Story perspectives

Job Loss Sparks Entrepreneurial Spirit in Union City

9/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

DJ Perdue, 50, opened TeenyTown, an indoor play space in Union City, California, after losing his job as a Walmart manager.
He applied for 10 jobs daily for 18 months before choosing self-employment to prioritize his four children.
Perdue's business currently relies on his fiancée's income for financial support.
In 2024, 12% of Gen Xers are self-employed, reflecting a trend amid a tough job market.
Others, like Sanchez and Santoliquito, also turned to entrepreneurship after facing job search challenges.

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Story summary

DJ Perdue, 50, opened TeenyTown, an indoor play space in Union City, California, after losing his job as a Walmart manager.
He applied for 10 jobs daily for 18 months before choosing self-employment to prioritize his four children.
Perdue's business currently relies on his fiancée's income for financial support.
In 2024, 12% of Gen Xers are self-employed, reflecting a trend amid a tough job market.
Others, like Sanchez and Santoliquito, also turned to entrepreneurship after facing job search challenges.