> You want to start a plumbing business? Work hard 5-10 years, get out on your own with a van and tools and you have a turn key business idea. Provide good service at a proper rate. End of story.

This strikes me as underselling the hurdles here. Ignoring the whole "just start a self-sufficient business" thing, what happens when you get sick? What about medical costs as you age? Retirement plans?

Huh? You purchase insurance and invest into retirement funds.