Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Matt Beeson, Owner of Swamp Dragon, L.L.C., located in Baton Rouge, LA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Swamp Dragon manufactures the world's only liquor hot sauce. We solved the problems associated with the typical vinegar preservative in hot sauce by replacing the vinegar with liquors, such as bourbon, tequila, or rum, all of which taste better than vinegar.
Tell us about yourself
I'm an artist, creator, and entertainer by nature. I pursued a career in rock music for some time but did not succeed. After decades of working "normal jobs," I had the idea of replacing vinegar with liquor in hot sauce. I researched for years and ultimately contacted the Louisiana State University Food Incubator, which confirmed that the idea was sound from a food safety perspective. With that knowledge, I decided to form a company, knowing that my product would be ultimately differentiated in a very crowded category. Having conceived something so novel, I know for the first time in a very long time that I am on the right track in my life - even if I should fail. I cannot imagine my life without Swamp Dragon anymore.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Having invented something truly unique. One would think by now that there can't be much truly new in the food world.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The financial stress is unmatched by any stress I have ever faced.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Look deep inside yourself. Can you handle it if you run out of money and the thing fails? Make sure you have the temperament.
- Have relevant industry knowledge. How does your industry "work?" Do you have plenty of contacts in the industry? Are you ready to capitalize on the opportunity?
- Try to raise all the funds you'll need to run for 2 years. A 2-year runway should be enough.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://swampdragonhotsauce.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/swampdragonhotsauce
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swampdragonhotsauce/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/theswampdragon
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewbeeson/
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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