From Adversity to Legacy: The Entrepreneurial Journey of Dana Frank

Sep 17, 12:30 – 3:00 AM (UTC)

Seattle

The Collective Seattle, 400 Dexter Avenue North, Seattle, 98109

Join Startup Grind Seattle for an inspiring fireside chat with USA Today best-selling author and entrepreneur Dana Frank. Hear her story of resilience, legacy, and growth—navigating adversity, scaling with intention, and building businesses that last across generations.

In-person event

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About this event

We’re excited to host Dana Frank — USA Today National Best-Selling Author, award-winning entrepreneur, and nationally recognized speaker — for an inspiring fireside chat on the realities of building businesses that last.

Dana’s story is one of resilience and reinvention. As the steward of her family’s third-generation real estate business, she has navigated challenges ranging from systemic barriers like redlining to the unpredictability of economic recessions and legal battles. Through it all, she has preserved and grown a legacy that demonstrates what it takes to sustain success across decades.

This conversation will dive into two themes every founder must face:

  • Entrepreneurship Through Adversity – What does it take to persist when the system feels stacked against you? Dana will share hard-won lessons on resilience, grit, and building strength in the face of challenges.

  • Sustainability and Growth – For startups, the drive to scale is constant. But how do you balance the urgency of growth with the need to build something that lasts? Dana will bring her perspective on long-term stewardship, wealth-building, and creating businesses designed to endure across generations.

Whether you’re launching your first company or leading a growing venture, this fireside chat will equip you with insights on navigating setbacks, scaling with intention, and creating impact that lasts beyond your lifetime.

Join us for an evening of authentic storytelling, practical wisdom, and entrepreneurial inspiration with one of the most compelling voices in business today.

Event Agenda

5:30 PM – Check-In & Networking
Grab a drink, connect with fellow founders, and meet Seattle’s vibrant startup community before the program begins.

6:15 PM – Fireside Chat with Dana Frank
A candid and inspiring conversation on entrepreneurship through adversity and building sustainable growth, featuring Dana Frank — USA Today National Best-Selling Author, entrepreneur, and nationally recognized speaker.

7:00 PM – Audience Q&A
Your chance to ask Dana about resilience, legacy, and the entrepreneurial journey.

7:15 PM – Networking & Community Connections
Stick around for open networking — swap stories, share ideas, and spark collaborations.

8:00 PM – Event Close
We’ll wrap up the evening with closing remarks and a final toast to Seattle’s startup ecosystem.

Speaker

  • Dana Frank

    Author

Facilitator

  • Rob Ricciardelli

    Escalon

    Senior Business Advisor | Founder | Community Leader

When

When

Wednesday, September 17, 2025
12:30 AM – 3:00 AM (UTC)

Host

  • Robert Green

    Startup Grind

    Chapter Director

Organizers

  • Robert Green

    Startup Grind

    Chapter Director

  • Rob Ricciardellli

    Escalon

    Co-Director

  • Shawn McGaff

    OblongPixel

    Co Director

  • Eduardo Altamirano

    Assistant to the Director

  • Julie Zhu

    Mentor

  • Mike Grabham

    Esidarap inc

    Advisor

  • Rob Ricciardelli

    Chapter Director

Global sponsor

Google Cloud logo

Google Cloud

Strategic

Escalon logo

Escalon

CIBC logo

CIBC

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