#162: Kankakee’s Entrepreneurial Spirit: A Conversation with Jesse Erickson of Pathfinder

Hello, Kankakee County and beyond! Today, I’m bringing you a story of resilience, entrepreneurship, and the power of perseverance. In this episode, we dive into the life and journey of Jesse Erickson, COO at Pathfinder, who has faced numerous challenges but never lost sight of his passion for innovation and community impact.

From Personal Struggles to Professional Growth

My guest, Jesse Erickson, openly shared his struggles with the transition from high school to college, facing personal challenges that impacted his academic performance and well-being. Despite these setbacks, Jesse’s entrepreneurial spirit, influenced by his father’s background as an engineer and entrepreneur, never wavered.

A Pivotal Encounter and a Shift in Perspective

Jesse’s life took a significant turn when he met someone at the University of Illinois who introduced him to a project aimed at repurposing an old warehouse for engineering growth opportunities and startup incubation. This encounter ignited Jesse’s passion for entrepreneurship and innovation, leading him to realize that business ownership was part of his family’s DNA.

Building a Business with Purpose

As the COO of Pathfinder, a marketing agency expanding into business services, Jesse emphasizes the importance of small businesses in the community. He focuses on the long-term impact of his endeavors, aiming to give back to the community and build a larger picture beyond immediate profit.

“I realized that I could achieve more impact through business than in the nonprofit space. It’s about leaving a lasting impact by providing sustainable resources to communities.” – Jesse Erickson

Overcoming Failure and Embracing Determination

Despite facing failure and depression over a project’s cancellation, Jesse resolved never to make excuses and to rely on his own passion and determination to move forward. He hasn’t given up on the mission of creating an incubator and co-working space in Kankakee, working on building resources to effectively fulfill the mission in the long term.

Dedication to Kankakee’s Growth

Jesse and his team at Pathfinder are dedicated to supporting businesses in the community and have a purpose in Kankakee County. Despite aspirations of doing business outside the community, they remain committed to Kankakee and its growth.

The Power of Perseverance

Jesse Erickson’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. His journey from personal struggles to professional success highlights the importance of passion, determination, and a commitment to one’s community.


Thank you for joining me on this inspiring conversation with Jesse Erickson. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe to the Kankakee Podcast and follow us on social media. And to our Patreon supporters, your contributions keep our stories alive!

Until next time, this is Jake LaMore, signing off with a renewed sense of appreciation for the resilient entrepreneurs in our community. Stay tuned for more stories from the heart of Kankakee County!

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