Dr. Jessica Radtke Maltez, Owner of Victoria Veterinary Hospital and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
“What inspired you to start your business?”
I wasn’t sure I wanted to own a business. As the daughter of business owners who worked long hours and were very driven, I knew it was a lifestyle choice that didn’t leave much room for other activities. Working as a solo veterinarian at other clinics, I realized I had a passion for service. Because I care so much about my pet clients and their families, and my job didn’t end after my work hours were done, no matter who I worked for, I considered being a business owner. I purchased Victoria Veterinary Care and turned it into Victoria Veterinary Hospital! I’ve always respected small business owners, especially women, because we often take on so much–with both traditional household roles and full-time jobs. I’m happy and proud to know I’m a good example to my kids. They see me working hard and are a big part of my journey and motivation. I’m also inspired by my employees, who care so much and always go the extra mile to ensure our pet clients and families are heard.
Heather Reichenberger, Real estate agent at RE/MAX Results
“What inspired you to start your business?”
I chose real estate for a few reasons, but the biggest was the freedom it offered me to build a business that fit my life and my family. I wanted the ability to set my own goals, push myself to grow, and do something meaningful while still being present for my three children. Real estate allows me to balance my career with their schedules, giving me the flexibility to be there for all the moments that matter—school events, activities, and everything in between. The second reason was the opportunity to work in an industry I love—one that challenges me, excites me, and is constantly evolving. No two days are the same! Finally, I knew this career would be rewarding. Helping others achieve their dream of homeownership and finding the perfect home brings me immense fulfillment. Being part of such a significant milestone in people’s lives is what drives my passion every day.
Ashley Schram, Co-owner and founder of Schram Vineyards and Schram Haus Brewery
“What inspired you to start your business?”
My dad owned a bowling alley, and I grew up seeing what running a family business was like. I learned firsthand what hard work was, and liked the lifestyle. I loved the idea of being my own boss with no limits to what I could achieve. Being a business owner and choosing the unpredictability over the stability of a traditional career comes with a lot of uncertainty, highs, and lows, and you need the mindset that you can navigate whatever comes your way and embrace the ride. When I met my husband, Aaron, he told me his longtime dream was to start a winery. I perked up and said, “I like wine!” From there, we built our relationship on this shared value of owning a business and began dreaming about a winery together. We were excited to bring this kind of experience to Waconia. What an amazing community we are blessed to have stumbled into so many years ago!
Brooke Struck, Owner of Nice Shirt Co.
“What inspired you to start your business?”
When I couldn’t find high-quality, well-designed spiritwear to wear to my kids’ sporting events, I decided to create my own — and start selling it online! With a love for design and a passion for local spirit, I saw an opportunity to offer custom spiritwear that people would be proud to wear. Waconia’s downtown retail district is full of inspiring women entrepreneurs who encouraged me to think bigger. Their influence, along with the support of our amazing community, eventually led us to open our brick-and-mortar shop downtown on 1st Street — a space where creativity, connection, and quality apparel come together.
Dana Dziuk, Owner and President of Lee Lyn Construction
“How has the mother figure in your life inspired you?”
I was blessed with a wonderful mother who was always considered a “stay-at-home” mom, but she was also a remote worker before it was even a thing. My parents started Lee Lyn Construction in 1980 and operated it out of their home office. My mom inspires me because somehow she made it look like she was simply taking care of us growing up, but she did way more than that! She was an entrepreneur who managed her home but also helped manage a construction company — one she helped create and continually worked to propel forward. She was always on the front lines but stayed out of the spotlight. She inspires me on days when it’s really hard balancing being a mom and a business owner. She taught me that if I take it one thing at a time, one day at a time, everything will work out okay.
Eleece Pink, Owner of The Stash of Waconia
“How has the mother figure in your life inspired you?”
For as long as I can remember, my mom has shown me how hard work, no matter what that work is, can enrich your life in so many ways. She taught me that there’s no dream too big or too small and that nothing is out of reach. It was through her example that I learned that while the path you’re on might not always be the easiest, it will pay off if you keep pushing toward your goals. She’s always been by my side as my biggest cheerleader and has shaped me into the woman I am today.
Christy Haasken Schuler, Realtor and Fee Appraiser at Chesnut Realty
"How has the mother figure in your life inspired you?"
My mother taught me to be a compassionate, respectful, hard-working, and caring person, which I’ve carried with me throughout my career in real estate. She taught me to always strive to be the finest version of myself. To push myself until I know I’ve done my very best. To be kind to others, listen to their needs, and treat them as I would my own family. My parents, through their actions, have shown me that sometimes it can be the little things that make a big impact on another person’s life. Showing others you care can be a kind word, a smile, or a hug. One of the most important things my parents instilled in me while mentoring me in my career is that every person and their journey is important.
I’ve always respected small business owners, especially women, because we often take on so much–with both traditional household roles and full-time jobs.
Waconia’s downtown retail district is full of inspiring women entrepreneurs who encouraged me to think bigger.