Class in Session S2 E4: Starting a Business, Taking the Leap

To watch the full episode, visit Arden University’s Apple, Spotify or YouTube channels.

Turning passion into profit: knowing when you're ready to start a business

Starting a business is something many people dream about, but far fewer actually do.

The idea of being your own boss, building something meaningful and creating a career around your passions is exciting. The reality, however, often comes with uncertainty, risk and plenty of questions.

In this episode of the Class in Session podcast, Tru Powell is joined by Jenefer Livings, neurodiversity specialist and founder of two businesses, and Fiona Crackles, professional hockey player and Arden University MBA student, to explore what it really takes to start a business and when to know you're ready to take the leap.

From overcoming fear and uncertainty to understanding your market and building confidence, the conversation offers practical advice for anyone considering entrepreneurship.

There is rarely a perfect time to start

One of the strongest themes throughout the discussion is that waiting until you feel completely ready may mean waiting forever.

Jenefer shared how she had always wanted to start a business but only made the move after leaving her corporate role. While she admits it was not the most conventional route into entrepreneurship, she discovered that many of the skills needed to run a successful business can only be learned through experience.

Fiona echoed a similar idea from her sporting career. Reflecting on her unexpected opportunity to join Great Britain's hockey programme, she explained that she never truly felt ready. Instead, she focused on whether she would regret not taking the opportunity in the future.

The lesson is simple: readiness often comes after action, not before it.

Action tip: Instead of asking whether you feel ready, ask whether you would regret not trying.

Fear is normal, but it shouldn't stop you

For many aspiring entrepreneurs, the biggest obstacle isn’t the business idea itself. It’s fear.

Jenefer highlighted one of the most common concerns: leaving behind the security of a regular salary. While predictable income can feel reassuring, she pointed out that employment isn’t always as secure as it appears. Building a business can create multiple income streams rather than relying on a single employer.

Tru added another fear that many people experience but rarely discuss openly: worrying about what others will think if you fail. For him, fear of judgement was a bigger barrier than fear of failure itself.

Every entrepreneur faces uncertainty. The difference is learning to move forward despite it.

Action tip: Identify the specific fear holding you back. Once you name it, it becomes easier to address.

Start with a problem, not just a passion

Passion is important, but passion alone doesn’t guarantee a successful business.

Reflecting on her first business, Jenefer explained that she entered a crowded market without fully considering how many similar providers already existed. Looking back, she recognised that understanding market demand is just as important as enjoying the work itself.

Her newer venture took a different approach. It was built around a problem she experienced personally as a parent navigating support for a child with ADHD. By identifying a genuine gap in the market, she was able to create a service that addressed a real need.

Many successful businesses begin by solving a problem that people are actively looking to fix.

Action tip: Ask yourself what problem your business solves and who is actively looking for that solution.

Build your personal brand early

People often buy from people before they buy from businesses.

One of Jenefer's biggest lessons was the importance of becoming visible. Building a personal brand, creating content and connecting with audiences helped people understand who she was and what she offered.

Tru reinforced this point, describing personal branding as a form of social currency. The more people understand your expertise and trust your perspective, the easier it becomes to build relationships and opportunities.

For students and early-career professionals, building an online presence can be one of the most accessible ways to start creating opportunities before launching a business.

Action tip: Start sharing your knowledge, experiences and insights before you think you need to.

External factors matter more than you think

Even the best business ideas don’t exist in isolation.

Jenefer discussed how broader economic, political and social changes can have a significant impact on business performance. Changes in workplace diversity and inclusion conversations, for example, directly influenced discussions she was having with potential clients.

Tru agreed, noting that entrepreneurs need to stay aware of the wider environment because external events can create both risks and opportunities. Some businesses struggled during the pandemic, while others experienced rapid growth.

Understanding the world around your business is just as important as understanding your customers.

Action tip: Regularly monitor trends, technology and market changes that could affect your industry.

Sustainability matters as much as growth

Entrepreneurs often focus so heavily on growing their businesses that they forget to look after themselves.

Jenefer shared one of the most valuable lessons she learned: prioritise paying yourself. Early on, she reinvested heavily into her business and neglected her own financial wellbeing, which eventually contributed to burnout.

She also warned against spending money on every opportunity that appears promising. Not every marketing offer, partnership or promotion delivers value, particularly for new businesses.

Long-term success requires balancing investment with sustainability.

Action tip: Protect your time, energy and finances with the same care you give your business.

Success is rarely a solo journey

While entrepreneurship is often associated with independence, the conversation highlighted the importance of collaboration and support.

Drawing on her experience as an elite athlete, Fiona described how successful teams bring together people with different strengths, perspectives and experiences. Even when personalities differ, shared goals create powerful results.

The same principle applies in business. Whether through mentors, advisors, collaborators or customers, building strong relationships can accelerate growth and provide valuable perspective.

Action tip: Surround yourself with people who challenge your thinking and support your goals.

Taking the next step

Starting a business will always involve uncertainty.

As this discussion highlights, successful entrepreneurs are not necessarily the people who feel most prepared. They are often the people who are willing to learn, adapt and take action despite not having all the answers.

Whether you are considering a side hustle, exploring a new idea or planning a future business venture, understanding your market, building your confidence and focusing on solving real problems can help turn ambition into action.

To hear more insights and practical advice, listen to the full episode on Arden University’s Apple, Spotify or YouTube channels.

Ready to take the next step in your journey? Explore Arden University’s courses and find the degree that aligns with your career goals by visiting our courses page.