For years, Tycia Belcher’s career followed a perfectly linear path. She earned an undergraduate degree in fashion merchandising from the University of South Carolina and later a Master of Business Administration from Winthrop University. She built a 13-year career in e-commerce, retail buying and digital marketing at major corporations throughout Charlotte.When the pandemic hit, Belcher jumped at the chance to invest in real estate.“I had recently purchased my first home, and its value increased by like 20 times, so I was able to tap into that equity and use those funds to buy another home.”She bought a rental property in her hometown of Greenwood, S.C., where she rents short- and mid-term leases. “I did a lot of research and attended YouTube University. I did it on my own, with no partners or investors,” Belcher said.She did not intend to leave her W-2 job when she first bought her rental property. Belcher had an idea for a clothing company named Kuula, which launched in September 2024 — she soon realized she could be financially stable on her rental income alone.“I was ready,” Belcher said of her decision to quit corporate. “I felt 100% confident in my decision; otherwise, I wouldn’t have done it.” So confident, in fact, that she didn’t tell friends or family until she’d already submitted her two-week notice.The idea: moisture-wicking sleepwearKuula was born out of a personal need after waking up frustrated and sweaty one summer night. Belcher saw a gap in the market for sleepwear that was both cozy and functional. She researched fabrics that could serve as a bridge and landed on viscose, a bamboo-derived fiber that’s silky, soft and naturally moisture-wicking. The business strategy: think ahead and stay readyBelcher has learned many financial strategies along the way, such as using a C Corp structure to separate her personal and business expenses and never guaranteeing business loans in her name. She is also proactive in securing funding from a Rollover for Business Startup from her 401(k) (this allows entrepreneurs to use retirement accounts for new businesses tax- and penalty-free), loans and real estate equity, so she’s never down to her last dollar.



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