From Accidental Entrepreneur to Unstoppable Grit: An Interview with Business Owner and Author Danielle Cobo
Oct 17, 2024
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As a speaker, leader, mother of twins, and author, Danielle's journey from a toxic work environment to becoming a successful entrepreneur was anything but conventional.
The Accidental Entrepreneur: How It All Began
Danielle’s entrepreneurial journey started unexpectedly in 2020 when her corporate job took a turn for the worse. After her company was acquired by a larger organization, the work environment became toxic, prompting Danielle to make a bold move to leave after seven years with the company. Her initial goal was to find a new job, but what happened next surprised her—her LinkedIn presence grew, and people began reaching out for coaching and sales training.
This “accidental entrepreneur” phase led Danielle to a career that allowed her to work with multiple companies on leadership development, time management, and productivity. While she never intended to start her own business, it became the perfect opportunity to align her skills with her passion for mentoring and leadership.
Facing Life’s Challenges: The Turning Point in 2020
Danielle’s transition to entrepreneurship was accompanied by significant personal challenges. In 2020, her husband returned from a deployment in Iraq, her twin boys were growing quickly, and tragically, she lost her mother to suicide just as the pandemic hit. Leaving her job during this time only deepened the emotional struggle.
Yet Danielle turned this period of loss into an opportunity for self-reflection. She used the challenge to redefine her identity and set new goals for her life, pivoting from what society expected of her to what she truly wanted.
Rebuilding and Redefining Identity
One of the most poignant exercises Danielle shares in her book, Unstoppable Grit, is about writing her own obituary. As she reflected on what she wanted to be remembered for, she realized that titles and income were far less important than leaving a positive impact. “I want to be known for making a positive impact in the world,” she said.
To help rebuild her confidence, she also asked friends and family to describe her in three words. The responses, which included terms like “perseverance,” “grit,” and “empathy,” helped her see the value others saw in her—and she began to embrace those traits in herself.
Lessons from Unstoppable Grit
Danielle’s story shows us: even the hardest moments in life can lead to the greatest growth. Whether you’re navigating a toxic work environment, managing a family while your spouse is deployed, or struggling with self-identity, there is a way forward. Her advice? Start by finding clarity on what you truly want, build a plan, and take consistent action.
The practical strategies outlined in her book, Unstoppable Grit, focus on defining success on your own terms and building a life you love—whether you’re striving for career goals or seeking better work-life balance.
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of the next step in your life or career, Danielle’s story and strategies offer hope and practical guidance. Consider picking up a copy of Unstoppable Grit to start your own journey toward a life of purpose and fulfillment.
About Danielle Cobo
Danielle Cobo is a motivational speaker and consultant who is a recognized authority in working with organizations and individuals to harness the grit and resilience to lead through change. Drawing from her education in communication and psychology from The California State University of Fullerton and certifications in Inclusive and Ethical Leadership from the University of South Florida Muma College of Business and Human Behavior Consultant in association with Personality Insights, Inc., she successfully built a career in the corporate world before launching her own venture.
In her past role as a Fortune 500 Senior Sales Manager, Danielle led her team to a number one national ranking, even amid organizational upheavals. Her commendable leadership earned her the prestigious title of Region Manager of the Year. Today, she channels her expertise into her passionate mission: to help others harness the power of grit, resilience, and courage to succeed professionally and personally.
As an international speaker, Danielle’s insights into heart-centered leadership and corporate resilience have reached a broad audience. Her contributions have been featured on ABC World News, Fox and Friends, and Women’s Quarterly magazine. Further solidifying her authority in the field, her articles have been published in renowned platforms like Thrive Global and Authority Magazine.
Episode Minutes:
- Minute 3:00 — Danielle's Accidental Entrepreneur Journey
- Minute 10:00 — Finding Clarity and Purpose
- Minute 22:00 — Navigating Toxic Environments
Episode Links:
- Visit daniellecobo.com
- Connect with Danielle on LinkedIn
- Get your copy of Unstoppable Grit: Break Through the 7 Roadblocks Standing Between You and Achieving Your Goals
- Learn more about The Strengths Journal
- Visit danawilliamsco.com
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