Season 7 - Episode 7: Can You Grow Too Fast?

She quit her job, had no funding, and started fermenting cider in a garage with her husband. What could go wrong?! Hint: it's not what you think. Within a year, Alicia Hardman and her hubby were running a 10,000 sq. ft. winery with lines out the door—thanks in part to a viral swing table. But what happens when your startup grows faster than you can manage? Was all that growth a good thing?

Takeaways

• Alicia's journey began on a farm, leading to a passion for wine and cider.

• Starting a winery involves significant challenges and capital investment.

• The initial focus was on cider due to the time required for grape production.

• Learning from mistakes is crucial in product development.

• Alicia and her husband leveraged their backgrounds to build the business.

• Unique experiences, like swing tables, can differentiate a product in a crowded market.

• Social media played a key role in gaining initial traction.

• Building a strong team is essential for scaling a business.

• Support from loved ones can be a game changer in entrepreneurship.

• Believing in oneself is vital for overcoming challenges.