The first step to starting a business is deciding to start a business. They say the first step is the hardest and in our experience this is especially true when it comes to starting a business. Getting over the mental roadblocks can be tough, often harder to overcome than the challenges you’ll face once you actually start the business. Fellow entrepreneurs share their thoughts below.

Tammy Floyd-Westmoreland | Founder/CEO/President

There really was no thought process. God told me that I had a purpose in life, and it was to be the voice that my son never had. Their Voice of Greater Cincinnati launched in 2018 7 years after the passing of my son D’Jonte, who passed away due to complications of cerebral palsy. I know the trials and tribulations that I went through as not just a teen mom, but a mom of a child with a disability. The denial letters, the lack of support and resources. I have made it my mission to help others just like me who needs a voice, who needs guidance, who needs a village of parents/caregivers who also understand what they are going through. Who understands their whys. Read more>>

Ryan Schoenbeck | Owner – Sampsel Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning

I always wanted to be my own boss, After graduating HVAC school, the goal was always to start my own business and be able to lead a team. Right out of school I was offered and opportunity to be a part of an already established company. After putting in almost 10 years with them, the owner decided he wanted to retire. He offered the company to me stating he thought I would be a great fit to take on his legacy. I since have purchased that business and now am full owner with the same great team on my side! Read more>>

Brenna Venturella | Registered Nurse & Artist

I have been creative and artistic since childhood because my grandma always encouraged my imagination. This continued through high school, where I excelled in art class and had paintings in several art shows. My thoughts behind starting my own craft business began when I was reaching the end of nursing school in 2021. I knew that I loved helping people but I also have always loved making presents for people that are more personal than store-bought. As a broke college graduate, I had to think of ways to be creative and still make a dime. Crafty B Custom Design officially launched on Facebook in 2022 and has only gotten bigger and better ever since! I first started by only selling to my friends and family, but it wasn’t long before the word spread and Crafty B was making customs for everyone! Over the years I have established a great group of repeat customers that keep me busy with orders and new customers daily. I currently work as a full-time nurse and craft on the side. My end goal is to run Crafty B as my full-time job while I raise a family with my amazing husband. Read more>>