After 10+ years in nonprofits and education, I hit burnout. The thought of working for the same bosses, in the same systems, felt impossible. I had dabbled in consulting as a side hustle but never had the confidence—or the financial runway—to fully leap. Three years ago, it finally clicked, and I launched my own nonprofit consulting business. Since then, I’ve had the freedom to choose my clients, shape a flexible schedule, and take ownership of my earning potential. But entrepreneurship isn’t all sunshine—there are long hours, self-doubt, unpredictable workflows, and the constant juggle of client pipelines, marketing, networking, and financial management. Along the way, I’ve learned what it really takes to start and sustain a consulting business. I’d love to share my experiences—the wins and the challenges—and help you think through what it will take physically, emotionally, and financially to build your own path.