Local StoriesSeptember 3, 2025

Rising Stars: Meet Laurie Luevano of Kyle

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Laurie Luevano.

Laurie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
From Corporate to Entrepreneur: A Dual Journey

I’ve always worked in corporate America, and for over 11 years, I’ve been at Google. During my time there, I’ve moved between different cities and held a variety of roles across many products, cultivating a diverse set of skills. I’ve gained experience in everything from go-to-market strategy and product commercialization to project management, sales, data analysis, growing partnerships, and most importantly how to lead authentically, and with empathy.

I recently completed a second master’s degree from Harvard University, focusing on the psychology of people in the workforce. All of these dynamic skills are now setting me up for my first entrepreneurial endeavor. It’s a little scary and exciting, which friends tell me is how you know you’re doing BIG things!

A New Venture with Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids

My journey into entrepreneurship began when I started researching rapidly growing franchises. I discovered Sharkey’s and, after speaking with founder Scott Sharkey and others on the team. I fell in love with the brand, its vision, and our aligned values. Being a mom, and seeing a smile on my son’s face is what I strive for each and every day – he is my inspiration for everything I do. I want to be able to spark that same joy and smile for every kid that walks thru the door. It was an easy choice to join the team to open three stores in the Kyle, Buda, and Dripping Springs areas over the next few years in the hill country territory. We’re opening our first location in Kyle this coming October – stay tuned and follow our social media for grand opening details!

Embracing the Challenge

Getting the first store up and running hasn’t been without its challenges. There’s a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes to get a business launched, even before it opens its doors. Fortunately, all the skills I’ve cultivated have been invaluable. I love a challenge and I try to find a learning opportunity in every obstacle, because this is what keeps me growing. I believe a business should always be run with white-glove service, putting the customer first. Creating a great first impression is priceless, you want customers to go tell their friends about the amazing experience they just had. Word of mouth referrals are the most genuine, and it’s the gift that keeps giving.

I’m grateful for the endless support of my friends, family, and community. I couldn’t have taken this step if it wasn’t for them, especially husband who is always cheering me on.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My journey to open our first store has been a master class in problem-solving. A major early hurdle was having to fire our first general contractor. We were 12 weeks in with no permit, and I realized his promises weren’t matching his actions. It was a tough but necessary call. This experience taught me the importance of being a proactive client: always do your due diligence and verify what you’re being told. You have to trust your gut and make difficult decisions for the good of the project.

Finding the perfect location was another test of flexibility. My initial hope was to open our first store in Dripping Springs, close to home. But after a long search, it became clear we needed to pivot. I learned to keep an open mind, and that adaptability paid off when we discovered the ideal spot in the ever-expanding Kyle market on Benner Road.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’ve spent the past several years at the forefront of technology as the Head of Global Partner Incentives Strategy for Google Cloud. In this role, I manage a significant budget and portfolio across our product lines. Every day is a new adventure in problem-solving and ideation, as I work to evolve my skills and embrace the challenges of the AI space. I’m often described as a “Googley” person, someone who loves to collaborate and uplift others. I’m an eternal optimist, anlways looking for a silver lining, and a firm believer that change presents an opportunity for growth. I’m proud of my ability to lead with empathy and curiosity, and to always stay true to my values. I’m at my best when I’m faced with a new challenge that stimulates my intellectual curiosity.

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
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My top priorities are living by my core values and maintaining a strong work-life balance. This allows me to always put my family first. Being present for my almost three-year-old’s milestones, having family dinners, and hearing about his day are all non-negotiable for me. I’ve learned that with effort, it is entirely possible to be both a successful professional and a dedicated mother.

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