What are the unique challenges and opportunities that young entrepreneurs face in the tech industry, and how can they leverage these experiences to drive meaningful change? Chatting with us today is Go Big To Give Big’s COO Kendra Garrigan, who shares her journey as a young woman in tech, transforming her entrepreneurial spirit into successful ventures while maintaining a commitment to social impact. Influenced by her parents, both entrepreneurs themselves, Kendra realized early in her career her preference for leading rather than following, spurring her to create and support more purpose-driven initiatives. She delves into sustainable business models and emphasizes that focusing on doing good doesn't have to hinder business growth. She then discusses her shift into a more philanthropic space, her involvement in charitable institutions, and the importance of contributing positively to the community. Tune in and listen to Kendra’s experiences and insights that offer valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially in integrating innovation, business acumen, and a heart for giving. [00:00 - 10:33] A Young Entrepreneur’s Path Kendra's journey into entrepreneurship was influenced by her parents' successful ventures, inspiring her to pursue her career as an entrepreneurShe began with a multi-sport training company focused on quality, then ventured into techKendra's shift towards sustainable and impact-driven ventures reflects her desire to integrate business success with positive societal contributions, guided by lessons from her parents and her experiences [10:34 - 19:44] From Profit to Purpose The shift away from purely profit-driven business models is more pronounced among millennials and younger generations, who favor businesses with a positive social impactKendra was drawn to more philanthropic ventures after observing the pitfalls of focusing solely on profit, which often led to unsustainable growth and workforce reductions in tech companiesShe emphasizes the importance of aligning profit, revenue growth, and social good in business, avoiding toxic business modelsKendra's decision to join "Go Big To Give Big" was fueled by her desire to create a significant social impact through business, particularly in the tech industry [19:45 - 22:51] Navigating Tech as a Female Entrepreneur Persistence in the face of rejection is key; hearing 'no' is part of the journey, especially for women in tech and entrepreneurshipSeeking support and mentorship is crucial; don't hesitate to reach out and connect with others in the industry for guidance and assistanceLead by example to inspire others; your success and openness in sharing your journey can empower and motivate future female entrepreneurs [22:52 - 31:15] Innovating for Good Kendra's passion for giving was ignited by her father's involvement with the Children's Rehab Foundation, highlighting the influence of family in shaping philanthropic valuesHer experiences in sports and coaching, particularly with individuals of varied abilities, deepened her understanding of the diverse needs in the communityKendra's commitment to creating impact extends beyond traditional charity, encompassing her work in safe sports and innovative projects like Catalyst 2030 [31:16 - 38:52] Inspiring Generosity Kendra's most impactful giving moment was attending a children's rehab gala where seeing the direct impact of donations on families and children gave her a profound sense of fulfillmentShe believes in the importance of giving from the start of a business, emphasizing that contributions can be in forms other than financial, like time and effort Tweetable Quotes: “People are going to judge you no matter what you do. Who cares right? You're the only one that you have to prove something to at the end of the day.” “Part of being an entrepreneur is finding how to do it because no one's going to give you that blueprint. But there are other females who have been there and done it. It's