Many books on startups and business talk about how there are right and wrong reasons for starting a business. So, we asked a handful of successful founders about their reasons and the thought-process behind starting their business. 

Candice Escalea

Before opening my own podiatry practice, I worked in both private and corporate medical settings where I often felt limited in how deeply I could educate and advocate for my patients. I wanted to create a space where people felt heard, supported, and empowered to take control of their health. I realized that in order to make the kind of impact I envisioned for my community, I would need to step out on my own. Prestige Ankle & Foot Care was born from that desire to provide patient-centered care without limitations. Read More>>

 Jaime Guevara

Starting my own business was not originally part of my academic plan. After earning my degree in Biological Sciences, I intended to pursue dental school alongside my daughter. However, when my wife became temporarily disabled and unable to work, the financial reality of supporting our household changed significantly. Read More>>

Jennifer Swims

We raised our children in a self sustainable environment. Growing our own vegetables and raising (as well as showing and judging) our own meat. We realize not everyone has that luxury and were so thankful to be able to raise them that way. In 2007 I was bitten by a tick and developed Chronic Lyme Disease along with several autoimmune issues like POTS, MCAS and seizures. This was a major setback in my lifestyle and consessions had to be made to function.  Read More>>

Asia Alexander

Since 2018, my goal has been to outfit educators with comfortable, eye-catching, and educational TEACH-Shirts designed to make a statement both in and out of the classroom. As an educator myself, I know that teachers have one of the hardest jobs. In reality, our roles as teachers are much more complex. We juggle a dozen roles every day – we are multi-tasking managers, calming counselors, data analysts, inventors, interventionists, and even event coordinators. Why not be comfortable while making an “thought provoking” fashion statement? TEACH-Shirts was created under the simple motto: Influence. Inspire. In fashion. Read More>>

Jasmen Mickey

After becoming chronically ill, placed on a feeding tube, and choosing hospice care, I believed my life was over. Then my 15-year relationship ended, forcing me to confront everything at once. I knew I had to fight; not just for myself, but for my children. I revoked hospice care, gave away everything I owned, and moved us from Indiana to Georgia. As I began shifting my mindset, everything changed. That transformation inspired me to help others reframe their thinking and turn possibility into reality. Thus, Success Is Tangible Inc. was founded. Read More>>

Anna Pham

It felt very natural to me to start my own business because my dad had his own business, and my uncles had theirs as well. I grew up in an entrepreneurial setting, so it felt almost normal to have a business. I was able to have that familial support with me.Read More>>

Deovani Jean

Starting a business, for me, is an all-encompassing experience. It’s educational, communal, and even spiritual in many ways. Entrepreneurship constantly pushes me to evolve, improve my mindset, and expand how I see both myself and the world around me. Read More>>