Each month, we’re spotlighting three of our dynamic partners giving you a unique glimpse into their personal passions and perspectives. Each gets 100 words to answer a hand-selected question, giving you a deeper connection to the people driving the Valley and serving our sacred community.
What personal milestone are you most proud of?
Definitely being a first-generation college student. My family is from Eastern Kentucky, then moved to Ohio (my story long before it was a book). College was never in the cards, but I became fascinated with Georgetown University from a movie. I vividly remember sitting in an old Ford holding that envelope, assuming it was a rejection. But it wasn’t. The trajectory of my life changed with that piece of paper, and I hold that moment in my core: never let anyone else’s expectations define your possibility.
Dr. Randall Craft, CraftMD Plastic Surgery
What personal experience has shaped your approach to business?
I am a child of split parents, so I can personally relate to what many of my client's children experience. As a family law attorney, I always aim to foster a positive experience and recognize much of it hangs on the dissolution process- a responsibility I take very seriously. I immensely value keeping the family intact as much as possible so they can continue to honor their traditions, even though the parties choose to part ways.
Lindsay Benjamin, Benjamin Legal, P.C. Family Law Attorney
How do you balance your personal identity with your professional role?
My first years in the industry, I separated personal and professional as I didn’t like the perception of my industry. I felt I could just work hard, and people would refer me. Through coaching and mentorship however, I learned that if I truly believed I was great at my job, then I owed it to my network to ensure they knew that. I concluded that my personal and professional identity had to be aligned. Once that happened, my career took off.
Austin Bates, VIP Mortgage