We had the good fortune of connecting with Elizabeth Carrera and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elizabeth, what’s the end goal, career-wise?
I want to grow my business to the point where it’s my sole source of income. By the end of my career, I’d like to be able to look back at what I grew from the ground up; and how much it floursihed. I’d rather be able to be happy while working; than just working to work.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m most proud of the business that I’ve created. It was not an easy feat, but it’s here and it’s thriving. Originally, I’d started my business after college as a way to make some money (and to feel better about myself. Finding a job was TOUGH!). When I finally found that “career” job, it was out in Newport Beach (at the time, I was living in Whittier), so I was CONSTANTLY commuting and had ZERO time to work on my side gig.

I was JUST about to close up shop in 2020. Then, I was sent home and suddenly had SO MUCH TIME! On my hands to devote to working and growing my business. First, I started with asking myself what exactly do I want this business to be? Who would I be helping? What messages should I be sending out to the internet to attract them? Then, it became a question of what products should I sell? etc., etc.

The lessons that I’ve learned along the way are that I should make time for what I’m passionate about (e.g. my business) and that I should be proud of any and all achievements–no matter how small.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I personally love to hike and I love the beach. I’d say let’s get the best of both and go to Point Dume–it’s a private(ish) beach with a really nice and not too difficult trail. I also LOVE Galco’s One-Stop Soda Pop Shop in Highland Park. Their sandwiches are amazing and they have every type of soda you could want. Then, I’d say dinner in Little Tokyo at literally any ramen place. Or, grab tacos at Olvera Street.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d say my family, friends, and new friends that I’ve made in being a business owner. All of these people believe in me and my dream to own my own business and to be successful at it. Even when I feel low and like I’m not getting anywhere; I have this supportive network of people who are cheering me on.

Website: kalmingkoi.shop

Instagram: instagram.com/kalming.koi

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-carrera/

Facebook: Lizzie Carrera

Image Credits
All pictures were taken by me

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