Have you ever had a friend look at a business and randomly throw out numbers that made it seem like that business owner must be making serious bank? We’ve experienced that many times, and know from conversations with operators and owners in those industries that their real profitability is often far, far less. The reason is often that there are unique challenges to profitability in almost every industry and so we wanted to create a space for entrepreneurs from across industries and markets to discuss the challenges to profitability in their industries.

Angelique Stubbins

I think the greatest challenge to profitability in the music industry is the system isn’t set up for artists to win from a financial standpoint. Yes, in regard to mainstream artists, they are the face of brands, of songs, etc. However, they don’t get to keep all of their money, artists are the bank that everyone goes to (songwriters, producers, etc.) to collect their paychecks, and are actually the last to get paid. Read more>>

Jes Mendoza

One of the most significant challenges facing profitability in the poetry industry is the limited size and reach of the platform, particularly within mainstream media and the arts. I have the privilege of knowing many remarkable poets who are inclusive and supportive, fostering an environment that encourages growth and collaboration, the overall visibility of poetry remains quite narrow—at least for now. Read more>>

Scott Bartolomeo

Well, I do have a few thoughts on this. A starting barrier of entry would be not knowing the industry fully. As a relatively newer professional photographer, I saw right away that running a business is way more than holding a camera. Not only is it the actual camera work and post processing, but you must know sales, how to run a website, how to market yourself, be personable, adaptable, flexible, be charismatic with clients, the list goes on.  Read more>>

Jeremy B Redig

In our line of work, we deal with machines, chemicals, materials, overhead and a lot of travel plus the installs are physically demanding. There are a number of factors that keep a business profitable which is having job site efficiency, Progressive Invoicing for cash flow, and maintaining equipment and inventory, Plus, not making costly mistakes. Read more>>