Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Hillary Ayn Ryan, Owner of TAP-a-holic, located in North Hollywood, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I own TAP-a-holic Tap Classes and am the creator of TAProbics workouts. My business caters to adults of all ages and dance abilities. My clients range between actors, musical theater performers, and people who have either tap danced when they were young or have always wanted to try it.
Tell us about yourself
I've been dancing since the age of four, and dance has always been a major part of my life. When I moved to L.A. to pursue acting, it just felt like the logical thing to start teaching tap classes- I had done that a bit in N.Y. Eventually, the classes grew, and then I created TAProbics, a cardio tap dance workout for all levels that helps people who've never even tap danced before jump in and have a great time, along with people who are more experienced. It's really hard not to have fun while dancing, so the joy can be pretty motivating to continue. I get to meet so many amazing people, be creative & help people overcome their insecurities about dancing while supporting them in creating a new mindset while they learn.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think having a business that has lasted for years in Los Angeles where it can be pretty competitive without doing much advertising. Also, seeing my clients create friendships that have lasted years beyond the times they've spent in my classes is really special to witness.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
There's no downtime or end to the to-do list. It takes setting very strong boundaries to have full days off or even times in the day when you are not focused on business ideas or tasks that need to be done. I'm not great at setting those boundaries for myself. I'm working on it, though, because it really is up to you to set for yourself.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Don't be afraid to reach out if you have an idea and want to collaborate with someone or have an idea to connect with another company. I've done that a lot, and some great things have come from that. If you don't ask, you don't get a yes.
- Be firm with your policies (and clear) but also be a little flexible. When I first started, I was scared of turning people off by saying no or sticking to my policies, but I realized through the years that most people will respect the guidelines you set.
- Set time limits with working. You will never get everything done because there is always more, especially if you are creative and come up with new ideas all the time.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
It's completely normal to feel like quitting sometimes or even a lot. Whenever I feel that way, something usually happens to turn that around- either a client leaves a great review, a new opportunity pops up, or I just quickly get over it. It's something all business owners feel, so just keep going!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://tapaholictapclasses.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tapaholic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tapaholic_taprobics/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tapaholic1
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.