When I posted the letter from Gus a couple days ago, I had no idea that Ken had met him recently or that he was going to write about his meeting. I had been meaning to post that letter for a while  but it seems I had perfect timing! I am so happy to hear that Gus and Anna are taking a go at pursuing their dreams and I think I am an example of what you can do with hard work, passion and the one thing that I have found SUPER critical which is finding the right people to help you along the way. Ken has not only been that for Gus, but he has also been that for me so here is a big cheers to guys like Ken!!  -Julia

Why I give back.   The story of Gus and Anna

Last week, I attended an incredibly slow trade show in the Chicago area.  I knew this show would be a challenge because of the timing (back to school) but thought of it as a necessarily evil.   There was however, a rainbow protruding from this potential storm cloud.   I would finally get to meet Gus and Anna.

A lot of people ask me “Ken, why do you write for Shoebizness and how in the world do you find the time every week to submit an article”?  First, we all have the same 24 hours in a day, and we all have 7 days in a week.   It is not a question of finding the time…I find time for what is important to me.   Writing for SB allows me to express myself on topics that I find relevant in work and in life.  I enjoy it, but more importantly, it is my opportunity to give back.

I get numerous inquires from all over the world asking questions regarding sourcing, sales, costs, etc.   One memorable email I received about a year ago was from the gentleman pictured above – Gus.   Gus wrote me and told me it was his dream to start a men’s company.  He had numerous questions yet his energy and enthusiasm were boundless.   Gus admitted to me that he was somewhat unsatisfied in his current job and often dreamed about starting his own business.   He really had no previous shoe experience and certainly no manufacturing or factory knowledge.  

When I started Twig, I had 17 years experience in sales, costing, manufacturing, running a company, not to mention money in the bank.   I asked myself “should I encourage Gus, or be bone crushingly honest and tell him his odds of success are slim”?   I really searched own feelings about this and decided that I am not going to be a dream stealer.      A business does not run on hope and passion, but hope and passion are a starting a point.   I am going to help Gus and Anna, encourage them, and hold their proverbial hands while I walk them through the lions den.  I owe it to the industry to give back.   If I cannot be philanthropic with money(at this point), it is incumbent upon me to be philanthropic with my knowledge and time.

Last Friday evening, I had the opportunity to finally meet and speak to Gus and Anna in person.  Gus and Anna were as I envisioned:  young, smart, enthusiastic, affable and passionate.   What I did not realize over email was how good a team they made.   Gus is the one with the vision of what he wants.   Anna is the pragmatist.   Gus sees the big picture.  Anna sweats the small details.   They have the foundation of a great partnership.   Gus has the strong forehand, Anna has the great backhand.   This in itself, is a start.

I listened to them, and tried to force them to narrow their focus.   Lets get the fundamentals in place first I suggested.   Gus has stars in his eyes.   Anna told him to take notes.   A business (and personal) match made in heaven.

Our industry is littered with the bodies of those who have tried this before Gus and Anna.   But I choose to focus on the success’s.   What these two will need(in this order): 1. Determination   2. Money  3. Determination.

I told them that I would be below them…pushing them up the mountain, but making them aware of the pitfalls.   They have agreed to my terms:  Once they are established, they must agree to help someone who is just starting out.  

We have all had dreams of leaving of a mundane job, or working for ourselves.   Precious few take action.  

To Gus and Anna: You measure your success by what you had to give up to obtain it, and remember, determination to succeed will get you to the 5 yard line!

Ken Proctor
Front Man
Twig Footwear, LLC
Ken@twigfootwear.com
www.twigfootwear.com
501-276-0140