Mike J Thompson is the Chief Pop Officer of his popsicle company, Pedal Pops, which was founded in 2011. He’s an EforAll alum, and during classes, he shared his experience as a business owner and renewed his experience of founding Pedal Pops. He liked the experience so much that he’s mentored entrepreneurs for the past two years.
What made you want to become a mentor?
I have always enjoyed teaching and helping others in their personal and professional journeys. At an early age, I received my Eagle Scout award, helped in the Scouting program, and even taught salsa dance lessons – that is where I met my wife. Prior to joining EforAll, I assisted a number of entrepreneurs with their businesses. I really enjoyed the EforAll foundation and decided to join as a mentor.
Can you give us some examples of the kinds of startups you have mentored with us?
I’ve mentored a bamboo hair towel business, a farm, an online events directory, and an apparel business.
Is there a specific mentoring experience that you are most proud of?
There is not a specific mentoring experience that I am most proud of to date. Each experience with an entrepreneur has provided me with an opportunity to share my experiences. Speaking with the mentees and fellow mentors has allowed me to continue to grow both personally and professionally.
What is your favorite part of being an EforAll mentor?
When we share our knowledge and experience, we are working to help the respective entrepreneur become a successful business. One of my favorite parts is to share in the mentee’s A-HA moment when everything starts clicking together.
What do you think makes EforAll special?
The program is set up to help entrepreneurs succeed through the accelerator. Mentors are available to guide and help connect participants to their resource network, and the EforAll community supports participants throughout the program and after graduation.
What advice would you have for entrepreneurs?
When following your dream, do not be afraid to pivot from your original idea to find a different avenue for success. You may just find a new and exciting idea along the way that you had not considered.
Interested in becoming a mentor? Learn more here.