In this introductory episode of Startup Standouts, host Samantha White introduces the series focused on young entrepreneurs participating in Kids Markets. She emphasizes the mission of Kids Markets to empower children aged 5 to 17 by providing them with real business experiences.

Samantha highlights the impact of the unique stories these young entrepreneurs will share. We will get a look into the challenges they face and the growth they experience, particularly in their confidence and real-world skills. Both young, older, established, or aspiring entrepreneurs can be inspired by the incredible journeys of these kids.

Key topics:

• Starting a business at a young age
• Building confidence through sales
• Sibling teamwork in business
• Marketing and customer engagement
• Lessons learned from market experiences

Guest links:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/annmarieapples/

#KidsMarkets #YoungEntrepreneurs #EntrepreneurialSpirit #Confidence #BusinessSkills #StartupStories #ChildrensMarkets #Empowerment #FinancialLiteracy #PersonalGrowth

Most people believe entrepreneurship starts with a business. This episode proves it starts with a mindset.

In the inaugural episode of How It Started, host Connor Boyack, President of Kids Markets, breaks down why entrepreneurship is not about owning a company but about critical thinking, problem solving, and creating value in every role of life. Connor shares the story behind launching a nationwide movement that allows kids ages 5–17 to start real businesses, the legislation that made it possible, and the powerful lessons young people learn when they are trusted to build, fail, and grow.

Listeners will gain a new understanding of what it truly means to think and act entrepreneurially, and how that shift can transform families, education, and the next generation of leaders.

Things You Will Learn

• How children can develop entrepreneurial skills early in life.
• The impact of real-world learning on problem-solving and critical thinking.
• How mentorship and structured programs can accelerate entrepreneurial growth.

Tools & Frameworks Covered

1. Kids Markets - Enables kids to sell real products and earn money.
2. Youth-friendly business legislation - Lowers barriers for minors starting businesses.
3. Youth Market Framework - teaches kids to launch real products for real customers

#YouthEntrepreneurship #KidsBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset #MentorshipMatters #HowIStartedPodcast

How I Started is a podcast about the real journeys behind entrepreneurship, from the first idea to decades of impact. 

Hosted by Connor Boyack, author of the Tuttle Twins children's book series, the show brings together seasoned founders who built remarkable companies and young entrepreneurs taking their first steps into business. Through honest conversations about risk, mistakes, pivots, mentorship, and growth, listeners hear what it actually takes to build something meaningful. 

The show explores the full arc of entrepreneurship. Some episodes feature experienced founders sharing lessons from building companies over decades. Others spotlight middle school, high school, and young adult entrepreneurs launching their very first ventures. Together, these stories show that entrepreneurship can start at any age. 

How I Started exists to inspire the next generation of builders and to connect them with the people who want to support them. For young listeners, the show makes entrepreneurship feel achievable. For successful founders and supporters, it highlights the impact of mentorship, resources, and funding on young entrepreneurs. 

If you believe the next great businesses can start in a classroom, a garage, or a side hustle, this podcast is for you.