We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Chris Minor. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Chris below.
Alright, Chris thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
In my early 30s I noticed the beginnings of what appeared to be psoriasis or an eczema type skin condition on multiple areas of my body. I tried multiple over-the-counter treatments including hydrocortisone cream, vaseline, and expensive lotions with little to no long lasting results. A close friend of mine at the time was delving into the business realm of cannabis infused products. I did some research into the benefits of cannabis infused skin care products and was intrigued. I tried a cannabidiol (CBD) infused tincture on my face and body and was impressed with the results to say the least. Soon after I created the brand Animus with the intention of offering a variety of luxurious, handmade skin care products. In the beginning I had a focus on cannabis infused salves and chapsticks but now I am branching out into deodorants, sunscreens, and other non cannabis related products. I had faith in this kind of business model because I use and love the products personally and can attest to their results. I know I am not the only one who seeks non toxic, handmade options when it comes to skin care. I have since been proven right with a growing customer base and an increasing following.
Chris, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
My interest in the skin care industry came about due to my own struggle with skin issues. In the beginning I focused on cannabis infused topical salves for skin conditions due to the results I experienced. I soon branched out with my own lip balm formulas. Since then I have formulated multiple new products including sunscreens, deodorants and tallow based salves. I am still perfecting the scents and labeling on most of my new products. I am proud of the fact that Animus will offer handmade, small batch, nontoxic skin care options for the life of the company. Animus will also strive to evolve with the desires of the customer base.
Can you talk to us about manufacturing? How’d you figure it all out? We’d love to hear the story.
In the nascent stages of my business, I partnered with a small farm in Tennessee to formulate my first topical salve. This farm grew their own hemp and infused their own products. I heard about them through a close friend who happens to be a business colleague as well. I quickly learned how to formulate my own salves, lip balms, and body butters after realizing I needed to lower my bottom line without compromising the quality. I read a ton of articles and have since watched countless hours of youtube videos. The process of concocting new products is challenging and exciting. I love controlling the textures and scents.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
I have had a career in healthcare since 2013. My focus has been in imaging and I am now a traveling nuclear medicine technologist. I wanted to broaden my horizons by starting a business in recent years. It has been a rewarding learning experience. The business itself pivoted from having a focus on cannabis infused skin care products in the beginning to now offering various non cannabis products. I did not want to limit my business structure to niche products.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Autumn Beury Keith Romanowski