Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Natasha Teasley, Founder of Two Sisters Adventure Company, located in Durham, NC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is Two Sisters Adventure Company. We provide outdoor and adventure recreation programming for individuals and groups. Our focus is creating safe spaces for all people in the outdoors and breaking down as many boundaries to the outdoors as possible for everyone. Our customers come from all walks of life; some have spent a ton of time outdoors, and some have never done any outdoor recreation activity.
Tell us about yourself
I grew up with a single mom who loved the outdoors. Growing up, she really focused our lives on being connected to the natural world. When I went to college, this was not what I planned on doing. I joined the canoe team as a freshman wanting to make some friends; that is where I found my love of helping other people learn in the outdoors. I love watching people become comfortable in the outdoors. Being part of people's journey to feeling connected to the outdoor world motivates me.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
We have a scholarship fund that is available for anyone who needs it. Often people hear scholarships, and they think of just groups or kids or summer camp, but we make a point to ensure that money is not a barrier for people. If someone wants to join us on a trip and they can't afford it, we want them there anyway.
We also co-direct the GALS (Girls on outdoor Adventure for Leadership and Science) program. This program is open to female high school students from all over NC. The program is focused on getting more historically under-represented, marginalized, and underserved women involved in STEM and the outdoors. This program takes students on a 2-week camping and backpacking trip infused with observational STEM-based science at no cost to the students and their families. We provide all needed equipment, clothing, and food.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
My biggest struggles with being a business owner are balancing the financial needs of the company, my own financial needs, and my desire to make programs affordable for everyone. I grew up in a low-income family. I watched my mom do without things like self-care. Getting into the outdoors is amazing self-care, and I want to help more people get there but also have to pay the bills.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be impeccable with your word. This should be number one on how to live a good life, but it is so important as a business owner. Your reputation is everything.
- Find a group of people you can trust and depend on to help you stay focused and accountable on your goals. These can be friends, family, or customers, but they are so important, and you need to listen to them.
- You can't provide excellent service to others if you are not providing excellent service to yourself. Listen to your body. Take breaks when you need them.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.twosistersadventure.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TwoSistersAdventureCo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twosistersadventurecompany/
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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