Starting a business often begins with a spark—an idea, a problem to solve, or a passion you can’t ignore. For Maurice Cooper, founder of Doggie Eats, that spark came from his love for his own dog and a mission to find the healthiest treats to help her stomach issues. What started as a homemade solution grew into a purposeful business, but the road hasn’t been easy.
In this episode of What’s the Startup?!, Maurice opens up about the challenges of starting up, the importance of community, and how showing up—even when it’s hard—is the real key to staying in the game.
Turning an Everyday Problem Into a Startup
Doggie Eats began with a challenge Maurice faced with his own dog: persistent stomach issues.
“I was doing everything online, every research I could on Google, Google Scholar, Bing—any search engine. Pumpkin seeds kept coming up.”
After experimenting with pumpkin and pumpkin seeds in his dog’s food, Maurice noticed real improvement. His next step? Turning that solution into homemade treats.
“I love to bake. I grew up baking with my mom. So I thought, ‘Let’s do this.’”
The Early Steps (and Stumbles) of the Startup Journey
As Maurice began building his business, he jumped into branding early—creating logos and packaging right away. While he doesn’t regret the effort, he admits it might not have been the leanest choice.
“If I were to be in that stage again, I think I’d start a little simpler. You can always grow into the branding.”
For other founders, Maurice’s experience is a reminder: You don’t have to start perfect. Start small, and let your product speak for itself.
The Power of Community and Support for Your Startup
Like many founders, Maurice faced the inevitable ups and downs of starting a business. One day, you’re on top of the world. That night, you’re full of doubt. For him, Sprocket’s Innovation Challenge provided more than business tools—it gave him a community.
“The challenge was really beneficial. I needed accountability, and I needed to be around like-minded people.”
When you’re outside of a community, those highs and lows can feel isolating. Maurice found that sharing his journey with other founders made those swings feel normal.
Maurice found a turning point in his entrepreneurial journey through Sprocket’s Innovation Challenge. Surrounded by like-minded peers, he discovered the value of accountability and shared experiences.
Support doesn’t just come from programs—it comes from people. Maurice’s life coach, family, and mentors became his cornerstones. They reminded him to keep showing up, even when self-doubt crept in.
Practical Tools for Staying Consistent
Entrepreneurship requires consistency and discipline, and Maurice has found ways to stay focused, even during tough moments:
Start the Day with Hard Things
Maurice prioritizes a tough workout every morning to build mental strength.
“Did you wake up today for this to be easy? No. So let’s keep doing this.”
Time Blocking
Maurice uses Sundays to map out his week, fitting work priorities into his schedule.
“If I know I’ll have an hour lunch, I’m working during that hour. I bring my food—it’s not a break, it’s work time.”
Healthy Habits
Eating well and planning meals may sound basic, but it eliminates decision fatigue.
“Everything affects everything. If you’re doing great in one area, you’ll want to do great in the next.”
Make a Plan, Show Up, and Keep Going
Entrepreneurship isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about showing up, making connections, and continuing to work through the highs and lows. Maurice’s journey with Doggie Eats proves that with effort, consistency, and the right support, you can turn your passion into something real.
🎧 Listen to the full episode to hear Maurice’s story, insights, and actionable lessons on resilience and showing up.
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At Sprocket, we believe showing up is half the battle—and we’re here to help you take the next step.