In this episode, Chudi sits down with two dynamic founders—Dr. C. Adam Callery, a seasoned business consultant, educator, and founder of Sagesse Lumiere, and Michael Mengo, the innovative mind behind Soleil Energy, a clean cooking solutions startup. Together, they unpack one of the biggest misconceptions in entrepreneurship: that funding is the biggest barrier to launching a successful business. Through candid stories and real-world examples, they explore the pros and cons of bootstrapping vs external funding—and why validating your idea and understanding your market might matter more than chasing investors. Whether you're building with your own savings or seeking capital, this conversation offers practical insights to help you navigate your journey.