by Skyler Jett I would like to introduce a powerful new book called Ariel Rising (arielrising.net). The book, published by Denice Newton, celebrates fifty-five of the most intriguing women entrepreneurs in this country. Denice invited me to nominate a couple of empowered women from Wine Country. The first person I suggested was Napa Valley Life publisher Kari Ruel, who keeps us all informed here in the Napa Valley with wonderful and empowering articles for and about locals—and the five million tourists who visit each year. The second person I nominated was Katie Hamilton Shaffer of “Feast It Forward.” Katie is a powerhouse in the food, culinary and film business—one stop shopping. She does it all! Katie is also a winemaker. Katie and her wonderful staff of humanitarians are headed for Africa soon to bless that side of the world, and I must say they’re in for a treat. Keep spreading the love, Katie, the world sure needs more of it! (nvlmag.com and feastitforward.com) I asked Kari and Katie what makes them roar. What is philanthropy and why are you passionate about it? KR: My mother, who was always willing to give a helping hand and has served on many boards, first introduced me to humanitarian work. My best memories of high school were doing mission work during Spring Break with a local youth group. That has been my foundation into adulthood to always give back to our community, and that community has no borders. KHS: I know it sounds cliché, but I’ve always felt that what goes around comes around. Yes, we all have our own families, hobbies and passions, but I feel like if we don’t each give back a little to the world that provides for us, it’s selfish. I don’t have an eloquent way of putting it. We know the universe is a much larger and more mind-blowing place than the blip we are, and it’s only fair to show appreciation and love back for enjoying our time here with those we love. Philanthropy and sharing is caring. You are a successful entrepreneur. Was this your goal or aspiration as a young girl? KR: Ha. I originally wanted to be a music teacher or go into biology. It’s interesting how life unfolds sometimes. You don’t always see your true talent yourself until someone else points it out. My college professor said I had a knack for writing and I should consider interning at the local newspaper. I listened to him and I caught the journalism bug. Telling other people’s stories is what I do best. KHS: Firstly, thank you. My favorite quote is “The road to success is always under construction” (Lily Tomlin), so I’m of the mindset that success is never truly final. To this day I’m still a bit of a nomad in regards to taking 32 www.nAPAVA L L E Y L I F E magaz ine. c o m on new things and challenging myself, and the same goes for my aspirations as a little girl. Growing up I wanted to be a professional soccer player, chef, singer or Martha Stewart insert giggle. I was equally competitive, as I was passionate. Still rings true today. Tell us about your company and what kind of global impact it has. KR: Napa Valley Life Magazine is a lifestyle magazine aimed at the people who live, work and play in the Napa Valley. It’s our goal to celebrate the beautiful bounty this Valley has to offer and showcase intriguing people that make our home unique. The magazine has readership from around the world, and for that I am proud. KHS: “Feast it Forward” is a lifestyle brand bringing together “all things food, wine and philanthropy”—three of my passions, which I believe are all infectious. As a culinary and wine media network, we are going beyond the usual plate-and-bottle video content to promote “philanthropic living.” From our back yard in the Napa Valley to across the globe, food and wine enthusiasts get a behind-the-scenes look at causes and events alongside the chefs, winemakers, actors, musicians and industry professionals inspired by them. We will be traveling to Malawi, Africa in June 2015 to film our first documentary sharing the story of our friends and selfless humanitarians, Claudia Sansone and Rob Hampton, DDS. What advice would you offer to aspiring entrepreneurs? KR: Listen more and talk less, something hard for me to do. Though I have found when I do, wonderful things begin to happen. Believe in yourself and never give up on what truly drives you. KHS: Know you can always make something out of nothing. If you fall, get up. Life is no simple task, and you’ll always get knocked down. Anyone who hasn’t fallen isn’t a true businessperson—yet. If you’re passionate about something and put your whole heart into what you believe, people will see that and follow. It’s not always roses, but your love out-smells the manure growing the flower. Ha! Author Skyler Jett is a longtime Napa Valley Life contributor. Sadly, for us, this is his last article for NVL as he and his family recently relocated to England to further his musical career in Europe. He thanks “all my dear friends in this wonderful Valley for your friendship and creativity.” Skyler also wrote an empowerment song for Ariel Rising called “We Got The Power To Change The World.” A rfireilen’sds Book features two local woman entrepreneurs
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