“I feel like I’m on the cusp of something that could be really big.”
When Kera Sanchez first stepped into entrepreneurship, she didn’t come from a traditional business background. She came from a family of educators, and followed that same path herself.
But over time, she felt a pull to create something of her own.
It started small – guided journals in late 2022. Then in 2023, she launched her first micro-magazine, focused on grief and loss. Her goal was simple but powerful: to create something more approachable for people navigating difficult experiences.
“If you’re going through a major loss, being handed a big self-help book… that’s not what you need. You just need something vibrant, relatable, and something that gives you a sense of community.”
That idea became the foundation of her business.
Soon after, Kera expanded into a second publication – this time supporting female military spouse entrepreneurs navigating the challenges of career, identity, and constant change.
Though the audiences were different, the mission stayed the same: helping people feel seen, supported, and connected.
Taking the Leap into Entrepreneurship
By early 2024, Kera made a major decision – she left her full-time role as an educator to focus entirely on her business.
It was exciting… and uncertain.
“Entrepreneurship felt like such a big risk. I felt ill-prepared… it’s not something I went to school for.”
She had the ideas. She had momentum. But she wasn’t fully confident she was doing the right things – or doing them the right way.
That’s when she joined the GeekPack + Verizon Cohort.
From Uncertainty to Clarity
Inside the cohort, something clicked.
Kera realized she wasn’t starting from scratch – she had already been building many of the right foundations. She just didn’t have the language or structure to fully understand and scale them.
“There were things we were going over and I was like – yes, I am doing that. I just didn’t have the language to describe it.”
At the same time, the program helped her refine key areas of her business – especially her messaging and digital presence.
One of the biggest breakthroughs came while she was actively recruiting contributors for one of her magazine issues.
“This was the first time there was truly a clicking moment… this is how I get people to sign up – by being a little bit more clear about my message.”
With clearer communication and a more structured website, she began to see immediate shifts in engagement.
Building Confidence and Momentum
While Kera already considered herself tech-savvy, the biggest transformation wasn’t technical – it was mental.
The cohort gave her the ability to break down her ideas, organize her content, and create a smoother experience for her audience.
“It helped me get the wrinkles out… and make the journey more seamless for my customer.”
More importantly, it gave her something she hadn’t fully had before: confidence.
“It gave me this boost of confidence that I truly needed… this is the right move. I am on the right path.”
That reassurance became a turning point – especially after stepping away from the stability of a traditional career.
The Power of Community
One of the most impactful parts of the experience wasn’t just the content – it was the people.
“I think that’s the secret sauce… having that time and space to show up with other entrepreneurs who are also in the trenches.”
Through live sessions and ongoing connections, Kera built relationships with others on similar journeys. The support didn’t end when the cohort did – she continues to stay connected, collaborate, and grow alongside the community.
“It feels like there truly is a cheerleader that’s excited for our success.”
Looking Ahead
Today, Kera is fully focused on growing her publications and expanding her impact.
Her vision goes beyond digital content – she’s now exploring in-person events, especially for her grief-focused work, to create deeper, human connections.
“When you have a space to share with other people who get it… that’s where the light can come in.”
And while she’s still building as a solo founder, she’s already thinking ahead to scaling her business and bringing on a team.
Advice for Other Entrepreneurs
Kera’s biggest takeaway is simple – but powerful:
“Get involved with other people that know how to do it.”
Because for her, success wasn’t just about learning skills – it was about being surrounded by the right people, gaining clarity, and believing she could do it.
Kera’s journey is a reminder that you don’t need a traditional business background to build something meaningful.
Sometimes, all it takes is the right support, the right community, and the confidence to keep going.
