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6 Minutes Read

Azadeh Hunter: The Heart of Marin Real Estate - Beyond Transactions

Beyond the Transaction - The Heart of Marin Real Estate

Ever feel like the world of Marin real estate moves at lightning speed, driven by algorithms and the latest tech? It’s easy to get caught up in the numbers and forget the human stories behind each "sold" sign. But talk to Azadeh Hunter of Homes by Azadeh, and you’ll find a refreshing perspective. This isn't just about buying and selling property; it's about family legacies, community roots, and a deeply ingrained sense of doing what’s right. What truly sets a successful real estate career apart in a competitive market like the Bay Area? For Azadeh, it’s the unwavering commitment to her clients and the community she serves. Get ready to discover the heart and soul behind one of Marin's trusted ethical real estate agents.

The Business Owner's Backstory and Entrepreneurial Journey: "From Corporate Banking to Real Estate Legacy

Azadeh’s path to becoming a respected figure in Marin County real estate wasn’t a straight line. In fact, she initially resisted the very industry that flowed through her family’s veins. “I come from a long history of real estate,” she shares. “My grandfather was a real estate developer in Iran and in Dubai and in Germany, and my mom, aunt, my uncle, they started their real estate careers in like the 80s and 90s. My younger brother, he started his real estate career right out of high school.” Yet, Azadeh chose the corporate route, diving into banking and corporate securities.

Life, however, has a funny way of redirecting us. While pregnant with her oldest daughter and working in corporate banking, a jarring incident at her branch became a catalyst for change. “The branch that I had just recently opened up had to take over a robbery. And that's when we were like, okay, that's not going to happen.” This pivotal moment led her to re-evaluate, and in 2010, she joined her mother in real estate. “I was the black sheep of the family,” she laughs, “and I fought everybody else in my family, because I was the only one at the time not in real estate.” This entrepreneurial journey, though initially unexpected, allowed her to tap into a deep-rooted family expertise while forging her own unique path.

Find out more at homesbyazadeh.com/




Key Turning Points or Challenges Overcame: "Navigating Change and Keeping the Calm

Having spent over a decade navigating the ever-evolving real estate market trends, Azadeh has learned one crucial lesson: “That real estate as is everything else in the world, the one constant is change. So you have got to be flexible.” This adaptability has been particularly vital in recent years, with rapid shifts in the market and a constant barrage of information, not all of it accurate. “There's been so much changes just in the past year with commissions and a lot of misinformation going on,” she explains.

For Azadeh, a key challenge has been cutting through the noise to provide her clients with clear, honest guidance. “It was our job to kind of keep the panic down, tell what is the reality to clients.” She emphasizes the importance of ethical practices and transparent client communication. “I let them know that honestly in real estate, business is usual, you know. There's nothing that has been happening that hasn't been not necessarily enforced, but that has not been in place forever as part of real estate.” By staying grounded in her experience and prioritizing her clients' understanding, Azadeh has become a trusted voice amidst market fluctuations.

Major Lessons Learned or Innovative Practices Discovered: Ethics, Technology, and the Human Touch

Azadeh’s long tenure in the industry has solidified some fundamental principles. “For me, the one thing that I have learned over the years is that the one constant is change, and in order for you to be successful, you have to be able to be flexible, you have to be honest, you have to be ethical, and you've got to make sure that you have that fiduciary responsibility to your consumers.” While embracing real estate technology, including marketing tools powered by AI, Azadeh firmly believes in the irreplaceable value of human connection. “As far as AI in real estate, it's not affecting our day-to-day, they're not going out there and showing the properties… I am going out there myself walking the property before I show it to my clients, I get a preview of it, I get a feel for it. And then I take them.”

Her approach blends the efficiency of technology with the personal touch that builds lasting client relationships. Furthermore, Azadeh has discovered a powerful way to integrate her passion for her work with her commitment to her community. “One of the biggest passions that I have about real estate is I can give back to my community just doing my job.” This innovative practice involves donating $500 from each closed sale to an organization or school district of her client's choice, fostering a deeper sense of connection and community involvement.

Unique Selling Points or Differentiators of Their Business: "Community, Connection, and Giving Back"

What truly distinguishes Homes by Azadeh in the competitive Marin County neighborhoods? It’s her deep-rooted understanding of the local area, combined with an unwavering commitment to her clients and the community. “Knowing your neighborhood, knowing your area and being honest and to your clients speaks volumes,” Azadeh emphasizes. As a local real estate expert and active participant in the school district, she offers insights that go beyond property listings.

Her dedication extends to a unique form of charitable giving. “With me, one of the things that I personally do after close up each sale, I give a $500 donation to an organization or school district of my client's choice.” This tangible act of giving back not only strengthens her connection with clients but also directly benefits the community she serves. This community focus, coupled with her extensive knowledge and ethical approach, makes Azadeh a trusted advisor for anyone looking to buy or sell in Marin.

Actionable Insights or Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: "Ride the Waves and Build Your Reputation"

For those dreaming of starting their own venture, particularly in the real estate industry, Azadeh offers straightforward yet invaluable advice for entrepreneurs: “Just keep doing what you're doing, hold your ethics, hold your responsibility to your community and to your children, and the clients will eventually, your reputation will speak for itself.” She underscores the importance of navigating market fluctuations with resilience. “We just have to kind of ride waves and it always comes back up. It always has, especially in our area, in the Marin Sonoma area.”

Her key real estate tips revolve around building a solid foundation of trust and integrity. “Your ultimate goal is to do what is in the best interest of your clients, that means a lot more to people than just getting that commission… you have to do what's right for your clients.” By prioritizing ethical business practices and consistently putting clients first, aspiring entrepreneurs can build a strong and lasting reputation.




Concluding Thoughts: "A Legacy of Service and Community"

Azadeh Hunter’s journey in Marin County real estate is more than just a tale of professional real estate success; it’s an inspirational story about the power of aligning your career with your values. Her deep connection to her community, her unwavering commitment to ethical practices, and her innovative approach to giving back create a lasting community impact. As she looks to the future, Azadeh remains dedicated to the work she loves and the community she cherishes. Her story reminds us that in the world of business, particularly in an industry as personal as real estate, the human touch, guided by integrity and a genuine desire to serve, is what truly builds a legacy.





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05.10.2025

Beyond the Curb: The Story of Haul Done Junk Removal in Modesto and the People Behind It

The Unsung Heroes of Cleanliness: Unveiling the Grit Behind Junk RemovalEver wonder what happens to that old recliner that’s seen better days, the dusty boxes overflowing from a recent move, or the mysterious clutter lurking in a forgotten corner? We often take for granted the seamless disappearance of unwanted items, but behind that magic act are the dedicated individuals who tackle the often-unseen world of junk removal. Meet Jim Riddle, a pragmatic entrepreneur whose journey took an unexpected turn from the realm of computer networking to the hands-on reality of hauling away unwanted goods. As Jim put it with a touch of humor, "I don't usually do, I think this is probably my second Zoom meeting in my lifetime, so." This down-to-earth approach is the essence of his story – a testament to recognizing a need and diving in, even if it means trading circuit boards for heavy lifting. His initial motivation wasn't just about making a buck; it was rooted in a genuine desire to improve his community. "I saw a need in my area for junk removal," Jim explained, "There wasn't a lot of people doing it at the time, and I figured it was a good way to help people, hopefully it helped with people illegally dumping in my area." This sense of purpose adds a layer of depth to the often-overlooked junk removal business, revealing the unsung heroes who contribute to our neighborhoods' cleanliness and well-being, like the team at Haul Done. From Networking Cables to Hauling Heavy Loads: Jim's Entrepreneurial PivotBefore he was navigating overflowing garages and cluttered attics, Jim Riddle was immersed in the world of computer networking. It was a stable career, but the allure of being his own boss and carving his own path proved stronger. This desire to take control led him to explore starting a business. "I decided to go into business for myself and not to basically be my own boss, and not work for anybody else," Jim recalled. His entrepreneurial vision wasn't born out of complex market analysis but from observing a tangible problem in his local area. He noticed the unsightly issue of illegal dumping and recognized an opportunity to provide a valuable service. His initial resources were modest, to say the least. "I had a suburban that I started out with," Jim shared, highlighting the humble beginnings of many successful ventures. But his commitment was anything but small. In a move that underscores his dedication, Jim made a significant sacrifice to fuel his dream. "Eventually sold my Porsche 911, my baby, to basically get like a truck," he revealed. This bold decision demonstrates the passion and willingness to invest that often characterizes those who succeed in small business success. His initial "business plan" was refreshingly straightforward, a testament to his practical nature: "I wrote down on a piece of paper, start a business. Get a website, a business license, insurance, a Google listing and start hauling junk." This no-nonsense approach offers an inspiring lesson for anyone contemplating starting a business: sometimes, the most direct path is the most effective.Navigating the Landfill of Challenges: Key Turning PointsThe journey of entrepreneurship is rarely a smooth ride, and Jim's experience in the junk removal industry is no exception. Over the years, he’s encountered his fair share of hurdles, each shaping his approach to business. Initially, operating with a Suburban and an old trailer presented logistical challenges, requiring him to gradually reinvest in more suitable equipment like a dedicated truck and even a tractor for larger jobs. However, a significant turning point was the dramatic increase in competition. "When I first started hauling junk back in 2014, when I would go to the dump, the minimum price was $5," Jim recounted. "And now the minimum price is $45." This tenfold increase in disposal costs, coupled with a surge in competitors – from a mere three to nearly 100 – forced him to adapt and find ways to maintain his competitive edge. The rise in competition, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, presented another challenge. "When COVID hit, I guess everybody was looking for work to do, and a lot of people got into the junk hauling business at that time as well," Jim observed. He also had to navigate the reputational challenges associated with unethical operators in the industry. "I know one of our competition, they got busted last year for illegally dumping in an orchard," Jim shared, underscoring the importance of ethical practices in building a sustainable small business. Finally, the seasonal nature of the business, with summers being significantly busier than winters, required careful financial management and strategic planning. These challenges weren't roadblocks but rather opportunities for Jim to refine his business model and reinforce his commitment to quality and integrity. Wisdom from the Waste Stream: Lessons Learned and Innovative PracticesThrough years of hauling and navigating the ups and downs of the junk removal business, Jim has gleaned invaluable insights that offer practical guidance for anyone in small business or considering starting a business. One key takeaway is the power of simplicity in the initial stages. His straightforward business plan proves that sometimes, a clear, concise vision is more effective than an overly complex one. As the business grew, Jim recognized the importance of reinvestment. Upgrading from a Suburban to a truck and eventually acquiring a tractor allowed him to tackle larger and more diverse jobs, demonstrating the need for adaptability and strategic investment in equipment. However, the cornerstone of Jim’s success lies in his unwavering commitment to customer service. "Well, I think the biggest part of it is being on time," Jim emphasized. "And, you know, providing a good price and sweeping up after we've cleaned up the mess or raking and, going around, even picking up the little bits of trash sometimes on the ground." His innovative "payment after 100% satisfaction" policy is a testament to his confidence in his service and his dedication to building trust. "I've had customers trying to pay me before the job, I tell them, no, I'm sorry, we don't accept payment until we're completely done, because we want to make sure that you're 100% happy," Jim explained. This focus on exceeding customer expectations has been instrumental in fostering repeat business and strong word-of-mouth referrals, crucial for small business success. Jim's decision to focus solely on junk removal rather than expanding into moving services highlights the importance of specialization and understanding the specific insurance and equipment requirements of different services. Finally, his preference for managing increased workload with longer hours rather than rapid expansion demonstrates a commitment to maintaining quality and cost-effectiveness for his customers. These lessons from the "waste stream" offer tangible benefits for aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to build a sustainable and customer-focused business.More Than Just Trash: Defining the Business's EdgeIn a competitive landscape, having a unique selling point is crucial for standing out. Jim’s junk removal business has carved its niche by focusing on several key differentiators that resonate with customers. Foremost is his deep-seated commitment to responsible disposal. Unlike less scrupulous operators, Jim prioritizes donating, reusing, or responsibly disposing of items at designated facilities. "It's very, very rewarding knowing that we're disposing of stuff responsibly," Jim shared, contrasting his approach with the issue of illegal dumping he initially sought to address. This ethical stance appeals to environmentally conscious customers and builds trust. His unwavering emphasis on customer satisfaction is another significant differentiator. The "payment after 100% satisfaction" policy isn't just a slogan; it's a core principle that ensures customers feel valued and confident in the service they receive. The meticulous attention to detail, going beyond simply hauling away junk to include sweeping and raking, further enhances the customer experience. "Always having the customer check the area where we hauled from to make sure they're 100% happy before we get paid," Jim emphasized. The longevity and reliability of his business, operating successfully since 2014, also provide a sense of security and trust for customers in a market where many fly-by-night operations exist. "We've been in business since 2014," Jim stated proudly. By consistently delivering on these unique selling points, Haul Done has built a loyal customer base and established a strong reputation in the junk removal industry. From the Trenches to the Aspiring: Advice for Future EntrepreneursHaving navigated the challenges and triumphs of building a successful junk removal business, Jim Riddle offers valuable, grounded advice for those considering starting a business. His first piece of advice is to identify a genuine need in your community, just as he did with the issue of illegal dumping. Don't overcomplicate the initial stages; Jim’s simple business plan demonstrates that a clear, basic framework can be enough to get started. However, he strongly emphasizes the paramount importance of customer service. "Well, I think the biggest part of it is being on time...providing a good price and...sweeping up after we've cleaned up our mess," Jim advised. Building trust through transparent and customer-centric practices, like the unique payment policy that Haul Done employs, is crucial for long-term small business success. Aspiring entrepreneurs in physically demanding industries like junk removal should be prepared for the hard work involved. "Oh, yeah, definitely a lot of physical labor," Jim affirmed. He also stresses the importance of understanding the specific requirements of your industry, including licenses and, crucially, adequate insurance. "You always got to be insured," Jim cautioned, highlighting a critical aspect that many short-lived businesses overlook. Be prepared for competition and the inevitable fluctuations of the market. Finally, Jim’s experience underscores that what might seem like a straightforward business on the surface requires dedication, attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to serving your customers well. His journey offers practical and relatable insights for anyone venturing into the world of entrepreneurship.The Enduring Drive: Finding Purpose in the PickupJim Riddle’s story is a compelling reminder that entrepreneurship can blossom in unexpected corners, driven not just by profit but by a genuine desire to solve problems and contribute to the community. His journey from the tech world to the gritty reality of junk removal showcases the adaptability and resourcefulness often found in successful small business owners. His unwavering dedication to ethical practices and exceptional customer service highlights the enduring power of integrity in building a sustainable and reputable business. While the work may be physically demanding, the satisfaction Jim derives from responsibly clearing unwanted items and earning the trust of his customers is palpable. "It's very, very rewarding knowing that we're disposing of stuff responsibly," he shared. His story encourages us to look beyond the surface of seemingly ordinary industries and recognize the dedication and purpose of the individuals who power them. It’s a testament to the fact that finding your niche and focusing on genuine value can lead to lasting success and a sense of fulfillment, one pickup at a time.You can learn more about Jim Riddle and Haul Done at http://www.hauldone.com/

05.10.2025

Authentic's Barbershop Novato: An Inspiring Journey from Poultry to Precision Cuts

From Poultry Plant to Hair Powerhouse: Cutting a New PathEver feel like you're stuck in a rut, just going through the motions? Danny Pacheco knows that feeling all too well. Before he was the driving force behind Authentic's Barbershop, a name buzzing around Petaluma and soon Novato, he was navigating the less-than-glamorous world of poultry processing. "I kind of hated where I was at," Danny admits. "The job just wasn't... the hours were terrible. The pay was terrible. I felt like I was just like a number there."This wasn't the future the then-young Danny envisioned. He'd even tried the traditional college route, but as he frankly puts it, "I had enough trouble just trying to get through high school. So getting through another four years of college just didn't really seem ideal for me." Sound familiar? Maybe you're at a crossroads, wondering if there's more out there. Danny's story is a powerful reminder that your current circumstances don't define your potential. It's about recognizing that feeling of being stuck and having the courage to snip away at the status quo.Finding His Edge: The Spark of a New CareerSo, how does one go from the poultry plant to wielding clippers with confidence? For Danny, the initial spark came from an unexpected source: his girlfriend at the time, who was attending cosmetology school. "I remember her coming home every day and just kind of telling me about her day and school and how excited she was for it," he recalls. "And I kind of found interest in it because I just would see how excited she was for it."Seeing her passion ignited something within him, a stark contrast to his own daily grind. Then came the pivotal suggestion: "She just kind of brought the idea, like, why don't you try cutting hair, you know, like, why don't you go to barber school?" Danny's initial reaction? "I never really thought about that. Like, I don't even know how to cut hair." But the seed had been planted. This moment highlights a key insight: sometimes, the best opportunities come from unexpected places or the encouragement of those around us. Are you open to considering paths you haven't explored before? Danny's leap of faith into barber school proves that new skills can unlock unforeseen doors. Cutting Through Obstacles: The Journey of GrowthDanny's journey wasn't a straight shot to success. It was marked by different shops, each presenting its own set of lessons and challenges. His first barbershop job in Petaluma was a crucial learning ground, where he "picked up a lot of my skills and my speed and techniques." But the desire for more – more growth, more control – eventually led him to other opportunities and ultimately to the decision to forge his own path.Opening his first shop was a leap, and even that came with its hurdles, including a sudden move that left clients wondering where he'd gone. "The move from the last shop we were at up until opening up our own was very sudden that we didn't really have enough time to kind of like let our people know like, hey, we're moving," Danny explains. This speaks to the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship. But Danny's strong clientele base, built on trust and good haircuts, followed him. This underscores the importance of nurturing those relationships.Then came the opportunity to take over a historic Petaluma barbershop, a location steeped in local history. "There's a lot of history in that shop," Danny says, his voice filled with respect. "His father opened it up back in like the 1950s." This wasn't just about acquiring space; it was about becoming part of the community's fabric. And just as Authentic's Barbershop was gaining momentum, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. "We opened up in January and then the shutdown happened like I think around March," Danny remembers. This was a major challenge, but his landlord's understanding nature highlights the value of positive relationships in navigating tough times. What obstacles are you facing, and who are the people in your network who might offer support? Sharp Business Acumen: Lessons from the ChairThrough these experiences, Danny gleaned invaluable lessons. One of the most significant was the importance of mentorship. "When I started, I didn't really have that," he reflects. "And I was kind of winging a lot of things. And, you know, I was taught a lot of bad habits." This realization fuels his commitment to guiding his own team. "A lot of the guys that I'm bringing in, I'm kind of, in a way, mentoring them, you know, just to, you know, navigate through this industry." This insight is gold for anyone looking to build a business: seek out mentors and, in turn, lift others up.As Authentic's Barbershop grew, Danny's mindset shifted from simply cutting hair to building a sustainable business. "I didn't really start thinking in terms of business or like thinking that much far ahead up until like the last... I would say like two years or so," he shares. This transition involved actively learning about business skills and seeking advice from successful individuals. "I had to, you know, educate myself a little bit on some business skills and talk to a couple people that were successful and learning from them." This proactive approach to learning and growth is crucial for any aspiring entrepreneur. Are you actively seeking knowledge and advice to elevate your business acumen?Authentic Cuts, Authentic Experience: Standing Out from the CrowdWhat makes Authentic's Barbershop stand out in a sea of salons and barbershops? For Danny, it's about catering to a specific clientele and creating a distinct brand. He recognized a gap in the market, particularly in places like Novato, for a barbershop offering a more modern, "urban" style. "In Novato, there really wasn't many barbershops that were kind of doing the sort of work that we were doing," he explains. "You know, we have like a certain type of clientele base."This targeted approach, understanding and serving a specific niche, is a powerful differentiator. Moreover, Danny emphasizes building a team that embodies the Authentics brand. By fostering a supportive environment and mentoring his barbers, he ensures a consistent and high-quality experience for his customers. This highlights the importance of not just having a unique service but also building a strong team that believes in your vision. What is your unique selling proposition, and how are you building a team that amplifies it? Shaping Success: Advice for the Aspiring EntrepreneurInspired by Danny's journey and looking to carve your own path? He offers some straightforward yet powerful advice. Firstly, find what you're truly passionate about. For Danny, even though barbering wasn't his initial plan, he discovered a genuine interest and talent for it. Secondly, don't be afraid to take the leap, even if it feels daunting. His decision to leave a stable but unfulfilling job to pursue barber school was a significant risk that ultimately paid off.He also emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships. His loyal clientele, supportive landlord, and the connections that led to new shop locations all underscore this point. Furthermore, Danny's commitment to continuous learning and adapting to the evolving business landscape is a crucial takeaway. Finally, his focus on providing value to his customers and creating opportunities for his team highlights a people-first approach to business. If you're dreaming of starting your own venture, Danny's story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a genuine desire to create something authentic. A Cut Above the Rest: The Inspiring Story of Authentic's BarbershopDanny Pacheco's journey from the poultry plant to the owner of multiple Authentic's Barbershop locations is more than just a business success story; it's an inspiring tale of finding your passion, overcoming challenges, and building something truly your own. His dedication to his craft, his team, and his community shines through every step of his entrepreneurial adventure. As he looks towards the future, with a new location in Novato on the horizon and big dreams in his sights, Danny's story serves as a powerful reminder that with hard work, a willingness to learn, and a genuine desire to help others succeed, you too can create a business that's truly a cut above the rest. Keep an eye out for Authentic's Barbershop – it's a brand built on authenticity, skill, and a whole lot of heart.

05.05.2025

From Battling Acne to Building a Skincare Empire: Susannah Nation’s Journey with  Novato’s Moonstone Skincare

From Personal Struggle to Entrepreneurial SuccessSusannah Nation’s journey into skincare wasn’t part of some master plan — it was born out of personal struggle. "I suffered from terrible cystic acne from a really young age," Susannah shared. "I went to dermatologists for years, tried antibiotics, and all sorts of topical treatments, but nothing worked."Growing up with persistent skin issues took a toll on her confidence. "It really affected how I felt about myself," she said. "It was just this chip on my shoulder that I always carried." Even into her mid-30s, she was still wrestling with scars, bumps, and dips in her skin.Then, almost by accident, everything changed. "I kind of stumbled into learning how to make soap," Susannah recalled. "Once I learned that, I realized that making lotions, cleansers, and serums wasn’t all that different." What started as a personal quest to heal her own skin transformed, after extensive education, into a business opportunity.In 2014, Susannah launched her own skincare brand, Real Kind, in Novato. The business quickly gained local traction, supported by a strong website and loyal customer base. But her best-selling product wasn’t a cleanser or moisturizer — it was an all-natural bug spray. "Of all things, my mosquito repellent became my most popular product — I sold it about 20 times more than anything else!" A New Chapter with Moonstone SkincareAfter seven successful years, life threw Susannah a curveball. In 2021, she became the primary caregiver for her disabled father in the middle of the pandemic. "It was a lot," she admitted. "But the business had run its course, and it felt like the right time to close that chapter."Then, an unexpected opportunity knocked. "About a year ago, my friend and neighbor, Janie Escamilla — the founder of Moonstone Skincare — was moving back to Texas to care for her parents. Moonstone had been around for about 15 years and had a terrific following."The timing couldn’t have been more perfect. "It was the right thing at the right time for both of us," Susannah said. "About a month ago, we finalized the sale, and now I’m the proud owner of an established, high-end skincare studio."Moonstone Skincare was already a local favorite, known for providing extraordinary customer experiences. But Susannah saw even more potential. "I’ve already doubled the staff, added new services like massage, lash lifts, and brow laminations, and I’m actively scouting for a larger space." Overcoming Challenges and Building ConfidenceFor Susannah, stepping into the role of business owner and public figure hasn’t always been easy. "My own confidence has always been a big challenge," she admitted. "Even something as simple as being on a Zoom call makes me uncomfortable."But running Moonstone has helped her grow. "I think it speaks to the quality of our team’s expertise and the services we offer that even in the last couple of months, my own skin has improved from using our advanced treatments."Her biggest lesson? Confidence comes with action. "Putting yourself out there is scary, but you have to do it anyway. When you believe in what you’re offering, it gets easier."Innovative Practices and Employee CareSusannah isn’t just focused on growing the business — she’s committed to supporting her team. "I’m so excited about starting to offer health coverage to our part-time employees," she said. "I’m not required to do it, but I believe everyone deserves healthcare."It’s a bold move for a small business, but it reflects Susannah’s values. "We’re currently an all-women team — and most of us are moms. Making sure my team feels secure and supported is really important to me."Her focus on employee care extends to building a positive work environment. "When your team feels valued, they show up differently for clients. That creates a ripple effect that benefits the whole business." Future Vision: Creating Novato’s First Full-Service SpaSusannah isn’t stopping at incremental improvements — she has big plans for Moonstone Skincare. "Right now, we have two treatment rooms. In a year, I’d love to have at least four," she said. "I want to open seven days a week and offer evening appointments for clients who work during the day."And her five-year vision? "Ideally, I’d love to create Novato’s — maybe even Marin’s — first full-service day spa. Saunas, steam rooms, cold plunges, multiple massage rooms — the whole nine yards," she said, comparing it to the upscale experience at Osmosis.It’s an ambitious goal, but Susannah is ready. "Moonstone is already a local treasure — now we’re making it even better."Advice for Aspiring EntrepreneursSusannah’s journey offers valuable lessons for others considering entrepreneurship:Follow your curiosity: "I never thought soap-making would lead me here, but it opened up a whole new world."Be willing to pivot: "Life circumstances change — don’t be afraid to adapt your business to fit where you are."Take care of your people: "Investing in your team creates a stronger, more resilient business."Step into the spotlight: "Confidence isn’t something you wake up with — you build it by showing up, even when it’s uncomfortable."Where to Find Moonstone SkincareMoonstone Skincare is located at 1129 First Street in Novato, between Vallejo and Olive. You can book appointments through their website at moonstoneskincare.com or follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates and promotions.Whether you’re looking for a relaxing facial or exploring their new massage and body waxing services, Moonstone Skincare offers an experience that goes beyond skin deep — it’s about confidence, care, and community.

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