3

What do you do for a living?YoonKim

I run Blogs for Brands. We manage blogs…for brands.

How would you describe what your company does?

We manage blogs for brands.

What is unique about what your company does? 

We work with about 20 full time freelance outdoor journalists who write for major publications like Outside Mag, Nat Geo, Men’s Journal, etc.

What does your work entail?(your role personally)

I edit the blogs, work with the writers, and manage the content.

How did your company get started?  

I used to run the Trail’s Edge blog at Acumen, which was discontinued because the store didn’t do so well. The model still worked and is repeatable  I signed up a few brands, have some remarkable results, and here it is now.

What do you like about owning/being part of a startup?

The only limitation to my success is myself.

What do you dislike?

Too much travel, and too much office time (like 15 hours a day, 7 days a week). Not enough outside time.

How does your company make money?

Monthly retainer

What are your company gross revenues?(range provided)

$0-$250,000

How have you funded the company?

Bootstrap. Working other jobs.

Is there any specific education you received or skills you have that have helped you?

Working in magazines for 7 years helps a lot.

What is the most challenging thing facing your company?

Not keeping up with the work that we promise. 

What is your opinion on the startup community and the business climate in NWA?

It is getting MUCH better, especially with the guidance of good people.

What advice would you offer someone considering starting a business?

Plan your route to profitability. Create 3 or 4 scenarios starting with worst case, then disappointing, then realistic, and then slightly better than realistic. But never best case. Let that take you by surprise.

How much time off do you get/take?

Almost none. One Saturday per 3 months?

What is a common misconception people have about what you or your company do?

People think we’re a blogging agency. We’re really an ecommerce agency with very specific revenue goals.

What are your goals/dreams for the future?

To reach 75 publications.

What else would you like people to know about your company?

We have an Addie Award winning design team.

3