Starting a business can be terrifying. Weighing the pros and cons, the risks, and other considerations can be so overwhelming that often promising entrepreneurs stop before they even start. We asked some phenomenal entrepreneurs about their thought process behind starting their own businesses. Our hope is that by making the thought-process less intimidating we can help more folks think through whether they should take an entrepreneurial leap.

Leonard Casiple | Innovator at the Nexus of Development-Diplomacy-Defense-Global Water Supply

Global Experience: During my Army career in Special Forces, I realized that there are limitations to military action. I observed that we need more than just security. To truly thrive, communities need a strong economic engine, a fair political system, and a culture that is open to change. Read more>>

Maria Rodrigues | Co-Founder of Bella Bridal LLC/MUA

The thought process behind starting a business as a makeup artist often involves a combination of passion for makeup, creativity, skill, and a desire for independence and entrepreneurship. I feel inspired to share my talent with others, pursue my artistic vision, and create a career that allows me to express my creativity while also providing a valuable service to clients. Also, the flexibility in scheduling, the opportunity to work in various settings such as weddings, fashion shows, or film sets truly drives me to keep going. Ultimately, starting a business allowed me turn my passion for makeup into a fulfilling career that also allows me to create generational wealth and one day, pass it down to my children. Read more>>

Katrina Wright | CEO of Crystal Bar Soap

When I stumbled into entrepreneurship, I never imagined it would become my passion and livelihood. It all began with an idea my friends and I had one day drinking at home after attending a local music festival: soaps with crystals inside! ‘The ultimate cleansing experience!” Read more>>

Sky Canine | Owner and CEO

I started my own business because I recognized my transformative impact on people’s lives as a personal trainer and coach. However, I felt constrained by the limitations of the existing industry structure, which restricted my reach and ability to serve more individuals. To fulfill my maximum potential, I knew I had to create something new and innovative. So, with the help of many others, we did. Read more>>

Vanessa Lavorato | Edible Maker & Chocolatier

When I started Marigold Sweets in 2010, my thought process revolved around how to operate as legally as possible while crafting a unique, high-end product. From the get-go I knew a consistent dose for edibles delivered in discreet packaging would garner a loyal customer base. From there, I built my brand around a reliable high and superior flavor. Boxes of my live-rosin infused salted caramels dipped in dark chocolate are available at MOTA in Silver Lake and Cornerstone in Eagle Rock. Read more>>

GORON ERIC | Manager – Technical Director – Trainer ARRI School Academy Camera system at ESRA (Nice)

I decided to create my company to be responsible and in charge of interesting and rewarding projects. The driving force behind my work is pleasure, passion and being able to be surrounded by people at work who share the same values ​​as me. I created this company to be able to fully flourish in the projects for which I am responsible. Read more>>

Caroline Comenale | CEO

The thought process behind starting Pinpoint Cafe was deeply influenced by my partner/sister and I firsthand experience working in the coffee industry. Handling the day-to-day operations and seeing the impact of thoughtful management on customer satisfaction and business success ignited in us the desire to channel our learnings and passion into our own venture. The decision to start our own business was a leap of faith, grounded in a desire to apply our skills and passions in a way that could make a difference in our new community. We were motivated by the challenge of entrepreneurship and the potential to create a lasting impact through our work. Read more>>

Julie Minney | Professional Organizer and Productivity Coach

There were several factors that lead me consider the possibility of starting my own business. The first was that I needed a part-time job to help pay for the kids tuition, college and the extra expenses of a growing family. My younger children were still in school and I wanted a flexible schedule so that I could be there for them. Second, I had been out of the work force for over 25 years. Although I definitely believe staying at home to raise children is full time job, I wasn’t confident in my abilities in that arena and needed to walk through the shallow end. Looking back, this choice was harder than going to work for someone else. I’m happy that I didn’t know it at the time though. It might have deterred me from doing something a I am passionate about. Read more>>

Carly Sun | Certified Life Coach + Licensed Esthetician

I grew up in my family business in Orange County, California. My father has owned and operated a Tuxedo Rental business for the last 52 years and watching him interact with his customers from a young age, helped me know that entrepreneurship was for me. It took me until the pandemic to realize I’d need to shift from Software to my passion, coaching and skincare to make this a reality. Read more>>