Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Emily Papale-Homm, CCO of Rad Sourcing, LLC, located in Naples, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Rad Sourcing is a United States-based boutique sourcing and manufacturing firm that collaborates with startups and mid-sized businesses that need product design and production support. Many startups crash and burn before they start because manufacturers are unwilling to produce a first-generation product in small quantities. Manufacturers that do work with startups typically upcharge an absorbent amount, bankrupting brands before they launch. We work hard to provide new and seasoned entrepreneurs with the tools and confidence to pursue their dreams.
Tell us about yourself
I met my husband and co-founder, Conrad Homm, while finishing school in Northern California. Surrounded by many post-graduate startups, we witnessed the financial struggles they endured due to the stress of overseas manufacturing. As a result, many startups only flourished in the early stages of development if they established relationships with manufacturers and independently navigated pricing, time zone differences, and language barriers. So Conrad and I and our other co-founder, Taylor Adnan, started Rad Sourcing to help entrepreneurs overcome these challenges. Now, we have a fantastic group of product designers and a network of factories across the United States, Europe, and China. Being able to work with and help people become first-time business owners themselves makes me happy and motivates me to keep going.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I cannot point out a specific accomplishment. Instead, it is the feeling of successfully creating something new and unique through collaboration with our eager and driven clients. It is super satisfying to see someone’s idea and turn it into a profitable and valuable product that serves a consumer’s needs. It is a bonus to see customers enjoying and using the products through positive reviews and social posts!
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
While we face constant challenges, setting realistic expectations with our clients is a high priority. We love working with ambitious entrepreneurs. However, our role is to advise carefully and not get caught up in their excitement. We do our best to give realistic expectations as it takes time and attention to go from idea to production to the final product that meets our high standards. Sometimes there are unforeseen hiccups along the way. Manufacturing during the pandemic created challenges for many businesses and has further highlighted the importance of adjusting our process to account for these surprises and warning our clients about potential expected and unexpected challenges. While we do not want to temper excitement, we want to ensure our clients are well-informed so they can successfully deliver the best product possible.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- You can start before you have all the answers, but know that it will take time to become an expert in your field. Be patient with yourself.
- It is hard, but every win feels amazing, no matter how small. Appreciate those wins.
- If you are not sure where to turn, turn to those in your industry who are where you want to be.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.radsourcing.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/radsourcing/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radsourcing/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rad-sourcing/
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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