Title: Ice House: Discovering Your Entrepreneurial “Why”
In the bustling world of entrepreneurship, it’s easy to get caught up in the “how” and “what” of business. But at the heart of every successful venture lies a crucial element often overlooked: the “why.” At our recent Ice House Entrepreneurship Program, led by the exceptional Cherese Spand, participants didn’t just discuss entrepreneurship—they discovered their personal driving force.This transformative Ice House program is brought to life through Amplify Davidson, with generous support from the Town of Davidson. Our facilitator, Cherese Spand, brings her expertise as a Financial Empowerment Lifestyle Educator to the table. Her impactful work hasn’t gone unnoticed—Cherese was recently honored as Small Business Champion of the Year by the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce.
Unveiling the Ice House Experience
The Ice House Entrepreneurship Program is more than just a course; it’s a transformative journey. Designed to empower participants, it immerses individuals in eight real-world conversations to develop an entrepreneurial mindset.
The Hurt Hub cohorts convene weekly for five weeks, engaging in facilitated, discussion-based sessions over dinner to explore and cultivate the entrepreneurial mindset.
Participants complete weekly assignments, including:
- Reading selections from the course text, “Who Owns the Ice House: 8 Life Lessons from an Unlikely Entrepreneur”
- Viewing curated video content featuring entrepreneurs sharing their experiences
- Participating in reflective activities via the class message board
A key component of the program is the Opportunity Discovery Canvas, a strategic tool designed to help participants:
- Clearly define the problem they aim to address
- Articulate their proposed solution
- Develop strategies for effectively reaching and engaging potential customers
Beyond tangible skills, Ice House does something truly remarkable: it helps individuals uncover their purpose—their “why.”
Testimonials: Voices of Transformation
The impact of finding one’s “why” is best illustrated through the words of our recent graduates:
Tereka Louise reflects, “My experience with Who Owns the Ice House Entrepreneurship Program was just what I needed! I was looking for an opportunity to network, learn, and inspire and be inspired and that is just what I got. I want to express my gratitude to The Hurt Hub for producing this program for small businesses like mine because it really has a huge impact on businesses that need the resources and the support. This program inspired me to continue to pursue my purpose and be a foundation for others to do the same”
Nichole Wallace writes, “I am so grateful that I was able to take this course and learn from other experienced business owners about what it takes to be an entrepreneur. The book was a joy to read and was full of lessons for anyone considering or already living the dream of becoming an entrepreneur. Prior to taking this course, I believed in my business idea but I was feeling alone, overwhelmed and full of doubt but now I feel inspired to work even harder and smarter and devote more time to my business. Most importantly, this course reminded me that I am not alone. I’m not alone in terms of resources that are available to help entrepreneurs and I’m also not alone in having an entrepreneurial spirit but not exactly knowing what to do and what it takes to be successful. It was so refreshing and encouraging to be with other like-minded people for these 5 weeks and I can’t thank our instructor enough for her candidness and her motivation to keep going.”
The Power of Community
One common thread in these testimonials is the power of community. The Ice House Entrepreneurship Program doesn’t just connect participants with ideas—it connects them with people. This supportive network becomes a catalyst for personal growth and professional development.
Graduate David Lusk wrote, “I found the Ice House program beneficial from the first night of class. It immediately provided access to the “community” referenced in chapter 7 of “Who Owns the Ice House?”, a group who would encourage one another’s success and who we could bounce ideas off for advice to help us take “smarter risks” to grow our own businesses. Besides being in a supportive atmosphere, you immediately understand like-minded individuals from different industries all face fears or challenges to attaining success, and the value of powering through to achieve personal goals. And, you can interact with classmates or our wonderful instructor, Cherese Spand, asking how they might approach your market or seek ideas on brand promotion and product development. The course’s 8 concepts touch upon ways of thinking I had encountered but hadn’t honed, in particular the true value of my personal brand built over decades as a professional.”
Beyond Business: A Life-Changing Experience
While the Ice House program is rooted in entrepreneurship, its impact extends far beyond the business world. Participants leave with a clearer sense of purpose, renewed confidence, and a toolset applicable to any chosen path.
Inspired graduate Trasheil Sinnet wrote, “I’m so grateful to have had an opportunity to participate in the Ice House Entrepreneurship Program at the Hurt Hub. Not only did this course offer me guidance and insight into what it takes to grow professionally, but it also offered me introspection into my self-imposed barriers, which I’ve since learned were only excuses. I’m seeing things differently and I’m feeling inspired. Ms. Cherese, Ms. Amy and my cohorts lifted me up and provided support, understanding and guidance. It was all right on time. This course had me asking the important questions about myself as both an individual and professional; my aspirations, my visions for the future, and my reasoning for what I was doing. I have a new outlook on things. I can say with certainty that I am better because of this course. I finally know my “Why?”. I’m leaving it feeling very inspired and future-focused. I have been offered new tools, connections and insight that I would not have had if not for this course. I’m no longer afraid to fail, as long as I’m failing forward. I’m excited about what comes next.”
Your Journey Awaits
Are you ready to discover your “why?” To transform not just your business acumen, but your entire outlook on life and work? The Ice House program offers more than entrepreneurial skills—it offers a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
Join us for our next cohort in January 2025 and take the first step towards uncovering your purpose-driven entrepreneurial journey. Because when you know your “why,” the “how” becomes that much clearer.