By Lunar Loussia
When people ask me where I learned how to run a business, I don’t have to think twice. My education didn’t begin in a classroom or during a corporate job—it began when I was a kid, following my dad around his grocery and liquor stores in San Diego. Watching him interact with customers, manage his employees, and make tough decisions was my first real exposure to entrepreneurship. I didn’t realize it at the time, but those early experiences laid the foundation for everything I’ve done since.
My First Mentor: My Dad
My father worked hard—every day, without exception. He owned several small businesses and made sure our family was provided for. More than just the hard work, what stuck with me was how he treated people. Whether it was a loyal customer, a new employee, or a vendor, he always led with respect and integrity. He never cut corners, and he believed that success wasn’t just about making money—it was about doing the right thing, even when no one was watching.
One of my favorite memories growing up was going to work with him. I’d help stock shelves or run errands, but more than anything, I just enjoyed being around him and learning by watching. He didn’t sit me down and give formal business lessons. Instead, he led by example, and I soaked up everything I could.
The Influence of My Cousin and Mentor, Mazin Samona
Later in life, I had the opportunity to work for my cousin, Mazin Samona, who founded Wild Bill’s Tobacco. From 1999 to 2002, I worked in his company and got a front-row seat to what it takes to build and grow a successful business. Mazin has been a mentor to me in every sense of the word—guiding, advising, and pushing me to think bigger.
Mazin taught me about the importance of systems and scalability. While my dad showed me the people side of business, Mazin helped me understand the operational side—how to manage growth, streamline processes, and think strategically about expansion. He also taught me the value of perseverance. No matter what obstacles we faced, Mazin remained focused and determined, always keeping his eyes on the long-term vision.
Why Mentorship Matters in Business
Looking back, I can honestly say that I wouldn’t be where I am today without the mentorship I received from my family. Mentorship isn’t just about learning specific skills—it’s about having someone in your corner who believes in you, who’s willing to share their hard-earned wisdom, and who can help you avoid mistakes they’ve already made.
When I became an AT&T franchisee in 2007 and started growing my own business, I leaned heavily on the lessons I learned from my dad and Mazin. From hiring the right people to managing multiple locations, I applied what I had absorbed over the years. Eventually, I built that business to 65 stores across three states before successfully selling it in 2017.
Today, I lead Improve Business Solutions, with over 1,500 clients and 240 employees. The principles I use to run this company were shaped directly by my mentors. And now, I try to pay it forward by mentoring others—whether it’s someone on my team, a young entrepreneur, or someone looking for guidance in their career.
Mentorship Is About Relationships
One thing I’ve learned is that mentorship isn’t just a one-way street. It’s a relationship built on trust, respect, and a shared desire to grow. It doesn’t have to be formal or structured. Some of the best lessons come from casual conversations, shared experiences, and simply watching how someone handles themselves in tough situations.
Family mentorship, in particular, is powerful because it’s rooted in long-term relationships. My dad and cousin weren’t just teaching me to be successful in business—they were showing me how to live a life with purpose, values, and faith at the center.
Giving Back Through Mentorship
Because mentorship has played such a big role in my journey, I make it a priority to give back in the same way. I love helping others discover their potential, solve problems, and take the next step in their careers or businesses. I also believe that mentorship extends beyond business—it’s about being there for people, listening, and supporting them through life’s challenges.
Whether it’s through my company, community involvement, or the nonprofits I support, I try to make time to offer mentorship wherever I can. It’s one of the most rewarding parts of my life and something I believe every successful entrepreneur should commit to.
Final Thoughts
Entrepreneurship can feel lonely at times, but having the right mentors makes all the difference. I’ve been fortunate to learn from family members who not only taught me how to run a business but also how to lead with heart and integrity.
If you’re just starting out in business, my advice is simple: find a mentor. Look for someone whose values align with yours and who’s willing to invest in your growth. And once you’ve found success, don’t forget to turn around and offer that same mentorship to someone else. In the end, success isn’t just about what you build—it’s about who you help along the way.