One Entrepreneur On the Start: Isabelle Duston

This is part of a series called "The Entrepreneurs On The Start."  This interview is with Isabelle Duston.

What was your first business venture?

I created a collection of 20 cookbooks for the iPhone, which have been translated into 10 languages.

What made you want to go into business for yourself?

I live in the US, but I am French. When I left my husband a year ago, I wanted to stay in the US to continue raising our two young children. I realized that by starting my own business I could both obtain my own visa and become financially independent so I could support my family.  However, was challenging because in order to be approved for an E2 visa, you need to invest about $100,000, hire 2 people, and be profitable within 1 year. The 5 year business plan has to show potential growth and
reach the goal of 10 employees.

Would you go into business, if you had it to do over again?  Why or why not?

Yes, I would do it again. I like creating, imagining, and being free to try new ideas. I also enjoy the fact that I can apply my philosophy of life to my business and management style. This philosophy focuses on the importance of empowerment, collaborative team work, virtual and international teams, and giving important causes. 5% of the sales of my applications are donated to important causes of my choosing.

What were some of your biggest lessons learned about starting a business?

Making mistakes is part of the process. There is no direct path to success. Networking is key, because it's very important to share your ideas with others so that you get feedback and can improve your concept.

What advice would you have for others considering going into business for themselves?

Stay focused, don't look back. Harbor no regrets on what you did wrong or the opportunities you may have missed. Keep learning, and keep your eyes open for potential breakthroughs. They can come from anywhere.

Any final thoughts on starting a business?

Bad economic times are the actually the best times to start your own business. If you are out of job, that's when you get the highest level of personal implication, because you have to make it. There is no easy alternative, so you are driven to find the energy within yourself.

Isabelle Thomas Duston is the founder of Apps of All Nations LLC, a producer of application for the iPhone and the iPad. She has developed a collection of cookbooks translated in 10 languages, and she is now producing interactive pictures books in collaboration with international authors and illustrators. Find more about Apps of All Nations by visiting www.appsofallnations.com, www.icookingapps.com, and www.istoryapps.com.