K.J. Smith, it's never too late to find your passion

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

 By Craig A. Ruark Early in life, K.J. Smith never dreamed that at the age of 59, she would become a licensed private investigator (PI) and the president of a full-service background investigation company. In 1971, Living in Portland, Oregon, Smith found herself in the position of having to raise two young children by herself.…

Mixing Family with Business 1

Mixing Family with Business

 By Craig A. Ruark The Cheese Board American Bistro & Catering Company has been a staple in Reno since 1981 and is a great example of a women-owned business. Debbie Branby started the Cheese Board from scratch (too use a cooking term) and over the next 36 years, built the restaurant and catering business into…

When Passion Turns to Business 1

When Passion Turns to Business

 By Craig A. Ruark Jennifer 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…

The Haus that Reed Built

The Haus that Reed Built

 By Craig A. Ruark From 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 she was pregnant. Upon learning the news, her husband, Tim,…