A few months ago, Andy and I had the privilege of meeting and hearing celebrity entrepreneur Kathy Ireland speak at a Catalyst for Thought SYNC event. The event was officially titled, “What Problems are you Solving,” with some wonderful discussion points for entrepreneurs including:
- Overcoming rejection and challenges in business
- As an entrepreneur, your client is your boss…and they can be tough
- Only start businesses that you are passionate about
- Start simply, Focus on one niche, Do it well
During the event Kathy spoke about growing her world-wide brand while she was growing her family here in Santa Barbara, and moderators Jeff Bochsler and Allison Trowbridge asked some great questions about her multi-billion dollar empire, kathy ireland World Wide.
Not only was it totally inspiring to hear her journey from newspaper delivery girl (a first in the 805 area) to supermodel, turned entrepreneur, turned business mogul, but to know that she is also a living and breathing example of a balanced woman who puts her faith, family and business in the proper priorities.
Not one moment went by during the event where Kathy, a Santa Barbara native since she was three years-old, spoke without the utmost integrity and sincerity. Two qualities that rarely get connected with business empire owners or celebrity entrepreneurs.
Attending the event and meeting Kathy Ireland was a long-overdue dream. My mom, Judy Sims, actually taught Kathy in second grade at Monte Vista Elementary School, where a few years later my brother and I attended as well, so I’ve always looked forward to meeting her someday here in Santa Barbara (and wouldn’t you know it, Kathy remembers and had just seen my mom recently at a different event). And, thanks to Chrissy Deferville and her team-based local non-profit entrepreneurial group that’s near and dear to my heart, that hopeful dream finally came true.
In early 2009 I joined Chrissy, the original founder, and the initial Catalyst for Thought team as their first-ever Marketing Director and enjoyed nearly two years of growth and development with volunteering at the helm until our agency needed all of my time and I stepped down. During that entire time period and beyond, I had been hearing Chrissy talk about getting Kathy Ireland as a speaker someday – and low and behold nearly three years later it happened. Thanks to all those who helped make that fantastic event possible!
Everyone in attendance was grateful that this famous local legend came out to share her life’s journey and just how she was able to reach for the stars and land on the moon.
Judy Sims says
February 6, 2012 at 1:06 pmGreat to know that Kathy has positive recollections of her elementary school experience at Monte Vista, and remembers her teachers. Kathy’s life story–her perspectives and actions in both the business world and in her personal life–offers an outstanding example to all women. Loved hearing her speak at the breakfast event last year. I’m so proud of her, and of my daughter Amber, who, like myself, admires Kathy’s accomplishments and personal qualities.
Jen says
February 7, 2012 at 1:39 pmWhat a great story Kathy has to share. I follow her on Twitter and am always impressed by her ability to engage with others in a real way. Awesome post Amber, and so nice that you were finally able to connect with her!
Thank you for giving us a bit of her local history as well ~ It’s a small world after all!
xo
Calla Gold says
February 7, 2012 at 4:30 pmAmber thanks for adding your personal recollections and connections as well as telling us about the event.
Kathy Ireland has done such amazing things as an entrepreneur. She really found a wonderful way to capitalize on her reputation, name recognition and good taste to create a lasting business empire that is the envy of many a dedicated business person.
She’s gone from strength to strength.
This was just a great read Amber!
Amber says
February 7, 2012 at 4:45 pmThank you to all of you for your thoughtful comments! It’s nice to have those that you can admire for several reasons – she’s just one of those individuals who keeps setting standards! It would be AMAZING to see her star-quality shine on Celebrity Apprentice one of these seasons!
Elizabeth Simpson-Wong says
February 7, 2012 at 8:30 pmI wish I had attended this event! I really appreciate what Kathy Ireland has been able to do while still being herself; that’s what I most admire about her. A great encouragement, thanks for sharing this!
Amber Sims Hinterplattner says
May 4, 2012 at 1:12 pmYou are so welcome Elizabeth, wish you could have been there as well.
I completely agree with you. Kathy Ireland is a huge encouragement to all of us who strive to grow our businesses and maintain our true persona and nature along the way! Integrity is the name of her game, and a good one to strive to maintain!