Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Katie Zaccardi, CEO of Out to Be, located in Nashville, TN, USA.

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

At Out to Be, we help musicians and music industry professionals grow personally and professionally (by creating a brand, building a fanbase, and launching online) through educational programs and in-person events.

Tell us about yourself

Growing up in New York, I watched my parents run an online commerce business. I knew I would be an entrepreneur… someday, somehow. After dedicating 10+ years of my life to the music industry as a student, indie artist, and music industry professional, I made it happen.

I created a life of freedom, abundance, and music for myself. I founded "Out to Be" to give women in music the tools, support, and motivation to do the same. What keeps me motivated is being able to help other musicians the way I needed help when I was starting.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Launching the free resource, "What's Your Brand DNA" Quiz to help musicians figure out their Artist Brand Archetype and having over 1,000 musicians get clear on their brand from it!

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

It can always be challenging dealing with changes, be it in the music industry, the coaching industry, or the economy in general. When things change, adapting is key, though sometimes a challenge!

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

  1. Have an "emergency fund" for yourself and maybe even one for the business before going full-time. It takes the stress away when you're trying to grow, and income may be inconsistent!
  2. Figure out how to listen to your intuition and follow it. Trends will always change, and people will always have opinions on how you should do things, but you need to trust yourself above all else.
  3. Know that there will be ebbs and flows in your success, and that's normal. Remember that you are not your business. Your business is just one thing you do. Those literal and emotional boundaries will help you stay consistent during high and low times!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.katiezaccardi.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KatieZaccardiNY/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiezaccardi/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-zaccardi-a1a86596/

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.