While it’s never been a better time to start a business, it’s also never been harder to grow a business. Guest Lara Hodgson is coauthor with long-time business partner Stacey Abrams of the new book LEVEL UP: Rise Above the Hidden Forces Holding Your Business Back. In it they share intense behind-the-scenes stories of building their own businesses—two of which failed, and the third successful company, NOW. Lara provides actionable, get-it-done principles for founders—especially those who have been historically disadvantaged in entrepreneurship like women and people of color—to break free and get to the next level.

Want more articles and videos by Farnoosh? Check out www.cnet.com/somoney.

Subscribe to her weekly So Money® newsletter for the latest updates and advice.

Catch her weekly money videos on YouTube.