Forge News and Updates |
We wanted to highlight this article written by James Ozment for Bham Now! Learn more about Race Quest and why their co-founder decided to base this global business out of Forge.
RaceQuest orients itself around one idea: “train and race with the pros.” I interviewed Co-Founder Kelli Eldridge to learn how this world-class training camp and race touring company based itself in Birmingham!
Offering training camps, active vacations, retreats, and providing custom training camps for individuals, RaceQuest helps people have fun and enjoy their race day. After training comes travel. A RaceQuest coach goes over the race, especially the cycling aspect with all its twists and turns, and give them an insider’s edge.
The night before Race Day, the coach also leads a guided, calm, visualized mapping of race day so competitors will be mentally prepared. It’s a long day, no matter how gifted you are! But the endeavor doesn’t just challenge the athlete. Their families also need a plan, and often a guide.
“We take care of everything for the athlete and their family, and the only thing we can’t do is race for them.”
An especially popular trip is Challenge Roth, which is the world’s most popular triathlon (it’s like Germany’s Super Bowl). RaceQuest helps people get out of their comfort zone, have fun, and enjoy their race day. The company handles food, lodging, even transportation. And the results are obvious: “Many people have joined our tours and had their best performance, ever. And they’ve generously credited us with being able to help them achieve that.”
When was your company founded?
In October of 2012, I think like any good entrepreneurial endeavour, it started with fulfilling a need, and then sketching it out on a napkin. All our clients say the same thing, “we will never do another triathlon like this without RaceQuest.”
There’s so much around the race that draws your energy away, and you need every bit of energy you can muster for race day. My Co-Founders and I met, actually, in Hawaii. We all happened to be at the IRONMAN world championships, in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
Krista and I were both there as “sherpas,” helping friends. We had this same idea for the business, and within the hour we had formed our company on the Queen K highway in the middle of a lava field! Just lava and ideas, it was remarkable. Looking back, it means even more.
How long have you been at Forge?
We started a LLC in Virginia in 2012. We went live January of 2013. We based in Virginia because my business partner lived there. We realized quickly that really all we needed was a good internet connection and a good airport. We laugh now because we call ourselves “Two Chicks and a Laptop!” We decided after five years that it was a really great time to move the company to Alabama, and to Birmingham specifically. Birmingham is white-hot, it’s a great atmosphere, it’s a great community.
How has working at Forge helped your business process?
Having some experience in Alabama, I’ve always had a bit of a foot in Birmingham. I saw this starting to take shape, I’ve always had an eye on Forge. When they opened, I thought that when we relocate the business, this could be a good fit.
I came on a free Friday, met people, experience Forge, and was just so productive. It’s a great space to work, but they also provide things like mail retrieval, which as travellers, we have to have that. It’s great to have someone getting our mail, those are practical needs that are being met by Forge. We have the support system in place for us to go out into the world and do our business.
Is there a sense of community working adjacent to other entrepreneurs? Have you collaborated with any of your Forge neighbors?
This is a really great atmosphere. It’s not just a place to work, it’s a real community of entrepreneurs. Our attorney is around the corner, our accountants are around the corner. We have a terrific setup here.
Do you have a favorite restaurant in the food hall?
Absolutely! My favorite place in the food hall is Ono Poke, there’s a place in Kona that’s a poke bar, that serves exactly that type of food. I love going down there for lunch, it reminds me of Hawaii. It’s very fitting, since we first got started in Hawaii.
What’s the biggest challenge of working independently?
It was a big leap, we went all in. We invested our time and money to make this, and it’s a really awesome thing to be a part of. The reward is that I can’t imagine being anywhere else. It’s a real privilege that we get to do this. I can’t believe we’ve come this far.
My advice to anybody who’s out there in corporate America, looking out a window and feeling unfulfilled, my best advice is to organize yourself around what it is you want to do, and surround yourself with like-minded people. Don’t put it off another day, do whatever you have to do to make it happen. We worked side jobs, freelance gigs.
What does 2018 look like for RaceQuest? They’re finishing their official move to Forge. Later this year, over 100 athletes are going with the company to this year’s Challenge Roth!
Forge News and Updates |
For our fourth Business Breakthrough Session, we had the pleasure of learning from Andrea Snyder, Founder of Urban Cookhouse and Farm Bowl + Juice Co. Urban Cookhouse is known for their fresh, locally sourced food and amazing customer service. Farm Bowl + Juice Co. is their newest creation with juice, smoothies and açaí bowls. Andrea mentioned that they are currently working on their third concept but she couldn’t give any hints at this time as to what it will be!
The foundation of their restaurants is about relationships. They focus heavily on the relationships with their farmers, employees and customers. Obviously buying local means that their food tastes better but they are able to have a huge economic impact to keep these farms in business. Their main egg farmer started with 9 chickens when Andrea first hired him and now he has over 9,000 chickens total!
Another huge component of their foundation is their commitment to developing great employees. They now have a total of 175 employees with the combination of Urban Cookhouse and Farm Bowl. Andrea said they focus on hiring right because one bad employee can cost them a lot of time and money in the long run. They want to train and teach their employees well and incentivize them through franchising opportunities and bonuses. Offer your employees a growth track!
Andrea talked about something she calls “drive by reviews.” They want to continually encourage employees in the moment- as soon as she sees them doing something good. And from time to time, she also has to be direct when someone needs improvement. Encouragement goes a long way!
Andrea provided a great analogy for us. If you think of each day having a total of 150% of available time, most business owners will spend the first 50% on the tyranny of the daily urgent tasks. Then the next 50% is spent on gathering and analyzing metrics of the business while the third 50% would be developing your employees.
But Andrea totally flip flops this structure. The first 50% must be spent on developing and pouring into your employees. She believes this is what has created a great culture for Urban Cookhouse so she will continue to prioritize their employees with Farm Bowl as well.
Over the last 8 years, Andrea has continued to come back to this same quote from Samuel Johnson:
“Life affords no higher pleasure than that of surmounting difficulties, passing from one step of success to another, forming new wishes and seeing them gratified.”
What about customer acquisition? Andrea believes the real estate of your restaurant is the most important. You must be in the center of the customer population you want and parking is so important- that is one reason they just relocated their Homewood Urban Cookhouse spot. Plus they were able to add a drive thru!
In order to truly give their customers the best experience possible, they hire a CEO at each location. But this specific CEO stands for Customer Experience Owner. Even though this position may not be the highest paid, this person is extremely important to the success of the location. This employee does anything from holding the door open for customers to getting a high chair for a baby. Adding this position to their company has had immeasurable benefits!
Andrea has a wealth of knowledge about what it truly takes to build amazing restaurants! We are so grateful she spent time with us at Forge. If you haven’t already, go check out their restaurants! And look out for whatever restaurant they develop in the near future!
Forge News and Updates |
If you’re an entrepreneur, freelancer, or small business owner, you know the struggle of keeping everything organized. With so many tasks to balance, business-owners are constantly searching for ways to save time and make their life easier.
There are thousands of mobile apps that help with scheduling, finances, and group communication… but with so many to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start.
Sound overwhelming? We feel you. That’s why we asked our members and they gave us the best apps for managing their business.
1. Slack
If you’re apart of a team, Slack is perfect for keeping everyone engaged and informed. Slack simplifies communication and gives people the platform to share ideas.
Our member Connor Hand with Big Lead Gen Inc. says, “It’s perfect for segmenting conversations into channels. That way, it replaces email and keeps things from getting convoluted and messy.”
Not only are conversations organized… they’re also always accessible, so you can stay informed at any time.
“It’s great because it helps our team 24/7, like if we had a real office. We’re always virtually connected.”
So next time you miss a meeting, don’t worry – Slack has got you covered!
2. Linkedin
Looking for the best way to connect with other business leaders around the world? Luckily, there is a platform created just for that. With Linkedin, you are able to follow inspirational business leaders, find and attract talent, advertise jobs and grow your business.
“I think social media in general is important, but especially Linkedin. I’ve realized the importance of it and how effective it is in reaching people and building connections… then later following up and meeting those people.”
Wade Cline with Bham Now share his opinion on Linkedin, and we agree – as the world’s largest professional network, there is endless opportunity for every member.
3. Later
It’s no secret that social media is crucial to a new business – but not many businesses can spend all their time on figuring out what to post on Instagram next.
Jacqueline’s answer? Later!
Later allows brands to visually plan and schedule content for Instagram. As the #1 Marketing platform for Instagram, this app is perfect for companies wanting to grow their social media presence but need to optimize their time.
Additionally, setting up queues within the app saves you from scrambling for another picture to post. It also allows you to be more consistent with posting and gives the option analyze and track post data.
Our member Jacqueline Jones with One Degree Marketing says, “Later lets you see your Instagram feed so you can plan it visually. You can move things around to create the aesthetic you want, while still figuring out how to promote and sell accordingly.”
4. Lastpass
Everyone can understand the frustration in seeing the words ‘incorrect password’ pop up on your screen – and that’s why this app is one of our favorites.
The idea? Simple.
Gary Purdy, Pastor at Church City Midtown says, “I use Lastpass so I don’t have to remember passwords – and I’m able to share passwords with my virtual assistant so she can access any information she needs.”
Just choose a master password, and Lastpass does the rest. You can rest easy knowing your information is safe, secure, and will never be forgotten.
5. Google Drive
There’s no denying that one of the most difficult things about running a business is keeping everything organized. With so many different moving parts, it helps to have one place where everything is kept together.
Our member Brandon Loper says, “The Google Drive app is definitely my number one… it helps me keep all my documents in one place and share them easily.”
In addition, Google Drive allows access from any server. This means you’re able to synchronize files between a computer, tablet, smartphone, etc… and the best part is, you get 15GB of free storage.
Not only does the app allow access to information easily on your smartphone, but you never run the risk of losing any documents. All files are backed up, stored securely, and within reach.
6. Pocket
Have you ever read a good article and couldn’t find it later? Frustrating – we agree.
That’s where Pocket comes in. It allows you to find something you like and put it in your pocket! Whether you’re looking at articles, videos, or images online, anything can be saved to be accessed again later.
Kate Newbill with 2FishWeb LLC. calls it her favorite. “What I’ll do is read through things; I’ll see something like ‘How to improve your SEO.’ I’ll save it, and go back and read it later.”
Pocket takes the pressure off of content creating and allows you to save time in the future. Ideas, inspiration, you name it – this app allows you to bookmark it all.
7. Google Keep
With so many tasks to keep up with every day, Google Keep has the perfect solution for keeping it all in one place. As a note-taking service designed to save your thoughts, this app sets reminders, creates checklists, and keeps it all within reach.
Kathy Drewien of Kathy Drewien & Company says, “With Google Keep, I can record a note on my device and it will be transcribed (fairly accurately in my experience) into a searchable, editable note. I like to use Keep for short-term information retrieval – reminders, quick lists, brilliant ideas – and my Android app is always on, always live.”
Step up your to-do list and download Google Keep!
8. GoToMeeting
If you’re anything like our member Shannon Striver with OneSouth Financial Group, you’ve got a lot going on during your day. One way he’s able to stay on top of it is with GoToMeeting.
This app allows you to attend a meeting… from your mobile device. With screen sharing capabilities and high quality video, GoToMeeting lets you feel like you’re in the room with the presenter. You can listen in on conference calls, share a document or presentation, and set reminders for future meetings. With this app, everything is kept organized before, during, and after your meeting.
Shannon puts it to use often. He says, “As soon as I get in my car, I open GoToMeeting. I’m on my way, but still able to listen in.”
9. Dropbox
Our member Anoop Mishra of Mishra Consulting LLC takes teamwork to the next level with Dropbox.
“Dropbox is something I’ve used for years for photos, but now I rely on it so much more for my business. We’ve got so many large files we have to share and I’m able to exchange lots of different information and sites easily. It’s such an important part of being able to work with clients so we don’t have to email documents back and forth or copy 20 people on an email.”
This app provides a secure way to store and share large files of information to your team members. It’s easy to use and free for 30 days!
10. InShot
If you’re looking for ways to vamp up your social media advertising, look no further. Josh Rhodes from Big Lead Gen Inc. gives us his perfect app for photo and video editing.
InShot has it all: fun buttons, easy texts, stickers to promote subscribing to social media accounts. It allows you to create videos that have much more of an attention-grabbing effect than your typical Instagram story.
“It combines features of Instagram and Snapchat and gives you so much more but on a produced level.”
So many different features add a creative edge for Big Lead Gen Inc.’s marketing. It could do the same for yours!
Got any more to add to the list? Let us know in the comments below!
Forge News and Updates |
Online entrepreneur Josh Rhodes of Groovy Marketing and Big Lead Gen Inc. taught Forge members How To Go From Entrepreneur to CEO at our February Business Breakthrough Session. Josh has great advice on sales funnels, metrics, profitability and much more! Watch the video here.
6 Reasons Entrepreneurs Stay Stuck:
1. They don’t think sales first.
Sales is the oxygen of your business! You need sales to reach your goals. You don’t have to perfect your product before putting it out there.
2. They try to do too much.
You can’t be all things to all people! You need to know your strengths and stick to it. For example, Chick-Fil-A sticks to chicken!
3. They never identify the life cycle of a business and where they are in it.
from Les McKeown’s Predictable Success
4. They don’t understand risk.
Treat risk like an asset to leverage!
5. They don’t establish metrics.
Metrics give you control. When you have metrics and know them and they’re accurate, you have control over the velocity and trajectory of your business. Find the things you can measure every week. For example: respond to every customer support inquiry everyday by the end of the day.
To grow any company, there are three primary metrics: new customers, average cart/transaction value and customer lifetime value.
6. They don’t keep the company’s core values in mind when hiring.
Big Lead Gen Inc. knows their core values and only hires people who align with that. If an employee is amazingly smart but not coachable, it will sink the ship. Hire slow and fire fast!
So you may be asking yourself “What now?” Josh says now focus on perfecting your sales funnel! We will bring you more information on that soon! Also check out this section of his website where he linked several of his resources and helpful books.
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Forge News and Updates |
2018 is here! Let the recommitments to greatness begin! Before you hail off into 365 days hard work and success, there are a few things you may want to be sure you have to guarantee you’re ready.
A Bomb Team
If you plan to blow up, you’re going to need to surround yourself with the best! Take a minute and really write out your business process. Start at idea and creation to purchase and follow-up. How many different jobs did you discover you’ve been doing on your own? Try to get as many willing people in those positions as possible. It’s completely fine if you can only afford one. Having others as a part of your process will not only give you a greater capacity for work, but it will give you fresh ideas, thoughts, and criticism (embrace it).
A Refreshed Brand Image
Now is the time to determine if you need to spruce anything up. Even if you don’t execute it now, knowing that there, for example, is a major website overhaul coming in a few months may change how you promote your business. Ask yourself if you’re happy with your current logo, headshots, etc. If you’re happy with everything, ask yourself,” what will make me stand out even more in 2018?” Remember, you are about to see an onslaught of updated brands and new brands! How can you put a little shine on your brand’s image and presentation to ensure you’re still competing?
A Mentor
Whether this is your first year in business or your thirty-first, get a mentor. January is actually National Mentor Month. So, this is the perfect time to find someone in your field or industry, or even that you just identify with, who has the resources and skill set to help guide your career to positive places. Mentorship is such an important aspect of running a business. Entrepreneurs are naturally self-starters and often don’t ask for guidance. Remember, you don’t know everything. You can’t possibly know everything. A mentor can tell you where they’ve been, what mistakes they made, what lessons they’ve learned, who can help you, and more. You don’t have to talk to them everyday for the mentor relationship to work. Whomever you ask will likely be thrilled that you thought of them and do all they can to help you be successful.
A Trust Information Resource (or 2 or 3…)
Everything about our lives is constantly changing. As a business owner, it can be extremely difficult to stay up-to-date on the latest changes, not only in your industry, but in other aspects of running your business. There is no way to know all the changes to the new tax laws, the latest Google ranking details, or the latest Facebook algorithm updates. It’s always a good idea to identify early where you will pull your information so that you aren’t winging it every time something changes or you need guidance. For marketing and branding, Fire Starters, an upcoming One Degree membership, is a great resource. If you’re a solopreneur or entrepreneur who isn’t in a position to outsource your marketing strategy and planning needs, Fire Starters, will give you access to marketing information constantly at a comparably lower cost than hiring a marketing company full time. Joining Fire Starters, and services like it, can help you stay on track and keep you informed as quickly as you work to maintain and grow your business.
(Want to find out when Fire Starters membership opens? Click here to be notified.)
A Scheduled Break
I bet you didn’t see that coming. Right now, in January, decide when you’re going to take a break. You may not be in a position to take a vacation, or may not even want to. But, you must remember, in order to operate at your best, you have to take time to reset. A few hours every week are great for keeping your sanity. However, planning a weekend, a week, or even 2 weeks of unplugging is important. If you have a family, plan a time that you don’t have to say the words “mommy’s coming, give me one sec, almost done.” Give yourself the break you deserve and need to sustain the amazing business your are building.
Do not live your life in 2018 as a small business owner without these things. They may seem simple enough to overlook today. But, having them in place will save you time and money throughout the year.
Happy New Year!
Jacqueline Jones
One Degree MMM
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