ITTH E15 - Scaling with Soul: The Dog Stop and the Dream Behind It

In this week’s episode of In The Treehouse, host Michael Conner sits down with Tom Viera, a former corporate professional turned franchisee, as they explore his journey of transitioning from a career in the corporate world to owning a business. 

Tom shares his experiences, challenges, and the lessons he's learned along the way. His story serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to make the leap into entrepreneurship.

• Embracing the Entrepreneurial Spirit in Corporate Life

Tom reveals how, despite working for large corporations, he always maintained a small business mindset. 

His ability to stay entrepreneurial in a corporate world was key in eventually stepping into business ownership.

• The Turning Point: From Corporate to Dog Wash Entrepreneur

After being downsized from his job, Tom took a leap of faith and opened a self-serve dog wash business. 

Although it didn’t turn into the franchise he initially envisioned, the experience was valuable in teaching him the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.

• The Importance of Letting Go

Tom emphasizes how, like becoming a parent, transitioning into business ownership requires letting go of parts of your past life whether it's hobbies or old dreams. 

This lesson helped him focus on what mattered most, paving the way for his next venture.

• The Challenges of Opening a Franchise

His latest venture, a DogStop franchise, took nearly three years to open due to unforeseen delays, including permit issues. 

Tom highlights the emotional and financial struggles entrepreneurs face but stresses the importance of patience, persistence, and a strong support system.

• The Role of Faith and Community in Business Decisions

Tom shares a pivotal moment when he prayed for guidance and received a clear sign to start a business with his close friend. 

The support of his community and faith played an integral role in his decision-making process.

 Tom’s story is one of resilience, faith, and the power of community. From navigating corporate life with an entrepreneurial spirit to overcoming the inevitable challenges of business ownership, he offers valuable insights for anyone looking to take that first step into the world of small business. 

Remember, the road to entrepreneurship isn’t always smooth, but as Tom says, “It’s about enjoying the journey.”