Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Esther Wright of Route 66

Esther Wright shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Esther, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: Who are you learning from right now?
I’ve been learning from everyone around me. From Sonia, an 82-year old who became a realtor just last year and is already dreaming of becoming a broker I see that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. From Kathy Taylor, who owns several businesses and continues to expand by welcoming investors and partners I’m learning what it looks like to think bigger. From my husband, who is always adding new skills and finding ways to get paid for what he knows I see the value of continuous growth. From Michael E. Gerber, I’m learning how to build a business that works for me, not the other way around. And from Robert Kiyosaki, I’m reminded to keep investing in myself first. Every encounter, every lesson, reminds me that wisdom is all around us if we stay open to it.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Esther Wright, and I’m passionate about creating second chances. Through my social enterprise, Hilo de Amor ‘Thread of Love’ I work with women in prison in Oaxaca, local artists in Tulsa, and young women finishing their degrees debt-free. Our handbags are handmade with recycled materials and organic quality, carrying not just belongings but stories of resilience. Just like the bags, I believe every life can be renewed with purpose.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
When I think about who saw me clearly before I could fully see myself, I immediately think of my father, my husband, my friends, and my mentors. My dad always recognized the potential in me, long before I trusted it myself. My husband continues to remind me that growth never stops, and my friends and mentors like Mary Lou and Jorge believed in me when I was still learning how to believe in myself.

I always knew, deep down, that I have what it takes. But there are moments when you long for someone with experience to walk alongside you, to show you it can be done. That kind of support is powerful. Over time, though, I realized something even more important: the people who saw my potential weren’t just guiding me, they were pointing me back to myself. The truth is, I was always the one who had to integrate the business, to step into the role, and to live out the vision. Their belief helped me see what was already there. And that’s the gift I carry their faith with me as proof that we become who we are when others reflect our light back to us.

What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering teaches me clarity about what really matters. Success can feel good, but it often comes with distractions, ego, and noise. When we go through hardship, we’re forced to identify our values, our why and the people and principles we want to invest in. That kind of insight is impossible to get from smooth sailing it’s what shapes us.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m deeply committed to Hilo de Amor a business that empowers women in Oaxaca, supports local artists in Tulsa, and provides educational opportunities to young women without debt. This work is more than business it’s a spiritual mission.

Drawing on the wisdom I’ve studied for decades, I see that every challenge is an opportunity to grow and serve. True impact isn’t measured by speed or recognition it’s measured by the lives we transform along the way. I’m in this for the long haul, knowing that each step brings greater purpose and fulfillment.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
My name is Esther Wright, and I believe I am exactly where I am for a reason. Much like the biblical Esther or Oskar Schindler, I see my life as a call to action. Everything I do with Hilo de Amor empowering women in prison in Oaxaca, supporting local artists in Tulsa, and helping young women finish their education without debt is guided by purpose and heart.

When I’m gone, I hope people remember that I showed up fully, using my talents to serve others. I want them to say that my life created opportunities, restored dignity, and empowered those in need. This work isn’t just business it’s service, transformation, and legacy. I believe deeply that when we put our talents to the service of others, miracles happen

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Image Credits
Valerie Wei-Haas

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