Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in marketing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kenny Morgan, Founder of Goodstory, located in Chattanooga, TN, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Goodstory was founded to help product makers connect with others through the art of storytelling. Whether it be through brand development, web or mobile design, or video, our family of creatives leads brands toward their dream result by taking the time to listen first. Our sole mission is to build relationships that last and tell stories that matter. While we are incredibly grateful for the growth that we have seen since the spring of 2015, it's all about those which we serve. When our clients win in big ways, that's what matters the most. We're most proud of those who have given us a chance to serve. Without them, we are nothing. We would be naive to think that we are the only creative or production agency out there that has a passion for doing good. There are a lot of great people who want to bring positive change to this world. We're not afraid to tell others that we love them and care about them beyond the scope of work. We lead with our hearts and are fueled by one thing alone, doing good.

Tell us about yourself

For my wife and I, it's always been about how we can serve people better than the day before. We are not afraid of communicating our love for others and seeing each individual, business, or organization as family, not just another name on a list. While the creative and video production industry played such a large part in shaping me as an individual and leader, it also showed us as a husband-and-wife team where this industry, in particular, needed more light, goodness, and a revival of authentic relationships. That passion for others initially outweighed our fears of all the unknowns and challenges that come with starting your own business and still remains our fuel five years in. And while the work which we deliver matters so much, we have this belief that the relationships we keep matter so much more.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

While it's easy to get lost in the KPIs of business ownership, being surrounded by a family of creatives and clients who are all striving for something good in this world has been the one thing that has made us incredibly proud. While revenue and profitability shift, true relationships last a lifetime.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

As much as I love the 1989 classic Field of Dreams, the line "if you build it, they will come" couldn't be farther from the truth. Business ownership is tough. It's an emotional journey that is constantly shifting and trying you in new ways. But while the moments of success remind us that we're on the right track, the struggles along the way are what push us to be better.

As a small business, we've had moments where payroll looked like an impossibility. We've experienced days that were so challenging we weren't sure how we could continue forward. We've learned that being a leader can be a lonely place at times, and the burden that you bare as an advocate for others can be a heavy one. But it's a daily reminder of why we set out on this journey. We love others. We want to lead brands to success through the art of storytelling. And we want to be a light in an industry that isn't predominately known for being honest and true, even if that means having a target on your back.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Start Small - As tempting as it is to want to go all in on a said task to match that inward enthusiasm [that few will understand quite as you do], you've got to start with the basics and work your way up. Remember, a spark [a great idea or endeavor] will die out as soon as it begins without a quality substance to burn, trust in the process, and patience to see it grow into something bigger and brighter. While there is some validity in how you finish, there is no achieved goal without a strong beginning.
  2. Wins Over Winds - Sometimes, the winds are going to blow in your favor, and before you know it, your measly flicker is a full-blown wildfire. Even Smokey the Bear would be proud. Growth will almost seem easy in these seasons. Lean in while it lasts, but also understand that winds fluctuate or dissipate without prior warning. While it's okay to ride the wave when it's rising, don't lose sight of the things that keep you or your mission burning regardless of the shifts in motion. Focus your attention on the wins [big or small] instead of the winds. It's a surefire.
  3. Pull Up A Chair - It's easy to be all consumed when things catch on and you're in business. It can be like the twilight zone that one may find themselves in as one stare into the burning embers on a crisp fall evening — hard to look away. Sometimes you have to snap out of it and take time to appreciate the growth. Take time for rest. It's not only okay; it often renews the soul and gives us clarity on what step to take next. What's a herd without a shepherd?

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.madebygoodstory.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madebygoodstory/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/youareloved/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.