Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in content creation but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ever Gonzalez, founder of OutlierHQ, located in Austin, TX, USA.

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

OutlierHQ is a media and events company. We host 2-3 podcast festivals across the county a year in cities with small pockets of podcast creatives. The Outlier Podcast Festival is an event for indie podcasters and industry professionals where they can come together and connect in a meaningful way. Our event brings together some of the most popular and innovative indie podcasters for a weekend of live shows, keynotes, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. We strive to provide our attendees with an all-around immersive experience and the chance to interact with their favorite podcast hosts and industry leaders while learning how to start, grow, and monetize their podcasts.

Tell us about yourself

My name is Ever Gonzalez, and I am the founder of OutlierHQ, a media and events company. I am an experienced event producer and entrepreneur with a passion for podcasting and the power it has to connect people and tell stories. I have been involved in the podcasting industry since 2013 and have a deep understanding of its many nuances. I founded OutlierHQ with the goal of creating a premier event that brings together podcast enthusiasts, indie podcasters, and industry professionals to share ideas, network, and enjoy live shows. I've also recently committed to promoting mental health and creating a positive impact on the communities we serve. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, reading, and spending time with my family. I am excited to be leading the Outlier Podcast Festival and look forward to creating an unforgettable experience for our attendees.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

As the founder of OutlierHQ, my biggest accomplishment as a business owner is the successful launch and continued growth of the Outlier Podcast Festival. The festival began as a small event in Southern Utah but has since grown to become one of the premier events in the podcasting industry for indie podcasters. We have a long list of amazing speakers that have been on our stages and have also featured some of the most popular and innovative podcasts. I am proud to say that we have managed to create an experience that goes beyond just another event series and has become a community of people who support and inspire each other. I am also proud of the fact that we have been able to create a sustainable business model and have been able to generate revenue through partnerships, sponsorships, and ticket sales to support the festival's growth. Overall, seeing the positive impact that the festival has had on podcaster's personal journeys and the growth of the event into a premier destination for indie podcasters and industry professionals is my proudest accomplishment.

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

As a business owner, one of the hardest things that come with running a business is the constant need to adapt and evolve. The podcasting industry is ever-changing, and it can be challenging to stay ahead of the curve and anticipate new trends and developments. Keeping up with the fast-paced changes in technology and audience behavior is a constant challenge and requires a great deal of research and planning. Another difficult aspect of being a business owner is the pressure of making financial decisions that will ensure the success and sustainability of the business. This can be a challenging task, especially in the early stages of a business when resources are limited. Balancing the need to invest in the business with the need to maintain a strong financial footing is a constant challenge that requires a great deal of strategic thinking and hard work.

Being a business owner is a challenging task, but it is also an incredibly rewarding one. The challenges that come with running a business are many, but with hard work, perseverance, and a willingness to adapt and evolve, it is possible to overcome them and achieve success.

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

  1. Start by understanding your target audience and their needs. It is essential to have a deep understanding of the people you are trying to reach and what they are looking for. This will help you to create a product or service that truly meets their needs and stands out in the market.
  2. Build a strong team. Starting and running a business can be a challenging task, and it is essential to have a team of people who share your vision and are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Surround yourself with people who have the skills, experience, and drive to help you grow your business.
  3. Be willing to adapt and evolve. The business world is constantly changing, and it is essential to be flexible and open to new ideas. Stay informed about the latest trends and developments in your industry, and be willing to adapt your strategy accordingly. Be open to constructive feedback, and never be afraid to pivot if something isn't working.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.outlierpodfestival.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OutlierHQ/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outlierhq/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/OutlierHQ
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evergonzalez/

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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