Bobbi Brown and other founders share their advice for starting your own company

In the first six months of 2026, over 3 million Americans filed applications to start new businesses, marking a 16.5% increase compared to the previous year. This surge in entrepreneurship is attributed to the increasing ease of building brands through AI tools, as well as shifting job requirements and recurring layoffs that make traditional careers feel less secure.

Five founders, including makeup mogul Bobbi Brown, shared their insights on starting a business. Brown, who founded Jones Road Beauty in 2020, emphasized the importance of listening to customers and acting on their feedback. She also advised entrepreneurs to trust their instincts and not attempt to replicate competitors.

David Barnett, the founder of PopSockets, highlighted the value of solving small, everyday problems and noted that it's essential not to chase the next billion-dollar idea. Instead, he encouraged entrepreneurs to think on a smaller scale about the frustrations in their daily lives. Barnett also stressed the importance of prototyping cheaply, seeking feedback early, and abandoning an idea if it doesn't gain traction.

Ben Goodwin, co-founder of Olipop, shared his experience of treating early failures as opportunities to learn and grow. He advised entrepreneurs to act with integrity, delegate responsibilities as their brand grows, and adjust their identity to become leaders as their businesses scale.

Lastly, Jacqueline Prehogan, co-founder of pet food company Open Farm, stressed the importance of finding personal passion and authenticity in one's business venture. She encouraged entrepreneurs to build their company around what genuinely motivates them, as this can lead to significant success.