Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in training and education but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tim Geisler, Owner of Nautilus Sailing, located in Crested Butte, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Nautilus Sailing is an international sailing company that helps people embark on their sailing journeys through intensive live-aboard courses in exotic destinations. Our customers are typically successful 35-55 years olds, adventurous, outdoor-minded, global travelers that are dreaming of sailing.
Tell us about yourself
I worked as a classroom teacher and then an educator for many years, and I fell in love with sailing in my free time. In 2008 I lost my job as the VP of Sales and Marketing for an international non-profit and decided that it was a unique opportunity to re-write my story and to combine my passions of sailing, travel, and education, and Nautilus Sailing was born. I LOVE my job working as a sailing instructor and running a sailing company, which keeps me motivated and excited on a daily basis.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
One of our proudest moments was being approached in 2019 by Dream Yachts, the largest sailing company in the world (they have 1200 yachts in 50 destinations), and asked to be their official sailing school! It was wonderful recognition for all of our hard work and the quality of our programs.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The struggle to detach and not worry about the business! It's so easy to have sleepless nights and periods of doubt, anxiety, and frustration amidst the ups and downs of owning a business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Enter with realistic expectations, and know you will work harder than you ever have!
- Always pay yourself first, and don't fall into the trap of taking whatever is left over after the business pays its expenses!
- Hire the right people! Find staff that is passionate and loves what they do.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.nautilussailing.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nautilussailing/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nautilus.sailing/
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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