Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jackie M. Nix, Owner of Moo Maven, located in Prattville, AL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Moo Maven is an independent publisher of children's books with agricultural themes. Moo Maven's mission is to educate and inspire children of all ages regarding the role of agriculture in their lives. While the current books are authored by me, I eventually intend to publish books by other authors. Educators are Moo Maven's primary customers, whether from traditional, homeschooled, or virtual classrooms. Additionally, agri-tourism businesses that attract families with children and school groups in the age range our books target are targeted customers. And last but not least, farm families who struggle to see themselves and their way of life accurately represented are also a main target.
Tell us about yourself
I came from both a corporate and government background in my previous careers. I worked as an animal nutritionist for an international feed company for over 17 years. And prior to that, I was an agriculture educator through the Cooperative Extension Service for 6 years. When I left in 2018, I assumed I would return to the same kind of work within a year or two. But during my sabbatical, I had this idea for a book that wouldn't go away. I ran it by friends, and they all loved it. I knew I would publish it; however, I figured it would be something I'd pursue "one day." Then the pandemic hit. The quarantine seemed a perfect time to make this book a reality. In the course of bringing my book to print, I realized that I wanted to self-publish rather than go the traditional route which would mean giving up artistic control and a delay in getting books in print. Additionally, I realized I wanted to create my own imprint (publishing company) and make a go of making this into a viable business rather than as a side hustle. I found I really enjoyed the freedom of being an entrepreneur and decided that now was a perfect time to take the risk and invest my talents in my own business for a change.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Just taking the steps to create the business in the middle of the pandemic was a huge accomplishment. But beyond that, I am proud to say that my debut book, Modern Farms, won a Readers' Favorite International Book Award and has sold over 500 copies in its first year. In comparison, the average traditionally published non-fiction book sells about 250-300 copies in the first year, and the average self-published book sells 250 copies in its lifetime. I'm extremely pleased with the performance of this book, given I was an unknown, self-published author. I'm hoping to do even better when my second book, Bonnie the Bovine and Her Bodacious Burps, is released next year.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
As a solopreneur, it is very hard being responsible for everything. It is very easy to get overwhelmed. It is also very challenging breaking into a new field where EVERYTHING is new. The sharp learning curve that motivates and excites me also easily depresses and overwhelms me on my worst days. You have to learn to focus on the next step and not get intimidated by the whole staircase. Also, remember that you get to try again tomorrow and that rest is an important part of productivity.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- When you have an idea you are passionate about and believe in strongly, don't be afraid to pursue it. The naysayers telling you it is impossible aren't inspired. It's impossible for them, but not you.
- Understand your motivations and goals. Get real honest with yourself about why you want to create this business. Of course, all of us want to turn a profit and make money. But what drives you on a deeper level? What is your core mission? A lot of people want to skip over the mission statement, but that's the most important step. Figure out your mission, then make sure that every decision you make going forward supports that mission. If you consistently do that, you'll never go wrong.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help. This was a tough one for me. I thought I had to learn everything. But the reality is you can't be good at all things. Find a support network of others doing what you are doing. Remember that it's not only allowed but smart to enlist the help of others in areas where you are weak. Hire consultants or gig workers. If you don't have the budget to hire help, trade services within your support network. Recognize where you are weak and fill the gap with others who have natural strengths in that area.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.moomaven.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernFarmsBook
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernfarmsbook/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nixjackie/
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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