After working as a marketing manager for an engineering and environmental consulting firm in CA for nearly 10 years, Karen and her husband, Jason, moved to Hawaii to follow their dream of creating their own all natural, old-fashioned soda company with the flavors of the islands. Founded in 2003, Karen is the President of Waialua Soda Works and mother of two young budding entrepreneurs.

On Today’s show Karen will share:

-What’s Your Personal Mission Statement
To live my life to the fullest by enjoying time with my family and friends and work on something that I am passionate about.

- Biggest Business Mistake
Hiring consultants who did not perform as expected – anyone you bring on should be held accountable to produce results or they don’t get paid.

-How Do You Handle Business Stress and Uncertainty
With my husband as my business partner, we are able to work together and solve issues when we encounter stressful or uncertain times. I always know he has my best interest at heart – we have the same goals for the company and our own lives.

-Greatest Business Decision That Changed Everything
I can’t point to just one business decision that seemed to change everything. There are a couple of smart decisions that we made that certainly help us make the “right choices” as we grow. First, we found a strong and interested mentor –President of Kona Brewing Company. He is not a direct competitor, but certainly an expert in the beverage industry with the unique knowledge and experience of running a business in Hawaii.  The other great choice was to work with investors who offer “smart money”. We were able to connect with a local investment group who are business savvy, have a passion for the brand, and offer important connections throughout Hawaii and elsewhere.  Both of these choices have helped us tremendously as we navigate the uber competitive beverage world.

-Best Book For The Entrepreneurial Mindset
I would recommend the E-Myth and the E-Myth Revisited.  This book, and its follow up edition, offers sound advice for the new or struggling entrepreneur. It discusses how to “run” your business rather than letter your business run you.

- Plus much more...