Readers often email us asking us for advice about new businesses they are thinking about starting and we often find that many of them don’t have a framework for thinking about a more fundamental question: why should or shouldn’t you start a business?

Below, you’ll find how successful entrepreneurs from across the city thought about this very question when they were considering whether to start their businesses.

Jacqueline Scoggins | Owner & Funeral Planning Consultant

I wanted to create a business that empowers families with the knowledge they need before engaging with funeral service providers. By providing this understanding, I aim to help families make informed, thoughtful decisions and avoid emotional overspending during a difficult time. If the need is to plan in advance or now. My service is dedicated to guiding families through the funeral planning process with clarity and wisdom. Read more>>

Jessica Payne | Performer, Creator, & On Camera Coach

I am a multi-hyphenate creator like many of my favorite artists. If I am creating wonderful things with amazing people I’m going to be happy. But when someone asks “what do you do?” it is easy to feel scattered and embarrassed when the answer is you are devoting your energy to lots of different areas, not just one. Recently, I have: -Performed (acting, singing, VO, podcast hosting and guesting) Read more>>

Robael Gizachew | C0-Founder

Honestly, the idea came from wanting to be agents of change. We were out and about, hearing the same complaints from friends and people we met—events feeling repetitive, music lacking diversity, venues not really hitting the mark. Instead of just adding to the noise, we thought, why not be part of the solution? We wanted to shift the culture, create something intentional, and make spaces that felt fresh and exciting. Read more>>

Matt Feldman | Founder, CEO at Moku Foods

The idea for Moku came after switching to a plant-based diet and noticing a lack of good tasting savory snacks that were plant based. There were so many meat sticks and jerkies but none that were vegan so I knew there was potential for a good vegan jerky. So I started testing recipes in my kitchen and partnered Michelin Star Chef, Thomas Bowman and a year later Moku was born. Read more>>

Jimmy Olmes | Business owner, product development

I started my frist business at age 9 cutting lawns during the summer… I hired my older brother and generated well over 1000.00 during the summer. Keep in mind this was back in 1961. I have always enjoyed working and wanted to be sure my ideas and efforts were rewarded. My frist real job was when I was 18 year old.. starting working at premier Ski shop in Southern California.. within three years I was made a partner. Since that time I have either been a partner or business owner.. not sure I could work for someone else. Read more>>

Bryan Walker | Pit Master

I wanted to share my love for barbecue with others and showcase my unique recipes and techniques. I also saw a gap in the market where I live for a more diverse and creative approach to barbecue, and I wanted to fill that void with my own business. Additionally, I have always had a passion for cooking and entrepreneurship, so starting a barbecue business felt like a natural fit for me. Overall, I saw it as an opportunity to turn my passion into a successful and fulfilling career. Read more>>

Tsitsi Hungwe | Chief Executive

I started my business, Higher Mountaintops, LLC in 2021 during a pivotal moment in my life. As a dentist by trade at the height of my career I found myself at a crossroads, seeking a new direction and a deeper sense of meaning. This search led me to explore new avenues for growth and support, which is when I crossed paths with my incredible mentors Dr. Nicole Rankine, Cedrick LaFleur, and Angela Hooper-Menifield. Their entrepreneur bootcamp program provided the guidance I needed. By the end of the program, Higher Mountaintops, LLC was born. Read more>>