Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with RJ Sarzo, Co-Founder of Life Pack Organics, located in Westlake Village, CA, USA.

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

James LaBrie and I, RJ Sarzo, co-founders of Life Pack Organics, shared a vital common interest: family first. Our roles as fathers brought you together as friends and eventually into the world of hemp as partners. Life Pack Organics was initially inspired by the needs of our children—we have seven kids between us.

Three of the seven children struggle daily with the effects of ADHD, and two participate in high-level athletics, which can inevitably lead to some injuries. Having distinct commonalities between their children encouraged them to explore natural remedies, which ultimately led them to the perfect solution: hemp extract.

Tell us about yourself

I was born in New Jersey and raised in California. I have 27 years of experience in start-up development, executive management, nutraceutical manufacturing, strategic brand marketing, and corporate acquisitions. I earned my B.A. in Business Marketing from the University of Southern California, along with a Minor degree in Nutritional Science. I then went on to receive his M.B.A. Throughout my career, I have created, launched, and managed Fortune 500 marketing campaigns to political campaigns. I have produced events for companies including A.E.G. Entertainment, Clear Channel, The Grammy Awards, SEMA Show, American Music Awards, NAMM Show, and Live Nation.

I am the Founder of "S.M.E. Entertainment" Sarzo Management Events and Entertainment. In May 2005, The Hollywood Reporter ranked S.M.E. Entertainment Top 10 Most Prestigious Entertainment Firms in Hollywood. Later that year, the company was acquired. I pursue health and wellness in my personal and professional life—an avid fitness guru. I have achieved many nutrition certifications. I have completed his Certified Fitness Trainer Certificate through the International Sports Science Association and his Certified Organic Nutritionist Certificate through the Nutritional Education Institute.

I grew up playing baseball and played NCAA baseball as the shortstop for the U.S.C. Trojans. My interest in martial arts includes 24 years of Muay Thai fighting experience and a 2nd-degree black belt in Taekwondo. Robert also enjoys competing in B2V, Spartan Race, and Tough Mudder. I have gained success in a diversity of businesses. I have been a corporate franchise owner with GNC Heath Stores and Jamba Juice brands. I also owned and managed 267 health food vending machines and 2 Eco-friendly laundry mats in California, Florida, and New York.

Philanthropy is an essential part of my life. I devote much of my free time to helping non-profit organizations. I have raised millions in charitable contributions for 501(c)(3) non-profits supporting animal welfare, cancer research, and mental health groups assisting L.A.'s homeless population. I am the Founder and Executive Director for "The YES Foundation," better known as Youth Education for Success, a California 501(c)(3). I am instrumental in creating The Say YES to Financial Literacy. 27 LAUSD high schools in Southern California utilized this financial literacy program.

The program is now in 5 other states and has helped over 1 million students. On December 22, 2015, I received the City of Los Angeles Certificate of Appreciation Award for his instrumental role with the Tom Bradley Family Source Center. With my ongoing dedication to helping others. I was personally invited to The Whitehouse where I was presented with The Prestigious President's Volunteer Service Award by President Barack Obama. The following year, I was awarded The Certificate of Recognition by Assembly Women Gloria Negrete McLeod's 61st district for his dedication and efforts in helping the homeless throughout San Bernardino, CA.

In 2016, I met with my best friend, Jimmy LaBrie, to discuss my next chapter in life. We are successful entrepreneurs. We decided to partner on a journey with one thought in mind. FAMILY! I have four children, and Jimmy has 5, sharing the same common issues, ADHA, A.D.D., or Auditory Processing Disorder. After two full years of non-stop R&D and countless formulations. We have successfully created a fully soluble proprietary blend of all-natural ingredients that is now a full product line of what is known today as Life Pack Organics Inc.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Helping my customers live a healthier lifestyle.

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

The lack of small business financing is always a tricky thing to achieve.

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

  1. Stay laser-focused.
  2. Think outside the box, and remember that what you like is only sometimes what your customer desires.
  3. Run your business as a team positively, forward-thinkingly, and with zero negativity.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.lifepackorganics.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LifePackOrganics/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifepackorganics/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lifepackorganic/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rj-sarzo-41b9151a2/

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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