Alumni-owned business spotlight: Karen Stewart (H.S.’10)
VCU Alumni is highlighting Ram entrepreneurs listed in our alumni-owned business directory. Learn tips from Karen Stewart, Ph.D. (Ph.D.’10), owner of Juniper Skies, a handmade jewelry company. She is also a clinical psychologist.
What tools helped you the most when you started out?
My most important tools when I first started out weren’t physical tools or platforms, they were internal ones: my passion, curiosity and a relentless drive to keep learning. As a clinical psychologist (trained at VCU!) I’ve always dreamed of having both a therapy practice and a jewelry shop.
Today I have a thriving therapy practice and a growing jewelry business. In 2024, I realized I could align both parts of my professional life by creating Juniper Skies, a boutique and community space that also serves as a fundraising vehicle for mental health education and advocacy.
What started as a creative outlet has become a mission-driven brand. We now host community art events, donate a portion of profits to mental health causes and support advocacy work that is close to my heart. Along the way, I’ve also leaned heavily on tools like Canva and Shopify, but the biggest tools were mindset, purpose and a willingness to evolve.
What was the biggest challenge to maintaining your business?
My biggest challenge in business has been learning how to manage my ADHD, something I see as both a strength and a challenge. I often have far more creative concepts than any one person could possibly act on in a lifetime. That abundance of inspiration can make it hard to focus, prioritize and set realistic expectations.
At the same time, my ADHD gives me incredible energy, out-of-the-box thinking and a deep passion for my work. The key has been learning to work with my brain rather than against it. This includes embracing structure, building in flexibility where I need it and giving myself permission to do things differently.
This personal journey has made me a better therapist. I understand firsthand what it’s like to live in a world that is not always designed for the way our brains work, and that empathy shows up in every session. In fact, it has led me to focus my practice specifically on working with adults with ADHD, and I feel so grateful to support others navigating similar challenges with compassion, humor and creativity.
What advice do you have for people considering starting a business?
My advice to other business owners is to seek mentorship and build real connections with fellow entrepreneurs. One of the best things I did for my business was start a group for women entrepreneurs in my area. The collective knowledge, accountability and encouragement from that group has been a true game changer.
Surrounding yourself with people who get the highs, the doubts and the creative chaos can make the journey less lonely and a lot more fun.
Also, don’t overlook local resources. Many states have organizations that offer free training, advising and networking for small business owners. I’ve gained so much from The Catalyst Center here in Alabama. They’ve helped me build confidence in areas where I had no formal training.
Finally, build something that feels deeply meaningful to you. Let your values, your voice and your story shine through in your business. That authenticity is what connects with people. For me, creating Juniper Skies isn’t just about jewelry, it is about art advocacy and building community around mental health. One day, I hope to pay it forward and mentor other dreamers who are just getting started. We all rise higher when we help each other grow.
Categories Alumni