Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with John Donnelly, owner of Raising John, located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

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

Plant-based, super-clean meal mixes for busy people and families.

Tell us about yourself

This business got started when I was supporting my mom and her farmers' market business. We really got creative and worked with each other to create a product that would help people eat amazing food that was really easy to make. After a few years of doing hundreds of tiny markets, we eventually created Raising John.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

For me, when I receive an email or a message from a customer that really found the value and benefit of our product, it makes me really happy because that is the whole idea from the start, to help people and families eat healthily and easily. It's so cool when you hear someone basically repeat your own message back to you as a compliment!

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

For me, it's juggling all of the jobs, especially the jobs that don't come naturally to me. The non-stop multi-tasking really takes its toll, and it can be hard to take the time to be creative, which is what I really want to be doing most of the time. But, at the same time, you get to learn so many different skills through necessity. So I guess there's some silver lining there.

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

  1. Manage your cash flow and expenses very carefully. If you aren't good with money, find someone who is and let them help you.
  2. Keep your team small initially, making sure everyone has a clear role, then only add people when there is a need.
  3. Make sure that your brand, product, and company have a clear sense of purpose and identity and clearly know who your customers are.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

If you have an idea or a passion, first equip yourself with some knowledge and take that first step!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.raisingjohn.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisingjohn/

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.