We reached out to some of our favorite entrepreneurs and asked them to think back and tell us about how they decided to start a business. Check out their responses below.

Ursula Rodriguez | Artist | Founder | CEO of Soleil Vida Studio

My inspiration for Soleil Vida Studio came from seeking my own support system of mujeres. When I began networking with other Latinas in the DFW, I quickly discovered that they too were on their self-healing journey, in need of comunidad, and ready to support one another with a mentality “juntas somos mas poderosas” (together we are more powerful). Soleil Vida Studio hosts DIY craft workshops focused on positive self-talk, empowering our inner mija (child), and developing a mind-body connection. I strive to create an experience where mujeres come together in a safe, judgement free space to share their stories and learn new crafts while offering a break from daily worries. I also offer a Support System of Mujeres Cafecito Chat where mujeres can connect with me virtually or in-person. Read more>>

Jason Helfer | Chef and Business Owner

What was your thought process behind starting your own business? Well, I’ve always been drawn to the world of food. It’s been in my family’s DNA for over 400 years. I remember cooking my first meal at the age of five, and from there, the passion only grew. When I thought about starting my own business, it wasn’t just about making a living. It was about continuing a legacy, connecting with my roots, and serving dishes that resonated with history and my family’s journey.
I felt there was a need for the kind of food I envisioned, something authentic that would bring people joy and offered at a reasonable price. The thought of sharing a piece of my family’s tradition, of those peasant villages from centuries ago, and providing a unique culinary experience drove me to take the leap and open up my own place. Read more>>

Bryan & Cindy Pruett | farmers, Appleby Community Farm

We originally felt called to Nacogdoches, TX in 2007 to purchase and run a Bed and Breakfast. But because of an unexpected detour, God had time to direct our attention to farming. During that two-year interim, we were exposed to the serious problem that is industrial agriculture- beginning with but not exclusively through the culture-changing book, Omnivore’s Dilemma by Michael Pollan. We became increasingly convinced that we should become part of the solution. In 2009, along with Cindy’s parents, 9 acres were purchased in Appleby Community outside of Nacogdoches. We immediately began to farm – very ineptly, but God blessed our intentions and we had a remarkably successful first fall season. We sold fresh organic produce all fall and winter at the farmer’s market. Read more>>

Sid Gunasekaran | CEO of Staging Success & DECA ICDC Competitor

Leadership has always come naturally to me. People place their trust and faith in me to do a stellar job, and I respond with gratitude and dedication to my leadership style. In a high school of over 3,000 students, I serve as the Student Council President, a role that keeps me deeply connected to my school and local community. But my leadership extends far beyond the school gates. As one of just six International Thespian Officers in the world, I represent the world’s largest performing arts organization, with over 400,000 active members in 17 countries, balancing local responsibilities with international obligations, all while collaborating with dream companies like Disney and iHeartRadio. Impressive? Maybe. A privilege and a responsibility? Absolutely. Read more>>

Seyi Salaam | Elim Homes CEO & Builder

I’ve always had an interest in Real Estate as a young kid. I remember always watching HGTV growing up and thinking to myself, I’d one day do the same thing. Not to mention, most if not all millionaires and the wealthy are in Real Estate. Read more>>

Antonio Sanchez | CEO – CLEO® Jewelers

To me business is the natural development of growth. If you like something and there is a market for it, why not grow it? Its fun, and by fun I dont mean easy. I mean that sometimes you will love it and sometimes it will throw a brick at your face. If you think about it, what is there really to lose. Just the opportunity to see how big you can go if you dont try. I have worked in marketing for about 10 years and I came to a point where I wanted to go in to one industry myself.
After exploring a few options I ran in to the jewelry industry and never looked back. Read more>>

Jala Tryon | Loctician & Cosmetologist

When I started my business I don’t think I really knew that I would still be so determined, almost 5 years later. At the time I was just interested in learning about natural hair and all of its unique qualities that I dove head first into any and everything containing knowledge on the subject. It’s safe to say I haven’t looked up since. Read more>>

Katie Van Hoven | Birth & Family Photographer

Photography has always interested me. When I was ten, I would set up “scenes” with sheets/props and take pictures of my siblings with disposable cameras. *Apologies to whoever developed all those pictures at Walmart* I took a photography course in college and fell in love, but ended up getting married and having my first child young. I didn’t pursue photography professionally, but was definitely known as the one who takes all the pictures (still am). Fast forward 10+ years: I become pregnant with my second child and decide I want my birth story photographed. I had a traumatizing first birth experience, and the only thing I have to help me remember some moments of my daughter’s birth are old digital camera pics and grainy cell phone pictures that my younger sisters snapped. Read more>>

Gianni Avalos Avalos | Single Mom Attorney””

Upon passing the bar exam, I embarked on a job search within various law firms, with clear criteria in mind: the flexibility to work remotely, a substantial income in the six-figure range, and the potential for additional earnings through origination bonuses. Yet, throughout numerous interviews, it became evident that finding all three aspects in a single job was a challenging endeavor. One memorable interview involved a potential employer contacting a reference I provided to a previous firm, where a close friend still worked. After providing a glowing reference, the potential employer raised an intriguing question. They inquired whether I’d maintain my work ethic after the birth of my child, considering my role as a single mother. Read more>>

Vincent Cisneros | Founder. Graphe Skateboards

The thought process behind starting our own skateboarding business was divinely inspired. We firmly believe that God placed the vision in our family’s heart to create a skateboard business unlike any other. It is our deep-seated faith in God’s guidance that drove us to embark on this journey. In the quiet moments of prayer and reflection, we felt a calling to combine our love for skateboarding with our desire to make a positive impact in the world. We believe that God instilled in us a passion for skateboarding, not merely as a recreational activity but as a means to spread His love and message of hope. This calling was like a fire within us, compelling us to step out in faith and create a unique business that would not only provide excellent skateboarding products but also embody Godly values. Read more>>

Ciara O’Neal | Licensed professional counselor counselor

My thought process was, ‘what can I do different”, and “ how can I reach those kids in the middle ground being overlooked but struggling more than we realize ”. Given my time in the field working with kids and families from all backgrounds and socioeconomic classes I knew there was a need , and I wanted figure out how I could bridge the treatment gap in a less traditional way and reach those kids. With my passion for working with youth and families it came easy to me, and once I got going my motivation kicked into overdrive in starting my business. Read more>>

Yolanda Gordon | Model coach and mentor

I wanted to help others gain confidence and see that they can do anything they truly put their mind and heart into. So many people were struggling with self confidence and I wanted to assist in the best way possible to make them feel 100% good about themselves Read more>>

Exhale Event Productions Jonathan & Anthony | Jonathan (Lead DJ) and Anthony (Producer)

We started off as friends at church. We both actually served on the media team. At one point I (Jonathan) was the lead technician who handled all of the computers, lights, audio, and on-screen presentations, and Anthony was the producer who ensured a smooth production with everything happening at the right time. In 2021 we decided to join forces and bring our production skills to the market. Our goal was to produce special events that maximize positive, long-lasting impressions on all individuals while minimizing headaches and hassles involved with executing special productions. Read more>>

Kaliem Johnson (KJ) | Agency Owner

My thought process behind starting my business consisted of a few different things that I wanted out of life. I got tired of working for people that did not appreciate the effort that I or my team was putting in to build other peoples dreams. I also wanted to establish a business where people can have a healthy work / life balance because I know that people tend to put forth their best effort when they feel appreciated and respected. I believe that as humans we need to have a safe place to come to, to make money, have a culture that people want to be apart of, and to feel like their presence matters. Read more>>