Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Akili Atkinson, owner of Akili's Corner LLC, located in Houston, TX, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

My business is consulting adults on the autism spectrum looking to establish themselves in the workplace. I also assist businesses in identifying and assisting their neurodiverse staff in developing a career path.

Tell us about yourself

It is hard for me to remember the times before Google, when digging into medical books was the main way to get additional help and understanding of diagnoses. As young parents, my husband and I struggled with support and understanding when my son was diagnosed with autism. Each milestone he took came with the question of what he would be able to do next. Eventually, I began thinking about how many others are struggling with answers or help. I could not think about autism as just one isolated issue. I began studying and helping in any way I could to learn more about disabilities in general. I found that after high school (22), the services change considerably, and many lack the understanding of the next steps. If you are unsure how to network and request a raise or promotion, you may never find the growth within the company that is deserved. My motivation comes from seeing a person who never thought they could find the strength, confidence, and motivation to dream bigger. The goal is no longer employment but learning how to develop a plan for a career path.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My business accomplishment comes from the smallest ones. The day a client calls me first and says I need some guidance. When a business no longer refers to my clients as people with autism and starts talking about their employees. The little things lead to the larger conversation about autism, acceptance, and employment.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

The hardest thing as a business owner is explaining unconscious bias to people working twice as hard to get half the opportunity.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Be passionate - The goals should be tied with what makes you smile and cry at the same time.
  2. Be honest - Hard work and dedication, along with a plan, can help you with checkpoints along the way.
  3. Engage others - You are not alone and there are organizations that help small businesses understand what steps need to happen for potential success.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.akiliscorner.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Akiliscorner
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akiliscorner/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/akiliScornerllc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akiliscorner/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.