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She/Her Jen Gurecki
CEO, Editor & Writer, Podcaster, Consultant, & Travel/Adventure Addict
Professional Background
Jen Gurecki stands out as a dynamic entrepreneur, public speaker, and advocate for women's empowerment through adventure sports and impactful social entrepreneurship. As the founder and CEO of Coalition Snow, a groundbreaking company dedicated to women’s skiing and snowboarding, she has committed herself to deconstructing the status quo and creating inclusivity in sports. Inspired by the hashtag #sisterhoodofshred, Jen leads Coalition Snow not only as a business but as a movement aimed at fostering community among women in winter sports.
In addition to her entrepreneurial endeavors in the outdoor sports industry, Jen is also the founder of Zawadisha, a social enterprise with a visionary mission to support rural Kenyan women by providing them with small loans to enhance their livelihoods. Zawadisha’s model emphasizes a strong focus on being pro-poor, pro-woman, and pro-environment, demonstrating Jen's unwavering commitment to uplift communities and empower women globally. The use of hashtags like #investinwomen defines her passion for creating sustainable change.
Education and Achievements
Jen has a robust educational background that has equipped her with the knowledge to thrive as a business leader. She studied for her master's degree in Non-Formal Education, focusing on Community Development, at Prescott College. Though she began a PhD program, Jen recognized that her entrepreneurial endeavors as a CEO allowed her to make a more substantial impact than continuing her academia. Her experience and subsequent decisions reflect a practical approach to learning and growth, prioritizing action over theory.
Before her master's degree, Jen earned her Bachelor of Science in Print Journalism at Northern Arizona University, which laid the foundation for her communication skills and storytelling acumen. Her studies in Post-Secondary Education English further strengthened her understanding of effective communication, later serving her well in her various roles as an educator and public speaker.
Throughout her career, Jen has accumulated invaluable experience in leadership positions. She was previously the Editor in Chief at Sisu Magazine, which she co-founded to elevate female narratives in sports. Moreover, the podcast she co-created and hosted, Juicy Bits, where she explores the intersection of adventure, entrepreneurship, and female empowerment, showcases her dedication to sharing inspiring stories.
In 2016, her insights and passion led her to deliver a TEDx talk, further solidifying her status as a thought leader in her field. Jen's accomplishments have also included a remarkable appearance on the CNBC show Adventure Capitalists, where she showcased her business acumen, even turning down a $1 million investment offer from Olympic champion Bode Miller.
Professional Experience
Jen has an extensive professional history that highlights her diverse skill set and unwavering commitment to impactful initiatives. Some of her notable roles include:
- CEO at Coalition Snow, where she leads efforts to innovate women's ski and snowboard gear.
- Founder & Board President of Zawadisha, focusing on empowering women through financial independence.
- Public Speaker with experience delivering engaging talks on entrepreneurship and women's empowerment.
- CMO at Karukinka Outdoors, where she advanced the brand's outreach and marketing strategy.
- Adjunct Faculty at Lake Tahoe Community College and Co-Instructor at NYU, showcasing her commitment to education and mentorship.
- Owner/Operator of IRIE Rafting Company, where she blended adventure with sustainable tourism.
- Executive Director of Adventure Risk Challenge at UC Berkeley, where she played a pivotal role in shaping youth leadership through outdoor experiences.
Her past endeavors as a Marketing Consultant at Savage Wilderness and her role in guiding social entrepreneurship initiatives through her teaching roles reflect her multifaceted expertise in marketing, communications, and grassroots social change. Jen’s remarkable talent for connecting people with stories and opportunities underscores her leadership philosophy centered around community, resilience, and impact.
Personal Interests and Inspirations
Beyond her professional achievements, Jen has a vivid sense of adventure that fuels her passion for life and work. An avid cyclist, she undertook a transformative 70-day cycling trip across Africa, during which the inspiration for Sisu Magazine blossomed. This journey reflects her belief in the power of adventure to shape narratives and influence change seamlessly.
In her downtime, she continues to pursue her love for storytelling through her podcast, Juicy Bits, sharing insightful discussions on topics that resonate with audiences passionate about empowerment and adventure. Jen is also deeply engaged with the community, consistently looking for ways to inspire and motivate others to chase their goals while supporting women and underserved communities.
Conclusion
Jen Gurecki's journey as a founder, leader, and advocate is marked by her commitment to authenticity, empowerment, and transformation. Her extensive background in both the adventure sports industry and social enterprise showcases her unique ability to intertwine personal aspirations with meaningful social impact. Through her work at Coalition Snow and Zawadisha, she exemplifies the power of women supporting women, inspiring countless individuals to carve their paths in both sports and social entrepreneurship. By embracing challenges and prioritizing community, Jen continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration for women everywhere.