In this episode of The State I Am In, we sit down with Shelby Oden—an inspiring entrepreneur and community advocate based on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. Shelby shares her journey from growing up as a military brat to building a life with her husband Mike and raising their family in Alaska. We dive into the early days of her entrepreneurial path, from launching Briar & Boone Handmade to expanding into Little Alaskan and Kenai Freight Forwarders. We explore the importance of community-centered business practices, the unique opportunities and hurdles for small businesses in the state, and why rethinking the traditional college path might be a good option for future entrepreneurs. Shelby leaves us with honest insights, practical advice, and a look at what's next—including her upcoming appearance at the Women in Business Speaker Series. Tune in for a great conversation full of heart and hustle.

www.little-alaskan.com

www.kenaifreightforwarders.com