Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Bartek Czerczak, owner and director of The Barrel Hunter Corporation, located in Vaughan, Ontario, Canada.

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

We are a licensed distillery that makes amazing-tasting liquids. Our Mighty Moose Canadian Vodka won SILVER at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, beating out some of the world's leading vodkas! Our purpose is to elevate life's most enjoyable moments. Our brands exist to enhance the special moments in life amongst friends and family.

Tell us about yourself

I am a first-generation Canadian and a former refugee. I came to Canada when I was ten years old, and I've always wanted to run my own business and follow in the footsteps of my family. I started my entrepreneurial journey almost two years ago when my former employer offered me a package. I've always been the type of person that wants to improve and grow both personally and professionally. My family is what motivates me to do and to be better.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

So far in my journey, the biggest accomplishment has been bringing our FL!NG brand to life. Our vodka soda (seltzer) is arguably the best-tasting product out there. We received approvals from the LCBO and SAQ liquor boards to list our FL!NG this coming Spring!

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

Giving up a great salary and working for free until you start making money. I think some people might say the hours, but for me, it's not that. When you are having fun and love what you do, the hours do not matter.

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

  1. Make sure you have a strong support network at home financially. Have six months to a year of living expenses available.
  2. Surround yourself with positive but objective people
  3. Be prepared to work hard and do things you may have done when you started your career.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I also think it's critical to understand what cash flow your business needs to keep going. Make sure you have an expert to help with this, don't be afraid to ask for help. It's okay not to know everything.

Where can people find you and your business?

The Barrel Hunter's website: http://www.thebarrelhunter.com/
Fling's website: https://flingbeverages.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flingcoolers/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebarrelhunter/

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.