This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Christina Nicholson, the mother of Landon Nicholson. It has been edited for length and clarity.

My son, Landon, and I share ownership of a vending machine. We began the project when he turned 10, more than a year ago. Landon came up with the concept while attending one of his sister's basketball games. He assisted at the concession stand for a Wellington Wolves tournament and observed the high demand for snacks and beverages.

That sparked the idea. Initially, he aimed for a candy shop, but I suggested starting on a smaller scale.

I'm a business owner, so I was game to do it

Landon has long wanted to earn his own income. Perhaps this stems from watching me launch my media company shortly after his birth. He has witnessed me as my own boss and the freedom that provides. To begin, we consulted a book and viewed several YouTube videos for guidance.

First, we needed a location. While attending acting classes at the community center over the summer, he approached the front desk to inquire about a vending machine. Staff mentioned they once had one but no longer did. He replied, "Do you want one? That's my business."

They provided a contact, and we arranged a meeting with the village of Wellington. We prepared a proposal detailing the products and pricing, which they approved. A contract followed, allocating 26% commission to them, with Landon and me dividing remaining profits equally.

In September of 2024, we acquired a vending machine for $1,500 plus $843 in shipping. We added a credit card reader for $385, spent $265 on stock from Costco, and stocked $17 in change to start.

We're still in the hole, but have learned some important lessons

The community center sees limited traffic. We have not yet split profits, yet the effort has proven valuable.

A key lesson involved understanding that revenue does not equal personal funds. When we first collected cash from the machine, he grew excited over the bills. I explained we needed to cover the machine cost, pay the 26% to the village, and handle other expenses. He soon grasped revenue versus profit.

He initially enjoyed weekly checks on the machine to note stock needs and popular items. Now his enthusiasm has faded, though he continues the routine.

I'm being patient with him

Patience is essential. We are close to breaking even. I urge him to examine monthly figures and provide printed P&L statements. Though impatient, I stress that business success requires consistent effort.

He is exploring various business approaches, time demands, and workload levels. At his age, this fits well since checks take about 15 minutes weekly. He still tracks what sells and occasionally asks if profits have arrived.

His confidence stood out most. He confidently approached the desk, inquired about a machine, and returned with a contact. I admire his boldness, and this experience should build his assurance for future ventures.