Why Teens Belong in Business (Episode 118)

What if a child’s “hobby” could earn real money, build real confidence, and spark real change in a community? We sit down with Leah K. Ellis—author and founder of the Society of Child Entrepreneurs—to explore how kids as young as six can learn entrepreneurship, leadership, and financial literacy by selling real products to real customers and keeping the revenue. Leah shares the powerful story of a shy ten-year-old pin-maker who found her voice, landed consignment in local shops, and joined a junior board after discovering the mission behind her work: a pin can be a quiet way to say who you are.

Leah’s own journey starts with a flooded home, a pandemic shutdown, and a four-year-old who watched business trainings and asked to start a company. That moment reframed what’s possible when we put meaningful material in front of kids. We unpack why media diets shape ambition, why the first non-family sale is a pivotal milestone, and how practical skills—pricing, marketing, customer conversations—become a training ground for resilience and identity. Leah outlines her expanding ecosystem: Astra and Zeke, a story-led book that will grow into a 36-part, school-year curriculum, and Sochi Circle, a new online platform for global camaraderie, mentorship, and friendly competition among young founders.

You’ll also hear clear guidance for schools, homeschool co-ops, and community leaders: listen first, avoid cookie-cutter programs, and let youth define the problems they want to solve. For teens, Leah makes a bold appeal to resist apathy and speak up where your voice will be heard. For adults, the invitation is simple—support with time, talent, and treasure, and help put tools in the hands of kids who are ready to build.

If this conversation inspires you, share it with a parent, teacher, or teen who needs a nudge to start. Subscribe for more mind-shifting stories, leave a review to help others find us, and tell us: what problem would you solve if you started today?

🔗 Connect with Leah K. Ellis

https://leahkellis.com/

https://societyofchildentrepreneurs.org/

https://www.skool.com/socecircle

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