Episode 182: S2 | Kirsten Maitland’s Entrepreneurial Journey with Rebel Cheese: From Small Village to Big Success
Introduction
What drives a person to leave behind everything familiar and build a thriving business in a new country? Kirsten Maitland, co-founder of Rebel Cheese, did just that. In this article, we explore Kirsten’s entrepreneurial journey, her motivations, the challenges she faced, and the strategies that made her a successful business owner.
Kirsten’s Journey and Motivation
Kirsten Maitland’s journey began in a small village in England where opportunities seemed limited. With a dream of becoming an entrepreneur and following her mother’s footsteps in America, she moved to the U.S. at age 15 after her father passed away. While life threw its challenges at her, Kirsten’s resilience led her to unexpected paths. After joining the U.S. Navy to fund her education, she discovered a passion for technology and built a career in IT. However, her true entrepreneurial calling came years later when she realized there was a gap in the market for artisanal vegan cheese.
Kirsten’s motivation to start Rebel Cheese was rooted in her passion for plant-based living and her love for food. She and her husband noticed a lack of high-quality vegan cheese options to celebrate special occasions like wine pairings and picnics. This gap in the market inspired them to take a bold leap into the unknown world of food production and hospitality, launching Rebel Cheese in 2019 with no prior experience in the industry.
Strategies and Tips for Entrepreneurs
1. Embrace Pivoting as a Strategy
Kirsten’s journey is a lesson in adaptability. Rebel Cheese’s early success was quickly tested by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced them to close their restaurant’s doors. Instead of accepting defeat, Kirsten pivoted her business by launching online services, delivery options, and a monthly cheese club. “We had every single team member on the team out making deliveries,” Kirsten explained, showing how flexibility and quick thinking kept her business afloat.
2. Diversify Revenue Streams
Another critical strategy Kirsten employed was diversifying her revenue streams. During the pandemic, Rebel Cheese expanded beyond its original restaurant concept to include wholesale and e-commerce. These new avenues became key revenue drivers and helped the company not only survive but thrive during tough times. Diversifying your business’s income streams can protect against unexpected challenges and provide stability in volatile markets.
3. Build a Strong Team Culture
Kirsten emphasized the importance of a mission-driven team. Her intentionality in keeping employees involved, from deliveries to production, during challenging periods helped maintain morale and operational stability. Creating a culture where employees are invested in the company’s mission can make all the difference in a business’s success.
Current Challenges and Solutions
Kirsten is currently grappling with the unexpected growth of Rebel Cheese’s e-commerce business following their appearance on Shark Tank. While their original plan was to focus on distribution, the explosion of online sales has transformed their factory into a fulfillment center. To address this, Kirsten is working with architects to expand their facilities and create dedicated spaces for both distribution and fulfillment. By continuing to pivot and plan strategically, Kirsten ensures that Rebel Cheese can scale efficiently.
About Kirsten
Kirsten Maitland is the co-founder of Rebel Cheese, an artisanal vegan cheese company based in Austin, Texas. With a background in IT and a passion for plant-based living, Kirsten took a leap of faith into the world of food production. Her business has grown into a multi-faceted company with a loyal customer base and nationwide recognition.
You can connect with Kirsten at kirsten@rebelcheese.com or follow Rebel Cheese on Instagram and Facebook.
Conclusion
Kirsten Maitland’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of passion. From starting with a dream in a small English village to navigating the complexities of business ownership during a pandemic, her story offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. Don’t miss the chance to connect with Kirsten or check out Rebel Cheese online. And as always, remember to take action—your next big step could be just around the corner!
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