After nearly two decades at Harley-Davidson, DeSario Turner made a bold career pivot that surprised many. Known for her leadership role in ecommerce operations across North America, Turner was well-established in the corporate world. Yet, despite her steady paycheck and career progression, she felt a deeper calling to pursue personal freedom and build something meaningful in her hometown of Racine, Wisconsin. In 2023, Turner opened a Smoothie King franchise, determined to create a business that reflected her passion for health, community, and generational growth.
DeSario Turner’s interest in entrepreneurship wasn’t new. During her time at Harley-Davidson, she had explored side ventures, including rental properties and vending machines, all part of a broader vision for financial independence. When she discovered Smoothie King, the business model, focused on health, community impact, and scalability, instantly resonated. She began the franchise application process in 2021 while still working full-time, balancing both commitments for nearly two years before launching her store.
A Record-Breaking Debut in a New Market
DeSario Turner’s Smoothie King location in Racine didn’t just open, it exploded onto the scene. In its first week, the store earned over $38,000 in sales, setting a new franchise record. This rapid success came despite the brand being relatively unknown in the area. The community quickly embraced the healthy offerings, and Turner’s store became a local favorite for those seeking nutritious options.
Beyond strong sales, DeSario Turner focused on building genuine connections with the community. She partnered with schools, gyms, and local youth programs, often donating smoothies for events or supporting fundraisers. Her emphasis on giving back reinforced her store’s presence as more than just a business it became a community hub. Katherine Meariman, Smoothie King’s VP of training and education, praised Turner’s authenticity, noting that her belief in the brand and strategic choice of location were key drivers of her success.
By the end of the first year, the store had surpassed $1 million in sales, ranking among the top 50 of more than 1,200 Smoothie King locations nationwide.
Building a Legacy Through Family and Expansion
DeSario Turner’s vision extends well beyond one store. Her 19-year-old daughter now plays an active leadership role in the business, learning daily operations and the fundamentals of entrepreneurship. Turner is not just mentoring her daughter for management, she’s preparing her to take over ownership in the future. This, she says, is about creating generational wealth and instilling values of independence and responsibility.
With plans already underway for a second location, Turner’s journey is only gaining momentum. She hopes her story inspires others who dream of leaving the corporate world to pursue business ownership. Her message is clear: “Invest that time and energy into yourself and build something for you and your family,” she says. “Go for it.”
From a high-ranking corporate job to a million-dollar smoothie empire, DeSario Turner’s story is a powerful example of what belief, preparation, and community connection can achieve.
