Where It All Started: My Entrepreneurial Roots

Growing up surrounded by the steady growth of my parents’ company, Ebert Companies, I learned early on what it means to build something from the ground up. Watching their business evolve over the years gave me a front-row seat to the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. This experience shaped my mindset and inspired me to pursue my own dream of starting a business. From crafting purses out of Ziploc bags and duct tape as a child to launching a jewelry company in high school, my journey has been about learning, creating, and building something meaningful.

Earring made for my high school jewelry business, Styled By Kolleen

Early Lessons from Family Business Growth

Ebert Companies started as a small family business and gradually expanded into a thriving enterprise. Growing up, I saw firsthand how my parents handled every aspect of the company—from managing day-to-day operations to making strategic decisions that fueled growth. Their dedication taught me that success doesn’t happen overnight; it requires patience, hard work, and a willingness to learn from mistakes.

This environment encouraged me to develop an entrepreneurial spirit early on. I learned that building a business means constantly adapting and finding creative solutions to problems. It also means understanding the value of relationships—with customers, employees, and partners. These lessons became the foundation for my own ventures.

Childhood Creativity and Early Ventures

Even as a young child, I was drawn to creating and selling things. I remember making “purses” out of Ziploc bags and duct tape, then selling them to friends and family. This simple project taught me important skills like product design, pricing, and customer interaction. It was my first taste of entrepreneurship, and it sparked a passion that has only grown stronger.

In high school, I took this passion further by starting my own jewelry company. Designing and selling jewelry gave me joy and a sense of accomplishment. It also helped me understand the importance of branding, marketing, and customer service. Running this small business taught me how to manage finances, track inventory, and balance schoolwork with my entrepreneurial goals.

Building a Mindset for Success

The experiences I gained from my family’s business and my own ventures helped me develop a mindset focused on growth and resilience. I learned to:

• Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn

• Stay curious and open to new ideas

• Take calculated risks while planning carefully

• Value hard work and persistence

• Build strong relationships and networks

  
  

This mindset is essential for anyone who wants to start and grow a business. It’s not just about having a good idea; it’s about being willing to put in the effort and keep going even when things get tough.

Looking Ahead: My Own Business Journey

I am excited to take the next step and launch my own business soon. My goal is to create something that allows me to be my own boss and continue building a meaningful venture. I want to apply everything I’ve learned—from my family’s company and my personal experiences—to create a business that reflects my values and passions.

Starting a business is a big challenge, but I feel prepared because of the foundation I’ve built over the years. I plan to focus on:

• Identifying a clear market need

• Offering products or services that provide real value

• Building a strong brand that connects with customers

• Managing finances carefully to ensure sustainability

• Continuously learning and adapting to changes