Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jacqueline (Jack) Perez, Founder, and CEO of Kuel Life, located in Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I run a digital platform dedicated to normalizing aging for women. I accomplish this through curated content and women-driven brands. My primary customer is a woman 45+, but, interestingly enough, half of our audience is under 45. I believe it is because women are curious about what's coming. And I love that. An informed woman is powerful.
Tell us about yourself
I began Kuel Life for personal reasons. Menopause ran me over like a freight train. So many symptoms to even mention. My issue was that there seemed to be very little information about what I could do about it. I realized pretty quickly that menopause was just one of many areas that needed attention during this season of life. Women need support and information on the various opportunities and challenges that present themselves at this stage - empty nest, parenting adult children, divorce, dating with a dry vagina, skincare, fashion changes, caregiving for aging parents, etc. The list seems endless. If I can keep one woman from feeling isolated and alone during this second act, I'll have done my job.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment thus far is the creation and expansion of our Kuel Life Thought Leader roster. If we are to bring expert information to our Community, we need ... well, experts. Over the last two and a half years, our team of thought leaders has grown from just a few to almost 60. These women reside all over the world, bringing different perspectives on all things midlife & beyond. I feel immensely grateful for this powerful, empowering group of women who truly believe in our mission to normalize aging. Honestly, these women are Kuel Life. Yes, I built it and ran it... but they are the soul and guts of Kuel Life.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Loneliness. Isolation. Frustration. Ok, you asked for one, but that's what came out. As a solopreneur, there are days when I see no one or talk to anyone. It can feel, at times, that I am not getting anywhere. That I cannot move the needle. It's at those times when frustration takes hold that I question the whole of what I am doing. Those are some dark moments. And, luckily fleeting for the most part. Somehow, I keep coming back.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
My first tip is patience. If you need it "now," don't bother. Overnight successes take years to make. And, it is not sexy or glamorous getting there. Secondly, don't weigh yourself every day. Once I set a goal, I don't measure it every day. I find that it can be discouraging to measure daily changes. Instead, I like to look back on a week, month, or even a year. Then you can see the forward movement of your efforts. Lastly, if you are going, it alone finds others to collaborate and commiserate with. It can be challenging to conjure the next step or have an "AHA" moment completely on your own. Find some business besties to count on.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://kuellife.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kuellife
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kuellife/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/kuellife
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kuellife/
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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