From Career Transitions to Purpose-Driven Ownership with BrightStar Care

For Karla and Kieran Leiper, franchise ownership was never just about finding a business opportunity. It was about building something meaningful together. After more than two decades of marriage, raising five children, and navigating career changes, the couple found themselves searching for a path that aligned with both their professional strengths and personal values. What they discovered in BrightStar Care was more than a franchise system, it was an opportunity to make a lasting impact in their Reno, Nevada, community while creating a business culture centered on compassion, support and quality care.

Two Distinct Careers, One Shared Mission

Before franchising, Kieran spent more than 25 years working in finance and accounting, most recently with a large tech company, before being impacted by layoffs last year. While he had explored business ownership before, the timeline accelerated. During his search, he was drawn to BrightStar Care for its focus on skilled care and its ability to help seniors remain at home, which resonated deeply after watching both of his grandparents transition to nursing homes. Kieran shared, “I wanted more than a transaction. I wanted to be part of something where I could see real impact in people’s lives.”

Karla brings a background in clinical psychology, counseling, and entrepreneurship. After stepping away from full-time work to raise their five children, she became heavily involved in volunteer leadership before eventually returning to counseling work with children and families. Together, the couple also owns several vending machine locations, and Karla runs her own counseling business. She shared that BrightStar Care immediately stood out because it aligned so naturally with their shared desire to help others and make a difference in their community. “It just made sense for us,” Karla said. “Everything we care about, family, support, and helping people, was built into what BrightStar Care does.”

Why BrightStar Care Was the Right Fit for Their Values

For both Karla and Kieran, BrightStar Care stood out for its reputation, support system, and mission-driven approach to care. Kieran was especially drawn to the company’s national presence and commitment to quality care, while Karla saw a major opportunity to make a positive impact on the Reno, Nevada, community.

Kieran noted, “The level of support and transparency from other owners really stood out. People genuinely want you to succeed.” Karla echoed that sentiment, adding, “I was surprised by how engaged and energized I felt after training. It immediately reassured me we were in the right place.”

The couple also said the franchise support exceeded their expectations from the very beginning. Together, they said the experience immediately validated that they had chosen the right brand and the right path into business ownership.

Building a Future Rooted in Care and Community Impact

As they begin building their BrightStar Care business, Kieran is excited to help bridge gaps in care throughout the Reno, Nevada, market and connect families with the support and resources they need. Karla is especially looking forward to building a strong company culture centered around compassion, teamwork, and community impact.

Together, they see BrightStar Care as an opportunity to combine their professional backgrounds, personal experiences, and passion for helping others into a business that can make a lasting difference for families in their community. “Right now, we see that need as bringing care into the home, where our loved ones can be comfortable, ” said Kieran.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What is the BrightStar Care franchise opportunity?

A: The BrightStar Care franchise opportunity allows owners to operate a locally owned home care and medical staffing business supported by a national, nurse-led care model.

Q: Do I need a healthcare background to open a BrightStar Care location?

A: No. Many BrightStar Care franchise owners come from non-medical backgrounds. The model is built so owners can lead operations, hire clinical professionals, and leverage the brand’s systems and resources.

Q: Is BrightStar Care a good opportunity for multi-unit expansion?

A: Yes. Many franchise partners pursue expansion through additional locations and regional development opportunities, depending on market availability and qualifications.