Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kristin Zerbin, founder and CEO of Hoochy 'Booch Kombucha, based in Vancouver, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We brew our 'booch with our customers in mind. Mild + delightful, softly sour, and wildly delicious, it's Kombucha you can feel great about loving. We've created Tea-Infused Kombucha combining the magical healing modalities and complexity of herbs without the added sugar that are found in most Kombuchas with the use of fruit juices. We are committed to keeping health fun + interesting, constantly inspired by colours & new ingredients, there's a 'booch for everyone.
Tell us about yourself
I started brewing Kombucha way back in 2013 out of a desperate need to heal my gut. After trying many things, Kombucha was the catalyst on my healing journey. I quickly discovered how important and powerful our guts are, not only for digestion but also aiding as our 2nd brain. Ever get a gut instinct about something? If your gut isn’t working optimally, you’ll “miss the message” We’re here to inspire people to take control of their health, all in a fun and easily digestible way - pun intended :D
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Wow, many things. I feel accomplished in the finer things, like hearing success stories from folks who were suffering from digestive ailments and found relief from drinking our Kombucha. I feel accomplished that we have stuck true to our mission, supporting locals and being as green as we can. It feels amazing to see our product on store shelves or hanging out on a beach or restaurant table. I love that so many people love Kombucha now that they’ve tried ours.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
It can be hard to shut off, take a break or go on a trip. It took us years to finally do that. I believe now that work shouldn’t control your life and that success ought to be measured based on how you live and feel about your life vs. the amount of stores you’re in. With the growing rise of burnout and adrenal fatigue, I feel, taking time off can be the hardest thing to do.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Test your product and the market for it. See if people (not just your friends and family) would want to buy your product/service etc.
- If you’re looking into getting into an already saturated category, consider how well you get spots on the shelf? Beyond what makes you different, what other ways can you sell your product?
- Believe in yourself and believe in what you are doing. Business is tough and not for everyone. It requires patience, consistency, and tenacity, but if you believe in yourself, success can be measured in SO many greater ways beyond monetary means.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
"Everything is Figureoutable" - one of my favourite quotes from Marie Forleo. When a problem arises, take a deep breath, centre yourself, and get to it. You can do it. You can do hard things.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://hoochybooch.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hoochybooch/
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.