedule included microbiology, advanced physNevada,” explained Barcomb. ics, calculus, organic chemistry, and genetics; I realized that I did not want to do this for another seven years,” said Once in Reno, Barcomb realized that Nevada held all the Barcomb. So, she left college and spent the summer in beauty and opportunity she had left behind in Colorado, England with a college roommate, working as chamberand more importantly, she met her now-husband, Dale. maids and exploring Europe.

“That sealed the deal.” They were married in 2001.

PAGE 12 • VOL. 2, ISSUE 19 • DECEMBER 2018

Barcomb and her husband became 7-Eleven franchisees, and eventually, after a 25-year career, she left the computer industry to work in commercial real estate. “It [the computer industry] was a wild ride, and a lot of fun, and it lasted a very long time,” quipped Barcomb.

In 2015, while working in commercial real estate for a title company, Barcomb spotted her dream building which led to an epiphany moment and the dream to build an urban market in downtown Reno.

To support the local economy, Barcomb teams with over 45 local bakeries, artisans, farmers, and ranchers who are also part of the community.

“When I was a kid growing up there weren’t these big grocery stores. You didn’t shop at mega-stores, especially in New England. Everybody had their neighborhood, and every neighborhood had a neighborhood grocery where you could get everything you needed,” Barcomb recalled.

Barcomb and her husband first approached the 7-Eleven company about their idea but were turned down. “I tried three ways to get their attention and get them to look at the idea, and finally, on the last attempt, they actually had a couple of people come out and walk downtown and the 3rd Street Flats with me, but they didn’t have the vision for the concept. They absolutely hated the idea and the location,” said Barcomb.

Undaunted, Barcomb decided to take on the project without a corporate sponsor, and after 17 years with 7-Eleven, Denise and Dale decided to sell their last 7-Eleven and signed the lease on the future Urban Market location in December of 2016.

Barcomb knew how to merchandise product on the shelves and was somewhat familiar with sourcing product from the standard vendors that supply convenience items. “But boy, have I learned a lot in the past 18 months when it comes to interfacing with the natural grocery world such as organic suppliers, fresh meat, seafood, and all of those vendors,” she exclaimed. To support the local economy, Barcomb teams with over 45 local bakeries, artisans, farmers, and ranchers who are also part of the community. Those decisions and types of products were needed to make their market interesting, exciting, and different.

Their concept is very customer oriented, and the items they choose to stock are driven by customer requests that come through a suggestion box. That is just one of the ways they personalize the customer experience. “We are fostering remarkable relationships with our clientele, who are really the cornerstone of our success.”

Barcomb’s goal is to offer a “Cheers-like” community experience where they recognize each customer and greet them by name all while offering quality, selection, and value.

When was the last time the proprietor of your grocery greeted you with a handshake or a hug and helped you pick out the perfect melon? u bizNEVADA MAGAZINE • WWW.BIZNEVADA.COM • PAGE 13

female athletes such as Lyndsey Dyer and Molly Baker. At the time, they were publicly fighting for a more respectful and equal positioning of women in the industry. This, paired with consistent conversations that spanned decades about the poor quality of women’s equipment, sparked an idea for me – what if women designed the equipment that they wanted, rather than waiting for the industry to respond to their pleas?” she explained.

After a summer of market research and a glacier expedition in Africa to pilot the concept of Coalition Snow, Gurecki moved forward with building a team and some seed money to officially launch the brand in May of 2014. The idea of quality ski and snowboard equipment designed and manufactured exclusively for women quickly gained market acceptance, and in March of 2015, the company raised $31,000 in 31 days on Kickstarter. In March of 2017, the company started a second Kickstarter campaign with a goal of $50,000 to expand their product line to include skis and snowboards for youth. To date, that campaign has raised over $60,590.

When Passion Turns to Business Jennifer Gurecki

By Craig A. Ruark

J

ENNIFER GURECKI is the founder and CEO of Coalition Snow, a manufacturer of ski and snowboard equipment, exclusively for women. She has been skiing for over 20 years, learning in Arizona during in the mid-90s.

“When I was in college, I worked in the repair and rental shop at Arizona Snowbowl and loved it, but I never thought I’d build a career in the industry because I didn’t see anyone like me doing it. All the bosses in snow sports were men,” recalled Gurecki.

However, her winter sports passion never wavered, and she built her life around it, even sacrificing high-paying jobs for the freedom of powder days in Lake Tahoe.

Gurecki spent more than a decade in outdoor education working in wilderness therapy and running a 40-day wilderness program for first-generation youth. “You can only spend so much time in the outdoors with other people’s children, so I transitioned out of outdoor education and became partowner of a white-water rafting outfitter for a few years,” explained Gurecki.

But as she got older and developed her business acumen, Gurecki realized that she could build a company that would allow her to merge her passion with a profit.

Gurecki’s story really began in June 2013, “I was hiking up a ridge off Tioga Pass while on a backcountry ski trip in the Eastern Sierra. The topic of conversation was focused on an emerging shift in the industry, largely due to outspoken PAGE 14 • VOL. 2, ISSUE 19 • DECEMBER 2018

“Interestingly enough, choosing to focus my energy exclusively on the women’s market also meant that I could infuse my daily work with my feminist values,” Gurecki explained.

Coalition Snow is the world’s first snow sports company specializing in skis and snowboards designed by women, for women. “We set out to break the “shrink it and pink it” mold that is not only a poor reflection of women’s preferences when it comes to outdoor gear (and so much more), but it also does nothing to elevate their status in the sport,” said Gurecki.

Despite Coalition’s successes, it remains a small independent company, and as the CEO, Gurecki does everything from pack boxes to pitch investors. “These days, I spend A LOT of time on the road at trade shows, events, and speaking engagements.

But in the grand scheme of things, I can’t complain about traveling for Coalition. I’ve met some amazing people and shared incredible experiences, all while nestled in beautiful places. But that Airbnb in Salt Lake City that turned out to be more like a hostel, where I shared one bathroom with 10 dudes under 25-years-old; or the white-knuckled drives through the Rockies as the remnants of my fast food breakfast, lunch and dinner bags pile up in the passenger seat next to me – definitely make me question what I’m doing sometimes.”

Now in its fifth year, the Coalition has opened a field office in Colorado, and the brand can be found in prominent retail locations such as Back Country, evo, and REI. Coalition also sponsors a team of ambassadors and athletes who use Coalition equipment, and two of the athletes recently competed in the 2018 Winter Olympics Women’s Half Pipe competition in South Korea.

Gurecki also launched a social enterprise in Kenya (where she conducted her graduate research) called Zawadisha, whose mission is to finance the livelihoods of poor, rural women.

“Zawadisha really prepared me for my role with Coalition because, despite the fact that the business is located in Kenya and we provide loans for renewable energy and water products, there are a lot of similarities. First, both exclusively work

with women, and understanding the diversity and needs within that demographic is critically important. I’ve learned the importance of building community, and how the word ‘customer’ doesn’t really fit the people who purchase our products – they mean a whole hell of a lot more than a sale.

The lack of infrastructure (think: no electricity, internet, or paved roads) and a customer base who doesn’t have the means or interest, barely scratches the surface of the challenges. But you learn how to be gritty and resilient,” Gurecki said with a smile.

Now in its fifth year, Coalition Snow has opened a field office in Colorado, and the brand can be found in prominent retail locations such as Back Country, evo, and REI.

With regard to work-life balance, “I don’t, nor do I know if it’s even possible when you’re running a start-up. Quite honestly, if I wanted work-life balance, I would go work for someone else and clock in and out. Being a founder and CEO and requires you to toe the line between pushing yourself to the breaking point and recognizing when you need to take a break,” Gurecki commented.

Looking to the future, Gurecki sees Coalition as more than just a company manufacturing a product. “We have been on

this pathway of becoming the most prominent, women’s specific, outdoor companies in this industry, above and beyond the equipment that we manufacture. We started with just skis and snowboards, but we have also been able to develop this product as a platform to elevate the voices of women and other underrepresented groups, becoming thought leaders around the concept of diversity. All of this is important to our industry because we know that our consumers are changing their purchasing norms and looking for brands that have a personality and take a stance. In 20 years, the majority of the U.S. population is not going to be white, and it’s critical for our industry to become more inclusive.”

In addition to her duties as the CEO of Coalition, she is the editor-in-chief of the newly launched Sisu Magazine (a Finnish concept described as stoic determination, tenacity of purpose, grit, bravery, resilience, and hardiness) , which will feature untold stories of the outdoors. She continues to support Zawadisha as the board president and serves as an advisor for other female-founded start-ups. u

bizNEVADA MAGAZINE • WWW.BIZNEVADA.COM • PAGE 15

u IN 2000 SMITH BECAME A PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR AND THE PARTNER OF EMPLOYER LYNX. “I HAVE LOVED EVERY MOMENT SINCE.”

The elephants, Bertha and Tina, were the star attraction for the casino, per­forming on stage with notable legends, like Tony Bennett, Debbie Reynolds, Carol Channing, Red Skelton, and Liberace.

K.J. Smith

K.J. SMITH:

A Knack for Uncovering the Truth

By Craig A. Ruark

E

ARLY in life, K.J. Smith never imagined she would be a licensed private investigator and long-time partner and president of a thriving full-service background investigation company.

Yet, sometimes in life, you have to travel through a circus of events in order reach your full potential.

In 1971, living in Portland, Oregon, Smith found herself in the position of having to raise two young children by herself. So, on the July 4th holiday weekend, she moved her family to Reno to find employment. On July 7th, she started working in the casino cage at John Ascuaga’s Nugget, eventually rising from that position to a credit cashier, and finally working her way up to the casino credit manager position.

“It was quite shocking to see two elephants walk past my car when I arrived to work that first night,” laughed Smith.

Following her climb up the ladder at the Nugget, Smith developed her appreciation for the importance of background screening and investigations as she would then work for the TransUnion Credit Bureau, the Pioneer Casino, and the Atlantis Casino.

Over this time, she earned various certifications, including those for FCRA (Fair Credit Reporting Act) and Credit and Collections. She learned all about working with credit reporting agencies, as well as the Gaming Control Board, FBI, and even Secret Service agents when she assisted their investigations into embezzlement and money laundering schemes.

In 1998, with this hard-earned wealth of experience in tote, Smith joined Employer Lynx, Inc. as their manager and to study for the PI exam to head up a new office. (A private investigator is required to be on staff to run this type of company.)

She excelled in this newfound opportunity in the private business sector and became a partner of the company in 2000.

“I have loved every moment since,” Smith said.

Through her leadership of Employer Lynx over the past 20 years, Smith has overseen a tripling in the number of accounts the company serves, and they boast a significant base of clients throughout the entire state of Nevada.

Smith and her team have done this by continually battling away national and even international competition. They do this by offering a personalized level

PAGE 16 • VOL. 2, ISSUE 19 • DECEMBER 2018

of customer service and attention to details their conglomerate competitors can’t match.

It all comes down to a philosophy Smith has instilled in Employer Lynx since she took the reins two decades ago.

“We are completely focused on the integrity of our work,” Smith said. “Our clients count on us to affirm the integrity of their employees, and in this business, details truly matter.” In fact, this sums up her entire growth strategy.

Employer Lynx’s meticulous approach to providing premium reporting is a key reason they enjoy unusually high client retention. And, this loyalty to the company extends to her employees as well, many of whom have been with Smith for a long time.

“Our team enjoys the challenges of background screening,” Smith said. “You would be amazed what we uncover in our searches of applicants. Every day here is full of surprises, and unfortunately, many of them are shocking.”

“We know this information is critical to the safety and productivity of workplaces throughout the state. It’s incredibly rewarding to know the difference our work makes.”

Smith is a founding member of the National Association of Background Screeners (NABPS). She is on the Board of Directors of the Nevada Retail Risk Management Association and is a member of the Northern Nevada Human Resource Association. She has served as district director-at-large for the International Credit Association and has been affiliated with the Financial Crime Investigators Association of Nevada and California.

In her spare time, Smith loves to gar­den and has a goal of visiting every country. u

bizNEVADA MAGAZINE • WWW.BIZNEVADA.COM • PAGE 17

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR WOMAN-OWNED BUSINESS

By Gloria M. Petroni, special to bizNEVADA

A

S THE pool of woman business owners continues to grow, so do the complexities of our environments. Social changes, intricacies in tax law, and constant intro­ duction of new technology are just some factors changing the way businesses operate, from their leaders to their front lines. As more females choose to enter business ownership in one way or another, that environment continues to present challenges and opportunities, of which there are steps that can and should be taken to protect what has been built.

B

Fundamentals

A critical part of ownership is making sure that your legal foundation is safe. While there are many considerations when choosing a legal structure, a corporation, such as an S corporation or a limited liability company render only your business assets available in the event of a judgment against the company. In the event you personally guarantee debt, that protection is no longer valid.

Whenever possible, owners should maintain the policy of only signing documents as an officer of the corporation or limited liability company as opposed to individually on a lease, loans, etc.

c

chosen should be easily accessible and allow an owner to monitor monthly income and expenses, and compare to other months. If an owner is unable to measure income and expenses, they can’t measure gross and net income goals or business growth.

In most cases, business owners should consider hiring someone to prepare payroll, and file reports with the county, state, and federal compliance authorities. A good tax preparer will have the experience to look at the books and determine whether there is anything wrong or if the company is on track with the profit ratios experienced by others in a similar industry.

p

Screen Time

K

Rule Book

Technology is a vital element in owning and protecting a business. Computer support personnel can assist with technology, including software to ensure the security of data, system backups, and fraud and security breach prevention. Having a trusted designee to oversee technology promotes internal procedure and security. It is important to change passwords every six months, or with any employee turnover. Implement internal controls and procedures to ensure employees are not granted access to private information regarding the business and do not have the capability to complete tasks without proper training or permissions, such as wiring money, signing checks or releasing confidential information.

By the Numbers

Another essential component of protecting your business is ensuring that you have a good accounting system and controls in place. This generally means a qualified individual to enter your income and expenses into an accounting system that then is turned over to an accountant, enrolled agent or other tax preparer. The software PAGE 18 • VOL. 2, ISSUE 19 • DECEMBER 2018

One of the best ways to protect any business is establishing internal procedures and policies. While not always required by law, it is advisable to adopt a written policy that addresses vacations, time off, what happens with unused vacation, etc. A human resource professional

to help with questions about employees, benefits, and what you need prior to hiring employees is almost a requirement if you have no previous experience in hiring employees.

5

Solo vs. Partners

When welcoming or considering business partners, owners should not expect anyone, including significant others or family mem­­bers, to work for free. It can be dangerous to expect third parties to work without compensation, even if the business is just starting off. In the event of a misunderstanding, divorce or dispute, that person could potentially demand an interest in the business, or compensation for work they believed they should have received. A written cohabitation, prenuptial or postnuptial agreement would be the best way to confirm that the business is yours alone.

If considering a partner, engage a lawyer to get a checklist of how your business may be affected by a partner and what written agreements must be in place to protect your interests.

L

Vision

One of the most important parts of protecting your business is staying true to yourself and your boundaries. If you don’t collect the money for your goods or services, offer significant discounts often or overspend, sustain­ ability may become an issue. Determine boundaries – what charities you will support and how you will handle those businesses or individuals that will not or cannot pay your fees. It is essential to clearly define your business and draft a mission statement that will help your customers and employees understand your business core values and buy into the success of the business. u Gloria Petroni is the founding principal of Petroni Law Group, a firm with over 30-years’ experience in the practice of divorce law, estate planning, probate, business, and real estate matters. bizNEVADA MAGAZINE • WWW.BIZNEVADA.COM • PAGE 19

MICHELLE SHERVEN:

SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEUR & COMMUNITY PHILANTHROPIST

By Craig A. Ruark Michelle Sherven

M

ICHELLE SHERVEN is not just a businesswoman, she has an interest in learning about the people and projects her company serves, and a passion for giving back to the community.

Sherven graduated from Dickinson College in Carlisle, PA in 1996 with a BS in Environmental Science, and immediately moved west to escape the cold and wet Pennsylvania weather. She ended up in Tucson, AZ, where she was offered a front office job filing, faxing, and typing reports for an environmental laboratory. After a few months, she moved into the laboratory as a chemist.

This experience allowed Sherven the opportunity to advance her career and relocate to a larger laboratory in Phoenix, where she moved back out front to handle the customer service side of the business. “I really enjoyed the experience that I got, working in the lab and running tests, but I am more of a people person, so it was more of a fit for me to move back into project management,” commented Sherven.

As luck would have it, the Phoenix company bought a laboratory in Reno that also had staffing difficulties.

Sherven was moved to Reno to manage that laboratory and get the problems under control. Under Shereven’s management, combined with her passion for customer service, the Reno office became successful and saw prosperous growth.

After a number of years of success in Reno, the company again relocated her to Colorado where she worked in the corporate office. While in Colorado, the

company ran into some financial problems, causing them to close the Reno laboratory in 2002.

However, Sherven’s former clients, for whom she had provided such great service, were not happy about the closing of the lab and with their encouragement, she purchased the Reno business and assets, changing the name to WETLAB.

“Reno and Lake Tahoe is beautiful and has so many environmentally sensitive areas that it is a great place for an environmental laboratory.”

WETLAB provides organic and inorganic microbiology testing and is certified under the Clean Water Act, Safe Drinking Water Act, and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) in Nevada, California, Idaho, and Wyoming. Their certifications qualify them to run over 60 different tests, and most of their work involves analysis on water quality issues as they pertain to the soils, lakes, and river systems, as well as the mining areas.

WETLAB is also certified by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) as a woman-owned business.

When Sherven started WETLAB in May of 2002, the laboratory was very small, and she had six employees. In 2006, she bought 7,500 square feet of space in a condo building in Sparks and over time has bought two more condo

PAGE 20 • VOL. 2, ISSUE 19 • DECEMBER 2018

spaces, expanding her laboratory to 17,000 square feet. WETLAB has also opened small satellite laboratories in Elko and Las Vegas, and today has 47 employees.

In addition to owning and running a successful business, Sherven also contributes both time and money to community charity organizations. She offers a robust volunteer program where, after 12 hours of volunteering, an employee will receive eight hours of paid time off, up to four days a year.

“The community has been really supportive of us over the years, and I am really passionate about giving back,” said Sherven. “And what drives a lot of what we do and the choices we make is the employees. Sometimes we do things as a group and many times it involves individuals who volunteer on their own,” explained Sherven.

One of WETLAB’s employees is on the board of the Veterans Guest House, and Sherven, along with her employees have teamed with that organization to raise funds, putting on a 5K race last year. Once a month for the past ten years, the employees have volunteered at the Food Bank of Northern Nevada.

Sherven and her firm also like to encourage students to become more interested in science, and the company provides some funding for Sierra Nevada Journeys, which offers a range of programs in northern California and Nevada that deliver innovative outdoor, science-based education programs to help youth develop critical thinking skills and to inspire natural resource stewardship. A few employees also volunteer during Family Science Nights at the local elementary schools.

Personally, Sherven has been involved with Entrepreneurs Organization, which has 181 chapter locations in 57 countries.

Sherven mentors startup businesses in the Reno area. She also coaches her 10-year-old daughter’s Girls on the Run team.

When she is not working, Sherven enjoys spending time with her daugter and eight-year-old son, along with friends, as well as reading, cooking, and running half marathons. u

bizNEVADA MAGAZINE • WWW.BIZNEVADA.COM • PAGE 21

DEC 2018/JAN 2019 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

GENERAL EVENTS

WIN

DECEMBER 12 3:30 PM BANN, Mix, Mingle & Jingle The Builders

JANUARY 25

7:00 AM WIN Breakfast Meeting

JANUARY 12-13 7:30 PM Reno Philharmonic Expect the Unexpected Pioneer Center Alan Stein, Jr. “Raise Your Game: What the Highest Performers Do During Unseen Hours.”

Atlantis Resort Casino Spa

CARSON VALLEY CHAMBER JANUARY 9 7:00 AM Chamber Coffee Location TBD

DECEMBER 28 8:30 AM New Member Orientation Reno Sparks Chamber

JANUARY 11 7:30 AM New Member Orientation Carson Valley Chamber

JANUARY 15 4:00 PM Ribbon Cutting: Stewart Title

RENO+SPARKS CHAMBER

JANUARY 25 8:30 AM New Member Orientation Reno Sparks Chamber

DECEMBER 25 7:30 AM Coffee & Commerce The Atlantis Resort Casino

DECEMBER 19 2:00 PM BizCafé Rounds Bakery JANUARY 9 5:30 PM Tech Wednesday KNPB

JANUARY 25 6:00 PM Nevada Builders Alliance, Annual Dinner Silver Legacy, Grande Expo Hall

DECEMBER 18 12:00 PM Ribbon Cutting: Mindful Cupcakes

NCET

JANUARY 29 7:30 AM Coffee & Commerce The Atlantis Resort Casino

PAGE 22 • VOL. 2, ISSUE 19 • DECEMBER 2018

JANUARY 16 3:00 PM Biz Café Rounds Bakery JANUARY 24 11:00 AM Special Event Legislative Preview: Impact on Business The Atlantis Resort Casino Spa

For more complete and up-to-date calendar information, visit bizNEVADA.com/events

THE HAUS THAT REED BUILT

Haus of Reed is the only shop on the west coast that works with solid wood, metals, and glass fiber-reinforced concrete. behind small business and does everything it can to elevate your business to the next level. I would be remiss to exclude Las Vegas, as those are our roots in more ways than one, and we still do a lot of business down there. We just absolutely love Nevada.”

By Craig A. Ruark

F

ROM avocation to a flourishing business, that is the story behind Haus of Reed, a suc­cess­ful small busi­ness that produces custom furniture and accessories for big clients.

Randi Reed had the vision for starting their business shortly after finding out that Randi Reed she was pregnant.

Upon learning the news, her husband, Tim, who comes from six generations of Pacific Northwest woodworkers said, “I really want to build the crib.”

“He built a beautiful round black walnut crib using a European-style technique with custom dovetails. It was just stunning, and I said we need to start a company, you are so talented,” explained Reed.

At the time, Reed was working as a business development person for construction firms. “I have a degree in environmental science and geology from Cal State Northridge and what do I do with it – nothing,” laughed Reed.

Haus of Reed was established in 2012, but with the new baby, neither Reed or her husband could quit their day jobs, so it started as just a part-time venture.

They set up shop in their Las Vegas home’s two-car garage. A year and a half later, Reed was recruited for a job in Reno, to work for an engineering firm. They expanded Haus of Reed into their new home’s three-car garage.

As word of their quality products spread, and success followed, Reed

Reed’s entrepreneurial leadership earned her the position of entrepreneur coach for the Ozman Center at UNR. opened the doors to a 4,000 square foot shop in January 2016, which they are quickly outgrowing.

Eight months after opening their brickand-mortar shop, the Reeds’ were asked to collaborate with West Elm to be featured in their “local makers” section.

Haus of Reed’s products flew off the shelves and they were soon getting order requests from other West Elm stores in southern Nevada. From there, West Elm selected Haus of Reed as a business to focus on, in one of three emerging markets nationally. As part of that selection, Haus of Reed was featured in a national TV spot that ran in southern and northern California and Las Vegas markets as well as YouTube channels, the Food Network and the Discovery Channel.

Today, the company produces custom furniture for such prestigious clients as Caesars, MGM, Wynn, and Four Seasons.

Reed spends two days a week in Las Vegas and travels the U.S. to personally meet with clients about their custom furniture needs.

“I don’t know if we’d be at the level we are at today if we weren’t in Reno,” Randi said. “This community really gets

In addition to Reed’s husband, the company has two full-time employees who are very skilled tradesmen. Haus of Reed is the only shop on the west coast that works with solid wood, metals, and glass fiber-reinforced concrete. From a sustainability standpoint, they are able to source 90 percent of their materials within two miles of their shop, meaning that their products are almost 100 percent Nevada made.

Their products include anything from wall tiles to outdoor concrete furniture, conference room tables to residential furniture. “We have done entire restaurant build-outs. If you can name it and tell us how you want it to look, we can build it,” commented Reed.

(Editor’s note, Denise Barcomb of Urban Market, whose story also appears in this month’s edition, mentioned that Reed built the concrete counters for her store.)

Reed’s entrepreneurial leadership earned her the position of entrepreneur coach for the Ozman Center at UNR. She also serves as chairwoman of NNV Transportation Coalition and is an advi­sory board member of Reno ICE (a group interested in building an ice rink).

Reed was also recognized in Reno YPN’s Top 20 under 40 for her career achievements and community dedication.

When asked about her leisure time, “I have a seven-year-old son, so spending time with him is my most favorite thing to do. However, my passion is cooking, and I use it as my release.

I had a cooking blog for a while and would cook a traditional dish from a different country every week and then blog about it. It was really cool and very interesting, and I learned a lot,” said Reed. u

bizNEVADA MAGAZINE • WWW.BIZNEVADA.COM • PAGE 23

IS YOUR BUSINESS READY FOR A DISASTER? ARE YOU? Special to bizNEVADA “When major disasters strike, you expect to see American Red Cross workers running shelters and delivering food to people in devastated neighborhoods,” said Zanny Marsh, Executive Director of the Red Cross of Northern Nevada.

“Closer to home, Red Cross volunteers respond several times per week when Nevada fire departments ask them to assist people whose homes have been damaged or destroyed by fires. But did you know that the Red Cross has services which can help businesses and individuals be better prepared for emergencies?”

Up to 40% of businesse s fail after a natural or hum an- caused disaster.

Disasters can take many forms: ear thquakes, pow er outages, flo ods , wildfires , medical emerg enc y, or the death of a key employee.

Business Preparedness

Companies and schools realize that contingency planning is a key element to running a successful operation.

The Ready Rating program is consistent with Private Sector or PS-Prep Standards developed by the Department of Homeland Security.

Power outages, water main breaks and medical issues can disrupt a business’s daily operations. Disasters have the potential to cause workplaces to fold and schools to close. The Red Cross developed the free, web-based Ready Rating™ program to help businesses, schools and other organizations prepare for emergencies.

Ready Rating™ program members complete a confidential assessment of their current readiness level for emergencies and receive immediate, customized feedback with tips and resources for them to improve their readiness scores.

The program has been successfully used by organizations around the country, from small businesses to large corporations. Ready Rating™ components make it easy to start or to enhance current emergency response plans: • The Emergency Response Plan Tool enables program members to build a customized plan which includes OSHA-required topics to help their employees know their roles in the first 24-72 hours of an emergency; • The Next Steps report recommends specific actions members should take and the level of effort required to execute them; PAGE 24 • VOL. 2, ISSUE 19 • DECEMBER 2018

• The Resource Center links members to preparedness tools, including activities and exercises, so organizations can better develop and practice preparedness plans; • The Ready Rating™ store provides emergency supplies at the click of a button.

“More than 15,000 businesses and schools have registered for Ready Rating,” Marsh said. “Feedback from them indicates that most have used the Ready Rating materials to update their preparedness plans and educate their employees on workplace preparedness.

That’s our goal for Nevada – to help businesses, schools, and other organizations be better prepared when emergencies happen.”

Additional information and the steps to take to join the program can be found at readyrating.org.

Preparing Yourself and Your Loved Ones

The same planning you do for your business also should be done for your home. The Red Cross has preparedness classes for children and adults. Be Red Cross Ready shows adults how to improve personal disaster readiness by making a plan, preparing a kit, and being informed about potential disasters.

Show & Omit EA P

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Alerting and No

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Evacuation and

Sheltering

Incident Severit

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Life Threatening Include

Emergencies

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Non-Life Threat

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Section from the Ready Rating™ Emergency Action Plan generator. The plans meet OSHA standards.

Training on Evacua tion Routes, She and Assembly Are lters, as Include

The American Images courtesy of the American Red Cross. Copyright 2016 d. reserve National Red Cross. All rights

“We have a brand-new program geared toward second graders, Pedro the Penguin,” Marsh said. “What we’ve found is that even at this young age, children can understand and use preparedness tips.”

“Our signature program for grade school children is the Pillowcase Project. This teaches 3rd – 5th graders how to stay safe during emergencies. We train kids about what to do during fires and earthquakes or other common disasters. This helps them remain calmer and leads to better outcomes when the unexpected occurs. We’ve found that after taking the training, students go home and tell the adults they live with what they’ve learned, so the entire family becomes safer.”

The most common type of disaster in Nevada is home fires. “Our Home Fire Campaign ensures that people have smoke alarms in their homes,” Marsh added. “We give smoke alarm recipients ideas on how to plan ahead.

How will you exit each room if there’s a fire? Where will

OMIT

Leaving the Facility

you go once you’ve evacuated? Are you holding home fire drills?”

Many people have no idea that they may have as little as two minutes, after smoke alarms are triggered, to evacuate their homes safely. They also may be unaware of how often home fires occur. That’s why the most important things you can do to prepare for home emergencies and keep yourselves safe are to have working smoke alarms and know what to do if the alarms sound.

These programs can be accessed through the American Red Cross local offices in Elko, Incline Village, Las Vegas, Reno, and Winnemucca. u

JOIN THE PROGRAM AT READYRATING.ORG

bizNEVADA MAGAZINE • WWW.BIZNEVADA.COM • PAGE 25

THREE TIPS TO UNLEASH THE CREATIVE ENTREPRENEURS IN YOUR COMMUNITY

By Alice Loy, Special to bizNEVADA

T

HE Fourth Industrial Revolution is upon us. If you are wondering how to take on the challenges of a shifting global economy – investing in creative entrepreneurs can tackle economic, civic, and social challenges. From Boston to Bangladesh, creative entrepreneurs are found in every community in every corner of the globe and building companies on the cutting edge of digital fabrication, augmented reality, design, and entertainment.

The creative economy is huge. And growing. It generates close to $3 trillion in economic output annually. That’s more than the global telecommunications

industry. What’s more, creative economy revenues are expanding 8-12% annually, varying by country. In the USA, the creative economy grew straight through the Great Recession, compared to all other sectors.

Growth will continue as the global middle-class rises, expanding demand for entertainment, digital media, and original content and experiences.

Consider this: Cirque du Soleil was founded by two street performers who grew it into a global phenomenon and sold it for $1.5 billion to an investment firm TPG in 2015. Lynda.com, acquired by LinkedIn in 2015, was started by Lynda Weinman, a graphic

PAGE 26 • VOL. 2, ISSUE 19 • DECEMBER 2018

designer-turned-educator. Fashionistas, filmmakers, and foodies are launching creative companies that drive value for investors and create high-wage jobs.

However, the creative economy is a sleeping giant, because leaders and investors along with community and economic developers have mostly left the creative economy on the sidelines and its full potential sitting dormant.

Many leaders think only of “the arts” when they hear the word creative.

However, today’s creative companies are anchored in technologies and digital innovations. Take, for example, Embodied Labs, a VR film company

Fashionistas, filmmakers, and foodies are launching creative companies that drive value for investors and create high-wage jobs. whose films help medical providers understand patient experiences, reducing costs and improving health outcomes.

Or Beacon Hill VR, a software firm with artists and gamers on staff who create and bring animated AR characters to life.

We suspect leaders overlook the creative economy because they are unfamiliar with its numbers.

Creative entrepreneurs are market disruptors building a better and more inclusive future. The innovators behind creative companies are designers, coders, gamers, musicians, and engineers. Akin to tech founders, creative founders are driven by a desire to disrupt a market.

Unlike many tech founders, most creative entrepreneurs are also inspired by social outcomes such as engaging disenfranchised communities, providing a living wage, and building culturally connected communities. The creative economy is being built by visionaries who strengthen regional identity, increase livelihoods, and create connected communities.

So how can you unleash the creative en­tre­preneurs and talent in your community? Here are three tips to get you started:

 Find ambitious, creative entrepre-

neurs who have been overlooked.

They might be building the next Cirque du Soleil, but everyone else sees them as clowns. With fresh eyes, you might see a billion-dollar business in the making. I have worked with startups who became extremely successful entrepreneurs who have told us that early on, “no one took them seriously” because they were designers, or filmmakers, or musicians.

 Host a small gathering with inno­

vative, creative founders and investors, and ask them to share where they believe your regional creative economy could be more competitive. What assets and competitive advantages do you have that entrepreneurs and investors have already discovered? When we do this, we find investors who are already working with creative companies. They are usually interested in further building out their portfolio along these lines. And the

founders are excited to meet investors who share their vision for the region’s future.

 Assume you just don’t get it – yet.

Creatives are disrupting markets, and they see a future the rest of us don’t see.

Take, for example, the story of Meow Wolf, an “artist collective” based in Santa Fe, NM. When Meow Wolf started out, they sought business sup­­port but were told more than once their venture should be a non-profit. They are artists, after all.

Today, with over 1 million visitors and $15 million in revenues in less than two years, Meow Wolf’s out-of-this-world exhibits helped multiply their first investors’ funds within three years. They recently closed on $17 million with a lead investment by Alsop Louie Partners in Silicon Valley.

See if you are getting the right coverage at the right price.

For more than 100 years, EMPLOYERS® has specialized in providing value added services and competitively priced workers’ compensation insurance for America’s small businesses.

Meow Wolf is not alone in their ability to see a market before it has fully convened.

Lee Francis, Founder of Native Realities, launched the world’s first Indigenous Comic-Con to give indigenous youth a chance to see themselves as superheroes.

Today, Indi­genous Comic-Con and Lee’s publishing company Native Realities, are leading a global movement to reframe how indigenous youth see themselves in pop culture.

Three hundred million indigenous people are eager to move with them. Ivonette Albuquerque, Founder of Galpão Aplauso in São Paulo, Brazil, believed she could build a world-class theatre company employing youth living in São Paulo’s favelas. Today, she has trained over 10,000 youth, nearly all of whom go on to find well-paying jobs after the program.

The Fourth Industrial Revolution, like all good revolutions, is disrupting social and economic structures, forcing leaders to rethink old strategies, and adapt to new realities. Relentless creativity and imagi­na­ tion will win the day. Fortunately, a giant ally is waiting in the wings. All you need to do is wake it up. u Alice Loy is CEO and Co-Founder of Creative Startups and author of Creative Economy Entrepreneurs, From Start-Up to Success: How Entrepreneurs in the Creative Indus­tries are Transforming the Global Economy. For more information, please visit www.creativestartups.org.

Get the EMPLOYERS Price & Performance

Review today which includes: Free Analysis Clear Price & Support Comparisons Concise Coverage Evaluation

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bizNEVADA MAGAZINE • WWW.BIZNEVADA.COM • PAGE 27

WIN is a diverse group of business leaders, involved citizens and a whole lot of go-getters who come together to network, share knowledge, and gain inspiration from monthly topical and motivational speakers.

Our Membership PLUS is only $295, and covers registration for all 11 Power Breakfast events throughout the year.

UPCOMING POWER BREAKFAST:

Alan Stein, Jr. ‘Raise Your Game: What the Highest Performers Do During Unseen Hours’ Friday, January 25 • 7 - 9AM Atlantis Casino Resort Spa

WINEVADA.COM • 775-359-7117 • INFO@WINEVADA.COM

PAGE 28 • VOL. 2, ISSUE 19 • DECEMBER 2018

BOOK REVIEW

A love letter to Reno

By Eric Lincoln Miller

“There are 8 million stories in the naked city, some ice cold some without pity.” –KURTIS BLOW “In the city there’s a thousand things I want to say to you.” –THE JAM

RENO RISING: YOU HAVE TO FALL BEFORE YOU RISE

Compiled by Susan Ackerman.

Paperback, 180 pages.

Follow It Through Publishing, $14.95.

Reno stars in this new collection of writings by 14 women who overcame adversity, economic hardship, natural and self-made disasters, wanton sexism and abuse, and host of physical and mental health issues. The location of their various personal and familial transformations is Reno, the biggest little city in the world.

All roads in this book lead to Reno. In some cases it’s a crooked path for the contributors, from such places as Mexico City as an illegal immigrant, from Bay Saint Louis, MS, the epicenter of Hurricane Katrina, and from a vacant lot in pre-gentrified Santa Monica, CA. The strongest stories in this book resonate with newfound strength and healing from horrific and seemingly hopeless circumstances.

Individual entries are written in the first person and there’s immediacy to the prose throughout the book that makes a reader feel they are having coffee with each author and she’s telling you her story.

The current mayor of Reno happens to be a woman and she has written a Foreword to the book. Hillary L. Schieve calls the contributors “visionaries” and she states “they have truly helped Reno to rise.” The anthology is designed to be the basis for a mass movement of women across the country to rise and give testimony to their disparate experiences of difficulty and positive

change. The idea is to inspire women of every generation to empower themselves with self-expression and to be a primary source of encouragement and motivation for other women to find their way out of bad circumstances.

To that end, the compiler of this collection, Susan Ackerman, recently started a women’s group called Inspire Reno.

The overall purpose has been to provide a positive and creative outlet for personal and professional development for women. It was designed as a place for women of all ages to go and hold events, meet and greet, and support each other. The collection of writings for Reno Rising grew out of this group. The power of their stories comes through with a collective consciousness that relates how the authors have strived to overcome adversity in many forms, and how they have risen like a Phoenix and continue to grow stronger as a result of their association.

It’s hard to pin down exactly why Reno.

Could it be something in the water?

What is it about this city that compelled 14 women from different generations and socio-economic backgrounds to share their stories in such a disarming and direct way? And it seems like it could only happen in Reno – if you somehow transferred the stories to Boulder, CO or Baltimore, MD the outcomes might not be the same. Reno is the X-factor that contributed to their combined success.

There is a curative and restoring power to the accounts in the collection. These are real women telling their stories in a forthright manner. Many of them are first-time authors. As business owners and catalysts for change, these women make a difference every day in the lives of those they encounter and in the life of their city. u Eric Lincoln Miller is a writer and book development expert with 30 years’ experience in publishing. He lives in Reno, NV. Contact him at eric@3ibooks.com

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bizNEVADA MAGAZINE • WWW.BIZNEVADA.COM • PAGE 29

The welcoming environment at Swill Coffee and Wine

Coffee

Talk

AT S WILL COFFEE AND WINE

By Richard Moore As the year draws to a close and we are preparing for 2019, I wanted to thank all of our loyal Coffee Talk readers. The Coffee Talk concept grew out of a meeting with Pete Krup, owner of Swill Coffee & Wine. Pete made mention of how coffee shops really serve their surrounding business community.

After thinking about this for a moment, I had to ask, ‘How so?’

“When people come to Swill, they have several options for meeting space, from the comfortable and cozy living room couch setting to large and small meeting tables.

But the real key is the genuine buzz among those who frequent the Swill. The business atmosphere is electric,” exclaimed Pete.

As Pete and I developed our Coffee Talk concept, the most significant element turned out to be the level of commerce discussed, and the quality of people that visit Swill, from a business perspective. On any given day when you walk into Swill, you will almost certainly see someone you know: business leaders, politicians, and mentors.

On a side note, it is interesting to hear the ideas and discussions others are having, some so innovative you find yourself making a note to self (not that eavesdropping is encouraged).

By the time our meeting had concluded, not only did we decide on a new direction for Swill’s

PAGE 30 • VOL. 2, ISSUE 19 • DECEMBER 2018

sponsored feature, but we also met several other business people in the shop. One, in parti­cular, walked over and asked if I was part of bizNEVADA Magazine.

To summarize, Coffee Talk has been developed for you, our reader, to keep you involved in our business community, to provide a forum where you are encouraged to talk about your business, your industry and finally, we developed Coffee Talk, so you can have a conversation with our readers.

It’s easy for your business to join the Coffee Talk – give me a call today at 775-343-8660.

COFFEE TALK ADS Be seen and be heard. Place your business card-size advertisement in Coffee Talk and stand out among your com­pe­ tition. Each month we will rotate through the advertisers and when your turn comes up, you will have the opportunity to tell our readers something special that is happening in your industry or business. Call Richard Moore today and join the Coffee Talk.

J&A Design Studios LANDSCAPE ARCHITECHTURE Custom Residential • Commercial Streetscapes • Playgrounds • Sportsfields 775-741-8305 | gjameson@jadesignreno.com

YOUR AD COULD GO HERE

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Call Richard Moore 775-343-8660

Call Richard Moore 775-343-8660

YOUR AD COULD GO HERE

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Call Richard Moore 775-343-8660

Call Richard Moore 775-343-8660

bizNEVADA MAGAZINE • WWW.BIZNEVADA.COM • PAGE 31

Clark/Sullivan Construction wishes you and yours a happy and prosperous new year!

Design-Build CMAR, LLB NV CA (775) 355-8500 www.clarksullivan.com