Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Dr. Bob Kriegel, Founder of Kriegel2 Inc., located in La Jolla, CA, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

My business is giving motivational speeches and writing books. My customers are speakers bureaus that book speakers for major conferences.

Tell us about yourself

I have always been a rule breaker or someone who is looking for a unique opportunity that no one has taken advantage of. The title of one of my books, many of which have made bestseller lists, will give you more of an idea of my guiding philosophy. It is: If It Ain't Broke, Break It. I started the speech business when the creative director of a company that produces big meetings saw a two-page spread that US News and World Report did on me. They called and asked me to give speeches. I never had but had given workshops, so I said yes. After a week, they called and said IBM was interested in having me give two speeches to 1000 people each. I didn't even have a suit, I had to shave my beard and get a haircut, but I did it. Having had previous business experience as an account executive in a major Madison Ave advertising agency, Mad men genre. I could easily relate to sky clients' needs, problems, and opportunities Giving speeches was a great fit for me since I had material that was relevant to what they wanted, and having had quite a bit of acting experience, I loved being on stage.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

When the first book that I coauthored, Inner Skiing, made the NY Times bestseller list. And when another of my books, 'Sacred Cows Make the Best Burgers' made the business Weeks bestseller list.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Doing the little things, which is why I always had a very good assistant to handle the details.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Walk a mile in your customer's shoes.
  2. Love what you are doing.
  3. Work hard. if you are trying to push a stalled car, it's always tough to get it started moving. Once rolling, it begins to get easier and move faster; same with starting any business.
  4. And don't be afraid to fail.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Take risks, challenge existing thinking and chase your dreams.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: http://kriegel.com/

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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