Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food & beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Chara Krangle, co-founder of Oat of the Ordinary, a high protein, low sugar, superfood oatmeal made in British Columbia and ships throughout Canada and the continental US.

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

Oat of the Ordinary is a high protein, low sugar, superfood oatmeal. We cater to those who value their health as much as they value their time. As two women with high health standards and a packed schedule, we became frustrated with the lack of healthy, convenient food options on the market. We also know your first meal sets the tone for the day. This led us to create an oatmeal that can be enjoyed anywhere and compliments your lifestyle.

Tell us about yourself

As a holistic nutritionist, I saw the common theme amongst almost all of my clients. They could never find a satiating breakfast or snack that supported their wellness goals. Prior to COVID, I was traveling 1-2 / month and would always pack my own protein, oatmeal mixture, so I had a healthy meal wherever I was, as you only need to source hot water (hello Starbucks on every corner and every airport!). I shared this health hack with my community, who continuously told me I had to create a product like this. Once the pandemic hit, I called my friend Vanessa (who has a background in business) and told her I had an idea.

We are now one year in and located in over 100 retail and online locations. Knowing that our product is making someone's day a little easier while supporting feeling their best is what keeps us going every single day.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Having community members come up to us and say they've seen our product everywhere or that they took it traveling, shared it with a friend, gave it as a gift. We even had one customer send us a photo of her enjoying her oats while her twin toddlers lay beside her with the message, "This is all I had time to eat today, and I feel full, energized, and taken care of."

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

The personal growths and challenges that arise are always difficult, but out of them comes an even better person. Logistically, keeping the integrity of our product while trying to keep the price down for our consumers.

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

Do your research, study your category, ask strangers for feedback, and prepare to pivot. Don't be too emotionally attached to anything that would cause a pushback to a change that may need to happen in order for you to grow.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I'm grateful for the support of small businesses during these times. Every order, mention, message our community sends means the world to us. Thank you!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://oatoftheordinary.com

Instagram: @oatoftheordinary

Facebook: @oatoftheordinary

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oat-of-the-ordinary/

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.