Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Oliver Evans. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Oliver, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?
The mission behind KINN is deeply personal: it’s about empowering entrepreneurs to build businesses that don’t just succeed but make a lasting impact on the world. This vision took shape two years ago in April 2022 when I volunteered in Ukraine, just weeks after the Russian invasion. I had recently moved from New York to LA when a friend invited me to join his NGO, a group dedicated to delivering essential supplies to Ukraine’s hardest-hit areas and supporting displaced families. Seeing firsthand what a determined team could accomplish—even amidst devastation—was nothing short of extraordinary. This experience taught me that entrepreneurship could be about so much more than profit; it could be about purpose, service, and creating positive change. That’s what KINN is here to foster.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I’m originally from the UK, and after graduating from Bournemouth University, I moved to New York. I started in banking but quickly realized it wasn’t for me, so I pivoted to the nightlife industry—a path I never expected to last as long as it did but one that made for an exciting career in my mid-twenties. Promoting clubs and producing events worldwide taught me how to create memorable experiences that bring people together in meaningful ways.
But after years of working with high-profile clients globally, I hit a point of severe burnout and depression. Despite the glamorous lifestyle and material success, I saw firsthand how unfulfilling the industry could be, especially among those chasing status, fame, and wealth. It was a valuable lesson that led me to seek more meaningful work and personal growth.
This journey, combined with culturally rich travels and humanitarian work in Ukraine, inspired me to create KINN—a impact-driven membership club and coworking space for socially conscious entrepreneurs. Since opening in July 2023, KINN has become a vibrant hub in Venice Beach, offering an inspiring workspace, a curated community of heart-led entrepreneurs, investors, and creatives, and events designed to elevate minds, hearts, and drive real change.
What truly sets KINN apart is our:
Dynamic, value-driven community of passionate changemakers,
Expert-led workshops and business masterclasses,
Strong, shared mission that unites our members toward a brighter future.
To date, we’ve welcomed over 150 members, hosted 350+ events, and featured renowned speakers like Steven Pressfield, Ryan Blair, Lavinia Errico, and Mark Hyman. With a growing community and exciting expansion plans for 2025, we’re committed to empowering a new generation of impact-driven leaders.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
During COVID, I decided to train competitively to join the Spartan Race elite circuit. Held on ski mountains across North America, these races feature 13+ mile runs with over 30 challenging obstacles.
The experience taught me how to train, fuel, and perform at an elite level, building the mental toughness that has been essential for launching KINN.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
It’s simple: we focus on building something people love and can’t live without. Because of this, we’ve barely needed to invest in marketing or advertising. Most of our clientele has come through community-based events and word of mouth.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thekinn.co
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_oliverrayevans/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliver-evans-6362b925/
- Twitter: https://x.com/oliver_evans7
Image Credits
Maria Nova