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.

Joel Atkins | Business consultant and serial entrepreneur

As I was networking, I keep seeing needs that was going unfulfilled. I tried to to find a referral partner to help my clients and they failed to fulfill my clients needs, so I started signing joint venture agreements and acquiring other services to take care of the needs myself. Read more>>

Marcus Malone | Entrepreneur/Music Director/ Music Producer

I started my own business to give back to the community by providing affordable music and performing arts education for kids and adults. My goal is to mentor young musicians not just in music, but also in essential life skills. My slogan has always been “Making Musical Dreams Come True.” Read more>>

Tavarus Taylor | Chief Executive Officer/Community Advocate

At first, my main concern was simply surviving the layoff. At my age, it truly rattled me. I thought about how I had built this division and played a key role in the company’s growth. If I could do that for them, surely I could do it for myself. As a local, I was helping an out-of-town company boost its sales while my own situation was faltering. I decided to leverage my experience and connections to launch TNT Commercial Services 615. Read more>>

Charlie Edward Golden Jr. | Golden Designs Lawncare & Dore Touch Nail Academy

My decision to start Golden Institute, Inc. stemmed from a deep-rooted desire to make a meaningful impact in my community while adhering to principles of integrity, sustainability, and empowerment. I recognized that many individuals and communities faced challenges that could be alleviated through education, mentorship, and support. I wanted to create a space where people could not only receive assistance but also be empowered to help themselves. This vision is anchored in my belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive, and that true support means extending a hand up instead of a handout. Read more>>

Rocquell Bowles | Business Consultant & Tax Practitioner

My thought was having more of my time back. Corporate America was fun but ultimately I was never available or had no flexibility. I wanted more of my time to explore different opportunities in the financial space and build something of my own. Read more>>

Cody Highfield | Owner/Operator

I’ve wanted to own my own “shop” since I was 13 years old. What I envisioned 16 years ago has morphed into something that looks a little bit different than what I expected as a 13 year old kid. I wanted to focus on offroad fabrication (building jeeps, sand cars, prerunners, etc.) As I got older, I realized that industry can fluctuate a lot with swings in the economy. As a result of that volatility, I decided to focus more on manufacturing as a long term objective. Read more>>

Morgan Houston | Retired Military Medic

Bluff City Signing started from a desire to create a flexible career that would allow me to fully engage as a parent while still serving my community and taking care of my mental health. After my time in the Air Force as a medic and training manager, I transitioned into civilian life as a medic and stay-at-home mom of three. I knew I wanted to continue working but needed something that allowed me to balance my home life and my professional aspirations. Becoming a notary public and loan signing agent gave me that perfect balance, and it’s grown into a full-fledged business, offering services like mobile notary, loan signing, and wedding officiating. Read more>>