13- Tonya Little
In Episode 13 of the Small Business Bestie podcast, Michelle caught up with Tonya Little, the passionate owner of Float OKC. They dove into the importance of making customers feel genuinely valued through personal touches, like remembering their names and preferences. Tonya's knack for keeping detailed notes on clients underscores how valuable small gestures can be in building loyalty and a real connection.
The pandemic hit Tonya's business hard, forcing a three-month closure. Luckily, she was able to use the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to keep her employees paid, but reopening wasn't easy. Navigating a slow return, Tonya tried various marketing strategies, including pricey TV and radio ads, but found them not all that effective. This tough period pushed her to think outside the box and find more affordable ways to market her business.
Michelle and Tonya also discussed the rising popularity of cold plunge therapy, especially in float centers. A successful case in Lexington caught Tonya's eye, leading her to consider adding this service to Float OKC. It’s a great example of how innovation and staying adaptable can help keep a business thriving.
A big part of the chat was about the importance of being part of a supportive community. For float center owners, being in a float collective provides a lifeline of shared knowledge and solutions. This community spirit is crucial, as navigating business challenges is much harder when you’re going it alone.
Tonya opened up about the emotional and mental toll running a business can take, especially during such uncertain times. Both she and Michelle underscored the need for self-care and mental health practices like meditation and grounding. For entrepreneurs, maintaining personal well-being is as essential as managing the business itself.
For budding business owners, Tonya had some golden advice. She talked about the necessity of learning by doing and not waiting to feel fully prepared. Experience is the best teacher, helping develop decision-making skills and understanding business rhythms. Resilience, creativity, and resourcefulness are key traits she emphasized for any entrepreneur.
Tonya also got real about experiencing burnout and imposter syndrome, something many business owners feel but don't often discuss. The constant need for decision-making without a sounding board and managing employees added to her stress. She’s at a crossroads, considering finding an investor or selling the business to someone equally passionate about floating. It’s a tough spot that many entrepreneurs find themselves in sooner or later.
On a lighter note, Michelle and Tonya bonded over their shared connections in the Oklahoma music scene. It was a refreshing reminder that entrepreneurs come from all walks of life and bring unique perspectives and interests to their businesses.
In wrapping up, despite the challenges, Tonya remains dedicated to her passion for floating. Michelle encouraged listeners to keep dreaming and moving forward, even when the road seems rough. Their conversation serves as an inspiring reminder of what it takes to be an entrepreneur and the potential that lies ahead.
Michelle ended the episode by reminding listeners to send in guest requests and connect with her for small business coaching, leaving everyone excited for more inspiring stories in future episodes.
Stay tuned to Small Business Bestie for more insights, stories, and advice from female entrepreneurs who are shaking things up in their industries!
Follow Tonya on Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/littletonya78
Follow FloatOKC's journey: https://www.facebook.com/FloatOKC
Check out Little Okieland: https://www.facebook.com/Littleokieland
Connect with Michelle on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/smallbusinessbesties
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