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Ever wonder how a single salon visit could spark a business empire? Sisters Kristin and Kailen take us on their entrepreneurial journey from a chance discovery in New York City to founding The Blowout Bar, a salon concept that's thrived for 13 years by perfecting a single service: blowouts without cuts or color.

Their story begins with a family trip to NYC where they experienced a specialized blowout bar and immediately recognized the opportunity to bring this concept to Columbus. Kristin's words capture the moment perfectly: "It was one of those experiences that I just couldn't go back to doing it the old way." Despite having no cosmetology background, they launched their Grandview location and quickly expanded to Dublin and Easton, with plans for a fourth Columbus location before targeting Cleveland and Cincinnati.

What makes their business model fascinating is how clearly they've defined their niche. By focusing exclusively on blowouts and styling, they've created a convenient, consistent experience that serves both working professionals with standing weekly appointments (Monday-Thursday) and special event clients seeking styling for weddings and celebrations (weekends). Their seven-day schedule and specialized staff ensure clients can almost always find availability.

Beyond business, the conversation delves into their personal lives as New Albany residents—both sisters moved from downtown Columbus to raise their families (each has two boys, coincidentally of nearly identical ages). They share their appreciation for New Albany's walkability and community events while reminiscing about their Northeast Ohio roots, complete with nostalgic discussions of regional foods and traditions.

Ready to experience a specialized salon that's reimagining what hair care can be? Visit any of The Blowout Bar's three Columbus locations and discover why so many clients have made their services part of their regular routine!

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Beth's journey from retail executive to nonprofit founder illustrates the extraordinary power of addressing a need in your own family and watching it transform the lives of hundreds. When her three-and-a-half-year-old son Will, who has Down syndrome, wanted to learn tennis like his older brother, Beth discovered a profound lack of consistent programming for individuals with developmental disabilities. What began as a weekend clinic has flourished into Buddy Up for Life, a national organization with over 20 chapters serving more than 800 individuals with Down syndrome and engaging approximately 1,800 volunteers.

The magic of Buddy Up lies in its one-to-one pairing system, matching each athlete or student with a dedicated volunteer buddy. These relationships often evolve into meaningful friendships that address a critical social gap many individuals with Down syndrome experience – having plenty of acquaintances but lacking deeper connections. The organization's "Connections" program specifically nurtures these relationships through social outings during summer months.

From its tennis origins, Buddy Up has expanded to meet diverse needs: circuit training when families wanted fitness options, summer camps when schools were closed, and comprehensive life skills classes covering communication, finance, technology, cooking, and personal safety. This holistic approach serves individuals from age five through adulthood, recognizing that people with Down syndrome benefit from consistent, year-round programming with plenty of repetition and routine.

Beth's retail planning background at Express provided a surprisingly relevant foundation for building this nonprofit – from testing programs before scaling, to creating consistent processes, to managing budgets effectively. The organization operates primarily through donations, with their annual gala serving as their largest fundraiser, complemented by grants and community partnerships.

Ready to get involved? Visit BuddyUpForLife.org to register as an athlete, volunteer, or donate to support programming that's raising the bar and creating opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome to develop skills, build relationships, and thrive. As Beth's son Will demonstrates through his football career and current studies at Vanderbilt University – where there's a Will, there's always a way.

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From driving a 1998 Toyota Corolla long after he could afford an upgrade to opening his first orthodontic practice during the 2009 recession with a baby on the way, Dr. Jeff Shirck's journey exemplifies calculated risk-taking and unwavering financial discipline.

Dr. Shirck takes us behind the scenes of building Shirck Orthodontics from a single Pataskala location to five thriving practices throughout the Columbus area. With refreshing candor, he credits much of his financial wisdom to his wife Zhenya, who immigrated from Ukraine at age nine with just $300 to her family's name. Their partnership demonstrates how clear financial boundaries and thoughtful decision-making create both business success and family stability.

As a father of three active children, Dr. Shirck shares his evolving philosophy on parenting in today's complex world. He discusses the delicate balance of keeping kids engaged in activities without overwhelming them, finding appropriate mentors beyond parents, and teaching financial literacy in an era where spending opportunities are endless. His approach includes requirements like piano lessons (despite protests from his children), maintaining good grades, and staying physically active – creating structure that builds discipline regardless of natural inclinations.

The conversation explores the fascinating evolution of youth sports from seasonal activities to year-round commitments, with Dr. Shirck questioning whether early specialization truly benefits children's development. His experiences coaching youth sports despite having no prior experience highlight how community involvement creates unexpected connections and opportunities to positively influence young people beyond one's immediate family.

Through stories about exploring Ohio with his family, participating in New Albany community events, and watching the thoughtful development of the area, Dr. Shirck reveals how business success and genuine community engagement create a fulfilling life rooted in relationships rather than material possessions.

Join us for this insightful conversation that will inspire you to reconsider your approach to financial decisions, parenting challenges, and community involvement. Subscribe now and share your thoughts on what resonated most with you from Dr. Shirck's journey!

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