Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Valerie Roth, founder and CEO of Fire Brew, located in Portland, OR, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We make plant-based health remedies that cleanse and restore the whole body naturally, without side effects. Since our ingredients curb inflammation and clear toxins, our customers run the gamut from athletes, to the over 50 crowds, to millennials with small kids, and everyone in between. Every human, young and old, suffers from aches and pains, and our products safely address these low-grade, chronic conditions.
Tell us about yourself
I learned about natural remedies when I went back to school to become a Holistic Nutritionist ten years ago. I learned how foods heal the mind and body based on their nutrients -- not just from a "dietetic" standpoint but also for overall health and wellness. I was completely enamored and saw there weren't enough natural remedies available for people to access easily. That's when I started tinkering with my own line of tonics (based on existing, ancient herbal recipes), and I haven't stopped since!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I've never owned a business before this one. I have learned many things the hard way, especially in one of the toughest business climates ever. The fact that my business is still standing is a testament to my  commitment to my dream, the strong support system around me, and, mostly, my loyal customers.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
No one else experiences the highs and lows of a business like its owner. It is a representation of one's soul so it is much more than just "a business." When good things are happening, there is almost an ecstatic quality about it. When things are not going well, however, the sadness is profound. It can be challenging to live between these two polarities.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Stay open and flexible. Things can change on a dime so you'll need to pivot quickly. Make sure you know and remember WHY you're starting your business. It may be the only thing you have to sustain yourself during dark times. If you make a mistake, acknowledge it quickly and publicly. Your relationships are gold so if you don't value them all the time (not just when things are good), they will be tenuous at best.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
If I had stayed afraid and never started Fire Brew, I would have regretted it to the very end. Taking risks can be hard and paralyzing but it's always worth it - even if we fail.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.drinkfirebrew.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrinkFireBrew/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinkfirebrew/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerieroth-mym/
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.