Chapter 1: The Harsh Reality of Business Operations

I’m currently facing a staggering bill of $75,944.35.

I was fully aware of the nature of credit card companies; it’s common knowledge that they prioritize profits over individuals. Ironically, they ended up being the ones that seemed to care the most.

This particular company marketed itself as a champion for small businesses, claiming its innovative algorithms and exceptional customer service would ensure maximum sales. According to them, within three months, I'd be on a roll, thriving and making profits.

What they failed to mention was that the local community had no interest in what they were offering. Unfortunately, I discovered this reality only after launching my business, which, due to significant delays, took much longer than anticipated—150% longer, to be exact.

Initially, I was led to believe there was high demand for my business. They promised promotional events to entice locals (who, as it turned out, opposed the establishment of the building), and claimed that merely featuring my business on their website would generate an abundance of customers. They assured me of their support and flexibility, not to mention the severe flooding that occurred every time it rained for more than a few hours—a detail conveniently omitted.

None of these assurances materialized. The delays derailed my carefully planned timeline for opening a bakery right at the end of May or early June. To make matters worse, I was only informed of the first delay after it had already occurred. The second notification came a mere four days before the new delay was set to happen. Had I known the extent of the delay, I might have been able to secure temporary work to alleviate some financial pressure while also contending with the cyberstalking and harassment I was enduring at the time.

I couldn't share any updates on social media because, once I signed the agreement and forfeited my non-refundable fee, everything changed. The swift communication I had initially experienced vanished, and changes went uncommunicated until it was too late to respond. Shipments were dispatched prematurely, leaving me unable to adjust my equipment order for more affordable options, which would have provided me with a financial cushion. I struggled with just a couple of Doordash orders and faced challenges setting up other delivery channels, despite having done so multiple times at the company's insistence.

What’s most disheartening is the knowledge that several individuals at that company were aware of my situation—partially due to the delays and the harassment I was facing. While that wasn't their fault, it would have been nice to see some empathy.

Through all the adversity, I endeavored to make my business work. Ultimately, I was only able to operate for 37 days. Despite my struggles, they collected two months' rent from me while I was in turmoil, fully aware of the role they played in my predicament. Now, a multitude of people are attempting to hold me accountable for a $75,944.35 bill, stemming from a contract filled with cleverly worded clauses that obscure accountability. Clearly, their priority is profits over people, epitomized by the phrase: "pay up, regardless of your situation."

And perhaps the most disheartening aspect of all? I am not alone in this experience.

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Chapter 2: Lessons Learned from Driving in Challenging Environments

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