05/01/2026
Wow Derek Calhoun I had totally forgotten about this. I still stand by every word. I’m so excited to be getting back to Women In Automotive this summer. Women In Automotive
Hi there, Derek here. Story Time: I was applying for a small business grant and the final question stated: If applicable, tell us how being a member of a historically underrepresented community (Black, Women, Latinx, etc.) may have shaped your entrepreneurial experience.
I immediately texted Claire and jokingly stated, " I'm an attractive, white male, and frankly overrepresented. I don't know how to answer this!"
Her response: "Claire realized the under representation of female executives after working in the automotive industry. She made it a mission to educate others about the power of female customers and the influence they have over our economy.
While leading training for large organizations and college students, she saw the need to support female owned small businesses in order to provide more financial freedom and opportunities. This is why we have specifically targeted partners with female leadership and why we continue to lead trainings and provide business consultations free of charge to other female owned small businesses.
This relates to our business because we understand the role of a mother in the family. She keeps the wheels from falling off the crazy train. We started our business to make their lives easier because we know they make over 90% of all vacation plans. Our goal is to provide them with a relaxing getaway, not create more work. In many cases, females are ignored by businesses selling big ticket items, especially if a male is also present during the purchasing process. This situation belittles women, hurts our economy and is long-term adding to a mental health crisis for mothers in our country.
While working in automotive as a National Vice President, she was constantly harassed and dismissed. Although she worked hard to create relationships with others in her situation the damage endured had lasting effects. She doesn't want another person to experience that situation."
I love my wife and will never find a better business partner.
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