The Missing Mentors: Why Successful Business Owners Must Keep Showing Up

I’ve noticed something over the years that doesn’t sit right with me. The more successful business owners become, the less likely they are to show up for the next generation of entrepreneurs.

I don’t know if it’s an attitude of “it’s not worth my time” or if it’s just a natural shift in priorities, but it happens all the time. Entrepreneurs start out hungry, scrappy, and full of ambition. They rely on advice, guidance, and mentorship from those ahead of them. But once they make it, many seem to disappear. They stop mentoring, stop teaching, stop being available.

And that’s a problem.

Because small business isn’t just about making money. It’s the backbone of our economy, our communities, and our families. If we want thriving local businesses, we need people willing to invest in those who are just getting started. That’s how business growth happens—not just for individuals, but for entire industries and towns.

I’ve had years where I made more money than I ever imagined. And I’ve had years where every dollar was accounted for. But no matter where I was financially, I never stopped showing up for new business owners. I believe in their vision. I believe someone needs to be in their corner, helping them avoid the mistakes I made, guiding them through the messy middle, and reminding them that success isn’t just for the big guys.

Small business owners deserve better. They deserve mentors who don’t vanish once they hit a certain income level. They deserve business consultants and marketing strategists who actually care about their long-term success—not just quick wins.

So if you’ve built something great, I challenge you—don’t disappear. Don’t let “busy” be the excuse that keeps you from mentoring those coming up behind you. They need guidance, and you have the knowledge to help them.

I’ll keep showing up. Because someone showed up for me. And because small business matters.