The Entrepreneurial Educator: A Real-Life Business Lesson
In the world of education, it's rare to find a teacher who embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship as seamlessly as Kevin Corey. This 41-year-old high school teacher has managed to turn his side hustle into a multimillion-dollar success story, and what's even more remarkable is that he's using his business journey as a living, breathing case study for his students.
From Classroom to Boardroom
Corey's story is a fascinating blend of education and enterprise. As a business teacher at Uniondale High School, he could have simply relied on textbooks and theoretical examples. But he took a bold step by sharing his own entrepreneurial experiences, offering students a front-row seat to the realities of running a business.
The Birth of Stall Mates
The genesis of Stall Mates, a flushable bathroom wipes brand, is a testament to Corey's ability to spot opportunities. He and his co-founder, Greg Schipf, had an 'aha moment' while working as pool cleaners, realizing the need for a convenient and portable wipe. This simple insight led to a thriving business, generating over $3.8 million in revenue in 2025.
Transparency in Teaching
What sets Corey apart is his transparency. He doesn't shy away from discussing the highs and lows of his business, including the challenges of tariffs and the intricacies of pricing. By sharing his invoices, Corey provides a tangible connection between classroom theory and real-world business. This approach is invaluable, as it demystifies the often-opaque world of business for his students.
Learning from Setbacks
Corey's teaching philosophy is centered on resilience. He encourages students to view setbacks as learning opportunities, a mindset he embodies in his own business ventures. The failed Body Mates and Paw Mates trademarks are not hidden but used as teaching tools. This level of honesty is rare and incredibly powerful in an educational setting.
A Balancing Act
Managing a successful business while teaching full-time is no easy feat. Corey dedicates 20 hours to Stall Mates each week, mostly during nights and weekends, and spends roughly 40 hours in the classroom. This dedication to both roles is admirable and speaks to his passion for education and entrepreneurship.
The Power of Real-Life Examples
The impact of Corey's approach is profound. By bringing his business into the classroom, he offers students a unique perspective on the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. It's one thing to read about business strategies and quite another to witness them in action, especially when it's your teacher's business.
A Lesson in Failure and Resilience
Corey's emphasis on the importance of failure and resilience is a breath of fresh air in an educational system that often emphasizes success. His message—that failure is a step forward—is a valuable life lesson. It encourages students to take risks and view setbacks as opportunities for growth, a mindset that is essential for any aspiring entrepreneur.
Competing in a Crowded Market
Stall Mates operates in a competitive market, going up against established brands like Dude Wipes and Summer's Eve. However, Corey's focus on sensible growth and his willingness to share the challenges of competing in such a market provide students with a realistic view of entrepreneurship. It's not just about the success stories; it's about the daily grind and strategic decisions.
The Takeaway
Corey's story is a powerful reminder that education and entrepreneurship can coexist and thrive. His approach to teaching offers a unique, hands-on learning experience, providing students with insights that textbooks can't match. This blend of theory and practice is what makes Corey's classroom a dynamic and inspiring environment.
Personally, I find Corey's approach refreshing and innovative. It challenges the traditional boundaries of education, bringing real-world experiences into the classroom. His students are not just learning about business; they're witnessing it, with all its triumphs and tribulations. This immersive style of teaching has the potential to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs, equipped with a deeper understanding of the business world.
