Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Chris Christensen, Creator of Amateur Traveler, located in San Jose, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I run a travel site and podcast called Amateur Traveler that suggests destinations where travelers should go next.
Tell us about yourself
I started the Amateur Traveler in 2005 as podcasting was just getting started. I love the podcasting format, where you can listen to a show while you do other things like walking the dog. When I thought about creating my own show, we had some friends over for a Memorial Day BBQ, and all the best stories were travel stories.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I have won numerous awards, been invited to the White House, and been paparazzi for the Pope for a day because of the podcast. In 2014, Travel+Leisure magazine named me the "best independent travel journalist."
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
With a weekly podcast, you have to put one out weekly. I allow myself about four weeks off a year; other than that, it's time to make the podcast.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Know your why. Know what you want out of it.
- Make sure the plans you make match your goals. For instance, for a podcast, will the show I want to make attracts the listeners I want to reach the goals I have set?
- Know when to quit and when to stick it out. Some plans work. Some plans fail, and some plans work in time. No one was listening when I started.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.amateurtraveler.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amateurtraveler
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris2x/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/chris2x
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisnchristensen/
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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