Kari Smith

Personal Experience

I am a seasoned entrepreneur with extensive experience in business ownership and management. I am the co-owner of a commercial and residential excavating business, which I have successfully operated alongside my husband, Chad, for more than 15 years. For over a decade, I also owned and ran a thriving portrait photography business, capturing life’s meaningful moments with creativity and care for clients who became friends. Being responsible for the financial operations of both businesses has given me a strong understanding of financial statements while allowing me to combine my passion for customer service with my organizational skills to better serve clients.

In addition to my entrepreneurial ventures, I bring over 20 years of healthcare experience as a radiology technologist, specializing in orthopedics with a primary focus in private practice. My attention to detail and patient-centered approach have earned respect in the medical field from both doctors and patients alike.

Deeply committed to my community, I am an active leader in 4-H, serving as a local club leader for the past 10 years and currently holding the position of 4-H Council President. I am passionate about youth development and volunteer my time as a project judge at the county and state levels each summer.

My husband Chad and I have been married for 18 years and are raising two daughters, Taylor (17) and Brynlee (13), whom we homeschool. Our family is involved in the National Christian Homeschool Basketball Conference and our local basketball team in Columbus, Indiana, which keeps us on the move and closely knit. Our girls are very involved in 4-H as well, in various leadership roles in clubs and in many project areas.

Outside of my professional and volunteer work, I am an avid homesteader, finding joy in gardening, caring for farm animals, and learning new skills that support my family’s self-sufficient lifestyle. Together, my family loves exploring the outdoors—camping, hiking, and adventuring with friends and loved ones across the country.

As a small business owner myself, I understand the hard work you have cultivated into creating your business and will work by your side to help you take the next step in the journey.