The Most Inspiring Stories in Utah

The heart of our mission is to find the amazing souls that breathe life into our communities. In the recent weeks, we’ve had the privilege to connect with some incredible artists, creatives, entrepreneurs and rabble rousers and we can’t begin to express how impressed we are with the incredible group below. Check out our favorite stories from across the Voyage family.

Collin Brackin

I am extremely grateful to have such a well formed team. Its hard trying to grow a business, but the rewards of the community raving about your food, is like no other. There has been lots of sacrifice to make this happen, for example we lived in a motorhome for 9 months while we rented our house out to save money to help build our Smithfield store, I sold my Mustang, Hellcat & Boat to build the food trucks & Smithfield. All things I can get back after we get the important work done! but for now, MORE PIZZA!!! Read more>>

Megan Blakelock

Megan’s passion for family law comes from a genuine desire to support people during life’s most challenging moments. A respected Utah attorney, she is known for her calm confidence, legal smarts, and the kind of empathy that puts clients instantly at ease. Officially joining the Utah State Bar in 2019 after earning her law degree from Willamette University College of Law, Megan had already gained valuable experience since 2011 working alongside her powerhouse mother-in-law, Rose Blakelock, learning firsthand what it takes to guide families through some of their toughest moments. Read more>>

Heidi Totten

The name Nemparnat—which means “one who lifts others” in Maasai—was given to Heidi by the community she came to serve. But living up to that name didn’t come without sacrifice. There were moments she wanted to quit. There were years where funding was tight, volunteers dropped out, or projects didn’t go as planned. There were communication breakdowns, logistical failures, and deep personal burnout. Read more>>

Nichol Bartell

With Sweet Kustoms, I blend my skills in virtual assistance, business organization, startup support, projections, and data management with my background in vehicle repair/restoration and event planning. I’ve built a business that’s as versatile as the life I live—raising kids, coaching rugby, homeschooling, and helping others build their dreams. Read more>>

Ali Phillips

I started my career as a registered nurse, working in hospice, emergency medicine, and clinical leadership roles for nearly two decades. Being on the front lines, I witnessed firsthand how broken and inefficient the healthcare staffing system was – how much time was wasted, how many shifts went unfilled, and how often both clinicians and healthcare organizations felt like they didn’t have control or transparency in the process. Read more>>

Lindsey Hargett

There have definitely been challenges running my own business! I’ve had to constantly hustle to get clients and keep my schedule full, but especially so in the early days. I’ve had to learn what things I actually like doing in the food world, and had to spend plenty of years doing things I didn’t like doing so much (weekly meal prep for example- hated that!) 2020 also threw my business for a loop, and I learned what really worked when push came to shove and what wasn’t worth my time. Read more>>

Gabriella Santos

It has certainly not been linear. As a self taught photographer, there have been a handful of different struggles, and road bumps along the way that I couldn’t have planned for. I am constantly growing as an individual and a business owner, and learning from different challenges that I have had. Read more>>

Tyler Hansen

Hope for the future, of being a good dad, a good son, a good brother, and so on. Upon my release from prison, I returned to school and became a counselor, working my way up to become the owner of Steps Recovery Centers in Utah. We are the largest private provider in the state, and I get the opportunity to use my shame, disappointment, and trials to help others. It’s the most fabulous job I could have, and I get to serve the community and friends by righting their ship and correcting their course, because I have done it myself. Read more>>

Sarah Lies

2 years ago I asked another DJ/producer friend to teach me how to mix, originally just wanting to play for myself for fun or for some friends at house parties. Immediately after I started learning, people were asking me to throw a party and little did I know this would kind of be the theme for me moving into my DJ career. I decided to throw a launch party and maybe 30 friends and family showed up, but I took some good videos and hired a photographer and I’m glad I did because right after this, I got a real gig at our biggest club in SLC. And then another, and another. I had a DJ friend tell me at the first gig that “It’s just going to go up from here, you don’t even realize it yet” and he was so right. Read more>>

Justin Decker

Now Athlecare is helping people move without pain, train without fear, and understand their bodies better than ever before. Along the way, I also launched The Powerlifting Gym to give athletes a home base for serious training, and I’m continuing to expand into performance-based healthcare with new ventures like Tropific. But it all started with a simple belief: that everyone deserves to feel strong, healthy, and understood. Read more>>

Maeli Nelson

During those dark days, despair threatened to consume me. The vibrant, active life I had once known seemed like a distant memory. My sense of purpose and identity were shattered. The future stretched before me as a bleak or uncertain landscape. Those nine months were the darkest of my life. The pain was unrelenting, and the career I’d built was suddenly out of reach. With two young children (ages 4 and 7) depending on me, the weight of responsibility felt crushing. I felt lost, questioning everything – was this all there was? Had I wasted years of my life, only to lose it all? Read more>>

Becca McCulloch

I grew up in a very small town in Idaho. My mom was a teacher and my father a psychologist. Our house was filled with books. My mom read to us every night, leaving us with stories swimming in our heads at night. In high school, I learned to analyze literature. I fell in love with the way words and symbols could be used to make a good story hold layers of meaning. I knew I wanted to create stories that could spark imagination and leave impressions. Read more>>

Peter Ortiz

Back in 2009, I made a decision that changed everything — I enrolled in design school, fueled by nothing more than a love for drawing, coloring, and creativity. I didn’t come from a background in business or marketing. What I had was curiosity, grit, and the drive to turn a lifelong passion into a path forward. Read more>>

Kenzie Bates

On the way to Boston, I made a quick stop in Idaho to support my best friend through the delivery of her first baby. While there, I met a friend who was working on a startup with his brother, a toe fungus product, of all things, invented by their dad, a chemistry teacher. One day, they asked if I’d come help out. I started by folding brochures and packing boxes but quickly got curious. I noticed a list of Walgreens stores they were trying to contact and asked, “What’s the busiest Walgreens in the country?” They said the Michigan Avenue stores in Chicago. So I picked up the phone, called the district manager, and somehow convinced him to let us fly out and sell the product at the front entrance of one of the busiest stores in the country. Read more>>

Tatiana Bartholomew

When I design a couple’s wedding cake, I thoughtfully consider each of these elements to create something that not only fits the aesthetic, but truly embodies the couple themselves. That might mean incorporating a stone-textured tier to echo a dramatic mountain backdrop, adding edible pearls or crystals to reflect details in the dress or chandeliers, or weaving in delicate sugar blooms that mirror the floral design. Read more>>

Kaimahi Thompson

Boxing has always been apart of our families story. Our grandfather was a boxer as well as Sione, his father, and his older brother. Sione has a much different story as he lived boxing in every aspect. But on our side growing up as kids one of our earliest memories is watching the PPV Fights. My dad, grandfather and uncles would be on the couch watching while us kids would be behind the couch boxing and emulating what we were seeing. We only had 1 pair of gloves so we would always fight over who got to wear the right handed glove. We would also put on our bath robes as if we were walking out to enter the ring. Read more>>

Vincent Alvarez

In 2020, Vincent Alvarez relocated to Salt Lake City, where his former UCSB teammate and close friend Luis Silva was playing professionally for Real Salt Lake. The two co-founded LS Soccer School, a soccer-specific training and rehab facility focused on helping young athletes prepare for the physical demands of high-level competition. They incorporated professional-caliber methodologies—rooted in biomechanics and sports science—into youth development. Their commitment to high standards and community accessibility quickly set them apart. Read more>>

Stefanie, Rebecca, Ashley Young, Bauer, Maginot

So far, the journey has been smoother than we ever expected. When we started this team, we had no idea what we were getting into. From registering as an LLC and then as a 501(c)(3), to managing communications, partnerships, and everything in between, we’ve had to learn it all from scratch. Thankfully, we’ve been incredibly lucky to have a group of women who keep the drama low and the vibes high, making all the behind-the-scenes work feel not just manageable, but genuinely rewarding. Read more>>

Janae Pettit

A few years into my time at BYU, and after 8-9 major changes, I stumbled upon Industrial Design, which had an extremely competitive acceptance process of multiple rounds of applications, with only 14 students accepted into the professional level of the program. Unfortunately, I had to put my education on hold to take care of some serious mental health issues that I found myself facing. I was heartbroken, but focused on taking care of myself and my family. A few years later, I felt compelled to go back. Luckily, some of the professors remembered me and were very supportive of my return. I finally found my tribe of weirdo creatives, creating long-lasting friendships and professional networks, and building the skills that have served my life exponentially. Read more>>

Jessica Schirmer

In 2017, I attended the Ecosa Institute’s intensive eco-design program, which deeply influenced my teaching. I began weaving nature into every class I taught. When we returned to Provo in 2018, I really started expanding on this nature-inspired approach—especially through teaching at The Yoga Underground. I also began offering classes in a variety of community spaces and realized that if I wanted to bring the benefits of yoga to more children, I needed to empower others to do what I was doing. Read more>>

Jorge Tenorio

Well my wife and I have started some businesses and we love to be Entrepreneurs, we know sales, but I also do Photography and Graphic Design, my wife is good with all the paperwork and permits so we make a great team, we have incredible people with us, our GM, and the managers of the restaurants do amazing work, we are a team and I truly believe that WE as a group are the reason we are in a good position. Read more>>

Abby Reaves

Definitely not always smooth, but I think that’s part of the story, too. One of the biggest challenges has been finding the balance between creativity and consistency. As much as I love exploring and photographing new places, life can get busy, and there have been seasons where I’ve had to slow down or step back from posting regularly. Learning to be okay with that, and to create without pressure, has been a big part of my growth. Read more>>

Rachelle Elliott

I discovered a love for the world of Human Resources as a young college graduate, interning at various non-profits in order to find my place in the professional world. The combination of fascinating people problems and beautiful systems just clicked for me, and I spent the next 10 years getting my masters, my HR certifications, and landing my dream job as Director of Human Resources. When my twin daughters were born, I spent a lot of time in the hospital and made the difficult decision to put my career on pause while I focused on health and family. Read more>>

Christine Diamond

My journey began with a deep desire to help people turn their ideas into real, thriving businesses. I’ve always had a heart for visionaries — people with big dreams who just need the right systems, strategies, and support to bring them to life. That’s what led me to start Harvest Consulting, where I work as a business strategist and advisor. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping six- and seven-figure business owners get out of the day-to-day chaos and into their zone of genius by building efficient systems, hiring key team members, and creating clear execution plans. Read more>>

Hans Serpa

My artistic journey began in Managua, Nicaragua, where I grew up surrounded by vibrant culture and creativity. As a child, I was fascinated by storytelling through illustrations, pouring my imagination into handmade character books. However, when I shared my stories with adults, they often focused on correcting my grammar rather than appreciating the narrative. This experience led me to shift my focus solely to drawing, where I discovered the freedom to create without limits. Read more>>

Linda Myers

With over 850 Elders now in the program, it isn’t often I visit each of their homes. We deliver to each of the areas we serve twice a year in the spring when it’s planting season, and in the fall during harvest to help them prepare for the winter. During the other months we send letters to them from the program letting them know we are thinking of them and, through grants and generous donations, we mail Food Certificates, Firewood Vouchers, and Yarn Bundles to weave their rugs with. Read more>>

Dave Weber

As a married man I started learning about happiness and fulfillment. I applied more of what I learned at church. I joined a direct sales business and felt hope for a better future. I developed interpersonal skills, overcame anxieties about being a people person, and I started working harder. After I moved on, I decided to make a bigger shift. Despite never finishing my nursing degree, and not having much money, I went into something more of my style of service. Read more>>

Kallie Harrison

In 2014, I finally answered that call. I graduated in 2018 from the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine with a Master’s in Oriental Medicine, fulfilling a dream I had held for over a decade. In 2019 I moved to Big Sky, Montana, and opened my own private acupuncture practice. My desire to go deeper led me to pursue a Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, which I completed in 2021 through Pacific College of Health and Science. Read more>>

Jun & Kara Koo

What sets us apart is our focus on reliability and care. While most sharpeners operate on a “when we’re in the area” basis, we’ve built a structured membership model where clients receive quarterly sharpening like clockwork. This removes the uncertainty from the process and ensures their tools are always in top condition. Read more>>

Maresa Manzione

Fast forward many years, 4H decided to no longer participate in the exchange program and our Japanese partner asked if the volunteers would form a non-profit to continue the program. I have been involved in the program since that time. My children have been able to host and it has been an awesome experience for us as a family – both to learn about another culture and to plan family activities that showcase our town and state. It has made the world a smaller place and made us think about the great parts of our culture that we could share. Read more>>

Hannah Fredrickson

It’s been a little bumpy here and there, as are most things. My biggest struggles through my art journey have been my recent lack of motivation. Another struggle that many artists can relate to is the current uncertainty surrounding careers in art, which has contributed to my lack of motivation. Thankfully, art is ever-changing, and no matter what will always have a place in society, and that’s something I think about to overcome these challenges. Read more>>

Gabrielle Nelson

I think I’ve been lucky in how smooth things have gone overall, but. I’ve definitely faced some unique challenges. Some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned have come through moments of stress, things like navigating tricky timelines, unexpected weather, or learning how to advocate for my clients. Each hurdle has pushed me to grow, and I truly believe I’m a stronger and more thoughtful planner because of it. Read more>>

Christie Berube

My older sister passed away due to brain cancer, and I was forever changed in an instant. The immense importance of my job was palpable as I began to realize all we had left was photographs. I learned then and there how they can spark your memory of that person, that moment, that feeling. At such a young age, I began to fully grasp the temporary nature of everything. It was then that I was transformed from a photographer to an artist. Read more>>

Stacie Graves

While working in the field, I was in the midst of growing my family, and needed a shift so I could spend time with my 2 little boys. Right as my second son was being born, I took the leap and went full time at my own firm, EDIT Design House. Starting from a desk in the laundry room, and presenting from my kitchen table, I eventually opened a small studio space, hired an assistant, and continued to grow from there. Read more>>

Elif Ekin

I’ve been a single mother, a baker, a hustler, a dreamer. For years, I sold my handmade baklava at farmers markets and events, one tray at a time, while raising my daughter and trying to make sense of a life that kept asking me to be resilient. Eventually, I found myself standing in front of a 115-year-old Victorian house… something about it called to me. It felt like it had a soul waiting to be heard again. Read more>>

Rachel Reynolds

I absolutely loved my time in school! I knew I eventually wanted to come back and teach once I had some experience in the field. I started working for a local neighborhood spa focusing on skincare. After about 2 years I started teaching at Skinworks School of Advanced Skincare, which is where I also got my education. I continued to work at the spa taking facial appointments while I was the master esthetics theory instructor. This was the best! I love science and theory and could talk for hours about why we do what we do. Read more>>

Tyler Denhart

There were moments of doubt, especially in the beginning. It’s difficult putting yourself out there creatively and wondering if people will connect with your work. I’ve also had to learn to balance the creative side with the business side, which isn’t always brings challenges. But every obstacle has taught me something valuable. My business journey has not always been smooth sailing, but it’s been worth it. I’m learning, growing, and constantly progressing and that’s part of the journey I wouldn’t trade for anything. Read more>>

Alexa Noah

I’m also inspired by Alexis Schulof at KetoNatural Pet Foods. Her passion for volunteering at shelters and helping dogs thrive despite their circumstances is something I really admire. She advocates for overlooked dogs, usually high energy breeds, fosters them, and supports their growth through movement, enrichment, and compassionate care. Read more>>

Eastyn Rupe

Our grand opening day was Aug.27,2022! We are a booth rent salon and have 6 stylist currently as well as a nail tech and tattoo artist. Some unique services we offer are Piercings, waxing, Brazillian blowouts and I specialize in curly hair as well as color corrections. We host lots of parties and enjoy being a part of the community here. I am on the board with the chamber of commerce and enjoy keeping up with current events so we can be a part of. We create a safe and fun space for all walks of life to enjoy and our goal is that our clients leave feeling capable to take on their day and feel beautiful while on their journey. I have heard and feel we do a great job accomplishing this. Read more>>

Tristin Spruill

Sold a little bit of drugs. As I got older my passion to freestyle and have fun over a beat grew, and honestly became so much I didn’t even have time to hangout with people anymore. Then my dad kicked me out, didn’t see me having any success how I was moving so he tried to do what he knew. Never really ended up staying that way I guess, didn’t have the time. I still strive to stay away from that kind of life, Two of my buddies from those times aren’t even around anymore. Since the last 5 years music has really taken over my life, trying to create and do something new, every time I pick up the pen. Keeps me up and going honestly. Read more>>

Alexis Apeiros

In daily life we find ourselves searching for external things to help us feel better (food, gambling, workaholism, perfectionism, sex, drugs, alcohol) when at the core of your being there is a deep sense that something is missing. In the relaxed mind state during a hypnotherapy session you can connect to old memories that keep you stuck. The unhealed wound, sadness, lack of feeling loved, like you are not enough, and many other beliefs can be accessed in this relaxed mind state and brought to conscious awareness, helping you to make sense of the past and see yourself more clearly. Read more>>

Jana Robertson

The custom pieces he built by hand were often the missing final touch in each of the rooms as far as furniture went. I would then add accessories, bedding, area rugs that I thought fit just perfectly and then style the space for both beauty and function (remember I had a tiny basketball team at the time…and I knew too many designers who made beautiful spaces entirely impractical for kids). Friends would come over and say, “clearly you know how to do this can you please do it for me?” The scope of work for my first client was styling a bookshelf in her husband’s office. That’s how Roberts and Lamb started. Read more>>