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.

Jonathan & Kristin Cokley | Food Truck Co-Owners

My husband loved to cook. When my parents would come to visit, he always cooked for the family, particularly on Sundays. My parents were the ones who actually suggested he start his own business. Read more>>

Marty Lim | Private Chef & Caterer

Having a business of mine own and being able to create culinary and event experiences for people exactly as I envisioned my goal since I began working in the space, which I knew meant creating my own thing. I’ve been fortunate to work for and learn from some incredibly dedicated, talented and successful people, and then when I felt my skill set and understanding of the field were where they needed to be and other stars, such as being in a great market full of opportunity like Atlanta, lined up, I knew the time was right. So I jumped off the cliff that is small businessperson, and haven’t looked back! Read more>>

Chace Parker | Model, Creative, Designer, Stylist

When I first Started My own Business I was about 14/15 years old so, my thought process was really just to have fun with it and create something that would leave a print of me if I were to ever not be here. I wanted to showcase to other that 1. Read more>>

Devone’ Harp | Fashion Designer

My thought process was to put forth my effort and energy into something that I actually loved doing. I wanted to make a difference in both streetwear and luxury fashion by putting out designs and creations that defied the current trends. I also started my business as a means to negate the harmful effects of fast fashion. Read more>>

Aiden Kim | Founder of K Vision Way & Community Advocate

When I launched K VisionWay, it started from a desire to address a gap I saw in my community: access to affordable technology, especially for those who could benefit the most—disabled individuals and refugees. Growing up, I realized how critical technology was in connecting people, opening doors to learning, and building confidence. I wanted to create a business that didn’t just provide tech but also funneled all its profits toward causes that resonated deeply with me. Read more>>

Courtney Daniels Ed.s | Ed Tech & Math Specialist

The thought process behind starting Middle Math @ Home was my desire to create a supportive, engaging learning environment where middle school students could truly connect with math and feel confident in their abilities. As an experienced educator, I’ve seen firsthand how learning gaps can hold students back, and I wanted to build a program that addressed those gaps with accessible, comprehensive instruction tailored for online learning. I’m passionate about making math not just a subject to get through but a skill to master with enthusiasm and confidence. Read more>>

Autumn Washington | Wedding Planner & Florist for the Lucillian!

Growing up in Michigan, I was raised in a family that celebrated absolutely everything! Celebrations were hardly ever weather dependent or dependent on the day of the week, or time of year. My family would find any reason to celebrate. Often that meant cooking and inviting over the whole family, extended family and even the neighbors for dinner. My mother was an avid party thrower…. literally, the hostess with the mostest! In fact, she went into labor with me at a Christmas Eve party she was hosting at our home in Detroit. I was born the next day, December 26th! Read more>>

Charlene Peeples | Yoga Teacher, Studio Owner, and Death Companion

Starting Yonah Yoga was mainly driven by my own deep passion for yoga and the desire to share its transformative benefits with my community. I recognized a need for a dedicated space where people could come together to explore yoga’s rewards in a supportive community. My vision includes creating an inclusive and welcoming environment, where people off all walks of life feel comfortable. Building this community has allowed me to connect with others in a meaningful way, while also growing personally and professionally. Read more>>

Coach Little | Cheer, Tumbling, And Athlete Coach

I wanted to have a place in the cheer, tumbling, and athlete fitness road dedicated to training athletes as a whole. I’ve seen so many programs take a shortcut to athlete growth and I wanted to provide a place where that wasn’t done! Read more>>

Nathan Atkinson | JROTC instructor and Track and field Coach

Reflecting on my path from growing up in the projects to returning value to the community highlights the transformative impact of community support and mentorship. Coach Danny Turner’s selflessness during my middle school basketball tryouts, providing transportation when needed, exemplified kindness. Charles Martin further enriched my life by recruiting me into the community-supported summer track and field program, offering travel opportunities, connections with diverse athletes, and exposure to new experiences. Read more>>

Crystal Jackson | Social Media Content Creator, Onlyfans Creator

Well my inspiration has always been myself I wanted to get paid to be unapologetically myself and now that’s what I’m doing. Been getting paid for being a creative for 10+ years now. Read more>>

Johnny “moroccobama” Bethea | Im a tattoo artist but better known as the President

Simply working for myself. I didn’t think I was creating my own business until after my first year of providing the tattoo service. I was essentially running a hustle that evolved into a promised profitable business. Read more>>

Raniya Janae | Dancer & Dance Instructor

When I created “Give It To Em: Heels With Raniya” my goal was to offer a safe, creative space for young women and men, to freely express themselves, build confidence, and pour into one another. In a world where social media and everyday challenges can make life strenuous, I wanted to create an environment where everyone feels welcomed, supported, and empowered to embrace who they are as an individual and have a enjoyable experience while doing so. Read more>>