What if the world didn’t see problems as kryptonite but as puzzle pieces waiting to be clicked into place? It would definitely be on a path to progress at unprecedented speeds. Proof that this mindset really works can be seen in the achievements of entrepreneurs.
These architects of change are the ones who see a gap in the market or a need in society, and instead of shrugging, they grab their metaphorical tools and start building solutions.
Thanks to this attitude, we’re seeing the world progress like previous generations couldn’t have imagined. Consequently, it won’t be wrong to say that entrepreneurs are the disruptors, the dreamers, the doers who believe a better tomorrow can be built with innovation, the right mindset, and smart work.
That said, a subset of these entrepreneurs are achieving remarkable feats in their industries. They are truly making a difference. They’re transforming whole industries, championing social good, and tackling problems with never-before-seen perspectives.
Today, we’re introducing you to 5 such trailblazers. Prepare to be inspired by the audacious ideas and relentless drive of these modern-day pioneers.
Rachelle Rutherford
What happens when you fuse passion and drive with unparalleled business acumen? You get a strategic and compassionate leader who indomitably acts to make the world around her a better place. Consider Rachelle Rutherford, a visionary entrepreneur and the CEO of Kids on the Move (KOTM). She is not only the driving force behind this multi-million-dollar non-profit organization, but is also a Forbes Books author, a business strategist, speaker, co-host of the Purpose Powered Podcast, and Mrs. World America and Mrs. World America Fitness 2023-24. With two decades of executive experience, multiple degrees, including an MBA, and a track record of successfully navigating high-stakes negotiations, Rachelle leads not only with confidence, but humility. Consistently bringing out the best in everyone she works with. While her expertise and demonstrated history of success would open doors for her in any chosen industry, Rachelle’s passion drives her to advocacy work with vulnerable children and families.
For over ten years, she’s volunteered on the Board of Directors for Prevent Child Abuse in Utah. Since becoming the CEO of KOTM in 2021, Rachelle has been able to utilize her business acumen in order to serve and empower the families they work with, making a difference in their lives every day.
In her book, Chasing The Impossible, set to be released on October 1, 2024, she exposes the raw, unfiltered realities of life while raising a child with developmental disabilities or delays. Rachelle issues a call to every reader to be a part of creating a more inclusive and supportive community in the same way she has – by using their unique gifts. She also outlines KOTM’s strategic campaign for elevating comprehensive care for these families.
As parents of six children, Rachelle and her husband know that every family deserves a supportive community. With KOTM, she’s not just offering resources; she’s handing out lifelines, ensuring no family has to journey on this challenging path alone.
Guillermo Cornejo
From motorcycle crash survivor to thriving entrepreneur, Guillermo Cornejo‘s journey is one of tenacity and inspiration. This visionary mind behind Riders Share fused his love for motorcycling with razor-sharp business acumen honed through auto finance experience and an MBA from UCLA. The result? A game-changing platform for motorbike owners and renters that propels Riders Share to the top of the industry through Cornejo’s relentless growth and analytical prowess.
A two-wheel trailblazer in the industry, Cornejo didn’t just dream it up – he hustled hard, growing rentals to nearly $2 million at Riders Share while simultaneously crushing his MBA. Talk about multitasking like a boss!
But Cornejo’s no ordinary moto-geek with a bright idea; his mission is bright – to make powersports accessible to the masses. With over 20 million licensed riders in the US without their own bikes, Riders Share is the game-changer they’ve been waiting for. Through their innovative peer-to-peer model, owners can turn underutilized rides into money-makers while enthusiasts explore a massive selection without committing to ownership. Plus, comprehensive insurance coverage for every rental—because safety first! The company has raised over $5 million to date to scale.
Cornejo’s ambitions stretch further, with plans to expand Riders Share internationally, making it a one-stop powersports rental hub. But it’s not just about thrills; Riders Share is an eco-friendly alternative to ownership, reducing our carbon footprint one shared ride at a time. Win-win!
With his entrepreneurial spirit, sharp business acumen, and genuine passion for opening up the power sports world, Guillermo Cornejo is undoubtedly a top entrepreneur to watch.
Brendan Quinlan
Not many people can say they have revamped an entire industry, but Brendan Quinlan has flipped the script with Big Dawg Party Rentals.
As the CEO and co-founder, Brendan channeled his Brooklyn hustle and personal frustration into building a major force in the event rental industry. The idea sparked from his own engagement party, where poor service pushed him to start a business that puts exceptional customer experience and high-quality gear first.
Since starting in 2013, Big Dawg Party Rentals has handled over 25,000 shindigs, from large corporate functions to major sports events. Under Brendan’s guidance, the company has established a strong reputation for quality. His innovative vision has attracted a high-profile clientele, including celebrities, industry leaders, and Fortune 500 companies.
The industry acknowledges Brendan’s contributions. He was recently awarded the “12 to Watch Under 40” award from Rental Management.
Brendan has come a long way—from a frustrated customer to a top figure in event rentals—but his journey does not stop here. Brendan aims to establish Big Dawg Party Rentals as an all-in-one national enterprise. His strategic vision is based on a vertical integration strategy; the plan to acquire a national linen company is already in motion.
With big things on the horizon, Brendan and Big Dawg Party Rentals continue to set the stage for unforgettable events, one rental at a time.
Darren Tobin
Trial attorney Darren Tobin has set records for some of the largest verdicts and settlements in Georgia history. His success in the courtroom has earned him recognition throughout the country. Year after year he sets records.
In 2022, Tobin won a monumental $100 million federal jury verdict – one of the largest civil rights violation awards ever won at trial in United States history. He also set the record that year by securing the largest settlement amount ever in a rural Georgia county when he settled a case for $5 million a week before trial.
Tobin’s stream of groundbreaking wins continued in 2023 with a $22.7 million wrongful death settlement. Despite facing long odds after other firms rejected the disputed liability case, his steadfast determination and tireless work proved the police officers wrong and he won one of the largest wrongful death settlements in the last decade.
Most recently in 2024, Tobin shattered another record winning a $1.6 million jury verdict. This marked the largest sum ever awarded in Georgia for a bicycle accident case.
As the founder of Tobin Injury Law, Tobin has built a powerhouse trial firm focused exclusively on representing severely injured plaintiffs nationwide. With over 300 five-star reviews, the firm’s courtroom mastery and negotiation prowess provide an unparalleled advantage.
Beyond the verdicts, Tobin is driven by a deeper mission – advocating for automotive safety reforms to protect all. Embodying social responsibility, Tobin and his firm donate a portion of the firm’s profits to charitable causes worldwide every year.
A leading authority on the practice of serious injury law, Darren Tobin is raising the bar for personal injury representation. His legacy: exceptional advocacy and record-setting results for clients.
Anna Krolikowska
Divorces don’t have to be the end of the world; they can be compassionate, respectful, and thoughtful, too. Anna Krolikowska, a Divorce Attorney, Mediator, and Collaborative Divorce Professional, aspires to achieve these thoughtful and compassionate divorces for her clients.
She started Anna K Law to educate couples on all aspects of divorce so that families are able to make well-informed decisions during one of life’s most challenging times. When she prepares her cases, she customizes the divorce process according to her clients’ particular needs and circumstances. This is especially important because all families are different, and have different goals for their lives after the divorce, Anna helps her clients understand their options and prioritizes their goals to achieve a better divorce outcome and create the life they want post-divorce for themselves and their family.
Anna’s 20-year journey in the legal profession has been nothing short of stellar, marked by numerous prestigious awards. Anna has been recognized multiple times as one of the Best Lawyers in America by US New Report, one of Chicago’s Top 50 Women Lawyers and one of 40 Under 40 by the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin. She has also earned the distinguished titles of SuperLawyer and Leading Lawyer numerous times. Anna is also a Past President of the Illinois State Bar Association and is only the 5th woman to have been elected president of the ISBA in the organization’s 148 years. She currently serves as Chair of the Board of ISBA Mutual Insurance Company, the American Bar Association IL State Delegate and a member of the Executive Council of the National Conference of Bar Presidents, and as a Commissioner of the ABA’s Commission of Women in the Profession. Her achievements show her dedication and leadership in the legal field.
Beyond the courtroom, Anna passionately advocates for early education on divorce options, believing that empowering clients with knowledge can steer them towards paths of mediation or collaborative divorce—where disputes are resolved with dignity and mutual respect.
Looking forward, Anna’s aspirations know no bounds. She aims to expand her outreach, extending her compassionate counsel to more families in need. Her vision is clear: to continue providing compassionate and thoughtful legal guidance without compromising the positive, supportive experience that defines Anna K Law.
