Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My inspiration in business is the entrepreneur who refuses to quit—the person chasing the American Dream, creating opportunity for their family, and adding jobs in their community. I’m most inspired when I can help turn grit into growth. Small businesses are the backbone of America, and helping them build something strong, lasting, and life-changing is what drives me.

How do you stay motivated?

I stay motivated by pressure, doubt, and the mission in front of me. The people who say it can’t be done only sharpen my focus. I believe in the Japanese proverb, “Fall down seven times, stand up eight.” Business will test you, but legacy is built by getting back up, staying disciplined, and refusing to give critics the last word. I’m not building for applause. I’m building something that lasts.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I win, $5,000 will go to our 5th Annual Toys for Tots Drive, a mission close to my heart as a Marine. The other $20,000 will go toward strengthening Stigmare’s systems, tech stack, and marketing so we can improve lead generation, tighten follow-up, and hire the right support to reach our growth goals. For me, this prize would fuel both impact in the community and sustainable business growth.