Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Clay Hadden, Founder of Mister Clay, located in Charleston, SC, USA.

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

I am a speech pathologist with 16 years of experience working with kids with significant disabilities. During the pandemic, we started putting lessons online for our clients. Then we realized we were onto something. Our clients are kids, teachers, families, and other professionals who live in work in the world of disabilities. Our goal is to create a channel and brand that, through age-appropriate, educational content, brings in enough revenue to forgo having to rely on insurance and to cover clients who exist in what is known as 'the coverage gap,' meaning that insurance will not cover their child's needs, but they don't qualify for financial aid from the government. These families often have to pay out of pocket for their child's therapy, and it can be quite expensive.

Tell us about yourself

I started as a speech-language pathologist 16 years ago. I quickly fell in love with my job, specifically with working with children with multiple disabilities. We do this because we care and because we think that art can change the lives of those around us. Kids, as cheesy as it may sound, deserve more.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Honestly, the biggest thrill is getting letters and emails from people across the world telling us how much our videos mean to them and how much they are inspired by what we do. It's a true blessing to know that what we do means something.

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

The ins and outs of the business world. I was taught how to be a speech pathologist. I was never taught how to be a business owner. I'm learning, and it's going well, but I really wish I'd had some business classes!

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

  1. Don't give up. It can be frustrating when people don't see or understand your vision but don't give up if you're sincere about what it is you're doing.
  2. Take on a posture of learning. Be willing to learn and be wrong. If you can do this, I truly think you can grow.
  3. Embrace social media. I mean, clear enough, right? You've got to be willing to put yourself out there nowadays.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Be silly. The world needs more silly.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.misterclayslp.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/misterclayslp
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mister_clay_slp/
Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/pchadden
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/preston-clay-hadden-2ab3218/

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.

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