Our Story

My name is Taylor Oudenhoven, founder of Turtle Markets.

Turtle Markets wasn't named after a marketing strategy or a business trend.

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Long before there was a company, there was a fascination with turtles.

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One of the experiences that shaped me most was participating in a student exchange program to Costa Rica while I was in high school. It was my first opportunity to experience a different part of the world, and it sparked a passion for travel, nature, and wildlife that has stayed with me ever since.

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Over the years, that passion led to backpacking trips, international travel, and countless experiences exploring some of the world's most incredible natural places. Some of my favorite memories have little to do with cities or attractions and everything to do with wildlife encounters, national parks, oceans, forests, and the moments that remind us how remarkable the natural world really is.

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Turtles have always stood out to me.

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Whether encountered in Wisconsin, Costa Rica, or somewhere halfway around the world, they became a symbol of the kinds of experiences that make travel meaningful and life memorable. They represent a connection to nature that has inspired me throughout my life.

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As a member of the Oneida Nation, I also grew up with an appreciation for stewardship, community, and the responsibility we have to think beyond ourselves and our own generation. Early on I learned that we are not simply beneficiaries of the Turtle Island we inherit, we are its caretakers. We have a responsibility to leave it better than we found it.

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Those experiences and values eventually found their way into Turtle Markets.

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The company was founded with the belief that business can create value beyond transactions. While our day-to-day work centers around providing modern convenience solutions through smart micro-markets, our broader goal is to build something that contributes positively to the communities and environments around us.

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Travel has given me some of the most meaningful experiences of my life. Wildlife has been an important part of those experiences. Unfortunately, many species and habitats around the world face increasing challenges, both globally and here at home.

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We believe future generations deserve the opportunity not only to survive, but to thrive. They deserve the chance to experience the same sense of wonder that comes from exploring a new place, encountering wildlife in its natural habitat, and developing a deeper appreciation for the world around them.

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That belief is why Turtle Markets commits a portion of its revenue to conservation and education initiatives. It is why we seek partnerships with organizations dedicated to protecting turtles and their habitats. And it is why we view business success not only through financial performance, but through the positive impact we can create along the way.

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Turtle Markets is still in the early chapters of its story. As we grow, our goal is simple: build a company that creates exceptional experiences for our customers, meaningful opportunities for our communities, and lasting value for future generations.

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The world has given me experiences I will never forget. This is one small way of helping ensure future generations have the chance to create their own.