This spring, I had the splendid honor of returning to California Lutheran University for the 2025 Honors Convocation—an experience that felt both full-circle and deeply inspiring. Beyond the formal recognition, what truly stood out was the opportunity to sit down over a relaxed business lunch with the brilliant minds of the Women in Business and Entrepreneurship Club.
Joined by Michael Panesis, a respected faculty member and champion of innovation at Cal Lutheran, I shared pieces of my entrepreneurial path—how Island Tribe and Island Tribe Wellness were born from a simple vision and a deep belief in purpose-driven work.
From our early days at local farmers markets to becoming a brand recognized by Forbes for mindful retreats and sustainable fashion, the journey has been anything but linear. But one thing has always remained constant: the power of authentic connection.
We spoke about the art of storytelling—not just as a marketing tool, but as a way to connect with your audience on a soul level. I emphasized how lifestyle branding isn’t about aesthetics alone, but about embodying the values your business stands for.
Whether it’s building a community around wellness, creating products with intention, or navigating the digital space while staying true to your roots, growing a business from the ground up is all about alignment—with your purpose, your people, and your passion.
To the inspiring young women I met: thank you for your thoughtful questions, your energy, and your dreams. You are the future of conscious leadership, and I can’t wait to see where your journeys take you.
#WomenInBusiness #IslandTribeWellness #EntrepreneurshipWithPurpose #CLUAlumni #LifestyleBranding #StorytellingMatters