This article was originally published in the Winter 2024 issue of ICON/REFINED. Grab your copy here. 

We’ve spent months searching the country for those who are truly making an impact—and we’ve found them. ICON/REFINED’s Top Icons of 2025 are a group of incredible entrepreneurs who are raising the bar in business, health, mindset, and relationships. The competition was tough, but these are the individuals who are leading the way, pushing boundaries, and making real change in their industries. Whether they’re innovating in their field, empowering others to live healthier lives, or inspiring better ways of thinking and connecting, these icons are paving the way for 2025. Their passion, drive, and commitment to making a difference are what set them apart as the leaders we’ll be watching for years to come.

Dr. Heather Monthie
CEO & Founder of Sorella.ai
Peoria, AZ

Dr. Heather Monthie is making waves in both tech and wellness with her fresh approach to women’s health. With a PhD in technology and a love for fitness, she founded Sorella.ai, an AI-powered platform that offers personalized wellness guidance for women at every stage of life. What started as a tool to help her recover from a hiking accident has grown into a global resource, supporting women with everything from injury recovery to menopause.

Sorella.ai combines smart technology with a personal touch, helping women feel confident and informed about their health choices. But for Heather, it’s more than just building a business—she’s on a mission to close the gender gap in wellness research and make sure women’s voices are heard in the health conversation.

Heather is also a big believer in work-life balance. She prioritizes staying active, growing personally, and building strong relationships. Beyond her company, she mentors up-and-coming talent in tech and speaks at events to encourage others to use technology for good.

Theresa Byrne
Founder & CEO of InPower®
Littleton, CO
Photography credit: Jenna Jo Photography

Theresa Byrne brings over two decades of expertise in personal development, boundaries, and mindset training. As the founder of InPower® Systems, she draws from her mastery of martial arts (holding 8 Black Belts) and her deep understanding of human behavior to help people achieve authentic empowerment and mental resilience.

Her approach blends the ancient teachings of martial arts with modern techniques for personal growth, guiding clients to move beyond self-sabotage and build lasting change. Through programs like The Love Solution and MindShift Mastery, Theresa empowers professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders to reclaim their confidence and set healthy boundaries.

Her own experience recovering from a traumatic brain injury has shaped her empathetic approach to healing and mental wellness. Theresa’s commitment to holistic well-being and balance in life allows her to practice what she teaches, making time for physical health and self-care while navigating a demanding career. She aims to make an impact on her community, helping people build resilience and lead more authentic lives.

Sheley Brien
Co-Owner of Brien Contracting
Scottsdale, AZ
Photography credit: Hannah Lorsch

With more than 20 years of experience in a variety of industries, Sheley Brien is a proven entrepreneur and a bold force in the commercial construction world. As co-owner of Brien Contracting and host of the More Action Podcast, she shares her insights on leadership, growth, and overcoming challenges, pulling from her diverse career journey.

In the male-dominated construction industry, Sheley stands out as part of a husband-and-wife leadership team running Brien Contracting, where both she and her husband serve in executive roles. She also leads with a fresh marketing approach, telling the stories behind their projects and emphasizing their community impact over traditional before-and-after photos.

For Sheley, balancing her career with family life as a competitive equestrian, wife, and mother is about being present and flexible. Her message to others is simple: take bold action, learn from your challenges, and build a lasting legacy—not just in business, but in all aspects of life. 

Chris Baggett
Founder of Fully Alive Personal Training and Health Studios
Virginia Beach, VA
Photography credit: Leah Baggett Photography

Chris Baggett is dedicated to helping people live their healthiest, happiest, and most fulfilled lives at Fully Alive Personal Training and Health Studios. With over 16 years of experience in fitness and holistic wellness, Chris offers personalized training programs that address not just physical health, but mental and emotional well-being as well.

Chris is passionate about raising the standard for fitness professionals and providing continuous education and mentorship. Outside of his business, he supports causes like the Roc Solid Foundation, helping families of kids battling cancer. A devoted family man, Chris is deeply motivated by his wife and two kids, and they are his “why” for everything he does, both at the studio and at home. For Chris, it’s all about living fully and inspiring others to do the same.

Brook VerMeer
Founder & Owner of Evolve Fitness for Women
Sioux Falls, SD
Photography credit: Lil Perspective

Brook VerMeer is the founder of Evolve Fitness for Women, a gym in Sioux Falls, SD, where women can build confidence, strength, and a sense of community. As a top-five NPC national-level bikini bodybuilding competitor, Brook knows firsthand what it takes to be disciplined and resilient, and she brings that same passion for fitness to her gym, creating a space where women can grow physically, mentally, and emotionally.

The idea for a women-only gym came from Brook’s own desire to provide a safe, welcoming place where women could focus on their personal growth without feeling judged. At Evolve Fitness, it’s about more than just workouts and nutrition—it’s about being part of a community that supports and uplifts each other.

Brook also mentors young women in the fitness industry, helping them find success in a space where they feel empowered and supported. Through her hard work and dedication, Brook has built a place where women can truly thrive. 

Laura Soulios
Co-owner of Body Tuned By
Whitchurch-Stouffville, ON, Canada
Photography credit: James Patrick

Laura Soulios is a multi-award-winning Medical Esthetician and Body Transformation Coach, whose passion for wellness comes from her own personal transformation journey. As co-owner of Body Tuned By, Laura helps women transform their bodies and skin through natural, sustainable methods like strength training and proper nutrition.

Laura’s signature 16-week Greek Goddess Experience empowers career-driven women to shed fat, build lean muscle, and achieve radiant skin—all without relying on quick fixes like excessive cardio or cosmetic surgery. She is determined to challenge the status quo in the wellness industry, especially for women over 35, promoting long-term health and beauty through holistic practices.

A busy mom and fitness model, Laura knows the importance of balancing professional ambition with family life. She offers free resources and mentorship to others in the wellness industry, inspiring women to embrace healthier, empowered lifestyles. Laura’s mission is to redefine beauty standards and help women reach their full potential, naturally.

Cody Lawyer
Owner of Show Low Cafe
Show Low, AZ
Photography credit: James Patrick 

Cody Lawyer is a mother of four and the proud owner of Show Low Cafe in Arizona. With a background in business management, fitness, and healthcare, Cody has always been willing to take risks. After losing her healthcare job during the pandemic, she made a bold decision to leave the field and take on a waiting job at a local restaurant. Three years later, she bought the business and turned it into a thriving cafe.

Balancing motherhood, entrepreneurship, and community involvement is no small feat, but Cody has mastered time management to ensure she stays focused on her priorities. Cody is deeply committed to her community, and she has donated over $20K in food to families and local charities. Through Show Low Cafe, she’s excited to continue making a positive impact.

Dr. Mona Amini
Founder of Mon’Vie Mind Wellness
Scottsdale, AZ
Photography credit: @muse_haus

Dr. Mona Amini, MD, MBA, is a board-certified psychiatrist and the founder of Mon’Vie Mind Wellness, where she is reimagining mental health care. Through her concierge model, she delivers personalized, at-home care that’s as effective as it is comfortable, ensuring clients feel seen, heard, and valued.

Dr. Amini is passionate about reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting a holistic approach that blends emotional well-being, physical health, nutrition, and meaningful connections. She’s not only a compassionate clinician but also a mentor and thought leader working to inspire others in the mental health space. Dr. Amini is committed to helping others embrace mental wellness, and she sees every challenge as an opportunity for growth and self-improvement.

Chrissy Bernal
Founder of Be a Better Brand
Tomball, TX
Instagram: @chrissybernal
Photography credit: Bryan Anderson

Chrissy Bernal is the founder of Be a Better Brand, a company dedicated to helping authors, podcasters, and entrepreneurs grow their brands with clarity, intention, and strategic direction. After facing challenges early in her career, including receiving poor advice that cost her both time and money, Chrissy took it upon herself to learn the ins and outs of branding, marketing, and public relations. She now combines her formal education with real-world experience to help clients build momentum and achieve long-term brand success.

Chrissy’s approach is built on transparency, education, and data-driven insights, empowering clients to make informed decisions and effectively communicate their stories. She is committed to ethical PR practices and provides clients with the tools and resources to become more self-sufficient in managing their brands.

Beyond her business, Chrissy is deeply involved in the special needs community, aiming to help parents of special needs children scale their small businesses to gain financial freedom and flexibility. Under her leadership, Be a Better Brand has experienced 100% year-over-year growth for the past three years. Chrissy fosters a work culture that values balance and well-being, allowing her team to thrive both personally and professionally.

Laura Lungaretti
Owner, Lungaretti Flooring Solutions
Scottsdale, AZ

Laura Lungaretti’s path into the commercial flooring world began in 1999, and from the start, she was hooked. In 2013, she took the leap and started her own company, Lungaretti Flooring Solutions. What began as a solopreneur venture has grown into a business filled with people who share her values and passion for the craft. Navigating a male-dominated industry, Laura has always stayed true to her integrity, working hard while encouraging and mentoring other women along the way. She’s a big believer that knowledge is power, and that’s something she emphasizes with everyone she works with.

Beyond her business, Laura is passionate about giving back. She and her family are involved in several local and national non-profits, and she loves mentoring young adults who are interested in the construction industry.

Mary Semenza
Owner, Grace and Clark Boutique
Mesa, AZ

Photography credit: Carlos Stephenson

Mary Semenza is the founder of Grace and Clark Boutique, an online women’s clothing store she launched last year, which offers women timeless, stylish pieces that help them feel confident and beautiful. Inclusivity is at the heart of Mary’s mission to make every woman feel beautiful and empowered in what she wears.

Mary also values balance in her life. She starts each day with self-care—praying, meditating, working out, and setting a positive mindset. She’s passionate about giving back and has partnered with a local women’s shelter to provide professional clothing for women in need. Currently, Mary is working on creating a mini boutique within the shelter’s career program, helping women select outfits for job interviews and social events.