The Power To Turn Passion into Profit While Being a Mom

Dinah Chapman is the founder of Little Trouble.

By Dinah Chapman

From the moment I became a mom, everything shifted. While on maternity leave with my first son, Cash, I started what I thought would be a small side hustle—Little Trouble. It quickly grew from a side project into a business that replaced my corporate salary. 

In corporate America, I saw pressure to give everything to a company, often at the expense of personal well-being. ​​Leaving corporate America (and physical America) was a necessary shift to recalibrate and scale a purpose-driven brand with the flexibility I was looking for while also raising two kids. As I planned for my second maternity leave, Little Trouble was already big enough to support my family, so it was an easier decision to work on my exit strategy from my then full-time job with well over full-time hours. 

Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship has been fulfilling but challenging. By prioritizing my time, I’ve learned that I can build a thriving business while being present for my family. My life is a mix of business and play, where I embrace the challenges and joys of both. I’m more intentional with my time than ever, using time blocks to stay organized. I’m present with my kids during the day and carve out moments to work, always keeping in mind that my work is not just for me; it’s for them.

Little Trouble is a reflection of my passion, creativity, and desire to provide my children with a life full of wonder. Building this brand while being a mom has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. It’s proof that with the right mindset, determination, and a bit of creativity, you can have it all - and thrive.

Dinah Chapman is founder of Little Trouble. https://www.facebook.com/shoplittletrouble ; https://instagram.com/littletrouble ; https://www.linkedin.com/company/little-trouble-clothing/ ; http://www.littletrouble.com .