Inspiring Science Magazine for Girls

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sarita Menon, Ph.D., founder of Smore Science, located in Fulshear, TX, USA.

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

A science and technology website and publication that is dedicated to science education and communication. The Smore Science website is designed to be a valuable resource for science enthusiasts of all ages and is suitable for students, teachers, and anyone who is curious and interested in science and technology. The print magazine aims to celebrate the contributions of women in STEM and inspire young girls to see themselves in these fields as well.

Tell us about yourself

I grew up in India, where I earned a bachelor's in chemistry and went on to obtain a master's in biotechnology from the Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai, India, before coming to The University of Iowa for my Ph.D. in cancer biology.

After 12 years, I left academic research to work as an adjunct faculty at the University of Houston Downtown, an experience that made her realize just how important it is to build a strong science and math foundation in children from an early age and its impact on their lifelong success.

Driven by that realization, in 2017, I ventured into the world of publishing and launched an international science magazine called Smore Science to inspire children, especially young girls, to pursue STEM futures. The magazine eventually grew into a website that has become the trusted go-to resource for not only children but teachers, parents, and anyone who is interested in science topics.

Being able to provide credible and reliable science news and information that is clear and accessible to everyone while also being able to share the incredible stories of the driven and passionate people who work in science is what motivates me each day.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner has been taking an idea I was passionate about, seeing an opportunity to turn it into a profitable venture, and working on it consistently and patiently each day.

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

One of the hardest things for me was the level of responsibility I felt towards our audience and customers and the team of writers, editors, designers, and web developers that worked with us. This became especially daunting during the pandemic. There were decisions that had to be taken to adapt to the changes in the market.

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

Ask yourself and your potential customers these questions before jumping into starting any business. Is there a real problem that you are trying to solve through your business? If so, is the problem painful enough for your potential customers that they will be willing to pay you for the solution that your business will provide?
It is important to surround yourself with people who will provide support, inspiration, and constructive criticism (not just the "yes-men") throughout your entrepreneurial journey.
To achieve success and truly enjoy what you do, it is essential to work smart rather than just work hard (which is a sure path to burnout).

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.smorescience.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smorescience
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smorescience/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarita_menon
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarita-menon/

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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