Every journey into entrepreneurship is an entry into the arena—a place where passion meets purpose, and challenges forge resilience. For Julie Hilton, her arena began on the basketball courts and golf courses of Saratoga, California, and evolved into a thriving entrepreneurial venture that connects and uplifts her community.
Julie’s story is one of adaptability, grit, and a willingness to pivot when life’s course demands it. From excelling as an athlete to building a legacy in business, her journey inspires those navigating transitions and striving to create something meaningful.
From the Athletic Arena to New Horizons
Julie Hilton’s foundation was laid early, shaped by her parents’ entrepreneurial spirit and her own athletic achievements in basketball and tennis. A pivotal injury in high school led her to the golf course, where her mental and physical resilience would be tested on amateur and professional levels. Competing in the LPGA honed Julie’s ability to think strategically and remain focused under pressure—skills that would later prove invaluable in her business ventures.
Her time as a professional athlete also brought lessons about balance and adaptation. Traveling with her family and managing the demands of motherhood alongside her career demonstrated her capacity to juggle competing priorities without losing sight of her goals.
Pivoting to Entrepreneurship
Julie’s transition away from professional golf marked the beginning of her entrepreneurial journey. Real estate became her first arena, where the economic challenges of the 2008 financial crisis sharpened her business instincts. She flipped homes and managed properties, laying the groundwork for her next venture.
Her most audacious leap was into the restaurant industry with the creation of Kitchen 747 and Mojo’s Cafe and Creamery in Roseville, California. Julie’s vision wasn’t just to build a business but to foster community. By engaging with residents through surveys and feedback, she transformed an 18-acre lot into a hub that reflected the heart of its community.
The COVID-19 pandemic tested her resilience like never before. Adapting to the crisis meant long hours, rapid decision-making, and leaning on her family for support. Julie’s ability to navigate this unprecedented challenge underscored her unwavering determination to succeed.
Visit Julie’s Restaurants
Experience the heart of the community through Kitchen 747 and Mojo’s Cafe and Creamery. Julie’s restaurants are more than just dining establishments—they’re places where connection and community thrive. Visit today and discover why they’ve become local favorites. Click to visit Kitchen 747. Click to visit Mojo’s Cafe and Creamery.
Lessons from Julie
Julie Hilton’s story is rich with insights for aspiring entrepreneurs:
• Adaptability: Whether on the golf course or in business, Julie’s ability to pivot with purpose was key to her success.
• Community Engagement: Understanding and serving her community’s needs became the cornerstone of her restaurant’s success.
• Resilience in Adversity: From financial crises to a global pandemic, Julie’s persistence in the face of obstacles serves as a powerful reminder that success requires staying in the arena, no matter how tough the fight.
• Passion and Vision: Julie’s journey highlights the importance of following one’s passion and maintaining belief in the vision, even when facing uncertainty.
Join the Conversation
Be inspired by Julie’s story and others like it on our podcast, Tell Us Your Story. Hear the journeys of entrepreneurs who have risen to the challenge and created meaningful impact. Click to listen to Julie’s story!
Your Turn to Step into the Arena
Julie Hilton’s narrative is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and community connection. Her story reminds us that the arena is where challenges are met head-on, and success is forged through determination and heart.
Do you have a story to share from your own arena? At Tell Us Your Story, we celebrate entrepreneurs who inspire and lead with passion. Contact us today to schedule an interview and share your journey with the world. Click to submit your name and story!
