The greatest thing I’ve learned over the time I’ve been doing my #FollowFriday series is that there is truly so much more that connects us than that divides us. And I’m not talking about the surface-level connections…I’m talking about the things that many keep to themselves out of fear, nervousness, or self-doubt.
Take today’s feature, my friend Gwenn Nolan. Gwenn is the CEO and Founder of Mother Compost.
On the surface, Gwenn and I have a lot of similarities. We’re both the mom of three kids each – both with two boys and a girl as a matter of fact. We have similar backgrounds, educational experiences, and our kids are all in school together.
But what Gwenn and I both REALLY have in common is a passion that fuels our work day in and day out.
Gwenn’s passion is her company. Mother Compost is her passion-turned-purpose, which started in 2018 after realizing that the amount of food and organic waste that was going into landfills could be redirected to composting to better serve the environment.
I’ve heard Gwenn say this many times…(paraphrasing): “I can’t imagine 30 years from now when my kids turn to me and ask why I didn’t do something to help with the environment.” So with two toddlers and a baby in tow, Gwenn set out to start her business, which continues to expand across Philadelphia’s western suburbs.
Couple things to point out about why I think Gwenn’s amazing:
1. She walked away from a successful, albeit hectic, career to follow her passion.
2. She “just” did it. And I don’t mean that to say it was easy. I’m sure it wasn’t. What I mean is that she took a leap of faith and dove into something that would make an impact and work that would fulfill her. No matter what happened, or happens in the future, that is the accomplishment she should be the most proud of, in my opinion.
And one bonus thing: Gwenn is freaking hysterical. Our oldest boys are four days apart in age and in the same class, play the same sports, and are just all around best buds, so we get to spend a lot of time together. Which means I get to enjoy her humor and warm nature quite often, which is a great gift.
Congratulations to Gwenn and Mother Compost on your 5-year anniversary. You are making a difference.
And everyone else…if you don’t already know her, meet my friend Gwenn. She’s an inspiration.
