A little more about the team…
Chris Yoo, Ph.D.
Founder & CEO
Instigator-in-Chief
What got me started in all this:
When it comes to startups, the most difficult thing for me to do is to be a spectator. I realized throughout my career that I had a knack for translating "mission statements" into actionable strategies. I am happiest when I can embrace the uncertainty of new ventures and create value at the earliest stages of growth. As other entrepreneurs embark on their journeys, I get the most satisfaction knowing that their paths to success started with Yoo and Co. Accelerators.
What gets me interested:
Anything "DIY"- I am constantly surprised and delighted by the ingenuity of individuals solving their own particular problem, and spreading that knowledge to others.
Unorthodox thinking- Ridicule is just the beginning. Most entrepreneurs start this way.
Scientific advancement- Yes, I still get Science magazine and do read articles (sometimes).
What I enjoy when I'm not focused on Yoo & Co. Accelerators:
Listening to audiobooks at maximum speed- the faster, the better, in my opinion.
Understanding recently domesticated canines- check out Dmitry Belyayev's experiment with silver foxes.
Traveling with family- nothing better than suffering long trips, together.
Yvette Ferreira
COO
Queen Bee & Implementer Extraordinaire
Why I love what I do:
I was fortunate to jump start my career with diverse experiences in a variety of finance, business and sales roles with large corporations. I then was introduced to my first startup 15 years ago. I found my startup experience to be like reading the first book of a gripping series where I can’t put the first book down and I have to get the next so I keep the momentum. I just have to keep going! Yoo & Co Accelerators is my fourth startup and not only do I get to be part of one but help others grow theirs. I enjoy the excitement of creating and building new companies and the satisfaction of seeing where it goes. With every experience is an opportunity to learn.
Outside of work I am a:
Fitness Instructor and Enthusiast - I love encouraging people to push their limits
Beach lover- From sunrise to sunset, the sand, sun and waves are blissfully re-energizing.
Favorite quotes:
“It is impossible to live without failing at something unless you live so cautiously that you might as well no have lived at all, in which case you have failed by default.” – J.K. Rowling
“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” – Oscar Wilde
Olivia Schmitt-Metz
Director of Operations
Master of Operational Zen
Why I Love What I Do:
My passion for finding ways to make quality healthcare more accessible and affordable is what initially led me to YCA, and helping to grow companies with that same mission is inspiring and invigorating. I came to YCA with little experience in the world of startups but have quickly gained an appreciation for everything it takes to start a company from the ground-up. I love how every day is different, I’m constantly learning new things, and the work that I do has direct, tangible results!
Who is the Woman Behind the Photo? A Snapshot:
Lover of live music (especially country!)
Thrill seeker - I recently checking skydiving off my bucket list
Favorite Quotes
“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.”
– Mae West
“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” - Theodore Roosevelt