Mainebiz

V O L . X X X I N O. X X I I I O C T O B E R 6 , 2 0 2 5 12 4 0 U N D E R 4 0 AWA R D Influential book: "The 4-Hour Workweek," by Tim Ferriss. I first read it after college, and it opened my eyes to lifestyle design. I've revisited it many times, and in each season, different ideas guided me closer to creating a life that allows me to travel, work from anywhere and prioritize family, friends and growth. Favorite shows: I'm a big fan of podcasts and love content that gives me new per- spectives. "Hidden Brain," "Diary of a CEO," "School of Greatness" and TED Talks are favorites. I also listen to friends' podcasts, which feels like catching up when they live far away. Personal hero: I've been fortunate to have many role models who influ- e n c e d me in family, career, health, values and finances. Collectively, they've shaped the person I strive to become. Favorite quote: When my kids were younger and would say, "I'll try," my husband and I would answer, "What does Yoda say?" and they'd groan, "Do or do not, there is no try." I've never seen "Star Wars," but I love this quote because it captures my outlook on life and how powerful our mindset is in shaping outcomes. Best way to recharge: I follow Jesse Itzler's "Life Calendar" approach, plan- ning one big goal each year and six mini- adventures. It's taken me to over 40 coun- tries, watching the sunrise in the Sahara, cold plunging the fjords of Norway, hiking volcanoes across South America, running a half marathon and even logging hours toward my pilot's license. Dinner party guests: My first choice would be my grandmother. We immigrated from Poland when I was a child and I didn't get to know her deeply before she passed, but her resilience and intellect inspire me. I'd also invite my two sisters so we could share that connection together. Creating a space where people can thrive Ashleigh Briggs-Davis, 38 Owner and fractional COO and consultant, Briggs Solutions for Business, Rize Coworking & Collaboration Space Greatest achievement: Creating spaces where people, ideas, and energy can thrive. Through Rize CoWorking, Solve for B, and events like the Blitz Entrepreneurial Conference and Women's Retreats, I've built communities that spark momen- tum. These are more than just places to work or gather. They are designed to help people feel seen, supported and ready to take their next step with clarity and confidence. Passion project: Building a HubSpot Managed Services offering for independent medi- cal practices in Maine. These practices often lack the time, tools, or team to leverage tech- nology. In partnership with Dr. Ron Watson, we're developing a cost-effective, easy-to-maintain system that brings automation, CRM strat- egy, and operational support to healthcare teams so they can focus on care while we manage the backend. Lightbulb moment: Realizing I didn't need to leave Maine to have a big career or make an impact. I could build, lead, and contribute right here while helping shape the kind of Maine I want to live in. Influential book: "The Tipping Point," by Malcolm Gladwell. It changed how I think about growth, influence and how small actions create lasting change. Favorite movie or TV show: "Ted Lasso." A masterclass in empathy, leadership, and high standards. Personal hero: I don't have one single hero. I try to learn something from everyone I build real connections with and use those lessons to grow as a leader and human. Favorite quote: "She believed she could, so she did." Best way to recharge: activities: Walking my puppy Franklin, leading historical walking tours in Bangor, traveling. Maine's biggest challenge: Talent retention. We need to build systems and opportunities that make it pos- sible to grow a meaningful career without leaving the state. Dinner party guests: Eleanor Roosevelt, for her advocacy and moral clarity; Michelle Obama, for her authenticity and leadership; and Malcolm Gladwell, for his insight into storytelling and social change. A voice for young people in rural areas Alexis Brown, 29 Branch manager, community banking officer, Katahdin Trust Co. Greatest achievement: In my personal life, my greatest achievement is undoubtedly my beautiful family. Any professional will tell you that family is everything — and I can personally attest to that truth. Without the unwavering love, support, guidance, and encouragement of my family, I would not be where I am today. Professionally, I consider my greatest achievement to be the opportunity to support those around me in their own growth. Passion project: As a young professional and mother, I am deeply passionate about contributing to Maine's potential — especially in our rural communities. I currently serve as treasurer for the Greater Houlton Chamber of Commerce, secretary for Vital Pathways, and a coun- cilor for the town of Houlton. These roles allow me to focus my time and energy on community development and on creating opportunities that will help attract and retain young people in our region. Lightbulb moment: When I truly began to believe in myself — both personally and professionally. It's easy to get swept up in daily life and lose sight of how much we are really accomplishing. Taking time to reflect over the year s helped me realize just how capable I am. That moment of clarity, of recognizing "I can do this," was life changing. Influential book: "Becoming the Kynd of Person," by Kylie Bragdon Favorite movie: My favorite movie is "The Spirit of Christmas." It is a story that blends warmth, reflection, and a bit of magic — much like the holiday season itself. Personal heroes: My parents. For as long as I can remember, they have been my greatest supporters — offering encouragement through challenges and celebrat- ing every win, no matter how big or small. There is rarely a day that goes by when I do not call them. I am deeply grateful for all they have done and continue to do. Any success I have achieved is rooted in their love and guidance. Favorite quote: "There are two types of days — a good day and a better day." — Larry Carrier Best way to recharge: In my spare time, I am with my family. Whether it is an evening at the park, reading bedtime sto- ries, or biking around our neighborhood, these moments are the ones I cherish most. My free time is wholeheartedly dedicated to my loved ones. Maine's biggest challenge: I believe one of Maine's most pressing challenges is the development of our rural areas and attract- ing — and retaining — young people. Dinner party guests: First, I would invite my grandfather who passed away when I was in kindergarten. Second, I would invite my other grandfather, who is not only my best friend but also my great- est adventure partner. Lastly, I'd invite Fred Rogers. » C O N T I N U E D F RO M P R E V I O U S PA G E C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 1 4 »

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