Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kim Scarrow, Owner of Banditry Cider and Modo Yoga Vancouver, located in Gibsons, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Banditry Cider. Our cider shop just opened (July 2021), serves cider by the glass, and offers growler fills and cans to take away.
Modo Yoga Vancouver is a community of inspired students, joined together by our love of yoga, our commitment to protecting the earth, and of course, our passion for long walks on the beach. Whether you are an absolute beginner or a more experienced student, we offer accessible classes that are challenging, healthy, and fun!
Tell us about yourself
I love creating a good feeling in people, and I love fixing things. In society, I find that there is a deep sense of loneliness and lack of belonging, so I've gravitated toward businesses that are all about coming together effortlessly. That interface in human connection is what drives both my discomfort (since I tend towards introversion) and a sense of possibility.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My largest accomplishment was being able to finally LET GO of imposter syndrome and the desire to be liked by everyone and embrace the excitement and satisfaction of creating my own adventure every day. Funny enough, this happened when my life seemingly had a "mid-life crisis," and I was finally able to embrace the idea of failure. On a more superficial level, this year, we won a pretty great award!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
HR. even though I do feel so supported by a community and staff and our teams, ultimately, being the head honcho means you have to be the bad guy, hold boundaries, give feedback, discipline, and communicate a vision while also setting the bar. It's an incredibly emotionally laborious process, especially if you are close with your staff or just a bit green.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Learn more about bookkeeping and accounting, and find an accountant you feel comfortable with.
- Find a mentor or coach. The feeling of isolation going it alone can be overwhelming. Find someone with experience, preferably in your industry, who is impartial to your business, but who can give you sound advice. If they are good at their job and if they can hold you accountable, they are worth their weight in gold.
- Attitude is everything. If you can embrace failure with a view to grow continually and learn from it, then you are miles ahead of the game. Practice pivoting.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website:
https://modoyoga.com/vancouver/
https://www.banditrycider.com/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/banditrycider
https://www.facebook.com/modoyogavancouver
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/banditrycider/
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.
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