We recently connected with Marilyn Pianelli and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Marilyn with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
I have worked as long as I remember. When I was 14, I had 3 jobs and just loved being on the go and working. I love helping people, meeting new people and I think that’s why I always wanted to work.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
After a long day at work, I had a harrowing experience while walking my dogs late one night. My Black Terrier, always full of energy, managed to wriggle free from his harness and darted after a cat. He sprinted across the dimly lit street, narrowly avoiding an oncoming car that hadn’t seen him. Thankfully, my beloved dog was safe, but it struck me that this scenario plays out far too often, and not all pet families are as fortunate. As I reflected on the incident, I became acutely aware of the risks posed by low-light conditions and poor visibility for both pets and their owners. Determined to find a solution, I began searching for a safe lighting option for our walks and a harness that my dog couldn’t escape from. To my surprise, nothing on the market met my expectations.
That’s when inspiration struck. My husband, Peter, and I embarked on a year-long journey of design, development, and production. The result? The Headlight Harness—a clever solution that not only illuminates our path during evening walks but also ensures the safety of both dog and owner. The Headlight Harness was born out of necessity, and today, it has helped thousands of pet owners across the country walk their furry companions safely at night.
Our mission doesn’t end there. With a deep love for animals and their well-being, I’m constantly exploring new ways to create products that keep our pups safe, visible, and comfortable. The pet industry had a void, and we’re determined to fill it, one innovative idea at a time.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
During my journey, three qualities have significantly impacted my path: Hard Work: I believe in putting in relentless effort and dedicating myself to achieving my goals. Whether it’s overcoming obstacles or pushing boundaries, hard work has been my constant companion.
Determination: My unwavering resolve has fueled my journey. Even when faced with setbacks, I remain steadfast, knowing that determination is the key to progress.
Love for Animals: My passion for animals has been a driving force. It motivates me to create solutions that enhance their well-being and safety. Their happiness and health inspire me every day.
These qualities have shaped my journey and continue to guide me toward meaningful accomplishments.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
During my journey, my husband and daughter have been my unwavering driving force, supporting me in every aspect. Their encouragement, love, and shared commitment have propelled me forward, making all the difference.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.headlightharness.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/headlightharness/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/headlightharness
- Linkedin: Marilyn Pianelli
- Youtube: www.youtube.com@headlightharness8584
- Other: TikTok @headlightharness
