Eric D. Moeller’s Post

Entrepreneurship is a thrilling ride with heights that make you feel like you’re on top of the world and lows that test your resilience like never before. I’d like to share some reflections on the rollercoaster that has been my journey. The highs: 🌟 Creating something special: I remember the day I got paid for my first exit. In the grand scheme of things, it wasn’t a lot of money, but for a 15-year-old kid, I was proud of myself. Then using that money to build DetraPel felt even better. 🌟Impact and influence: As entrepreneurs, we can make a real difference in the world. That was the goal when starting DetraPel - I wanted to create a safer world for the generations to come. We’ve been responsible for over 30,000 tons of PFAS and polyethylene (plastic) elimination that has been removed from everyday products. The Lows: 🌧️ Regulatory and adoption setbacks: There is no blueprint for what we do, which means you need to be resourceful. Early on, our prospective customers did not have a reason to change - it was more expensive, and there was no need for truly sustainable solutions if consumers weren’t willing to pay for them and no regulatory body was forcing the change. As we vertically integrated and our economies of scale kicked in, regulations started to catch up - but most people don’t realize it took nearly 10 years to get there. 🌧️ Uncertainty: Nothing is given in this line of work. You need to earn everything. Sure people can help you along the way, but if you don’t want it bad enough, you’ll never get it. Before we hired Juan Jarufe, there were multiple times when we ran into research and development roadblocks and I thought about quitting. In fact, within the first few weeks of being in my dorm room at Babson College, I pulled an all-nighter and revamped our entire business model based on R&D timelines. I told myself that if by that winter break, I couldn’t figure it out and make meaningful progress, I would shut down the business for good. Since we’re still running to this day, things worked out, but my college roommate Dillon Galynsky and I remember this vividly. Despite all of this, the journey is incredibly rewarding. There’s nothing more fulfilling that solving problems. That is what entrepreneurship is all about.

Why Do We Chase the Entrepreneurial Dream? Here’s my why 🤷🏼♂️ In the realm of entrepreneurship, where uncertainties loom large and challenges are par for the course, the burning "why" behind our actions often becomes our guiding light. D͟i͟s͟c͟o͟v͟e͟r͟i͟n͟g͟ ͟t͟h͟e͟ ͟W͟h͟y͟:͟ Why does anyone choose the arduous path of entrepreneurship, marked by consistent failure and struggle? It's demanding, often solitary, and requires sacrifices that many aren't willing to make. But there's always a deeper motivation, a compelling "𝘄𝗵𝘆" that fuels our journey. For many, that "why" might stem from necessity—a single parent needing to make ends meet, or someone who, due to their unique traits or life circumstances, finds traditional employment challenging, if not impossible. Others are driven by a desire to provide for their families in a meaningful way, aiming for a lifestyle that offers not just material comforts but valuable time together. M͟y͟ ͟P͟e͟r͟s͟o͟n͟a͟l͟ ͟W͟h͟y͟:͟ My journey into entrepreneurship was catalyzed by a series of personal traumas that unfolded in my twenties. What started as a sequence of painful events, led me to reassess what I wanted from life after the storm passed.  These experiences, while incredibly tough, clarified my drive to make a difference. My "𝘄𝗵𝘆" is deeply rooted in my past and the realization that life's too precious to not pursue something meaningful.  I want to honor those who didn't get the chance, make my loved ones proud, and leverage my capabilities to their fullest. T͟h͟e͟ ͟P͟o͟w͟e͟r͟ ͟o͟f͟ ͟W͟h͟y͟:͟ Understanding my "why" is more than an exercise in self-discovery; it's a potent tool that has sustained me through entrepreneurship's inevitable ups and downs. It's the fuel that powers the long, often lonely hours of building and innovating. I͟n͟v͟i͟t͟a͟t͟i͟o͟n͟ ͟t͟o͟ ͟R͟e͟f͟l͟e͟c͟t͟:͟ What’s your "why"? What drives you each morning to face the challenges and push the boundaries of what's possible? Whether it stems from a place of need, a dream of a better life, or a personal challenge, every entrepreneur’s journey is uniquely their own yet resonates on a universal level. ✦ P.S. Have you ever had a moment that crystallized why you do what you do? I’d love to hear about it—let’s connect and inspire each other with our stories.

Navigating the High Seas of Entrepreneurship: The Uncharted Journey Begins This time last year, I found myself standing at a pivotal juncture, facing one of the most daunting decisions of my professional life. Amidst a whirlwind of corporate opportunities knocking at my door, my heart was steering me towards a different horizon - entrepreneurship. The dilemma was intense, the pressure immense, but the call to venture into the unknown was irresistible. After countless sleepless nights and endless rounds of self-deliberation, I made the leap. I decided to chase after my entrepreneurial dream, armed with nothing but my passion, experience, and an unwavering belief in the power of determination. Starting from scratch, I committed every waking hour to building my dream company from the ground up. It was a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows, filled with unforeseen challenges at every turn. One year down the line, the journey has been nothing short of exhilarating. Each contract signed marked not just a business transaction, but a vote of confidence in my vision and capabilities. These early supporters have become more than clients; they are partners in this adventure, bound by a shared commitment that transcends mere paperwork. Reflecting on this past year, it’s evident that entrepreneurship is not for the faint-hearted. It demands resilience, dedication, and an unwavering faith in one's vision amidst a sea of uncertainties. Yet, it is these very challenges that make the journey worthwhile. To anyone standing at their crossroad today - know that embarking on this path may be daunting, but it promises an adventure like no other. Here's to embracing the entrepreneurial spirit and charting our own courses towards success! --- Embracing Community: The Power of Connection in Fostering Business Growth In our rapidly evolving world where isolation can often become an unintended side effect of technological advancements, fostering genuine connections has never been more crucial - especially for us in the business community. Today more than ever before, nurturing relationships

An Entrepreneurial Journey with Growing Paper 🌟 Reflecting on the recent Malmesbury Sakekamer event where I had the privilege to speak, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share insights and connect with fellow entrepreneurs. These monthly gatherings are invaluable platforms for local business owners to network and glean wisdom from each other's experiences. Being entrusted with the role of speaker was a humbling reminder of the trust others have in my journey and the lessons I've amassed along the way. It's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day hustle and overlook the significance of our progress and the knowledge we've acquired. As I reflected on my path as a business partner, co-owner, leader, mother, and friend at Growing Paper, I couldn't help but marvel at the unexpected turns life has taken. From envisioning myself as a teenager to now co-owning a thriving business, managing a team of 40, and collaborating with esteemed corporate clients, it's been an awe-inspiring journey. Much credit goes to my dear friend and colleague, Roxanne Schumann, whose entrepreneurial spirit ignited the spark that led to our venture. Her vision and business acumen laid the foundation for what would become Growing Paper. In 2009, Roxanne introduced me to the concept of seeded paper, and together, we embarked on a transformative journey on her father's farm. The road wasn't without its challenges. We were young, naive, and full of ambition, navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship while juggling the responsibilities of motherhood. But through perseverance and unwavering dedication, we overcame hurdles and learned valuable lessons along the way. Here are some key takeaways from our journey that I believe can benefit any small business: - Know your product inside out and never stop learning. - Anchor your decisions in unwavering values and a clear vision. - Understand your target market and cater to their needs. - Keep meticulous records and avoid impulsive decisions. - Seek expertise where you lack it and be open to asking for help. - Embrace delegation and trust in your team's abilities. - Recognize your strengths and weaknesses and build a team that complements them. - Focus not only on financial success but also on personal and professional growth. - Step out of your comfort zone, for that's where true magic happens. In closing, the journey of entrepreneurship is as rewarding as it is challenging. From personal growth and creativity to creating jobs and impacting lives, the rewards are immeasurable. Let's cherish every step of the journey and embrace the opportunities for growth and learning that lie ahead. 🌱✨ #Entrepreneurship #Growth #Reflections #SmallBusinessSuccess

🚀 Embarking on the Entrepreneurial Journey: A Glimpse into a 5-Year Odyssey 🚀 Hey, dreamers and doers! It's Jed from Your Money Vehicle, coming at you with a reflection on my entrepreneurial voyage over the last five years. Here's the essence of what this rollercoaster has taught me: 1️⃣ Creation & Feedback: Your first masterpiece? That's for you. But the sequel? That's where the magic of feedback transforms your vision. Open the door wide to perspectives but sift through them wisely. The goal? Amplify your creation's impact in the real world. 🌍✨ 2️⃣ The Power of Niche: Riches are in the niches, my friends. Who are you speaking to? Zone in on your tribe – for me, it's the 18-year-old high schoolers navigating financial literacy. Your message sharpens when you know your audience like the back of your hand. 🔍🎯 3️⃣ Beyond the Product: Here's a rookie mistake – obsessing over the product but neglecting its journey to the market. Remember, a masterpiece unseen remains a masterpiece unsold. Embrace distribution and aim for MVP – your perfect offering is a myth. Market, then perfect. 📈🚀 4️⃣ Sustainable Habits Over One-offs: Want to transcend from self-employed to true entrepreneur? Build systems, not tasks. Your venture should thrive, with or without you. That's the real test of entrepreneurship. Set up, scale, and track for repeatable success. 🔄💼 In this thrilling journey, each lesson has been a stepping stone towards growth, impact, and understanding the heart of entrepreneurship. And guess what? There's more to explore, more to learn, and endless horizons to chase. 🌟 Join us as we continue to navigate the ebbs and flows of the entrepreneurial tide. Your insights, your journey, could be the next beacon for someone out there. Share your stories, join our conversation, and let's build a future where our dreams drive us to unimaginable heights. #MoneyMakers #EntrepreneurialJourney #SuccessStories #BusinessInsights #FinancialFreedom #WealthBuilding #ProfitableVentures #InnovativeEntrepreneurs #StartupSuccess #BusinessMastery #FinancialEmpowerment #MoneyMindset #InspiringEntrepreneurs #BusinessGrowthTips #StartupStories  https://lnkd.in/gkqyE-bj

The entrepreneurial journey is not meant to be a one-size-fits-all. ⏳ While many embark on their entrepreneurial voyage by starting from scratch, there's another exciting avenue that's worth considering - buying an existing business. 🏢 Here's why this option is packing a punch for aspiring business owners: 🛡 **Less Risky**: An established business comes with operational systems, existing customers, and even a trained workforce. This structure reduces the threats associated with starting anew. 💰 **Immediate Cash Flow**: Unlike a startup that could take ages to break even, taking over an existing business gives you immediate access to revenue streams. 📈 **Higher Likelihood of Success**: With the existing business model and customer loyalty, buying a business provides a cushion against the uncertainties of new ventures. But just like any other entrepreneurial endeavor, buying a business comes with its own sets of opportunities and challenges. For instance, baby boomer retirements are paving the way for abundant acquisition opportunities. Yet, finding the right business and navigating the complex acquisition process can definitely test your mettle! The final takeaway? Buying an existing business can steer away from the arduous climb of building a startup while ensuring a more reliable journey towards success. 😎 If you're someone considering this path, 'freedom journal' is the catchphrase for access to exclusive resources tailored for your aim. 💼 For even more inspiration, make sure to check out www.fulltimepressure.com! 🌐 Remember, entrepreneurship isn't about following a definite path; it's all about making your own way.

🌟 My Entrepreneurial Journey: Turning Dreams into Reality 🌟 When I first embarked on my entrepreneurial journey, I had a vision and a heart full of dreams. But like many, I faced a multitude of challenges that tested my resolve. From humble beginnings, I knew that the road ahead would be anything but smooth. I remember the early days vividly—working out of a small, makeshift office with just a handful of dedicated team members. We had big ideas but limited resources. Many nights were spent brainstorming, refining our product designs, and strategizing on how to make our mark in the competitive world. The sleepless nights and countless hours of hard work were all part of the process. 🚀💼 There were moments of doubt, times when obstacles seemed insurmountable, and instances where failure felt like the only option. But it was in these moments that I found my true strength. Each setback became a lesson, each failure a stepping stone towards growth. The key was to keep moving forward, to stay resilient, and to never lose sight of the end goal. 💪🌟 My entrepreneurial journey began with selling luxury bags, a venture that taught me invaluable lessons about the market, customer preferences, and the importance of quality and authenticity. This first business was a stepping stone, providing the foundation and insights necessary for my future endeavors. One of the most significant turning points was when we landed our first big client. It was a testament to our perseverance and the belief that if you put in the work, results will follow. This win not only boosted our confidence but also validated our efforts and strategy. It showed us that success is a journey, not a destination.✨ A pivotal moment in my journey was the creation of Luxe Beauty and Wellness Group, born out of a passion for beauty and wellness and a desire to offer something unique in the industry. Building it from the ground up required dedication and innovation, with a focus on creating products that enhance beauty and promote overall well-being. The launch was a labor of love, involving extensive research, meticulous planning, and a commitment to quality. Seeing the positive impact our products had on our customers reaffirmed my belief in the power of entrepreneurship to make a difference, teaching me the importance of staying true to your vision and never compromising on your values. 💖 To all the aspiring entrepreneurs out there, my message is simple: Dream big, work hard, and stay persistent. Surround yourself with a team that shares your vision and passion. Celebrate the small wins and learn from the losses. Your journey will be unique, filled with ups and downs, but every step will shape you into the leader you're meant to be. Believe in yourself, trust the process, and never give up. Your dreams are within reach. 🌟💫 #Entrepreneurship #Inspiration #JourneyToSuccess #AnnaMagkawas #LuxeBeautyAndWellness

Entrepreneurs are an interesting bunch, never happy with the status quo, constantly dodging and weaving, adapting and shaping, fueled by an inner energy to make their vision a reality. It's not an easy journey one that drains the inner energy, making us often feel alone, and disconnected, feelings I can speak to from 25+ years of experience, being an entrepreneur. So when the opportunity arose, through my good friend George Hedon to plug back into the energy source via a network of like minds, visionaries and success stories I had to take the opportunity via both hands.. This for me was EntrepreneurSHIP 2024. Last week, I had the privilege of attending EntrepreneurSHIP 2024 on Virgin Voyages, departing from my backyard in Port Melbourne for a four-night journey to Tasmania and back. This trip wasn't just a voyage across the sea it was a journey into the heart of entrepreneurial spirit and connection. The ship became a melting pot of incredible entrepreneurs, a blend of people from all walks of life and business, each person embodying the essence of opportunity and the courage to seize it. The diversity of the group added to the richness of our experience, as we shared, learned, and grew together. The event was more than just networking; it was a platform for incredible professional and personal development. We were graced by some of Australia's leading minds, including Radek Sali, Richard Hall, Alex Christou, Aviva Berzon Elise Morris who imparted wisdom that went beyond conventional business teachings and Kristina Karlsson, Nicole Hatherly 🚀 Sarah Pirie-Nally Shaynna Blaze. (MAICD) you brought to life the reinvent you framework. Each session, workshop, and casual conversation opened new doors of understanding, challenging us to think differently and to embrace our unique entrepreneurial journeys. As we sailed through the waters to Tasmania, the sense of community and shared purpose was awesome, there was a synergy among us, an unspoken bond that grew with every conversation. The key takeaway from EntrepreneurSHIP 2024 was the power of connection and community in the entrepreneurial journey. In a world that often feels disconnected, coming together with like-minded individuals helped recharge my batteries and reaffirm my vision for the future. It underscored the importance of stepping away from the noise, the content overload, and reconnecting with our core vision and values. As we docked back in Port Melbourne, it was clear to me that we returned changed, renewed in vigor, inspiration, and with a network of support that transcends the ordinary. EntrepreneurSHIP 2024 was not just an event; it was a pivotal moment, a reminder that even as we chart our individual courses, we are part of a larger, vibrant community of dreamers, doers, and change-makers. Thanks to everyone involved Steve Pirie-Nally Stef Hanson Naomi Fox Pelagia M. Leo Cooper Jo Cooper Kathy Stamatopoulos Julio De Laffitte Jamie A.

🌱 Opening the Floor to the Unspoken Realities of Entrepreneurship 🌱 👋🏽 Hello LinkedIn Community, Today, I stand before my 5,000 connections with a reflection that’s been simmering in the depths of my entrepreneurial journey. A journey that’s often glamorized but rarely stripped down to its raw, unfiltered essence. Embarking on a $250 million dollar theme park project designed to change lives has been an odyssey of highs, lows, and the stark realization of solitude in the vast sea of entrepreneurship. The path has unveiled a truth often shunned in spaces meant for professional growth - that the road to changing the world can be a solitary trek marked by unseen battles and unshared tears. #LinkedIn, a platform I envisioned as a beacon of support and connection, has sometimes felt more like a battleground of judgment and exclusion. Voices sharing truths that don’t resonate with the conventional narrative of success are muted, and tales of struggle and perseverance are often overlooked for more palatable stories. Why is it that we shy away from the realities that make us human? Is it not in the shared struggles that we find strength, and in the candid stories that we discover hope? As I navigate the complexities of building something monumental, I’m reminded of the stark contrast between the support we preach and the support we practice. The realization hits hard that the very people I aim to uplift with my venture may never know the sacrifices made behind the scenes. Yet, here I am, a testament to the gritty, unglamorous side of entrepreneurship, standing firm in my resolve to create impact, despite the silence, the judgment, and the solitude. Because if there’s anything more powerful than the challenges faced, it’s the unwavering belief in the why behind what we do. So, let’s open the floor and talk about the unspoken, the uncomfortable, and the undeniable truths of entrepreneurship. It’s time we embrace all facets of this journey, for it’s in the authenticity that we find solidarity and strength. To all fellow entrepreneurs navigating this bittersweet symphony, remember why you started. Hold onto that spark, for it’s not just about changing the world but also enlightening the path for those who dare to dream alongside us. #Entrepreneurship #RealTalk #LinkedInCommunity #FemaleFounder #AuthenticityInBusiness #Support #EntrepreneurialJourney Let’s start a new #trend. I would like everyone who sees this message to #leaveacomment or #repost With your thoughts. Let’s discuss the #RealitiesOfEntrepreneurship And #WhatSupportReallyLooksLike People need to hear that, people need to be #supported and if you don’t want to support people please remove your connection so that I can make room for people that are in alignment with where I’m headed. 🚀🚀🚀