This week, I would like to introduce you to Joya Machabee, a military wife and mother of 2 (boy and girl). She is the creator of the Kiddie Kangaroo, an instant storage system that fits with a car seat, infant seat and stroller. This is a great product for busy moms on the go, and a great way of keeping your child's personal belongings organized. Here is my interview with Joya, on her business and how she balances work and family. Come back on Friday when I will be reviewing the Kiddie Kangaroo in more detail and offering a 20% off coupon code for readers.
Company Name/Product/Service: LAM Products, Inc., Kiddie Kangaroo
Company Location: Reno, Nevada
Company Website: www.KiddieKangaroo.com
Facebook URL: www.facebook.kiddiekangaroo#!
Twitter Handle: @ kiddiekangaroo
Age of Company: 3 years old
Favorite Inspirational Quotes: Let Go and Let God
Tell us a little bit about yourself. How many children do you have? What are their ages? Your hobbies? Etc.
I am a military wife with two children. Boy 5 and girl 3. My family is my inspiration in life. We just moved from the west coast to the east coast which has kept me extremely busy settling in. In my extra time with my family I enjoy skiing, snowmobiling, wakeboarding and riding my Harley. I also enjoy the great outdoors.
Briefly explain your business. How did it come about?
My son was about 18 months and in a toddler seat. I would take him with me to many appointments for my business and while we traveled he would ask for items such as bottles and toys. He would drink from his bottle or play with the toys and then drop them to the seat or floor out of his reach and cry for me to retrieve them. After many times of pulling over and being late to meetings I decided to make something that would hold these items within easy reach of him. Along came Kiddie Kangaroo!
What is a typical work day like?
Busy with kids activities and schools, e-mails and all the daily activities of owning a business and taking care of family. I usually lay down at the end of the day and wonder how I got everything done and did I miss anything. Most days are extremely busy and a blur. I always think it will slow down soon but so far it has not.
What has been a struggle while starting up your company?
Trying to find manufactures and good pricing with quality materials.
What did you do in your past work life?
I enjoyed a great career in real estate until we moved to the East Coast.
What have been some of your major successes?
My healthy and happy children and taking a vision to success with Kiddie Kangaroo
What have been some of your major challenges?
Trying to make Kiddie Kangaroo happen on a short time limit and budget.
On those impossible days, what motivates you to keep going?
My motivation is my family. I know it is so basic, but sometimes the basics are the best.
What is your balancing secret in managing a business and family?
I will let you know when I figure it out. Balancing everything is an art I am still perfecting.
What is next for your business?
We are finishing our Patent and hopes to move forward with a partner to take us to the next level.
Do you have any advice for other mom entrepreneurs that are starting out and struggling, or are on the fence about starting a business?
This is your one chance at life. Don’t stand on the sidelines. Get out there and try. You will never regret trying.
I really liked reading what she wrote about getting out there and try don't stand on the sidelines.
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