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.

Patrick Leblanc | Executive Director/Founder

My thought behind starting the Bridging the Gap Foundation was creating parity for individuals who are marginalized simply because of ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or zip code providing access to quality mental health treatment options. Read more>>

Zach Gilliam | Freeland Professional Musician, Teacher, Producer, and Multiple Business Owner

After spending several years immersed in the luxury entertainment industry, I saw an opportunity to create something truly meaningful—not just for myself, but for the incredible musicians I’ve had the privilege of working with here in DFW. That’s how Collective Entertainment was born. I’ve always been blessed to be surrounded by some of the most talented musicians in the area, and my vision for Collective was to create a platform that empowers them. It’s a musician-owned, musician-led initiative, built on the foundation of a strong, positive culture. Read more>>

Jennifer Octavien | Jewelry designer and owner

Starting Spirit of Iteru was inspired by my journey toward personal growth and healing. I wanted to create a boutique where people could find jewelry and tools crafted with intention, supporting empowerment, creativity, and joy. Each piece is designed to be both beautiful and purposeful, helping people connect with their intentions and inspire positive change. Read more>>

Priyanka Chaudhry | BollyBeatsFitness Creator & Neurologist

So, after having two kids, I was looking for a fun way to lose weight. As I am also a Neurologist, I know the importance of excercise goes beyond just fitness. It also improves mood, mental health and overall provides a feeling of wellbeing. And what better way than dancing to your favorite music, right? I checked out a bunch of fitness classes around the DFW area, but noticed there weren’t many options with Bollywood music. Some Zumba instructors would throw in one Bollywood song, and it always got me so hyped! I thought, why not create an entire class centered around our favorite Bollywood tunes? Read more>>

Christine Son | Director & Instructor, Healthcare Training Programs

Starting my own business was inspired by my passion for education and a desire to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare field. I saw a growing need for accessible, high-quality training programs that could prepare individuals for in-demand careers like Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Phlebotomy Technician, Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, and EKG Technician. Read more>>

Jan Baker | Jazzercise Carrollton owner/instructor

I was a teacher looking for a side gig for extra money. I loved Jazzercise for my workout and thought investing in myself as a franchisee made good sense! Now I am celebrating my 35th anniversary as a franchisee owner and instructor while Jazzercise celebrates 55 years of dance fitness! Read more>>