We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ana Hess. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ana below.

Ana , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.

Taking a risk to launch Awakening Truth was the best decision I have ever made. Having your own smoke shop can be a transformative and rewarding experience, both personally and professionally. While risks always come with uncertainties, the potential rewards for those who take calculated steps are immense. Here’s why it’s important to embrace that risk, and why being grateful for it can amplify success:

1. Innovation and Uniqueness in a Growing Market-

Breaking into a Niche Market: The cannabis and smoking accessory industry is growing rapidly, but it’s also competitive. A mobile smoke shop offers a unique solution for customers who may not have easy access to a traditional brick-and-mortar store. By taking the risk, you’re not only introducing a fresh idea but also positioning yourself as an innovator in the market.

Flexibility and Reach: A mobile business allows you to reach multiple communities, attend events, and tap into diverse customer segments. This could give you a significant edge over competitors who are stuck in one location.

2. Building a Brand with Purpose-

Creating a Connection: As a mobile smoke shop owner, I have the opportunity to create a meaningful relationship with my customers. Being mobile gives me the chance to interact directly with people in different neighborhoods or at events, building brand loyalty. I have the chance to present my business as more than just a transaction. I offer tailored advice, foster community engagement, and deliver personalized customer experiences.

3. Adapting to Changing Consumer Habits-

Convenience Factor: Today’s consumers are all about convenience. Awakening Truth Smoke Shop provides a solution to customers who prefer to shop on-the-go or don’t want to deal with the hassle of visiting a physical store. By recognizing this shift, I have positioned my business to meet modern demands head-on.

4. Personal Growth and Resilience

Overcoming Challenges: Risk inherently means facing challenges. But overcoming these obstacles strengthens your resilience as a business owner and builds problem-solving skills. Each hurdle faced—whether it’s navigating regulations, logistics, or customer preferences—adds to your experience and sets the stage for future success.

Self-Confidence: Taking a risk and succeeding builds confidence, not only in your business but in your abilities as an entrepreneur. It proves that you can turn an idea into a reality and handle the bumps along the way.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My decision to start my own business was fueled entirely by my passion. I was motivated to launch a mobile smoke shop and online store because I’ve always been immersed in the smoking industry. Growing up, I was exposed to tobacco by my grandparents, who were smokers. Over time, this early exposure evolved into a genuine interest in the world of smoking.

Later in life around 2018, I began working at a smoke shop, I developed a deep love for the retail world, especially in the tobacco sector. That job equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to take the leap into entrepreneurship. I always imagined running a business that breaks away from the conventional mold—one that’s infused with love, enthusiasm, and a clear sense of purpose.

I knew I would open my business with the sole purpose of spreading genuine love and care through our work. I aimed to create something creative and unique, brimming with positive energy that would truly captivate and impress people. My goal was to spark both curiosity and amazement. Every detail and effort put into Awakening Truth has a story to tell.

I want to ensure that every customer who visits Awakening Truth has an exceptional experience.
I strive to inspire people and positively impact various communities.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building a social media presence for my mobile smoke shop has been an exciting journey, and while it didn’t happen overnight, every step along the way helped to create a loyal, engaged audience.

In the beginning, we focused on being real and authentic with our audience. We didn’t try to fit into the typical mold of a “traditional smoke shop” or rely on stock photos or overly polished content. Instead, I shared behind-the-scenes photos and videos of the setup process—everything from setting up the mobile shop to curating our products and our online store. This allowed people to follow our journey and feel part of it from day one.

Since our mobile smoke shop is visually distinctive (think colorful vans, cool product setups, and fun event vibes), we made the most of visual content. Instagram and Facebook were our go-to platforms because they are incredibly visual and community-driven. We used them to showcase products in unique ways—like creating short, engaging videos of products in action or highlighting customer experiences.

On Instagram, we post regularly with professional, clean images of our products, as well as updates of our daily whereabouts.

How’d you think through whether to sell directly on your own site or through a platform like Amazon, Etsy, Cratejoy, etc.

Yes we sell both on site and online.

Onsite – gives you flexibility and mobility at all times, direct customer engagement, and brand visibility & exposure every time we are out on the road or around local areas.

Online- allows us broader customer reach, to expand our marketing and most importantly convenience for our customers.

Absolutely no cons, as this is all a blessing in my life and I am grateful.

Stay tuned with us at- www.awakeningtruthss.com
Follow us on instagram @ awakeningtruthss & Facebook- Awakening Truth SS

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.awakeningtruthss.com
• Instagram: awakeningtruthss
• Facebook: Awakening Truth SS
• Other: reach out to us with any inquires or questions @info@awakeningtruthss.com