Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Joe Henschel, CEO of The Steeping Giant, located in Vista, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a Cold Brew Coffee company that seeks to create a coffee culture on tap for any office, restaurant, or brewery that we are in. Our customers are anyone who loves coffee and is part of the caffeinated community. We take special care in how we source, brew and serve our products.
Tell us about yourself
When we started, there was no artisan cold brew available to the masses, so we desired to create a product that allowed the drinker to experience what cold brew should taste like but also to have it easily accessible. Also, we saw a huge need for a different experience in the office, so we created a water cooler 2.0 where people can still have the community, but they are drinking something that brings everyone together and also is a fun experience in the office.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
We have expanded significantly over the past few years. I think the biggest accomplishment is building a brewing facility in our local city that employs people.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
As a business owner, you do not have anything to fall back on; it is all or nothing. During 2020 we almost lost it all, and personally, that hit me the hardest cause I just can't go and get another job...Thankfully we serviced, and we are now thriving.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Have a phased plan (don't go too big upfront).
- Grow organically (keep it lean).
- Give your employees an incentive to stay and grow.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
We take a beer brewing approach to our cold brew; it allows us to have some of the freshest and clean cold brews around.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.thesteepinggiant.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesteepinggiant/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesteepinggiant/
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.