Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Trish Shaw, Co-Owner of Just Danze, LLC., located in Houston, TX, USA.

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

We are a ballroom dance studio located in Houston, TX. Our purpose is to be a source of inspiration for change in the industry by bringing dance to the forefront of education, health, sports, and entertainment. Our customers come from all backgrounds and ages, but they all have a common connection; they are seeking high-quality instruction in an encouraging and professional environment.

Tell us about yourself

I was a professional ballroom dancer for nearly ten years before my husband, and I decided to start Just Danze. As the years went by, we both felt a change was needed in the industry and decided to join forces professionally. Our passion for our ballroom dancing, our students, education, and business, fuels our fire every day.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

During these first four years, we have gone through many ups and downs, but if we had to pinpoint something we are most proud of, I would say it's the mere fact that we are still open and growing. We moved to Houston, TX, with no network and less than two thousand dollars in our bank account. It hasn't been easy, but it's been an amazing adventure, and we are just getting started.

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

Everyone thinks you're crazy! Most don't understand why you have chosen this path, they believe you don't have what it takes, and many don't approve. This is challenging when first starting out, but as you learn to ignore the noise and follow your inner voice, you'll start to just smile and tell yourself phrases like "if they only knew what we are going to become." In time, your mental toughness becomes unstoppable! We have all been told to follow our dreams, but once you become an adult, that seems to be an afterthought for many, but not for us. No matter what, we won't back down and will always keep fighting to keep the dream alive.

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

  1. Never stop learning.
  2. Welcome challenges and embrace change.
  3. Hire great people regardless of their experience or background and train them in the necessary skills needed to be successful.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Thank you for listening to our story.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://justdanzehouston.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justdanze/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justdanze01/

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.