Introducing Endeavor Bank's Business Owner Forum

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2021-10-26
Events
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Endeavor Bank’s Business Owner Forums (BOF) provide actionable education to business owners, as well as high-level networking opportunities. The BOF concept came to life in late 2021, when five of San Diego’s most accomplished business owners agreed to share their entrepreneurial origin stories. 

Endeavor Bank’s Business Owner Forums (BOF) provide actionable education to business owners, as well as high-level networking opportunities. The BOF concept came to life in late 2021, when five of San Diego’s most accomplished business owners agreed to share their entrepreneurial origin stories.  

Led by CEO Dan Yates and President Steve Sefton, the session included insights from  

  • Matt Rattner, Co-Founder of Karl Strauss and Endeavor Bank 

  • Lauren Polger, Co-Founder of Pathfinder Funds 

  • Vickie Turner, Managing Partner of Wilson Turner Kosmo 

  • Dave Erickson, Co-Founder of Erickson-Hall Construction 

  • Johan Engman, Founder of Rise & Shine Hospitality Group 

Their stories underscored a common theme: trailblazing in their industries by identifying opportunity where others saw risk. 

Several speakers reflected on key inflection points in their businesses, such as: 

The 2009 GM bankruptcy that forced Vickie’s law firm to diversify its client base and rethink operations. 

Pathfinder’s decision to focus exclusively on rental housing, leading to sharper execution and long-term stability. 

Johan’s commitment during COVID to give back — serving nearly 9,000 meals at the company’s own cost — which ultimately strengthened brand loyalty and hiring power. 

Succession planning was another major topic. While some companies are exploring ESOP models (Erickson-Hall is 49% employee-owned), others like Karl Strauss prioritize internal leadership development, and several panelists admitted they are still navigating what a transition might look like. A unifying idea: regardless of exit strategy, operating with excellence today keeps options open tomorrow. 

Optimism was the final note of the day. Whether in construction, hospitality, law, banking, or real estate, the panelists saw continued opportunity ahead. From capitalizing on underbuilt housing markets to adapting business models in a digital-first world, their insights painted a clear picture: San Diego’s business community is evolving, resilient, and well-positioned for the future. 

Endeavor Bank, formed by local business owners to serve local business owners, closed the event by reinforcing its mission to be a partner — not just a provider — to the region’s entrepreneurs. The forum ended with networking, open Q&A, and a commitment to continue these vital conversations.

Learn More About Endeavor Bank's Business Owner Forums