Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ryan Donovan, managing partner at Ian's Pizza Milwaukee, located in Milwaukee, WI, USA.

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

My business is Ian's Pizza Milwaukee. We are a Fast Casual, New York Style, pizza by the slice company catering to all ages and demographics. We are known for our wild pizza creations, especially when it comes to our weekly specials, doing everything from General Tso's Chicken to the Thanksgiving pizza. Don't get me wrong, we do the basics many are accustomed to as well, but our success comes from pushing the envelope on creations and always sourcing premium quality ingredients. We are regularly voted as one of the best pizza places in our area by local news and media outlets. We are also able to serve an individual just popping in for a quick bite to catering for large groups 500+.

Tell us about yourself

I began my journey with Ian's Pizza in June of 2005 as a college student at UW-Madison. At the time, there was a single store at 319 N Frances St and a second location on State St. was soon to open. I applied as a general in-store employee and delivery driver. As I approached graduation, I had the choice all students find themselves making...what's next. For me, it was likely law school, but after some conversations with Ian Gurfield (founder of Ian's Pizza United), the possibility of opening an Ian's Pizza in another city was also in the cards. Upon graduation, I became a full-time employee of Ian's Pizza. I decided to begin planning where I was going to open a new location. Milwaukee made the most sense, we already had brand recognition from our Madison stores, and I wasn't looking to leave Wisconsin. On January 1st, 2010, we opened Ian's Pizza Milwaukee. Now 12 years later, we have 3 Milwaukee locations. For me, it's my people and the customers that motivate me each day. Hearing someone say how much they love our pizza is music to my ears. Seeing an employee develop over time and building relationships is also extremely rewarding...I love to see people succeed.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

To me, my biggest accomplishment is getting other employees ownership in the stores we are opening. As a company, we strive to avoid the stigma in the restaurant industry that it's a dead-end job. Always looking to develop individuals and get them where they want to be.

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

When describing an ideal job, many refer to work-life balance...as an owner, your work is very much part of your life. I am sure many other business owners can relate, but as an owner, I find myself putting the business before myself. Ultimately sacrificing time spent with my family.

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

Don't be scared; if you truly want to do something, you can. Have a plan. You need to be organized and ready to commit the time. Do/know the work. You need to know your field; it may require some research. It could require having someone to consult with...it's always good to have someone you trust to bounce ideas off.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://ianspizza.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ianspizzamilwaukee/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianspizzamke/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ianspizzamke

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.

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