Behind every business, there is a story that challenges obstacles and ventures into the unknown. These stories showcase determination and resolve and provide inspiration for aspiring investors and founders waiting for a sign to take the leap.
The Pursuit of Lasting Passion: Juno Pandolfi Designs
Turning your passion into a business is a dream for many, but potter and founder Juno Pandolfi has achieved that dream. He studied pottery in high school, where he visited local pottery studios on field trips. “I saw the medium used in a way I had not been exposed to in the classroom, and I saw production on a slightly larger scale, and that was interesting to me,” says Juno.
Investments at Risk: ThirdLove
“If you are on the edge, a lot of people won’t believe in your idea. That’s perfectly normal,” says ThirdLove founder Heidi Zak. She started her business early in the direct-to-consumer marketplace before it was even a term.
Innovation at the Center: Cirque du Soleil
Daniel Lamarre, the executive vice president of Cirque du Soleil, says creativity is essential for any business, not just for entertainment. Cirque du Soleil is always developing new shows and performing in new cities. In total, the company has toured in over 400 cities worldwide.
Finding Solutions: Therabody
Dr. Jason Wersland, founder of Therabody, had no intention of starting a business for massage tools. He already had an active practice as a physical therapist. However, during his recovery from a motorcycle accident, he used the invention for healing. So when one of his patients came to his clinic with chronic conditions similar to his, Jason recommended the massage device. The Theragun brand became so popular that Jason began hearing people use it as a verb or even as a generic term for any type of massage device.
Investments at Risk: ThirdLove
“If you are on the edge, a lot of people won’t believe in your idea. That’s perfectly normal,” says ThirdLove founder Heidi Zak. She started her business early in the direct-to-consumer marketplace before it was even a term.
Innovation at the Center: Cirque du Soleil
Daniel Lamarre, the executive vice president of Cirque du Soleil, says creativity is essential for any business, not just for entertainment. Cirque du Soleil is always developing new shows and performing in new cities. In total, the company has toured in over 400 cities worldwide.
For more inspiration from these founders and executives, listen to the full review episode on Shopify Masters.
Source: https://www.shopify.com/blog/2023-inspirational-stories
Leave a Reply