We reached out to some of our favorite entrepreneurs and asked them to think back and tell us about how they decided to start a business. Check out their responses below.

Tiffany O’connor | Licensed Professional Counselor

I wanted to go into business on my own to help people while having the freedom to make my own hours. As a mental health professional, I utilize various therapeutic approaches including Expressive Art, EMDR, CBT, and other evidence-based skills to support clients dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, grief, and life adjustments. Having my own practice allows me to both make a meaningful impact in people’s lives and maintain the flexibility to create a balanced schedule that works for me and my clients. Read more>>

Jen Granner | Professional Connector, Community Activator, Airbnb Enthusiast

My family and I loved travelling specifically to the desert. We wanted to eventually move to Arizona from Minnesota after our boys all graduated from High School. We thought the best way to set up our future dream was to buy property and start to build a business around having others enjoy our property until we were in a position to make the move. This dream came alive when we purchased our first property in 2019. Read more>>

Katrina Jiang | Licensed Acupuncturist & Herbalist

My vision is to create a clinic that bridges the gap between holistic and western medicine, providing a safe and nurturing atmosphere for healing. I am deeply committed to integrating a diverse range of therapies to not only prevent and treat disease but also to promote optimal health. By combining evidence-based practices with holistic approaches, my goal is to offer personalized, patient-centered care that empowers individuals on their journey to wellness. Read more>>

Khaki Wennstrom | Luxury Real Estate Advisor and Founder of Métier Maison

I created Métier Maison to redefine luxury real estate by bringing together a carefully curated network of top-producing agents who share not only a commitment to excellence but also a strong ethical foundation. Each agent in our network has been handpicked for their experience, professionalism, and deep connections within the luxury real estate market. They come from diverse brokerages, but all share the same values of integrity, trust, and a client-first approach. Read more>>

Derek Deminsky | Owner and Operator of GolfBetterTucson.com – Golf Coach and instructor

It was pretty simple for me. I chased my PASSION! So my days don’t really feel like work. If you work hard at what you love, the money will be there. I do understand why people work any jobs to support themselves and their families, but nothing feels better when you’re EXCITED to go to work! Read more>>