Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Troy Karnes, Co-Founder of Weirdo Coffee, located in Lakewood, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We make flavored coffee from real ingredients, without any fake flavorings or oils, so they don't suck. Our customers are folks who enjoy surprisingly delicious flavors and a bit of adventure.
Tell us about yourself
When we looked around at the flavored coffee options around us, we saw so much vanilla, hazelnut, or vanilla-hazelnut. It's all so boring, overly sugared, and inauthentic. But people love craft beer, well-made cocktails, and interesting restaurants, so we wanted to bring some of that energy to the coffee space.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
For us, the biggest accomplishment is showing our kids what it looks like to take on a big project.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Balance. Weirdo Coffee is not our only endeavor, so creating time to make it all work is something that we think about all the time.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
First, you gotta start. Action leads to momentum, and momentum can carry you a long way. Second, think creatively about how you will grow your business. It's going to take more than a website in most cases. Finally, do not underestimate the power of journalling about challenges that you are overcoming. You'll be surprised by how much you can unlock by writing down a stream of consciousness. Oh, and here's a bonus one: pay your taxes.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.weirdocoffee.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weirdocoffee
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weirdocoffee/
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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