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.

Julia Perez

Our thought process behind creating The Pop-Up Gallery was rooted in a desire to challenge the status quo of the art world. Seeing firsthand how less than 10% of artists worldwide ever get to exhibit their work, we realized there was a profound imbalance — a system where gallery owners and a small circle of collectors acted as gatekeepers, controlling access to both audiences and opportunities. Read More>>

Jada Ganim

I’m a film director from silicon valley, so naturally, I found a way to create a business that has to do with the film industry. A problem I had found that was so prominent in wide demographic of peoples’ lives, was the challenge of finding what to watch on TV. Read More>>

Josh Hooks

I started A Place to Tape for both practical and creative reasons. As an actor, I love being a reliable reader and coach for other performers. Running a self-tape studio also keeps my own craft sharp. The idea took root when I lived in Atlanta in ’21–’22. After trying a few subpar studios, I knew I could help raise the bar. Read More>>

 Alex Castaneda

When I launched Casa Casttaneda with my brother Humberto, we knew we didn’t just want to start another real estate business we wanted to build a brand that truly reflected who we are and how we serve. For us, real estate isn’t just about closing deals it’s about guiding and helping people through one of the most important decisions of their lives. Read More>>

Danny And Julia St Pierre

(Let me start by saying we answered this question because it’s the closest to our current story, especially if you re-word it to: What is your thought process behind starting this project?) Read More>>

Tim Ford

I started my clothing business MANDEM in 2016 as an outlet for my thoughts following the passing of my mother. During this process, I chose to further establish and legitimize the brand as i began receiving positive feedback. My thought process was that as long as I liked the work i was making, maybe someone else out there would too. Read More>>

Kathryna Dang

I have always wanted to have my own business, but for a long time I was honestly so scared to take that leap. But here we are — I took the risk, and I have loved every bit of it. Read More>>