Ideas aren’t everything, execution matters greatly, but starting often requires an idea and so we asked folks to think back and tell us the story of how they came up with the idea for their businesses. We’ve highlighted some of our favorite stories below.

LaToya W. | Owner/Founder, Eymjusme

The name eymjusme (I’m Jus Me) came to me in 1998 while only in the 6th grade. Long story short, I always felt like I was the lonely kid in school. I could hang with everyone but I’ve always felt I was different. One day while on a break I looked around and realized that I was all alone. I felt this presence come over me (it was literally like a hug from Jesus), I walked back into my classroom and wrote on a piece of paper “eymjusme”. That was my confirmation to embrace my different and be who God created me to be. Read more>>

Danielle Desroche | Naturopathic Doctor & Pilates Instructor

I am a naturopathic doctor specializing in PCOS, fertility, and Hashimoto’s. I began my private practice in the height of the pandemic, and have continued to work with my patients virtually. I was finding many women coming to me in their early to mid 30’s, ready to start a family but not being in the health to do so. Many of whom were told IVF was there only option but felt they weren’t ready for such an invasive and expensive next step. I quickly saw the power naturopathic medicine held when it came to supporting these women and allowing them to not only get in control of their health, but get pregnant naturally. Read more>>

Lorenzo Bailey | Founder & CEO of Top Toe Tobacco

I moved from NYC to ATL in April 2020 and was unable to find fronto in the ATL area that provided the enjoyable smoking experience I was used to. The leaf was either too holey or dried out. I spoke to peers and other smokers in the area and realized they experienced the same problem. In July 2020, I created Top Toe Tobacco to create a solution on a grand scale. Read more>>

Rebeckah Ruth | CEO & Fashion Consultant

I have been in the fashion industry now for 17 years. First as a model, then wardrobe stylist and now a fashion consultant. In that time, I noticed that there didn’t seem to be a sense of community within the fashion industry. It’s understandable since the industry can be very competitive and cut-throat. I felt, however, that creatives should have a place to go where they can find a genuine and supportive community. That led me to starting Worthy back in 2019. Read more>>