Deciding to start a business is an unusual decision. It’s often considered irrational and yet for many it’s the best decision they’ve ever made. So we asked folks to think back to when they were starting their businesses and to tell us about their decision making process.

Damla Turgut

What was your thought process to starting your own business? I began my career training as a lawyer. I studied law in Turkey, practicing for three years before moving to London to continue my education in a specialist financial sector. After I graduated in London, I was going to interview after interview and hearing the same answers from all the biggest global law firms – everyone was cutting back and reducing their team size and I should apply again in 7 months. The last interviewer, who was a very senior and wise man, told me that I should take a break and reassess my options. Read more>>

Diana Garcia | Licensed Mental Health Counselor

I had come to a point in my career where it seemed like the next logical step was to transition to full-time work in my private practice (my business). I had gained enough experience as a clinician, and I found myself at a crossroads because I knew that my current job was ending due to circumstances beyond my control. I had been operating my private practice on a part-time basis, but I had been hesitant to commit to it fully. It was then that I realized I had to be willing to give it my all (despite any fears I had) and see where it took me. Read more>>

Barbara Andrade | Baby Shopper

Miami Baby Concierge is a full baby shopping experience for expectant moms. My first step was recognizing a gap in the market and the specific need of having a complete service for moms, specially those who come from Brazil – which is a very frequent trip for Brazilians: they love coming to Miami to shop for their babies. Expectant moms, particularly those visiting from Brazil, often face challenges when shopping for their babies in Miami. These moms love coming to Miami for the vast shopping options and high-quality baby products, but they lack a comprehensive, stress-free shopping experience tailored to their specific needs. Recognizing this gap was my first step. Read more>>

Monique Juarez | Candle Maker

At Soy Amor Candles, we’re a mother-daughter small business from Montebello, CA, driven by our shared love of fragrances and passion for eco-friendly options. Inspired by our extended family in the candle industry, we launched our business in 2019, just before the pandemic hit. After my mom was laid off from her job of 32 years, we decided to create a path that embraced creativity, environmental awareness, and independence from the typical 9-5 routine. Together, we craft beautiful, sustainable candles that bring joy and warmth to any space. Read more>>

AMADO PECH VARGAS | Mexican entrepreneur

When i visit Miemi and looked old image that many swimming pools gave me, mainly in the Miami Beach area, since it is a waterproof product, it was made for swimming pools and today many architects and interior designers use it in their exterior and interior projects. Read more>>

Jevon Howell | E-Commerce & Branding Specialist

Unlike most who struggle a greater part of their young adult life to understand what they aspire to be, I knew since middle school that I wanted to become an entrepreneur. Having and managing my own business always seemed to me like life truest expression of freedom, and living life by my values. But despite business always being my dream, it’s also been a source of anxiety as the very action itself would strike terror in me fearing that I could fail. This irrational fear would ultimately have me delay the start of my journey for many years. Read more>>

Casey Gilbert | Wellness Coach

Starting my business was inevitable in my mind. I’ve worked for others for 7 years in the fitness and wellness industry, and have worked hard to create a network and refine my skillset. I knew it was something I wanted to do, but dragged my feet for a long time before pulling the trigger. I knew that I could add value to people, that I could help others get themselves to a point in their physical and emotional fitness that they’re really proud of. So I invested (a large chunk of money!) into a business mentorship that helped me get started. Read more>> 

Dr. Krystal Clark | DNP WHNP-BC APRN & Owner of Restoring Care & Wellness

Those close to me know it has always been a goal to open my own practice. The thought process behind it was deeply rooted in my passion for healthcare and my unwavering desire to drive meaningful change in this field. With 14 years of healthcare I have under my belt, I was driven by a profound understanding of the disparities and inefficiencies that plague our current healthcare system.
I envisioned a practice that wouldn’t just operate within the existing system but would challenge and transform it. The goal was to create solutions that made quality care accessible to all along with harnessing innovative technologies, data-driven approaches, and compassionate care models to bridge the gaps that so many patients fall through. Read more>>

James S. | Founder, Owner, and C.E.O.

That’s a good question. Starting a business isn’t something I’d recommend to anybody unless they’re absolutely 100% committed to make it a success. According to statistics, the vast majority of startups fail within the first 2 years. In fact, I believe it’s almost cliché the way people talk about “starting a business” these days. The amount of grueling work, constant effort, dedication, passion, drive, vision, determination, fortitude, steadfastness, and the capital required usually doesn’t get talked about as much. Read more>>