The startup path is not for the faint of heart, says serial entrepreneur Jordan Allen.

“Startup founders are wired to take risks, to put themselves out there, and be willing to look foolish in the pursuit of building pyramids,” he says. “But if you’re energized by uncertainty, learning fast, and building something from nothing, it’s ridiculously rewarding.”

Allen, a 2016 Spokane Journal of Business Rising Star, is the co-founder and CEO of Spokane Valley-based BuyWander Inc., a return-retail business that has grown to five warehouse locations nationwide since opening in 2024. Those include its flagship location in Spokane Valley, a 40,000-square-foot space located at 12606 E. Sprague, followed by satellite locations in Kent, Washington; Portland, Oregon; West Valley City, Utah; and earlier this month, a new location in Sacramento, California.

As previously reported by the Journal, Allen aims to open between 200 and 300 stores across the U.S. over the next five years. BuyWander projects annual revenue of $70 million by August.  

Education: Bachelor's degree in business administration, Portland State University.

Who do you turn to for professional inspiration or mentorship? I’ve been fortunate to have several mentors I regularly turn to. My go-to is my wife, Nancy — she’s as savvy and as tough as they come. My business partner, Brock Kowalchuk, is an absolute force when it comes to finance and negotiations. And our board members, Jeff Thomas and Greg Greeley, are walking encyclopedias on all things business.

What’s the best career advice you’ve received? Get back on the horse — and don’t run out of money.

Do you have any hobbies, and how important are they for your performance at work, in your opinion? It feels like my hobbies are mostly going to my kids' sporting events … watching them push themselves makes me want to push harder.