Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My primary inspiration is the concept of "Terra Mater" (Mother Earth) and the profound need for human reconnection. I am driven by my family—my partner and our three children—to build a legacy that values unity over division. I am also inspired by the idea that a business can serve as a sanctuary. Nature and the human spirit are the heart of my motivation. Seeing how nature heals and how a shared space can bridge human disconnect inspires me to create a venue for all.

How do you stay motivated?

The heart of my motivation is inspired by nature and the human spirit, a passion that fuels the success of our fundraising efforts to construct a retreat venue for true human connection (and delicious meals). Every time the community supports our vision, it reinforces that our retreat center is a shared dream, not just a personal one. My children—Izzy, Lita, and T.J.—are my daily "why" as I hope they grow to see that with tenacity and focus, we can achieve any dream!

What would you do with the $25,000?

This prize money would transform our business plan into a physical reality, allowing us to offer a beautiful venue for healing to the Pacific Northwest. We’ve tenaciously raised over $28,000 through our efforts, and these additional funds would serve as the vital bridge to our goal of securing 20 acres of land within Northeast Washington. By establishing our foundation for Terra Mater Village, we can begin creating this all-inclusive venue for spiritual growth and community healing.