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.

Tirza Jova | Founder of Milk by Mom

I worked for several years as a marketing executive in a major healthcare corporation, juggling the challenges of being a full-time working mom while breastfeeding two infant daughters. When I discovered breast milk freeze drying as an alternative to frozen breast milk storage and transportation, I was amazed by the huge leap in convenience it gave me while preserving all of my milk’s nutritional benefits. Every drop of breast milk is precious. Read more>>

Tanya Thompson | Woodworker

Initially, I started woodworking solely for personal home projects. When I bought my home, I found that I was limited in what was available to me as far as designs go. And having someone do something custom, was not in my budget (hey…I had just bought a house). So I set out on Pinterest and came up with my own design. Once I successfully completed that project, I started to find other areas where I could benefit from the whole DIY phase. This led to making an entryway table. Read more>>

Ashley Walsh | Owner + Principal Designer

I went to school for textile design and always dreamt of starting a business where I sold handmade home goods. However, it always felt like a distant dream that wouldn’t come to be anytime soon. I met my now business partner, Maddy, during my first year out of college and we became friends instantly. We’re both independent, strong-willed, and passionate about design so it felt natural when we spoke about one day starting something together. In 2021 we each experienced specific circumstances with our jobs that felt like the universe was deciding for us; so we took the jump! Read more>>

Gene Natali | CEO & Founder

At Troutwood, we see an opportunity to empower individuals with the financial “know-how” historically reserved for individuals and families with a “minimum net worth,” or level of wealth. Troutwood represents the intersection of financial planning and technical aptitude that will fuel a decade of unprecedented growth in the financial advisory industry. As we sit today, there are more non-investors, than investors in the United States. This pendulum has already begun to swing, and the pillars for long-term financial success will be knowledge, planning and confidence. Read more>>

Angel Jenneford | Registered Nurse Injector and Owner of Adonai Aesthetics

Starting my own business has been something I’ve wanted to do for many years. However, I wasn’t quite sure exactly what I wanted to do. As I began to pray annd seek guidance about this I was given clarity. From that moment I knew aesthetic nursing was going to be my journey. The passion I immediately had to learn about aesthetic treatments and skincare was mind blowing. I signed up for my first Botox training class, and from there I knew “this is it”. It was never about money but more about finding my purpose as a registered nurse. Read more>>

Shelly O’donin | Chef for Dogs

I adopted my first puppy in 1997. A sickly 12 ounce chihuahua baby named Dini. I had a wonderful veterinarian who could sense my “first time puppy mom” anxious energy. His advice to me was, if possible, home cook for my tiny girl. He then handed over a tattered file folder filled with handwritten notecards containing wonderfully nutritious recipes and detailed instructions regarding canine nutrition and how to prepare balanced, healthy meals and treats. I never looked back. I started Puppy Belly Deli when I moved to Paradise Valley in 2011 because I wanted to share my passion for canine nutrition with others who might not have the time, patience or information needed to commit to home cooking on a regular basis. Read more>>

Gabriella Chiarizia | Licensed Esthetician

I started my business Skin Deep Beauty to provide the highest standard of skincare treatments and personalized skincare routines to help others look and feel their best. With a personal journey of overcoming skin struggles, I aim to educate and empower my clients on skincare. My mission is to blend together relaxation and results in perfect harmony. I wanted my clients to experience tranquility, peace, and love in every service I offer. Read more>>