Many books on startups and business talk about how there are right and wrong reasons for starting a business. So, we asked a handful of successful founders about their reasons and the thought-process behind starting their business.

Jeannette Musset

I began Healthcierge Medical because I noticed a gap in the healthcare system. As a Naturopathic doctor, I observed that patients were not receiving the personalized care and attention they needed. In typical doctor’s offices, appointments are rushed and important aspects of a person’s health, such as sleep, diet, and social well-being, are often overlooked. This lack of quality care motivated me to establish a business that offers personalized, patient-centered plans. Read more>>

Sue Rigler

I am an ASU alum with a degree in Microbiology and opened Hundred Mile Brewing Co. (HMBC) in 2022. My journey evolved from an “ah-ha” moment in 2014 when I spotted a microscope on a lab bench in a craft brewery. My passion for science, community and quality beer collided at that moment. Read more>>

Malka Rodal

I always knew that I wanted to work out of my home. I’m the type of person that thrives when I’m busy. I was 22, married and pregnant with my first daughter. I was working an office job. I was on the hunt to try to find where my passions lay. I spent time on university websites looking at all the different degrees. Read more>>

Sabrina Hargrave | Wunderbar Wellness, Owner and Operating Licensed Massaged Therapist/Energy Worker

Since as far back as I can remember, I’ve been motivated by living a life that promotes freedom, joy, happiness, balance, and helping others. I’ve had many opportunities to work for other businesses and to create my own ventures, finding joy in both experiences. However, I find that freedom, flexibility, and maintaining a healthy, balanced life come more easily with my entrepreneurial endeavors. Read more>>

Jarrod Riddle | Historian, owner operator of Spirit of Arizona Tours

Well, I’ve always loved history. I love visiting historic locations, I love old fashioned architecture and I love reading about the characters that helped shaped this country. Out of college I had a pretty decent entry level job but at the end of the day it wasn’t what I was passionate about. So I thought, “well, what do I love?” History! Ok, “well how can I turn that into a job?” So I thought about becoming a history teacher. Read more>>

Aimee Reese | Artist/Artistic Director

It wasn’t exactly on purpose- I just started doing these events that gained a lot of success pretty quickly, and it seemed like it was something the community needed!
I’ve also always wanted to be my own boss, and the idea of having my own business has always been compelling, I just didn’t know how to start. When ArtNight presented itself it all just kinda aligned. Read more>>

Jason Brody | Restaurant Owner

Starting my own business was a culmination of my lifelong journey in the hospitality industry and a deep-rooted passion for creating a community hub. Growing up in Arizona, I began working at Nick’s Italian when I was just 15, which instilled in me a love for the hospitality industry. Read more>>

Jeff Ockinga | Tattoo shop owner and artist

I used to work for a tattoo shop in mesa. The owner told me he was closing the location that I was at and the other location was even a further drive away from my house and the clientele I had . The owner told me I am. More then welcome to come to work at the new shop but he suggested that I open my own shop in Phoenix closer to my home and clients. Read more>>