Favorite Parts Of Being A Founder And Visionary At To Be Honest Beverage Company
Michelle, Founder & Visionary at To Be Honest Beverage Company, most enjoys the "freedom" of owning her business, making decisions independently and driving the company's direction. This freedom allows Michelle to embrace "critical thinking and problem-solving," fostering strong relationships and mentorship opportunities as the company grows and hires a core team.
Entrepreneurship, Leadership, Problem-solving, Decision-making, Mentorship
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Michelle Houston
Founder & Visionary
To Be Honest Beverage Company
California Polytechnic State University
None
Philosophy
Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG)
Business Strategy
Pell Grant Recipient, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Transfer Student
Video Highlights
1. The freedom to make decisions and drive the company's direction is highly valued. Michelle appreciates the autonomy to chart her own course and make choices about the company's growth and expansion.
2. The constant need for critical thinking and problem-solving is a rewarding challenge. Michelle enjoys tackling new problems and finding creative solutions, which she sees as a significant part of being a business owner.
3. Mentorship and leadership opportunities are exciting aspects of her role. Michelle looks forward to building a team, fostering a positive company culture, and helping others thrive in their roles. She highlights the value of relationships, communication, and collaboration.
Transcript
What do you enjoy most about being in your current role as a business owner and founder?
I think the thing I enjoy most is the freedom. Although the responsibilities, the pressure, and the expectations are a lot higher, and I might not be working normal hours, I might be doing more than someone in an employed position.
The freedom of my future, how I want to see the business expand and grow, and the decision-making all come down to me. I really value this freedom from a time perspective, a lifestyle perspective, and an ability to think differently than I have in employed positions.
Sometimes it can be challenging because you get stuck in the feeling of wanting to see a change happen. Some companies fully support and help you grow, but many don't want or need that type of contribution. I always get to be the driving force of where I want the company to go and how I want it to exist, so that freedom is really important for me.
Critical thinking and problem-solving are a huge part of being a business owner. You're constantly presented with things you have no idea how to do or have never done before. It can be challenging to say, "Okay, I guess I'll do this thing I've never done." You either need to find someone who can do it, ask for help, or figure it out as you go.
That critical thinking and problem-solving aspect is such a beautiful part of what I do. Coming from a background of loving games and philosophy, asking deeper questions, and understanding the power I have to figure things out is a really enjoyable aspect of my work.
The mentorship and leadership aspects of running and growing a business are exciting, even though we've only worked with contractors so far. The opportunity to bring on our own team in the future is thrilling. In the next year, we'll be looking to hire for three core roles within the company. The leadership and mentorship that come with that, and being able to drive the company culture, are very exciting.
It's exciting to see someone thrive in their role, step into their zone of genius, and be able to do things. I enjoy cultivating that in others. Relationships, connection, collaboration, and communication are also a big part of what I do. Fostering, continuing, and nurturing relationships is very rewarding to me as an individual, and it's reflected in my work as we grow and build.