Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in skin care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Colleen Poe, CEO of Apo.Ge, located in Eureka, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Apo.Ge is a plastic-free skincare brand that harnesses the therapeutic powers of mānuka honey and hemp to support healthy skin for all genders. We've made it our mission to handcraft products that are safe for your skin and the planet while helping our customers reduce the amount of single-use plastics in their bathrooms.
Tell us about yourself
Working with plants is at the heart of what I do. I first started making products during my journey to become a herbalist nearly 9 years ago. This sparked a passion in me to use the healing power of Nature to support the health and wellness of others. It just grew from there. I've worked with hemp for over a decade and am a true advocate for its therapeutic benefits. I was introduced to mānuka honey by my now business partner and realized that it would be the perfect pairing. I saw a gap in the skincare industry but was very frustrated with the amount of waste this industry created. I decided I wanted to be the change I wished to see in the world, and I am driven to help others make small, sustainable changes in their daily lives.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Empowering others to create purposeful and conscientious routines in their daily lives that better respect our Planet.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Staying motivated and disciplined. Having to wear so many different hats can cause decision fatigue and feeling like you're being pulled in a hundred different directions. Finding a solid routine, staying organized, and always staying connected to my "why" keeps me centered through it all.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Dare to be different.
- Empower yourself with resources and education, whether it be related to owning & running a business, increasing your knowledge in your area of expertise, or working with a mentor.
- Take care of yourself. Running a business is stressful at the best of times and exhausting at the worst. Schedule breaks, time away to think, and days off to recharge.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://apoge.life/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Apo.Ge.Life
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apo.ge.life/
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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