We asked some of the most inspiring local entrepreneurs and creatives what was bringing them joy and we hope the responses below inspire you to find more joy in your day-to-day life as well.
Kat Ammann

I’m enjoying investing more time in personal art and craft projects, especially ones that are not directly related to my regular work. I’ve been sorting through old supplies as well as visiting a local creative reuse thrift store. Some of my current project include crewel embroidery, fixing up a vintage sewing machine, and beginning to dabble in watercolors. Read More>>
VICTOR HERNANDEZ
Lately, what’s been bringing me the most joy outside of work is spending intentional, quality time with my children, my family, the people I care deeply about, and my team, while also building meaningful connections within the community. Being present through shared moments, movement, music, and service helps ground me and restore balance. Read More>>
Charlotte Simon-Rowsom

Lately, what’s been bringing me joy outside of work is returning to writing without pressure and leaning into grace. I’ve been allowing my creativity to exist simply as nourishment, not productivity.. Journaling, revisiting old poems, and listening to my own voice again. Read More>>
Barry Goralnick

I’m drawn to the possibility of a blank page. Whether I’m designing a building or a product, I always start sketching by hand. That connection between hand and mind helps me think clearly and shape new ideas. Clients and contractors enjoy the sketches because they explain the concept while leaving room for interpretation. They also allow for a real-time visual exchange as ideas evolve together. Read More>>
Tara Bremer

I’ve been taking horseback riding lessons for a few years now, for no other reason than I wanted to do something fun that isn’t about getting ahead. I wanted to be in the moment, and be connected with my own body. You have to do this to be able to ride well and communicate with your horse. Read More>>
Nikki torretta
Being pregnant has been an incredibly meaningful and grounding experience for me. Seeing the baby on sonograms has been truly amazing—those moments make everything feel real in a way words can’t fully capture. Feeling the baby kick has added another layer of connection and joy, serving as a constant reminder of the life growing and the responsibility and gratitude that come with it. Read More>>
Pallavi Pande

Three Unexpected Places I’m Finding Joy Right Now Joy, I’ve learned, doesn’t always arrive quietly. Sometimes it shows up wearing a borrowed saree, standing in a freezing New York winter, or speaking into a microphone in a room full of young people who are still figuring out who they want to become. Read More>>
Beatrix Krause-Sorio

I love spending time outside with horses. It calms my nervous system, makes me feel like I am on a faraway vacation, and the connection with horses brings me so much joy. Read More>>
Aallyah Wright
I can’t remember who told me this (and I’m paraphrasing here), but the person said, You won’t be able to enjoy your dreams or accomplishments ‘if you don’t take care of yourself.’ That stuck with me. I have to make sure I’m good —physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually — if I want to live long enough to enjoy the fruits of my labor. Read More>>
Andre Johnson
Outside of work, what’s been bringing me the most joy lately is spending intentional, quality time with the people I love. Life moves fast, so I’ve really been learning to slow down and appreciate the moments that matter. Read More>>
Angela Perger

Lately I am loving improv. It is such a joy to gather once a week with folks from all walks of life with the shared intention of laughter. There are so many reasons why improv invokes joy. Part of the fun is to expect the unexpected. Read More>>
Olivier de Vaulx
The older I get, the more I enjoy being in the great outdoors. I’ve been traveling and camping my whole life, in Europe at first, then in Africa, and now in North America. I did treks in the Sahara desert who really impacted me, and then I discovered the long motorcycle adventures on dirt roads when I moved to America. Read More>>
