Mark Moeremans is the managing director of The Journey Venture Studios, a mission-driven organization that partners with diverse entrepreneurs to launch new healthcare startups in Phoenix. “Our goal is to provide underrepresented entrepreneurs access to tools, networks and coaching to prepare them to step into the CEO role of their startup.” Learn about Mark Moeremans…
Follow at: @markmoeremans; @journeyventurestudio
Hometown: Manchester, CT, with stops in Boston, New York and San Francisco before settling down here in Phoenix.
First job: A paper boy. I was 15 and wanted to start saving money. My poor parents had to wake up at 5 a.m. on weekends to help drive me to specific neighborhoods.
Favorite ways to spend your free time in AZ: I love to hike and take full advantage of the great outdoors around Arizona, some of my favorite spots include Bisbee, Jerome and Sonoita. I’m also a big foodie and like to try new trendy restaurants.
Your biggest accomplishment and why: I’m proudest of the courage I have built to pursue my dreams. I’ve run for office, launched a new venture studio, left private equity to take a public service role and moved across the country with no safety net to chase new opportunities.
The biggest obstacle you overcame: Growing up in a household affected by mental health, addiction and substance abuse. I did not always have the role models, networks or resources that typically help in chasing big dreams. That environment gave me grit, humility, resilience and determination.
Someone who inspires you and why: Lately, I’ve been feeling inspired by Taylor Swift. We are the same age and she works harder than anyone in her industry. She is prolific and has put out more music in the last decade than most artists will put out in a lifetime. As someone who enjoys her music but wouldn’t classify myself as a card-carrying #Swiftie – you have to respect the hustle!
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Master the basics. Build your managerial toolbox in terms of prioritization, communication and organizational ability while developing skills like modeling, presentation and design. Establish functional fluency across finance, marketing, product and sales. Then, immerse yourself in the “startup world.” Understand the language of venture capital and entrepreneurship and the rules of the road. Mentor others, plug yourself in to the entrepreneurial ecosystem and build a network.
Favorite quote: “Know thyself.” —Socrates
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: I need a lot of alone time. By the end of the day, I’m usually cooked and need to decompress and recharge. I love solo hiking, reading and pajama-lounging.
What makes someone fabulous: The most fabulous people are authentic. They are comfortable in their skin and happy to march to the beat of whatever drum suits them.