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.

Chiquita “DJ Shadez” Thomas

The thought process behind starting Shine Bright Entertainment came naturally to me. I have degrees in business and have owned several businesses over the years—from trucking companies to custom apparel and eyewear. So entrepreneurship is something I’ve always been passionate about and comfortable with. Read More>>

Lori Hawes

After losing my precious son Cody to a 14-year battle with opiate addiction (Cody saved four lives with organ donation), I felt a deep need to channel my grief into something meaningful. Cody was a gifted chef and a remarkably talented photographer with an incredible eye for detail. He had attended many rehabilitation centers over the years. There was one program he especially valued and even returned to on his own. After his passing, I reached out to that facility and began volunteering weekly. Read More>>

Dr. Denise Simonelli

The decision to start Reading Tutor Rx and Accelerate Academy came from a very personal place. As a mother of a child with severe dyslexia, I experienced firsthand how traditional education systems often fall short in supporting neurodiverse learners. I realized there was a real gap in services for children with dyslexia, ADHD, autism, and other learning differences—especially programs that are evidence-based, individualized, and delivered with empathy. Read More>>

Ellie G Coles

I have always been passionate about the arts and thrived in creative environments. It was never really a choice for me—just the way I’ve always been. Being able to express myself artistically and creatively is the most beautiful thing. At the age of 8, I started participating in community theatre and absolutely fell in love. From there, I continued performing in musical theatre productions for a decade until I moved to Charlotte, NC, when I was 18.  Read More>>

Sarah Sofia Knepp

Sarah grew up learning the art of entertaining and being a super connector coupled with her passion for philanthropy. Even at a young age Sarah enjoyed planning birthday parties and celebrations for family and friends as well as participating in philanthropy. Read more>>

Stephanie Miller

Simply said, I have a passion for what I do and, like a lot of successful brands, it starts with really understanding the needs of my customer. I made a decision early on that I wanted Stephanie Miller Designs to be about creating unique, bespoke products with a focus on end-to-end quality: working closely with my customers, using high-quality materials, leveraging my investment in leading-edge technology/machinery and a finishing/packaging approach that reinforces this focus on quality. In this online world, I pride myself on delivering a highly personalized shopping experience from the selection of a monogram design, to choices of fabrics and thread colors. Read more>>