Our Rocky Mom: Karina Birch

Inspiration is powerful. It can change the direction you choose to take in life. It can empower you to face your own challenges in ways you never imagined. And it can help mold you into the person you are meant to become.

Throughout the month of September, we’ve had many people share stories of women who have inspired them, through our contest. And wow, we are absolutely blown away by some of the responses. There are so many amazing women out there and we want to thank everyone who has shared their story.

When we think about our own inspiring woman, without a doubt, our very own Karina Birch comes to mind. She is an innovator, entrepreneur, mother, friend and kick-ass boss. As a surprise for her, there are some Rocky employees that wanted to share some of their personal stories about moments of when Karina has effortlessly inspired them:

“In my early days at Rocky I had this image of [Karina] as a kind and very busy business woman. I remember she once told me that, "every morning I snuggle my 3 kids until we have to get going." This made me think, here is a woman who does such an incredible job in running a fast growing, environmentally conscious company in ADDITION to (not instead of) being a loving mother first and foremost. I just love her realness and ability to keep the love and kindness in everything that she does (and she does a LOT!)."
– Salina, Marketing & Events

“When I was in my interview with Karina, I asked her "How are mistakes handled around here?"Her response was likely what made me even want to work here more. She said something along the lines of,"Well, we make mistakes here everyday, we're always learning." And something like, " Since we've started the company we've been making them, so its just part of the process here." It just spoke volumes to the culture of Rocky and the core value of "Giving it a Go" - really living it.”
– Sarah, Employee Experience

“One of the many things I love about my Rocky Mom is that she truly lives and breathes the 5 Core Values she's put in place for her company.”
– Kendra, Chinook

“One time Karina came into the store during a busy time, totally blowing us away by putting on an apron and helping out with the customers, stocking shelves and working the cash register.”
– Karen, TD

“Well, Karina inspires me to be a better person, as cliche as that sounds. Her coaching skills and conversations with me have always been inspirational. She teaches me so much about our culture and just truly being kindhearted. It is an honour to work for her and be a part of this company!”
– Allison, Canmore

“As we were planning our 15^th year celebration, I was leaving the office one evening and Cam and Karina were the only other ones left in the office. I decided to stop and ask Karina whether the company had grown into what they imagined. In other words, were we living up to their expectations for the company. Karina reflectively chuckled, turned to Cam and they went on to tell me that they would have been happy with two stores and never imagined the company would be were it is now. When they first purchased the company, opening another store in Banff was their only desire and biggest goal. Now with as many stores as we have and still growing, we exceeded all expectations she had. I found that so inspiring to hear how humbled they were by the success of Rocky.”
– Kelly, Wholesale

“When I met Karina at the retreat this summer, she went out of her way to get to know me. The day after our first meet, she remembered my name and went out of her way at our rafting event to have a meaningful conversation with me. She made me feel welcomed and a valued part of the team.”
– Anonymous Rockyvillian

“Karina decided she was going to take me zip-lining for my birthday despite the fact that I was terrified of heights. When it came to it I was ready to quit but Karina encouraged me to take the leap the leap of faith! It ended up being a blast and inspired me to face my fears."
- Anonymous Rockyvillian

Have a story to share about someone who inspires you? Contest closes Sunday, October 1, 2017. Find out how to enter.