I was Michelle Obama's right-hand assistant, and she encouraged me to start my own business. Here are 6 tips for new entrepreneurs.

Tue, 04/02/2024 - 05:02

Photo collage of a calendar and the Obamas. — Chynna Clayton helps executives, celebrities, government officials, heads of human resources departments, and business owners find assistants and execute events.
Jenny Tarbel; Jenny Chang-Rodriguez/BI

Chynna Clayton worked in and out of the White House with the Obamas for seven years.
Clayton says Michelle Obama became her mentor and encouraged her to start her own business.
Investing in a lawyer and accountant is one of Clayton's best tips for new entrepreneurs.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Chynna Clayton, a 35-year-old entrepreneur from the outskirts of Liberty, Florida, about her experience working with Michelle Obama and launching her own business. It's been edited for length and clarity.