In this episode of The Open Source Entrepreneur, we sit down with Whitney Kilmer, founder of The Dread Whit, to talk about how a personal hair struggle turned into a global business. After a terrible experience with dreadlock extensions—itchy, heavy, and damaging—Whitney set out to create something better.

What started as a DIY solution has grown into an international brand. Whitney now designs and hand-makes lightweight, natural-looking dreadlock extensions that are shipped around the world. She’s also an educator, teaching hairstylists how to offer this transformative look with care and professionalism.

From trial and error to building a trusted brand, Whitney shares her journey of grit, innovation, and creating a niche in the beauty industry.

🎧 We cover:

• How a bad product inspired a business
• The process of creating lightweight, custom dreadlocks
• Scaling from side hustle to global shipping
• Educating others and building a loyal client base
• What it takes to turn pain into purpose

👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from real entrepreneurs building amazing things from scratch.

📍Follow Whitney:
Instagram: @dreaded.whit

#HairExtensions #FemaleEntrepreneur #BeautyBusiness #Dreadlocks #OpenSourceEntrepreneur

In this powerful episode of The Open Source Entrepreneur, we sit down with Jimmy Noorlander, licensed therapist and owner of Deseret Counseling, to honor Mental Health Awareness Month and dive deep into the conversation that too many people avoid—mental health.

Jimmy shares real-world insights from his experience as a therapist, tackling topics like anxiety, depression, burnout, and the importance of emotional resilience in today’s world. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a parent, a student, or just feeling the weight of life—this episode is here to remind you that you are not alone and that help is always within reach.

This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a movement to break the stigma, raise awareness, and promote healing.

🎧 We talk:

• Why Mental Health Awareness Month is more important than ever
• Common mental health struggles and how to recognize them
• The truth about therapy (it’s not just for crisis moments)
• How to support loved ones struggling with mental health
• Small habits that make a big difference in mental well-being

👉 If this episode helps you, please like, comment, and subscribe to support conversations that matter.

📍Connect with Jimmy Noorlander & Deseret Counseling:
Instagram: @deseretcounseling
Website: https://deseretcounseling.com/

#MentalHealthAwareness #TherapyIsCool #DeseretCounseling #BreakTheStigma #MentalHealthMatters

In this heartfelt episode of The Open Source Entrepreneur, we sit down with Cortney Marchant—author, advocate, and passionate storyteller—whose children's book Kyle’s Magical Camping Adventure is sparking powerful conversations about disability, inclusion, and accessibility.

Inspired by her husband Kyle, who uses a wheelchair, Cortney's book follows a young boy navigating a camping trip where he discovers that many things others take for granted are far more challenging for someone with mobility limitations. Through her writing, Cortney is raising awareness about ADA accessibility, breaking down barriers, and helping families, educators, and communities build more empathy and understanding.

Today, Cortney is using her voice and platform to advocate for change—and encouraging others to turn their personal stories into a force for good. Whether you're a parent, educator, author, or aspiring entrepreneur with a mission, this episode will leave you inspired.

🎧 We talk:

• The inspiration behind Kyle’s Magical Camping Adventure
• What most people don’t realize about accessibility
• The process of writing and self-publishing a children’s book
• How to turn your passion into purpose and advocacy

👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more authentic conversations with entrepreneurs and creators who are making a difference.

📍Follow Cortney Marchant & Order the Book:
Instagram: [insert handle]
Order Kyle’s Magical Camping Adventure: [insert link]
Website: [insert if available]

#DisabilityAwareness #ChildrensBooks #ADAAccessibility #InclusionMatters #PurposeDrivenEntrepreneur