Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jim McMillen, Founder of Lucky Dirt Co, located in Warrenville, IL, USA.

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

I'm a 4th Generation farmer growing organic popcorn that supports court-involved youth and incarcerated people. Our customers are looking for brands and products that align with their lifestyles or support their values. They want to bring positive elements into their lives, as well as the lives of others. For them, that's worth additional investigation and trial. They want to feel that the driver of a company is genuine and holistic, not a marketing ploy to make money.

Tell us about yourself

I've always been a farmer at heart, no matter where I've lived or what I've done for work. The thing that stuck with me was this vision of inspiring healthy emotional connections between people, animals, and the earth. This was before agriculture gained prominence in the mainstream for its work ethic and authenticity. I also had been exposed to men and women, and boys and girls within the penal system in some capacity. It struck me how redemption was possible through relationships, both on a personal level and through a belief in God. When the pandemic hit, it caused me to rethink where I was going, and the timing was right to do something to combine these two loves. Each day I am reminded of this gift of life while realizing we are all hurting inside. Who knows exactly how much time we have left, but I'm determined to do my part to make it a better place while I'm here.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I feel that you have to constantly look for the accomplishments, whether they're incremental or monumental. My definition of success is to never stop improving. Your initial idea can change course toward something you didn't expect when you started. So you have to keep growing.

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

Honestly, taking the first step toward turning an idea into reality. It takes 20 years to be an overnight success, so once you step out boldly, inertia kinda takes over.

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

  1. Don't worry about perfecting your idea before you begin. Start assuming changes are necessary.
  2. A mentor of mine told me to focus on the hardest aspect of success that no one else can do for you, whether it's production, operations, sales, or distribution. You can hire the rest.
  3. Your first sale sets the wheels in motion, but it's also the driver. You have to earn business every single day because nothing happens without it.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://luckydirtco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/luckydirtco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luckydirtco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/luckydirtco/

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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