Side Hustle to Small Business

The Journey of Starting a Business as a Couple

Erin Sims and John Mills established Connect-Empower when they noticed a significant gap in the system, particularly in the accessibility of support and resources for the elderly. Recognizing that senior individuals often struggled to tap into the full array of available services, Connect-Empower was founded with the primary goal of enlightening clients about various healthcare services at their disposal.

Leaving the C-Suite to start your own business

As a C-Suite Executive working over 60 hours a week and doing contract work on the side, Lindsay May found herself facing burnout. Looking for a change, Lindsay decided to fully commit to her marketing side gig. Now, she operates Happy Marketing Co., a thriving marketing agency. Within just four months of this transition, Lindsay not only achieved her revenue targets but also surpassed the salary she earned in her previous C-Suite role.

Finding your niche when starting a new business

Sam Westfall had two different careers prior to starting his business: a tank mechanic in the military, and an IT Specialist. Now, Sam is combining those two experiences by starting Archery N Motion, an archery range and equipment supplier based out of Colorado Springs, Colorado. Archery N Motion specializes in moving target platforms, which give shooters the practice they need without wounding animals.

Passion to profit: Transforming hobbies into side hustles

Join us as we explore the unique journeys of three passionate individuals who not only found joy in their hobbies but also managed to turn them into thriving businesses. John, the Founder of Unite Creative Company, helps organizations build connections through video production. Sam advocates for autism awareness with Autism Rocks and Rolls, a non-profit he founded when he was just 20 years old. Jonathan, the Founder of Botset Designs, elevates businesses through logo design, upgrading their branding.

Bryan Clayton: A life-long lawn care entrepreneur

Bryan Clayton has been working in lawn care since he was a teenager. As a way to get him out of the house, his dad encouraged him to cut neighbors’ lawns for some extra cash. Fast forward to a decade ago and Bryan co-founded the technology company GreenPal, an app that connects lawn care professionals to those who need the services at a click of a button. GreenPal is now an 8-figure business and Bryan only sees it growing from here.

Building a supportive entrepreneurial community

Eleven years ago, Jaci Lund quit her job in PR knowing that she wanted to do something different, but with no idea what that was. Three months later, from her kitchen table, she started Treebird Branding, a branding firm “centered around human connection, and elevated through creativity”. Now, eleven years later, Jaci staffs ten employees and has worked with countless clients creating timeless designs and maintaining strong relationships.

Side hustles for enjoyment, not just profit

Julie Marateck is many things: a freelance copywriter, a photographer, and even a public speaker. However, her true passion is stand-up comedy. Julie first joined the Atlanta stand-up scene six years ago, and she says that it has helped her not only become more confident in herself, but also helped her become a better copywriter and marketer. And while stand-up is not the most lucrative venture, Julie‘s love for the game keeps her going.

Finding your balance as an entrepreneur

Nadia Liu Spellman grew up immersed in the restaurant industry. During the 1980s, her parents owned a thriving Chinese restaurant in Boston, attracting notable patrons such as Julia Child and Yo-Yo Ma. As an ode to her parents, she later established her own restaurant, Dumpling Daughter. Today, with three thriving locations across Boston, Nadia has become an accomplished entrepreneur who eats, sleeps, and breathes dumplings.

How Andy O’Brien is redefining work in a family business

Growing up in a family business, Andy O’Brien learned that “the truck never unloads itself.” It took years for Andy to unlearn the do it all yourself mindset. In his current business, ActionCOACH of Central Texas, Andy incorporates new ideas daily. By outsourcing tasks that he doesn’t enjoy, setting clear communication boundaries among his family members, and making time for exercise, Andy is redefining how to do business as a family. 

Family Ties and Enterprise: Navigating Family Business Dynamics

In this episode of Side Hustle to Small Business, we delve into the large and complex world of family businesses, exploring how two entrepreneurs navigate their family businesses, past and present, to ensure that the business is successful. We discuss the role of communication in resolving conflicts within the business and explore how shared values can be the driving force behind sustained success.