Online Course: Business-Curious
Business-Curious: A Professional’s Guide to Exploring Independence
Are you considering starting your own business but not sure where to begin? Business-Curious is designed for mid-to-late career professionals, including former federal workers, who are exploring new career paths and considering business ownership, consulting, or freelancing. This self-paced course guides you through small, practical steps to help you clarify your options, build confidence, and create a more adaptable, independent professional future.
Why This Course Matters
In a changing job market, adaptability and independence are key to long-term success. For former federal employees and those transitioning out of structured work environments, navigating this shift can feel overwhelming. Business-Curious provides a structured yet flexible approach to exploring business ideas, helping you identify strengths and test ideas without major financial or personal risk.
What You’ll Learn
How to assess if business ownership or consulting is right for you
Practical steps to test business ideas with minimal risk
How to develop multiple income streams
Strategies to increase resilience and adaptability
Who This Course Is For
Former federal workers seeking more independence and professional flexibility
Professionals considering consulting, freelancing, or starting a business
Those looking to increase confidence and adaptability in a changing economy
Take the First Step Toward Professional Independence
This course helps you shift your mindset, build confidence, and clarify the next steps in your career. Whether you're exploring business as a side project or considering a full career shift, Business-Curious gives you the tools to explore your options with confidence.
Meet Your Guides
Erica Mattison
Erica helps purpose-driven professionals transition into meaningful, independent work. After starting her coaching practice while working as an environmental lobbyist, Erica built it into a thriving business. With degrees in psychology, law, and public administration, she specializes in helping professionals align their expertise with their values and priorities.
Nickname: “The clarifier”
Motto: “Let’s go!”
Chuck Spidell
Chuck has over two decades of entrepreneurial experience, including running a design agency and founding a specialized pet care business. He helps professionals explore business ownership with practical strategies for building sustainable, flexible businesses.
Nickname: “The Simplifier”
Motto: KISS it! (Keep it simple, stupid)
Why Business Ownership?
This course is ideal for professionals exploring independent work, including those considering their Third Act as an alternative to traditional retirement. Starting a business or consulting practice can be a powerful way to generate additional revenue, diversify your income streams, and increase financial security.
But How Could I Make It Alone Being Self-Employed?
Entrepreneurship doesn’t have to be lonely. In fact, it shouldn’t be. Erica and Chuck have supported and inspired each other through their business journeys — sharing insights, problem-solving together, and encouraging each other through challenges. That sense of community and collaboration has been key to their success and high quality of life.
Starting a business doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Building a network of peers and mentors will help you stay motivated, creative, and resilient — and Business-Curious will show you how.
It’s Never Too Late to Reinvent Yourself
It’s a myth that reinvention is only for the young. Erica and Chuck are living proof that you can continually evolve — adapting to market changes, taking calculated risks, and following your true calling. They’ve built businesses that align with their values, staying flexible and authentic as opportunities shift.
Success isn’t about making tons of money or accumulating stuff — it’s about doing work you love, feeling challenged, and making a positive impact.
Erica and Chuck know the importance of recharging too — using creative getaways to spark new ideas and stay inspired. Business-Curious will help you cultivate that same flow and authenticity in your own path.
