Today we’d like to introduce you to Erin Young.
Hi Erin, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve always had a love for journals and planners—it’s the first section I go to in any store. What started as a personal passion slowly grew into the desire to create products that not only help me stay organized but also inspire others to find calm in their own chaos. In 2023, I took a leap of faith and enrolled in the Emerge Business Academy through Omni Circle Group. That experience gave me both the foundation and the confidence I needed to turn my ideas into reality. With the leadership and guidance of Michael Odupitan, and the encouragement and wisdom of Glenda Washington, I gained the tools to step into business ownership with clarity and purpose.
Just a few weeks after graduating from the program, I officially launched my business on Small Business Saturday, making the dream I had, come to life. Along the way, I’ve been blessed with mentors and supporters who believed in me. Ebony White, owner of Inspire and Company Candles, has been there from the very start—encouraging me, offering guidance, and serving as a mentor who truly understands the challenges and joys of being a small business owner. And in the last year, I’ve also been fortunate to receive tremendous opportunities and support from Sheila Glasper and the Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills, who continue to create spaces for entrepreneurs like myself to grow and thrive. Thanks to the unwavering support of people like Ebony, Glenda, Michael, and Sheila, I’ve been able to grow Calm Catalyst into what it is today: a business rooted in creativity, intentionality, and the belief that “Every page is an opportunity for growth.”
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Definitely not a smooth road—but every bump along the way has shaped what Calm Catalyst is today. In the beginning, one of the biggest challenges was learning to value my work and truly believe that my products are worth something. That meant becoming confident in my pricing and not shortchanging myself for the time, creativity, and effort I put into each piece.
Another lesson was realizing that not every event is for me. There are times when I’ve had amazing sales and incredible conversations with customers, and then other times where I’ve walked away without a single sale. Those experiences taught me resilience and reminded me that growth comes with both highs and lows.
There was also a learning curve with the actual production side of things—figuring out which materials I liked and didn’t like, what tools worked best, and which vendors could help streamline my process. Over time, I’ve gotten quicker and more efficient, but those early challenges were essential in helping me refine my craft and build a stronger foundation for my business.
We’ve been impressed with Calm Catalyst, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Calm Catalyst is more than a stationery brand—we are a movement built on the belief that every page is an opportunity for growth. We specialize in creating journals, planners, and workbooks that are not only beautiful but intentional. Some of our products, like It’s My Growing Season, go beyond being simple journals and function more like guided workbooks, leading users through reflective questions, affirmations, and goal-setting exercises. Others provide open, lined space for free expression, allowing individuals to pour out their hearts and thoughts. Whether curated or blank, each page offers the chance to pause, reflect, and grow.
What sets Calm Catalyst apart is our balance of creativity and purpose, combined with a commitment to accessibility and personalization. We offer customization and bulk ordering options, making it easy for individuals, groups, or organizations to create journals that fit their unique needs. From empowering titles to thoughtful content, our products are designed to serve as both practical tools and sources of inspiration. Brand-wise, we are most proud of the way Calm Catalyst has become a trusted source of encouragement and growth for our community. At its core, our mission is simple: to create meaningful tools that help people stay organized, find calm in the midst of chaos, and build a life filled with intention, clarity, and purpose.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up, I was very reserved, creative, and shy. I often found comfort in quiet spaces and creative outlets, which allowed me to express myself without having to speak loudly. At the same time, I also found strength and confidence through sports, especially basketball. Playing taught me discipline, teamwork, and perseverance—skills that have carried over into my life as a business owner. My personality, combined with my love for creativity and sports, is what ultimately inspired my business name, because I wanted it to be a reflection of who I am at my core.
The name Calm Catalyst was a deliberate choice. “Calm” represents the stillness, tranquility, and quiet presence that has always been a part of me. “Catalyst” reflects my desire to spark positive change in others without changing who I am. That balance mirrors my own journey—someone who doesn’t always need to be the loudest in the room, but whose work, encouragement, and creativity can inspire others to grow. My hope is that every journal, planner, or notebook I create carries that same energy: a safe, intentional space that feels calming while also empowering people to take steps toward their best selves.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.CalmCatalystLLC.com
- Instagram: Calm_Catalyst
