The 2026 40 Under 40s will be announced this week! Watch for more info and a registration link to our awards event May 28! Meantime, meet one of our 2025 40 Under 40s:
Amanda Kroener, co-founder of Carbliss
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and who gave it to you?
Wayne Gretzky once said, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Fear is the biggest holdback for people to become more successful personally or professionally. I have many fears. Fears of financial security (mostly around originally deciding to start our own business and eventually leaving our careers to be self-employed), fear of public speaking, and fear of heights. I have found the more I practice these areas of my life, the easier they become and the more fulfilled I feel.
Can you share one of the most significant challenges you’ve faced in your career and how you overcame it?
Neither my husband or I had experience in the highly competitive and heavily regulated beverage alcohol industry. We had to learn quickly about everything from product development to distribution, and we faced a steep learning curve. We had limited resources, and yet we needed to figure out how to stand out in a crowded market, create a product that people would love, and manage a business at the same time. We also had to secure partnerships with distributors, retailers, and suppliers, all while maintaining our focus on profitability and growth. To overcome these challenges, we leaned heavily on adaptability, resilience, and collaboration.
What is one cause or issue that you’re especially passionate about, and why?
One cause I’m especially passionate about is empowering women in leadership and entrepreneurship, particularly in male-dominated industries. Throughout my career, I’ve navigated fields like automotive, energy efficiency, and food & beverage industries that have historically been dominated by men. As a woman, I’ve seen firsthand how essential it is to create spaces where women can thrive, be mentored, and take on leadership roles.
What’s a failure or setback you experienced that ended up being a stepping stone to something greater?
Multiple times in my career, I took a role that was beneath my capabilities, not because I lacked confidence, but because I saw the value of getting my foot in the door and learning the business from the ground up. While that may have appeared to be a setback, those were the stepping stones to my growth and contribution to each organization.
What legacy do you hope to leave, both in your career and in your community?
In my career, I want to be known as a leader who not only achieved business success, but also created a lasting impact by inspiring others to reach their full potential. In my community, my hope is to leave a legacy of empowerment, especially for women and young leaders.
