Are you thinking about starting a business? If so, we think you’ll enjoy reading about how these seasoned entrepreneurs thought about the question when they were in your shoes.

Yesenia Alvarez | CEO, Sábado Cleaners

I wanted to get into real estate because I know that was the sure way to build generational wealth for my family. Real estate deals can take weeks of work with the risk of no pay if it falls through. So how can I get into homes and network with investors? By starting a cleaning business! Read more>>

Galya Smith | Professional Photographer

Taking the leap: Turning the passion into a business, often requiring courage and adaptability. Read more>>

Michelle Evard-Moses | Financial Advisor & Realtor®

I wanted to start a place where people could get honest, unbiased advice without being sold to. I felt like my whole industry was so sales-y and people always had to be on edge. Read more>>

Haley Nishida | Photographer & Filmmaker

The thought process behind starting my own business was twofold: I wanted to pursue my art and craft in my own way, and the second was that I would be my own boss! This would mean that I could do the work I wanted to do and the way I wanted to do it. Read more>>

Latasha Sims | Founder, Quick Test Health Services

Starting my own business, Quick Test Health Services was driven by a combination of personal passion, professional experience, and keen observation of unmet needs in the healthcare industry. I recognized a significant demand for accessible and convenient health testing services.  Read more>>

Erwena Navato | Event Caterer & Autism Mother

The thought process and journey of starting my own business didn’t occur to me until the profound experience of becoming a mother to a child with autism. This pivotal life event reshaped my perspective, shedding light on what truly mattered most to my family. It underscored the importance of striking a balance between nurturing my family, raising my children and pursuing my passion for creating with food. Read more>>

Mike Kelley | Mindset Coach

I had the desire to start my own business for more than a decade. Over the years, I explored several ideas in various industries, from digital marketing to food pop-ups, but none of those ideas really felt aligned. I worked in marketing for about 13 years, but for many reasons, I found myself enjoying it less and less over time. Read more>>

Chanel Bevell | Fine Art Photographer

I wanted the freedom to be home with my children, yet still do what I am passionate about. I get to create beautiful images for my clients, and still raise my little ones. Read more>>

Lisa Kindle | Artist and Creative Visionary

Starting my business was a direct result of being a highly creative person trying to fit into an environment that did not fully align with my values, beliefs or goals for my life. While I worked in several corporate creative departments, I was able to lead others, forge new pathways for my team and the corporation at large, it did not “fill my cup.” Read more>>

Karin Donnelly | a mom who loves to cook, bake and help others

It’s really pretty silly how this all started. I have always loved to cook and bake. But I also have a heart for helping people. It’s a desire that is built in me. I have always done desserts and worked with chocolates for friends, fundraisers, church or school activities, etc. Read more>>

Blake Richardson | Veteran & First Responder Advocate

After getting out of the military, I had a very hard time reintegrating back into society. This is something a lot of Veterans have struggled and continue to struggle with after getting out of the service. Read more>>

Moriah Kennard | Small Business Owner- Vintage Clothing

I wanted to bring to life the joys of the WIld Wild West spirit by repurposing the vintage clothing. I love the bright colors and landscape designs of Arizona which inspires my pieces. I hope to share this through a creative outlet by offering colorful, bright and unique Western clothing. Read more>> 

Caitlin Cullipher | Creative Director & Marketing Analyst

My decision to start my own business was fueled by a deep-seated passion for serving others and making a meaningful impact. As a highly self-motivated individual, I have always been driven by the desire to create solutions that address real needs and bring people together. Read more>>