Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Myles Powell, founder CEO of 8 Myles LLC., located in Washington, DC.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
8 Myles is a manufacturer of gourmet comfort food specializing in Mac n Cheese. But more importantly, we are a guilt-free break. When you make that turn into the frozen food aisle, you should not have to sacrifice quality for convenience. For the busy, health-conscious mom who doesn't have time to cook that day but needs to ensure they are feeding their child with the best the world can offer, 8 Myles Mac N Cheese is your answer. All real ingredients, premium cheese, and made with the same passion and joy that you would at home.
Tell us about yourself
Born from a family of foodies and entrepreneurs, He has always had a love for food and a proclivity for hustle. Raised in an environment where everyone worked, He found that his best moments of family time were spent gathering around for daily meals. The stars of the show were always comfort food—collard greens, fried chicken, and of course, mac and cheese.
While pursuing a career in engineering, He nurtured his passion for food by experimenting with new recipes inspired by the foods of his childhood. Well, when the food is that good, word gets around fast! Soon, He found himself on Food Network’s America’s Best Cook. That stint sealed the deal for him, who decided that food would play a bigger role in his life than just sustenance and a hobby.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment has been getting our line of Mac N Cheese onto the stores of Target. It's an accumulation of 6+ years of learning, relentless effort, mistakes, and hustle.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The mental battle that comes with being an entrepreneur. You are historically up against terrible odds. It is very easy to get discouraged after making countless mistakes and experiencing tons of setbacks. And by being your own boss, nobody is forcing you to go to work, aside from yourself. So yeah, while navigating the world of entrepreneurship is tough, battling through self-doubt and mental anguish is even harder. But worth it.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Realize your passion and what makes your brand...your brand. Why are you doing this?
- Do not be afraid to ask questions and admit what you don't know.
- Focus on the present but always know where you want to head.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://8myles.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/8mylesllc/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/8mylesllc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/myles-powell-5b529025/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.