Success Stories: Telly Arnold, Founder of TLA Group LLC.

Meet Telly Arnold, founder of TLA Group LLC. TLA Group LLC started with one truck and a mission to create lasting opportunity—and it’s growing fast. Through setbacks, pivots, and pure determination, this single mother-turned-entrepreneur built a thriving logistics company in Houston. Her story is proof that resilience, community, and adaptability pave the road to real success.

My Journey to Success with TLA Group LLC

By Telly L. Arnold

Success isn’t something that happens overnight. It’s built through persistence, hard work, and a willingness to adapt. My journey with TLA Group LLC has been filled with challenges, but each one has strengthened my resolve to build a business that not only provides quality logistics services but also creates opportunities for others.

How It All Started

TLA Group LLC was officially formed in 2014, but at the time, I didn’t have a clear vision for where it would go. I knew I wanted to own a business, but I wasn’t sure what that would look like. For years, I explored different avenues while balancing the responsibilities of being a single mother. The drive to build something lasting came from my desire to create a place where my son could always find employment and earn a decent salary.

“I reminded myself that giving up was never an option.”

In October 2024, I made a firm decision to focus on the logistics industry. Initially, I pursued over-the-road (OTR) trucking, but the high fuel costs and unpredictability of the industry led me to pivot. I quickly refocused on local contracts in Houston, which allowed for more stability and better control over my operations.

From One Truck to Expansion

In 2024, I was operating with just one truck. Every contract, every mile, and every lesson learned was a stepping stone to growth. I knew that to expand, I had to build strategic relationships, secure direct shipper contracts, and position my business for long-term sustainability.

By the end of the year, my hard work paid off—I was no longer operating with just one truck. TLA Group LLC grew, adding more trucks and expanding services, proving that patience and persistence lead to results.

“Success isn’t just about how hard you work—it’s also about who you surround yourself with.”

Starting 2025 With Setbacks and Strength

With growth comes new challenges. 2025 didn’t start easy. One of my trucks faced mechanical issues, causing unexpected downtime and financial strain. It felt like everything was working against me—delays, repair costs, and the pressure of keeping my commitments to clients.

I could have let frustration take over, but I reminded myself that giving up was never an option. This experience taught me the importance of having a strong network. I leaned on my mentors, fellow business owners, and industry connections for advice and support. Instead of letting the setback define me, I used it as fuel to find solutions, strengthen my operations, and prepare for future obstacles.

The Power of A Strong Network

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned on this journey is that you can’t do it all alone. Business isn’t just about contracts and profits—it’s about people, partnerships, and having the right support system.

When I faced tough times, it was my network that helped me stay in the game. Whether it was guidance from my SCORE mentor, encouragement from fellow entrepreneurs, or simply having reliable mechanics and vendors in place, I realized that success isn’t just about how hard you work—it’s also about who you surround yourself with.

Looking Ahead

Despite the early setbacks in 2025, I remain committed to growth, learning, and pushing forward. TLA Group LLC is expanding, securing new contracts, and building a solid foundation for the future.

To every aspiring entrepreneur, I say this: Challenges will come, and some days will test you. But if you build a strong network, stay adaptable, and refuse to give up, success will find you.

This journey is far from over, but one thing is certain—I’m just getting started.