121 – Karen Mullins, Digestive Warrior

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Karen Mullins, Founder of Digestive Warrior

This week, we welcome Digestive Warrior, a supplement and wellness coaching business, to the podcast!

In this episode, Karen talks about her own story which ranges from a hospital bed and nearly dead to becoming “the digestive warrior.” We learn about how food affects our bodies and how to make the first steps toward better understanding. Then we hear how she built her business by championing her own wellness story.

Check out this episode with Karen Mullins on Youtube or wherever you like to consume podcasts.

Links and Notes from Episode 121

  • Disclaimer: We (at Making It in Asheville) are not doctors and nothing described in this episode would be considered health advice. Consult your doctor whenever attempting new health/wellness practices. Do your own research. And, enjoy this episode!
  • digestivewarrior.com
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our channel, like the youtube video, comment below, and/or share this episode with a friend! It helps to spread the word and get more eyes on Asheville’s makers.

Music by Commonwealth Choir (http://www.commonwealthchoir.com)

Engage with the Show:

We value your input! As we continue to shape this season, we invite you to share your suggestions for E-commerce businesses you’d like to hear from. Leave a comment on the YouTube video, or direct message us on Instagram, or email Tony directly at tony@makingitinasheville.com.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. Don’t forget to join us next week for another inspiring interview on Making It in Asheville Podcast!

Special thanks to our e-commerce season sponsor: Ernest Ready-Made

Ernest is the obvious co-warehousing solution for growing Asheville-based businesses. For more on Ernest, visit: MakingItInAsheville.com/ernest

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120 – Botanical Bones Founder Rachael Meyer

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Rachael Meyer, Founder of Botanical Bones

This week, we welcome Botanical Bones to the podcast!

Botanical Bones is a superfood dog treat business inspired by Rachael’s pup Carnaby, who she rescued at the beginning of the pandemic. She wanted to make sure Carnaby was getting the best nutrition possible, so she started making treats with clean, superfood ingredients and adaptogens (like Reishi and Ashwagandha).

Soon, Rachael found that not only did Carnaby love them, but they were also helping with his digestion and mood. Eventually, she started sharing them with the neighborhood dogs and not long after set up a booth at a pop-up market.

Rachel was onto something!

Today, Bontanical Bones has beautiful packaging, all human-grade ingredients like chickpeas, peanut butter, pumpkin, and hemp seeds, and a growing business Making It In Asheville is excited to highlight.

Check out this episode with Rachel Meyer on Youtube or wherever you like to consume podcasts.

Links and Notes from Episode 120

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our channel, like this video, comment below, and/or share this video! It helps to spread the word and get more eyes on Asheville’s makers.

Music by Commonwealth Choir (http://www.commonwealthchoir.com)

Engage with the Show:

We value your input! As we continue to shape this season, we invite you to share your suggestions for E-commerce businesses you’d like to hear from. Leave a comment on the YouTube video, or direct message us on Instagram, or email Tony directly at tony@makingitinasheville.com.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode with Jacob Baumann of Devil’s Foot. Don’t forget to join us next week for another inspiring interview on Making It in Asheville Podcast!

Special thanks to our e-commerce season sponsor: Ernest Ready-Made

Ernest is the obvious co-warehousing solution for growing Asheville-based businesses. For more on Ernest, visit: MakingItInAsheville.com/ernest

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119 – SoulKu Co-Founder Elisa Van Arnam

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Elisa Van Arnam, Co-founder of SoulKu

We like to say, “The best business to start is one that fills a need you’ve had.” SoulKu, you could say, is the perfect example of a business that has grown to honor its team, serve its customers, and fulfill its founders.

 

Today, SoulKu (Pronounced, “soul-coo.” The word “Ku” in Japanese translates to “a place of infinite possibility.” As they say, “We like to think of our company as just that, ‘A place where, guided by our soul’s calling, anything is possible.'”) is a precious stones and jewelry brand with a twist. They make all of their bracelets, earrings, and necklaces by employing a team stay at home mothers who work when they can.

 

Co-founders Elisa and Alison started SoulKu in the wake of the ’08 financial collapse. They had children, mortgages, and wanted courage… and income. Fast forward to their peak and they had about 40 Mamas (as Elisa calls them) that pick up the raw materials and turn them into finished products for their growing business.

 

Was it always this way? No. How many times did they pivot to find this model? You’d be surprised. Are they living into their mission and vision? They sure are.

 

And, have they filled a need they had through the creation of the business — they sure have. Now, about 25 mamas feel empowered and make income — a gift I’m sure if they could go back to 2009, they wish they could give themselves.

 

Check out this episode with Elisa Van Arnam on Youtube or wherever you like to consume podcasts.

 

Links and Notes from Episode 119

  • https://soulku.com/
  • https://www.instagram.com/soulku/
  • use code MAKINGIT20 at checkout for 20% off *all items at SoulKu (*some restrictions apply)
  • If you’d like to win a free SoulKu necklace or bracelet, comment on our Instagram Post with your favorite part/lesson from the episode! We’ll select three winners at the end of the week.

 

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our channel, like this video, comment below, and/or share this video! It helps to spread the word and get more eyes on Asheville’s makers.
 

 

Music by Commonwealth Choir (http://www.commonwealthchoir.com)

Engage with the Show:

We value your input! As we continue to shape this season, we invite you to share your suggestions for E-commerce businesses you’d like to hear from. Leave a comment on the YouTube video, or direct message us on Instagram, or email Tony directly at tony@makingitinasheville.com.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode with Jacob Baumann of Devil’s Foot. Don’t forget to join us next week for another inspiring interview on Making It in Asheville Podcast!

Special thanks to our e-commerce season sponsor: Ernest Ready-Made

Ernest is the obvious co-warehousing solution for growing Asheville-based businesses. For more on Ernest, visit: MakingItInAsheville.com/ernest

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118 – Devil’s Foot Co-Founder Jacob Baumann

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Jacob Baumann, Co-founder of Devil’s Foot

Devil’s Foot Beverage Company is the quintessential Asheville entrepreneur story.
Two friends (Jacob Baumann and Ben Colvin) had an idea and worked hard for years to make it a reality. If you’re not familiar with Devil’s Foot, they started with an incredibly fresh and flavorful ginger beer, and have expanded into other non-alcoholic beverages.
In a town known for beers, Devil’s Foot has stood out as one of the best non-alcoholic beverage companies around.
 
In this episode, we get into the origin story, some of the highs and lows of growing their business so far and we look ahead — breaking news that no one else has heard, yet on this episode!
Devil's Foot Can
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our channel, like this video, comment below, and/or share this video! It helps to spread the word and get more eyes on Asheville’s makers.
 
Music by Commonwealth Choir (http://www.commonwealthchoir.com)

Engage with the Show:

We value your input! As we continue to shape this season, we invite you to share your suggestions for E-commerce businesses you’d like to hear from. Leave a comment on the YouTube video, or direct message us on Instagram, or email Tony directly at tony@makingitinasheville.com.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode with Jacob Baumann of Devil’s Foot. Don’t forget to join us next week for another inspiring interview on Making It in Asheville Podcast!

Special thanks to our e-commerce season sponsor: Ernest Ready-Made

Ernest is the obvious co-warehousing solution for growing Asheville-based businesses. For more on Ernest, visit: MakingItInAsheville.com/ernest

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117 – Jami Daniels, CEO of Ernest Ready-Made

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Welcome to another exciting episode of the Making It in Asheville Podcast! In today’s episode, we have a special guest joining us. We are thrilled to welcome Jami Daniels, the owner and CEO of Ernest Ready-Made Warehouse, our season’s presenting sponsor.

About Jami Daniels and Ernest Ready-Made Warehouse:

Jami Daniels is a third-generation entrepreneur who recognized the need for a unique opportunity to provide both co-warehousing and co-working. With her expertise and passion for supporting small businesses, she established Ernest Ready-Made Warehouse, a 30,000-square-foot space located on Sweeten Creek, just south of downtown Asheville.

Exploring Ernest’s Co-Warehousing Concept:

During our conversation, Jami provides insights into Ernest’s co-warehousing concept, which offers a combination of flexible workspace, on-demand fulfillment services, and comprehensive e-commerce support. She elaborates on the benefits this model brings to Ecommerce businesses and shares success stories of entrepreneurs who have thrived in Ernest’s ecosystem.

Key Features of Ernest Ready-Made Warehouse:

  • Flexible and Customizable Spaces: Jami explains how Ernest’s warehouse and workspace options cater to the specific needs of businesses, scaling from private spaces of around 100 square feet to larger areas as the business grows.
  • Streamlined Operations: Jami discusses how Ernest simplifies logistics by arranging daily pick-ups and deliveries from major carriers like UPS, USPS, and FedEx. She also shares the convenience of full-height loading docks and equipment like forklifts and pallet jacks.

Empowering Ecommerce Businesses:

Jami and the team at Ernest understand the unique challenges faced by Ecommerce businesses. She elaborates on the advantages Ernest offers to entrepreneurs in this space, including short-term commitments, on-demand and flexible staffing, and dedicated shipping and receiving stations. Jami’s insights shed light on how Ernest hope to support and nurture the growth of Ecommerce businesses in Asheville.

The Co-Working Space at Ernest Ready-Made Warehouse:

Apart from the co-warehousing facilities, Jami shares details about the stunning 15,000-square-foot co-working space at Ernest. She highlights some of the amenities available, such as flexible workspaces, conference rooms, stocked break rooms, a photography studio, copy room, onsite parking, mailboxes, and inclusive utilities. Jami paints a vivid picture of a collaborative and inspiring environment for entrepreneurs to thrive.

Sarah’s Journey with Ernest:

As an additional highlight, we reveal that Sarah, our former co-host and podcast guest, has become a tenant at Ernest with her business, QB Cucina.

Claim the Podcast-Only Special Offer:

Listeners are encouraged to visit Makingitinasheville.com/ernest or ErnestReady.com/podcast to learn more about Ernest Ready-Made Warehouse and to take advantage of the exclusive special offer available only to podcast listeners.

Engage with the Show:

We value your input! As we continue to shape this season, we invite you to share your suggestions for E-commerce businesses you’d like to hear from. Leave a comment on the YouTube video, or direct message us on Instagram, or email Tony directly at tony@makingitinasheville.com.

Thank you for tuning in to this insightful episode with Jami Daniels of Ernest Ready-Made Warehouse. Don’t forget to join us next week for another inspiring interview on Making It in Asheville Podcast!

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116 – Interviewing Asheville’s E-Commerce and Product Businesses

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Welcome to the Making It in Asheville Podcast! Since 2019, we’ve been interviewing small business owners and building a community of Asheville-based makers and entrepreneurs. Now, in July of 2023, we’re excited to announce that this season, we’ll be focusing on Ecommerce businesses based right here in Asheville! In this episode, we share what has us excited about this season and why you should be excited too.

Key Points:

  1. An abundance of Makers: Asheville is home to a vibrant community of talented makers, and this season, we’ll be showcasing their stories and experiences.
  2. Valuable Lessons: Through our interviews, we’ll uncover the valuable lessons learned by E-commerce business owners in Asheville, providing insights and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs.
  3. Potential for Growth: The E-commerce market offers tremendous potential for growth, and we explore how businesses in Asheville are leveraging this opportunity.
  4. Rapid Market Testing: E-commerce allows for quick testing of new products and ideas, and we delve into strategies used by successful businesses to stay ahead in this fast-paced market.
  5. Fun and Easy to Support: Supporting local Ecommerce businesses is not only fun but also convenient. We explore ways you can engage with and support these businesses.

Presenting Sponsor: Ernest

This season’s presenting sponsor is Ernest, and we’re excited to record from their co-working space. Ernest is a 30,000-square-foot co-working and co-warehousing space located on Sweeten Creek, just south of downtown Asheville. Their co-warehousing concept combines flexible workspace with on-demand fulfillment services and e-commerce support.

Sarah’s Experience with Ernest

Our former co-host and podcast guest, Sarah from QB Cucina, has become a tenant at Ernest. Throughout the season, we’ll share more about her decision to grow her business with Ernest and the benefits she’s experienced.

Visit Makingitinasheville.com/ernest to learn more about Ernest and claim our podcast-only special offer for new members.

Have a recommendation for a possible guest?

As of publishing this episode, we’re still in the process of finalizing our guest lineup for this season. We’d love to hear from you about which e-commerce businesses you’d like to learn more about! Leave a comment on the YouTube video, or our Instagram post, or email Tony directly at tony@makingitinasheville.com.

 

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115 – Grow Your Business with Audio (originally presented at The Lobby)

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This week on the Making It In Asheville podcast, we’re sharing a presentation we delivered to the community at The Lobby, a monthly event hosted by Different Wrld.

We make the claim that audio is a valuable asset for businesses and — more often than not — the fastest media for businesses to create.

If you’re interested in getting the document I offer at the end of the episode. Just email tony @makingitinasheville.com

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110 – We’re (Helping) Launch a New Business in Asheville

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This episode announces a miniseries focused on sharing the behind-the-scenes strategies and tactics used to launch a new business in Asheville.

Over the next month, we’ll be diving into the “Why, How, and What’s” of the business, South Slope Pilates (and All Things Wellness), and the launch plan.

In the episode, we make three requstes:

  1. If you’re a pilates expert and would like to share your enthusiasm with me, please reach out to me: tony @makingitinashevile.com
  2. If you or someone you know if a group-fitness instructor and interested in learning about the project, please reach out to info@southslopepilates.com
  3. And if you’re interested in taking a free demo class, visit southslopepilates.com and join the pre-launch email list!
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109 w/ Greg Hardy of Rockgeist

In this episode, we share the story of Greg Hardy and Rockgeist. Unfortunately, the audio is corrupted so this episode feels more like a book report than an interview.

If you’re not familiar, rock ghost is a bikepacking company. Bikepacking, as you might’ve guessed, is a play on backpacking. The difference is that you wear a backpack on your back and a bike pack on your bike.

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108 w/ Boomer Sassmann of Big Boom Design

Boomer is the founder of Big Boom Design, an Asheville-based company focused on building, securing, and improving WordPress-based websites. Boomer shares his story of growing his business narrowing the focus of his business, and working to find a balance between his computer work and passions.
 
We hope you enjoy this episode.
https://bigboomdesign.com/
https://www.instagram.com/boomersassmann/
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