Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jennifer Pharr Davis, Founder of Jennifer Pharr Davis, LLC and Blue Ridge Hiking Company, located in Asheville, NC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a professional speaker, author, and adventurer who uses hiking experiences I've had around the world to inspire audiences and provide meaningful takeaways for businesses, schools, and conferences. I also began Blue Ridge Hiking Company in 2007. We're a boutique guiding service that leads day hikes and overnight backpacking trips for beginning hikers in the Smokies and the Blue Ridge Mountains. We also have a shop in downtown Asheville and a bunkhouse on the Appalachian Trail in Hot Springs, NC.
Tell us about yourself
I hiked the entire 2,189-mile Appalachian Trail by myself when I was 21. Connecting with wilderness and spending so much time in nature made me see myself as a PART of it- not just an observer above it- and that was life-changing for me. I decided to share the impact hiking and nature had on me with others. So that's what I set out to spend my life doing, and it motivates me to keep going every day.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
On paper, I would say my biggest accomplishment was being named the Asheville Chamber's Female Entrepreneur of the Year in 2019. But I think that was a reflection of the success I've had growing my businesses from a "one-woman band" to woman-owned businesses that have exposed tens of thousands to the beauty, healing, and teaching power of nature.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
In my line of business, I would say it's finding the right things to say to my audience or my employees to motivate them. You have to be concise and get your point across effectively. That can go a long way in determining your success as a business owner, salesperson, manager, etc.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Surround yourself with good people. It will free your mind to delegate.
- Resist burnout by rewarding yourself and your team. Celebrate victories, even small ones.
- If you REALLY believe in your business and can share your vision with others, you will be successful.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://jenniferpharrdavis.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenpharrdavis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenpharrdavis/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-pharr-davis-a57a3916/
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.
