Having to overcome unexpected problems is a hallmark of entrepreneurship. Almost every business owner, artist, maker, and creative we know has had to deal with countless unexpected problems that arise in the journey and so we asked some brilliant folks from the community to share their stories of the unexpected problems they’ve faced along the way. 

Heather Harris

One of the most unexpected—and honestly, one of the grossest—problems I’ve faced in my creative journey happened during a spring Pecan Street Festival in downtown Austin. I had a table covered in a black velvet cloth. At some point during the night between show times, a homeless person stayed in my tent and, unfortunately, urinated on one of the velvet covers.  Read More>>

Pola Galie

As it relates to breweries and alcohol, New Jersey has some interesting restrictions on business activities, food and entertainment. This was not something that I had anticipated during the original planning with my family,. Add to that the fact that I entered this male dominated industry (at the time) as a short middle-aged woman. Read More>>

paul rimple

I was happily working for really cool international culinary tourism company when COvid-19 came along. It was a very stressful time, as I’m sure you remember. Circumstances compelled me to start my own culinary tour business here in Tbilisi in the middle of the pandemic. So, from the beginning, adversity is part of my company’s DNA. Read More>>

Denise MvBride

During the pandemic shutdown, my business faced an unexpected challenge: clients who once sought custom luxury clothing were now living in sweatpants at home. Practically overnight, demand for what I offered evaporated. As a single mom with three kids, it was a frightening time. I pivoted by reopening my tailor shop, but the clientele didn’t fully return. I had to rethink client acquisition entirely. Read More>>

Savitra

One of the greatest achievements I have accomplished was starting my own business. It was something I always wanted to do. Like many new business owners, I began the journey feeling optimistic and excited about the possibilities ahead. You are filled with ideas, ready to make your first sale, and eager to build a pipeline of satisfied and repeat customers. Read More>>