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.

Sumaya Aka Maya Joan

Starting my own business was driven by both necessity and passion. I knew that working independently was the best way to align my work with my lifestyle—allowing me to honor my focus style, adapt to life’s ebb and flow, and most importantly, put my family first. My biggest goal is raising my daughters to know they can create their own happiness in limitless abundance, while also understanding the commitment it takes to make that happen. I love that their memories of ‘mom working a lot’ will be synonymous with ‘mom saw magic in everything.’ Read More>>

Carmen Sanchez

When we decided to open the flower shop, we had no prior experience in running a business. It was a significant risk, and we didn’t know whether we would succeed or fail, especially as newcomers to a country where we didn’t yet speak the language. We didn’t even know how to arrange flowers professionally at the time; we simply followed our instincts and took a leap of faith. Our motivation was clear: the hope for a better life and, most importantly, a brighter future for my children and me. Read More>>

Daniel And Rachel Olvera

Xēba Botánica started with a simple but powerful idea—We wanted to create something that aligned with our values: holistic wellness, sustainability, and community connection. We had already been making our own soaps, deodorants, and moisturizers at home to reduce waste and because Rachel has sensitive skin—acne, eczema, allergies—you name it. During the pandemic, we had more time to refine our craft and realized that there was a real opportunity to turn our personal practices into a business. Read More>>

Kristi Fisher

I have worked in social media and online community as a volunteer or as part of my 9 to 5 job for over 10 years. I have been building community both online and offline for a long time. But it wasn’t until the pandemic that I realized how vital those skills I had built had become. I saw people turning to social media to maintain human connection, and at the same time, I saw local businesses and non-profits struggle to stay open. I saw the massive opportunity that they were missing by not converting all the efforts they had put into being an integral part of the community into nurturing those same relationships online. Read More>>

Roxy

My name is Roxy. I’m a social media manager and content creator based in Los Angeles, California, with a focus on plant-based food and eco-conscious restaurants and brands. I’ve always felt a deep need to share my experiences and tell stories, so everything started with my YouTube channel, Roxyrockstv, the happiest channel on Earth. I was making videos in three languages, English, Spanish, and Italian, and I reached an international audience of almost a million subscribers. Read More>>

Jeremy Horton

I’d love to see more square dances happen. Square Dances are pure joy. They turn strangers into friends, strengthen communities and provide wholesome cheap entertainment. It’s also incredibly easy. You don’t need a partner or experience. Just show up and the caller(me) will teach a few simple moves, the live band will fire up and we’re off to the races! I made a website and put more time into calling and organizing square dances because I think everyone should do it. I started teaching caller workshops this year because if we have more callers then we can have more dances! Read More>>

Shaland Leach

For the past eight years, rescuing animals has been more than just a passion—it’s been my life’s purpose. What began as a spontaneous act of compassion turned into a calling I could not ignore.

It all started in 2017, when I found a litter of six kittens in desperate need of help. Despite having no experience with cats, I brought them home, nursed them back to health, and found loving homes for each one—keeping one kitten who stole my heart. That experience showed me how powerful rescue work can be—not just for the animals, but for the people whose lives they change for the better. Read More>>

Ann Shi

Starting my own curatorial studio, a poco art archive, was a deeply personal and organic decision shaped by my upbringing, cultural identity, and professional journey. I was raised in a family rooted in classical Chinese art—my father is an established classical inkwash (“guohua”) artist and collector—so I grew up immersed in visual imagery, philosophical conversations, aesthetic rituals, and the earthy scent of ink. “Bimo” (brush and ink) was part of our frequent vocabulary between me and my father. That early exposure shaped not only my appreciation for art, but also my way of seeing the world. Read More>>

Tracey Redman

It’s disheartening to see art classes for kids disappearing from schools. When did we decide art wasn’t essential? As humans, we’re naturally playful, and art is one of the purest forms of that play, where we learn and express ourselves through creativity. In today’s fast-paced world, kids are overloaded with activities, yet creativity through art often takes a backseat. I truly believe that art shapes confident, creative thinkers. With the world becoming more digitally connected, hands-on activities and physical movement are getting pushed aside. That’s why I think art and play are more important than ever, for both kids and adults. Read More>>

ADU Builder & Home Remodels

I had a taste of running my family’s small business when I was 22 years old. I wore many hats during that time, I was a manager, I was payroll, I was the sales manager, I was in charge of hiring, firing and of course operations to make sure we correctly fulfill our sales orders to our customers. It was a stressful job but at the same time it was really FUN! I was hooked, Everyday something would arise that needed attention and it almost became a game of chess with the problem vs myself. The more problems I would solve the more confident I became and felt that one day I too would want to own my own business. Read More>>

Iver Kim

It felt quite natural for me to pursue an art-related career, since I’ve been involved in art my whole life. I think I started freelancing when people around me began asking for creative help—whether it was shooting profile pictures, creating audiovisual content for their shows or promotional videos, designing album covers, composing music for performances, or doing sound design for reels, and so on. Read More>>

Bella R.

My thought process behind starting my own business was that I had nothing to lose and only everything to gain. I have always had an interest in art and most creative outlets since I was a kid, and it’s something that stuck with me my whole life. As I grew older, (mostly during college) I also started to find interest in business and marketing. Doing something where both of those interests went hand in hand was a dream to me! Once it was established that I had a true passion for this career path it just made sense for me to pursue it. Read More>>

Moon Hee KWon

It all began with a simple question: how can I create something that’s both nutritious and delightful enough to share with our beloved dogs? I wanted our pups to enjoy the same kind of beautiful, diverse desserts that bring people joy. With that dream in mind, I began studying different ingredients that are actually beneficial to our four legged friends, gathering data, and learning through hands-on experience overseas. Over time, that passion grew into the business I’m proud to run today—a labor of love inspired by the dogs we adore. Read More>>

Shay Watkins

There were a few thoughts swirling in my head when I decided to open up my business. First, I’d been planning weddings and events for friends and organizations free of charge for years, and I’d really fallen in love with the process of planning. Second, I’d been the host of weddings and parties and could never find someone as good as me to be by my side at my own event! I was growing frustrated with the lack of customizable and bespoke services for people like me and I wanted to fill that void. Read More>>

Rose Yanping Zhang

I founded my business Star Champs International LLC in 2014, headquartered in Irvine, California. Before that, I had three years of teaching experience and seven years of educational marketing experience. After helping my daughter complete her undergraduate studies at UCLA and her graduate studies at Columbia University, I wanted to share the valuable, firsthand experiences I gained with students and families who need support. Read More>>

Robert Thorn

My thought process behind Funeral Classics began in 6th grade.I always wanted Tshirts inspired by old mid century woodcuts,.bold and with only one color hits!.that were’In Honor of The Dead’.I took silkscreening in 9th grade,.first shirt I designed and printed was an ELVIRA T’shirt,red on black.Mind you this was 1982 A.D.,.it wasn’t easy finding Elvira Tshirts back then,so I made my own!..She signed it a few years ago,because Yes,I still have it!.I ran a couple of silkscreen companies after high school,but I never wanted to work for someone else,. Read More>>

Madi + Cameron

Madi and Cam started Pilabarre because they wanted to build something meaningful that reflected their passions and values. Madi hated the current grip socks on the market—they often had painful, overly firm grips and weren’t cute, leaving her frustrated with the lack of comfortable and stylish options. Meanwhile, Cam looked into the market and saw how large and fast it was growing, recognizing a clear opportunity for something better.  Read More>>

Saidy Salas Yu

My personal thought process behind starting my business was rooted in a deep desire to encourage others to prioritize self-care. I wanted to create a safe space where individuals could explore their beauty routines and truly invest in themselves. I believe that self-care is not a selfish act; rather, it is essential for overall well-being. I have fostered an environment that promotes this mindset, I hope to inspire others to take the time they need to nurture themselves, allowing them to thrive both personally and in their relationships with others. Ultimately, my goal is to empower individuals to embrace self-care as a vital part of their lives. Read More>>

Jaquais .P

Honestly, my thought process behind starting my own business came from realizing I’ve always been more than just a performer—I’m a visionary. I’ve spent years dancing, choreographing, teaching, and creatively directing my own work, and I just knew it was time to build something that truly reflects my passion and purpose. I wanted to create a space where movement, music, fashion, and authenticity collide. I’m inspired by powerful artists like Beyoncé and Gaga—people who built empires around their art—and I see that for myself too. Read More>>

 Patrick Ayres

I had worked for other people and companies throughout my life but always had an entrepreneur spirit and tried starting multiple businesses, failing and learning along the way.

I really poured myself into my last “real” job and it just didn’t pan out and left me wondering if I was just broken haha Read More>>

Scott Hamilton Vincent Holmes

What was your thought process behind starting BBLA?

Twelve years ago, we set out to bridge a crucial gap in the Black LGBTQ+ community in Los Angeles. In the wake of several gathering places closing, we saw an opportunity to foster connection and camaraderie. Our initial networking mixers became a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals through informational sessions, cultural outings, and recognition events. Read More>>

Shivangi Vasudeva

Honestly, I didn’t start with a business plan or a grand blueprint. It began more as a quiet curiosity – a fascination with the textures of cloth, the weight of wood, and the stories of craft traditions in India. My family has been in the textile business for three generations, so the language of craft and making was always around me. Read More>>

Pavel Kolmogorov

Starting my own firm, Kolmogorov Law, was driven by a vision to provide personalized and strategic legal services that truly prioritize the client’s needs. Throughout my career, I’ve recognized that each client’s situation is unique, necessitating tailored solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Establishing my own practice allowed me to implement a client-centered philosophy, emphasizing trust, empathy, and individualized attention.  Read More>>

Kitwana John

my entire thought process behind starting my own business was to be able to make a safe space for everyone to be able to stay active and for mental health . Read More>>

Maria Zare

and inspiration. I grew up watching my late father source beautiful, one-of-a-kind objects for the vintage shop he owned. He had this incredible eye for design and an even more incredible passion for storytelling—every piece he brought in had a story, a soul. That experience sparked my love for creativity and entrepreneurship. Read More>>

Samantha Aguilar

My thought process for starting my own business was inspired by my family and being raised in a household of hard workers. Starting an art business is terrifying because the service is undefinable. Sure, one can create a painting, a mural, etc. However, the opportunities with art are never-ending. The best way for me move my business forward is continuing to learn and meet people who enjoy looking at my art. Read More>>

Erica Simone

I started SACRED Yoga with a really simple idea to create a unique product that didn’t exist — a stylish and functional travel yoga mat and hot yoga towel in one. I was traveling a ton and desperately trying to keep up my yoga practice, but it was proving to be hard to do without shlepping a mat with me, and I couldn’t find anything that was light enough or worked how I wanted. I went through at least 4 different travel mats and was always disappointed, so being the stubborn entrepreneur that I am, I got the fire in me to develop my own. Read More>>

Christine Winget

I was a stay at home mom for almost 20 years. When my marriage ended, I knew I had to change the way I lived. I hadn’t worked in over 2 decades and I had to find a way to finance my life and build a future. It was covid and we were all in lock down. My boyfriend, Michael, knowing I am a crystal lover, bought me a crystal online. When I was looking for a job, he suggested I start my own crystal business. Read More>>

Soraya Simi

Santa Barbara after I moved here without knowing anyone. I wanted to stay in the Central Coast (which I preferred immensely to LA), but also felt I needed to justify it with professional opportunities at an early stage in my filmmaking career.

As I continued to meet filmmakers and industry studs who moved to the Central Coast from LA and SF during the pandemic, it became clear that I wasn’t the only one craving the same network locally. It was also clear that there were just missing links between between to find each other, hire each other, use local gear, locations, talent, etc. and generate a circular film economy. Read More>>

Ele Perez

starting my own businesses was both a practical and deeply personal decision. I’ve always been someone with a strong creative vision and a desire to have more control over how I work and connect with people. That’s what led me to build two businesses that align with both my passions and strengths: real estate and photography.

Let me start with Ele Perez Photography. Photography has been a huge part of my life for years. It began as a creative outlet, something that gave me peace and joy, but over time I realized it had the power to move people.  Read More>>