I often come across successful small businesses and wonder how on earth they came up with their ideas.   Some of these small businesses start from the most unusual  circumstances.   Take this article,  written by Justin Petruccelli on Entrepreneur.com, for instance, “They’ve Got Baggage“.   This article is written about  Doyle Evans who  in  1970 started selling contents of unclaimed baggage in Scottsboro, Alabama.   The business quickly grew into a 40,000 square foot building which currently  attracts more than a million tourists to the small town yearly.

Is any business idea too crazy?    I think this success story reminds us that even an idea that seems unlikely, is possible.  …

We all know that being an entrepreneur, whether male or female, has it’s many ups and downs with countless daily obstacles to overcome.   I know I may ruffle some feathers here, but as a female myself, I think we encounter  more challenges than men.   I am merely speaking from my own personal experience and observations so please don’t hurt me too badly.

You may ask, “What would make you think that?”   Well let me explain; most women entrepreneurs are not only responsible for the success of their small businesses but the majority of household duties fall on their shoulders as well.  …

Last week I wrote the post, “Candle Wax + Rising Fuel Cost = Zero Profit” and was amazed at the responses I got almost immediately.   I want to thank everyone who took the time out to read and respond to my article.   I took all of your comments into careful consideration.

In response to my article;  reader Mark Riffey wrote “Quitting For The Wrong Reasons”  on his blog, Business Is Personal.   I really enjoyed reading Mark’s post written from his point of view and the quality comments it produced.  

I realize from the business side that shutting down my candle shop was probably not the best or smartest choice.  …

My daughters middle-school 6th grade recently held an innovation fair. Each student had 3 weeks to invent a product. They received guidance on how to find an idea, build a prototype and present to potential investors.

At the fair each adult (parent) had $25 to invest $5 each for five different product ideas. In total about 250 students participated.

The event was great and there were some great product ideas presented. Many of the kids were dressed in business attire, had a presentation ready and were even able to demonstrate a working prototype.

Here are some of the ideas:

This is my daughter Liz.…