Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kimberly Mertlich, founder of Willo Nutrition, located in Castle Rock, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Willo Nutrition provides Certified Low FODMAP protein powders to improve gut health for individuals with IBS and other related digestive issues. Our products are free from 5 of the top allergens, including wheat, milk, soy, corn, peanuts, and fish. They are only sweetened with pure maple syrup - no stevia or "natural flavorings." Low FODMAP-certified supplements and foods are just beginning to evolve and gain awareness. While there may be other supplement brands out there, Willo Nutrition is the first protein powder brand as a whole that is Low FODMAP certified. Starting with two flavors on launch, chocolate, and vanilla sunflower protein, we are excited to provide a solution (and recipes) to the IBS community. Sometimes, recipes are the hardest part - maybe the protein powder is Low FODMAP, but once you mix it with bananas and milk, etc., how do you know it's still low in fructans? We can help.
Tell us about yourself
I have had IBS since the early years of grade school before there was a lot of information or solutions for living with IBS. I quickly learned through homeopathic herbal treatments and acupuncture, natural medicines and lifestyles were effective at managing my symptoms. While no individual living with IBS is the same, I am on a mission to help others with IBS, or digestive issues live again and not feel so much anxiety or limitations in food and experiencing life. I live an active lifestyle and couldn't find any protein powders that didn't start to trigger digestive issues. So, I created my own to share with the world.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
For me, being a business owner provides me with a sense of freedom. It acts as a creative and innovative outlet where I can make a difference on a personal level. Sure, I want to be profitable but helping others who are struggling every day with gut health is my passion.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Staying balanced with all areas of your life can be difficult without proactive planning.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Take your time, do your research and talk with other industry or like-minded individuals who can help you create your vision.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Willo Nutrition's protein powders are not yet available for purchase. We will be launching a crowdfunding campaign in early 2022 to help fund production. Final packaging designs are currently being finalized. Keep an eye out for updates on social media channels as we start to ramp up.
Where can people find you and your business?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/willonutrition
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willonutrition/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/willo-nutrition/about/
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.