Thinking through whether to start a business – whether to take the risk, whether to go out on your own – isn’t easy. So we asked some entrepreneurs we admire to tell us about how they thought through the process of starting a business.

Lance Bertrand | None

At my previous occupation, I was the in office IT Technician. After witnessing a third party come in and take staging photos and videos, I knew that things were getting really bad (I knew that the company I worked for was already in trouble financially). A few days later, I realized that I had never prayed about when it was time to take that step and start my business. God had shown me years ago that it was in His plans for me to be an entrepreneur, I just never consulted Him on when. Well, the next morning, during a Sunday service zoom call, He spoke to me clearly and said that it was time. Read more>>

Kenneth Pritchard | Owner & Instructor

When I returned to Dallas after a decade in Chicago in 2009, I was looking to utilize the performance degree I’d obtained from Columbia College and expand on the private lessons I’d already been teaching at home around the area. I began working for a private music studio in Allen and developed their programs from simple lessons into jam sessions and full band performances at the recitals. However, the limitations set by the studio hampered a lot of the personal creativity that students were searching for in their lessons. This frustrated us to no end because we could see a hole in the private lessons that needed to be filled. Read more>>

Katie Star | Celebrity Vocal Coach & The Inventor of Vocal Tapping

It was one of the most natural and easy things I’ve done in the life. I also can’t imagine having any other job as fulfilling as being vocal coach. I was born into a musical family with roots going back generations. At an early age, I found singing to be my ultimate passion. Read more>>

Janellie Maldonado | Founder & Owner of Smart Clean Auto LLC

My background and passion for the automotive industry really shaped my decision to start my own business. I combine my family’s work ethic with my interest in detailing it not only honors their legacy, but it helps me create something meaningful. I founded Smart Clean Auto LLC, our state-of-the-art, purpose-driven company that stands out with a wellness-focused approach that not only transforms vehicles but also promotes a healthier environment for our customers and community. This unique commitment makes us truly one of a kind. Read more>>

Jae Hunter | Beauty and wellness clinic Owner/Operator

From a young age, I have always had a strong entrepreneurial drive, with a clear vision of owning and operating my own beauty business. Over the past few years as the owner of a successful private hair and makeup studio, I have expanded my focus to create a collaborative and educational space for other beauty professionals. This environment fosters growth and innovation, not only for my industry peers but also for my own children, who have also decided to pursue careers in the medical aesthetics and beauty industry. Read more>>