Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Allie Nichols, marketing director of Osmo Nutrition, located in Sausalito, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Osmo Nutrition makes hydration and recovery powder mixes to help active people feel and perform their best. We are passionate about getting outside, pushing ourselves, and having a great time doing it. Our customers are professional athletes, weekend warriors, and folks who just love staying active. We like to say, “if you sweat, you’re one of us.”
Tell us about yourself
Sports have always been a part of my life. But after playing four years of D1 college volleyball, I moved to San Francisco to work in tech, and my athletic career became a distant memory. It took a few years for me to realize what was missing, and around that same time, I decided to leave the tech industry. I joined Osmo in 2018 because I wanted to be in an environment that speaks to athletes in all stages of life. Every day I hear from athletes who are hitting their peak well beyond their “prime,” and they attribute part of their success to Osmo. It’s incredibly motivating to see people push themselves out of their comfort zone and learn what they’re capable of.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
An unforeseen accomplishment has been maintaining a steady business throughout the pandemic. I’m proud of how we handled the setbacks and grateful that our customers stuck with us. From early 2020 we’ve made sure to communicate with our customers to find out how they are handling all the uncertainty and what keeps them motivated when it feels difficult. Our Osmo ambassadors are a huge part of our business and have accomplished some amazing things during the pandemic - such as a record-breaking Everest challenge - and we’ve been along for the ride.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
With a small business, I’m involved in all the day-to-day operations, which can present challenges in balancing my time. From events and product development to social media and even packing and shipping orders! - it’s easy to get stuck in one thing and neglect the others. Hiring the right folks who are ready to roll up their sleeves - and maybe ship a few orders - is key.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Listen to your customers.
- Do more with less.
- Don’t be afraid to make a mistake. It’s better to learn quickly than to stay idle.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://osmonutrition.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrinkOsmo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/osmonutrition/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/osmonutrition
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/osmo-nutrition/
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.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.