Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ashish Mistry, Co-Founder of PCKL Pickleball, located in Atlanta, GA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am the Executive Chairman of PCKL, a performance pickleball gear maker. Our customers are both new and avid pickleball players looking for high-performance paddles and balls with a brand to which they can connect. I also run BLH Venture Partners, a private venture capital fund focused on investing in early-stage Cyber security, SaaS Software, and eCommerce companies.
Tell us about yourself
First and foremost, business for me centers around people - both customers and my executive teams. I’m motivated by the difference that building something great with great partners can do. It is motivating to change others’ lives both personally and professionally.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Far and away, it would be starting and growing KontrolFreek, a performance gaming gear company (which was acquired by SteelSeries/Jabra in December 2020). The venture began in 2009 when I had zero understanding of e-commerce or video games. In the end, we had more than 4.7 million customers, 10’s of millions of fans, with our products available in thousands of stores and marketplaces worldwide.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The ability to turn it off. As a founder, investor, and operator, your engine is always running. Keeping a balance is tough between work, family, and personal time.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
First, find something you are interested in; this will keep you motivated day in and day out. Next, take your time in finding the best people to partner with in your ventures. Finally, don’t stand still; business is ever-evolving.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://pckl.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PCKLball/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pcklball/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashishmistry/
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.