From Candy to Concepts: My Sweet Journey into Finance and Economics
December 20, 2023 by
Russell Otway
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Growing up, my siblings and I would often ponder the inner workings of finance and economics, concepts that felt worlds away from our middle-income, six-person household. Our parents, although not versed in the jargon of Wall Street, encouraged a curiosity that sparked a lifelong journey—a journey that began with a single question: “Why not sell candy?”
The Spark of Curiosity
Our family’s modest income was a numerical reminder of our frugal reality. Yet, in the questions my twin brother and I asked—about banking, finance, and the stock market—we were rich in curiosity. Our parents, unable to satisfy our growing hunger for knowledge, gave advice that would chart the course of our future: “Study economics in college.”
Early Lessons in Entrepreneurship
Before academia could answer our questions, my father, a man of practical wisdom, introduced us to the world of entrepreneurship. His teachings went beyond the hustle; they were about craftsmanship, quality, and taking pride in one’s work.

Candy Economics
It was with this backdrop that my siblings and I, armed with a dollar or two, began our first business venture. Buying Blow Pops for $0.10 and selling them for $0.25 wasn’t just profitable—it was a lesson in supply and demand, investment, and marketing. We were learning economics through the lens of lollipop sales, and it was sweet.

Schoolyard to Schoolwork
Our entrepreneurial spirit was curtailed by school rules, but the flame was already lit. In high school, I gravitated towards business classes, enrolling in the accounting tech prep track, and pursuing advanced math, chemistry, and physics. I was building a foundation, not just for a career, but for understanding the complexities of the world.

The Leap into Economics
College was where my passion for economics took flight. While others balked at statistics and economic theory, I thrived. Majoring in economics wasn’t just about earning a degree; it was about finding ways to translate complex concepts into something digestible for everyone.

Now, as I prepare to share my experiences with you through this blog, I do so with a perspective that is uniquely mine—shaped by candy, craftsmanship, and curiosity. The principles of economics and finance are not just textbook theories; they are stories, experiences, and lessons that I look forward to unraveling with you.

If you’re intrigued by the intersection of economics and real-life experiences, you won’t want to miss the stories to come. Follow my blog for a blend of narrative and knowledge, where we’ll explore the world of finance and economics together, one story at a time.
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Russell Otway is the driving force behind Bold Copy Agency, a bespoke content creation service specializing in the music industry. With over a decade of experience in copywriting and a deep passion for music, Russell has carved out a niche for himself as the go-to expert for artists, labels, and music professionals seeking to elevate their brand with compelling narratives.
Having worked with a broad spectrum of clients from up-and-coming musicians to established industry giants, Russell’s expertise lies in crafting narratives that resonate with audiences and amplify an artist’s presence in a crowded market. His work is characterized by a blend of creativity, industry insight, and a keen understanding of digital marketing trends, ensuring that his clients not only stand out but also achieve their marketing objectives.
A firm believer in the power of storytelling to connect and inspire, Russell continuously explores new and innovative ways to bring music stories to life. When he’s not weaving compelling artist biographies or dynamic press releases, he can be found sharing his insights at industry conferences or contributing to leading music and marketing publications. Russell’s mission with Bold Copy Agency is simple: to help music professionals tell their stories in the most impactful way possible, unlocking their full potential and propelling their careers to new heights.
