We have had the good fortunate of connecting with Nobel Laureates, titans of industry, rockstars and rising stars across dozens of industries and we have always found their stories about who they were early on to be most fascinating. Below, you’ll find members of the community sharing their responses to this key aspect of their stories.
Jena Karam
The funny thing is, I think about this question often—because I truly believe who we are as children gives us hints about our purpose as adults. For me, I was always a creative at heart, always building little “businesses” for my friends and family using whatever I had on hand to create a core memory or an experience. Read More>>
Dr. Dave Candy PT
As a child, I wanted to be a variety of things, but a teacher and an author were two of the biggest. In high school, I my guidance counselor led me to look into physical therapy. I got a doctoral degree in PT and then did a 3-year post-doctoral fellowship program in orthopedic manual physical therapy that less than 1% of physical therapist ever complete. Read More>>
Gabriela Ramirez-Arellano
Before the world told me who I had to be, I was a curious and determined tomboy, full of dreams and unspoken strength. I didn’t yet know the weight of expectations or the barriers I would face, but I carried a fierce desire to create a life of purpose and impact—not just for myself, but for my family and community. Read More>>
Jennifer & James Speiser
Before the world told me who I had to be, I was a girl who loved animals, showed dogs, and found joy in making others feel good. I was drawn to nurturing—whether it was through caring for animals, offering comfort, or simply being present with people. I moved through life with sensitivity, curiosity, and a deep desire to help things heal. Read More>>
Martian and Mouse Brant
Before the world handed us a script—before teachers circled “unrealistic” in red ink, before family friends raised their eyebrows at dreams too wild for polite company—we were something else. We were kids with engines for hearts. Not engines built for speed or status, but ones fueled by wonder. Read More>>
LAINIE RUSBARSKY
Before the world tried to define me, I was someone who loved expressing myself through makeup—the way a brush stroke could change how I felt and how I saw myself. But for a long time, I believed I had to fit into a mold: be perfect, say yes to everything, and follow a conventional career path that felt safe but uninspiring. Read More>>
