We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kibri Everett a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Kibri, thanks for joining us today. Being a business owner can be really hard sometimes. It’s rewarding, but most business owners we’ve spoken sometimes think about what it would have been like to have had a regular job instead. Have you ever wondered that yourself? Maybe you can talk to us about a time when you felt this way?

1. Are you happier as a business owner? Yes, I am happier as a business owner. This role allows me to leverage my deep passion for environmental justice and directly influence the outcomes of projects that have a meaningful impact on communities. The autonomy to make decisions, the flexibility to pursue projects that align with my values, and the ability to innovate in ways that can directly address the needs of historically marginalized communities provide a profound sense of fulfillment and purpose that I might not find in a conventional job setting.

2. Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? The thought of having a ‘regular job’ crossed my mind early on in my business, especially during particularly challenging periods when the responsibilities of business ownership can feel overwhelming. Managing budgets, deadlines, client expectations, and the continual search for new projects can be taxing. Moreover, the administrative aspects of running a business, such as compliance, payroll, and managing staff, sometimes make me nostalgic for the simplicity of being an employee with a more defined role and fewer overarching responsibilities. While the path of a business owner has its challenges, the rewards of driving real, tangible change are unparalleled. The sense of accomplishment and the impact we make outweigh the fleeting allure of a regular job. This realization reaffirms my commitment to my work and the mission of my company, fueling my passion and dedication even during the toughest days.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am an environmental scientist with over two decades of experience in the field. My passion for the environment began in the 6th grade, and this is what I studied in college. This early interest laid the foundation for my career, driving me to focus on creating meaningful change through science and advocacy.

As the owner of Key Environmental Consulting, I specialize in providing technical assistance, grant writing, strategic planning, and GIS support. My firm primarily collaborates with community-based organizations, government agencies, and businesses to develop projects that address critical environmental problems. These range from improving air and water quality to promoting sustainable agriculture and effective waste management.

What sets my work apart is the dedication to empowering historically marginalized communities. Our approach is not just about solving environmental problems but also about enabling these communities to advocate for themselves. This is accomplished through educational workshops, hands-on training, and facilitating access to essential resources, which help implement sustainable practices and influence policy changes.

I am particularly proud of how we have managed to secure significant funding for community initiatives and build enduring relationships with clients that extend beyond mere business transactions.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to understand that my firm is driven by a mission to deliver solutions that address immediate environmental challenges while contributing to a broader movement towards equity and justice.

We’d appreciate any insights you can share with us about selling a business.

Memory updated
Here’s how you can respond to the question about selling your business, including details about your experience with Pure Juicery:

Yes, I have sold a business. In 2018, I founded Pure Juicery, the first fully vegan juice bar in the Raleigh-Durham area. Our establishment quickly gained popularity for its unique offerings and commitment to healthy, plant-based food and beverages. In 2020, at the peak of its popularity, I was approached by a buyer who was eager to take over and expand the business. After careful consideration, I decided to sell.

From this experience, I learned several valuable lessons that could be helpful for other entrepreneurs looking to sell their businesses. First, it’s crucial to build a business that can stand out in the market through its unique selling proposition. For Pure Juicery, being the first of its kind in the area was a significant draw for the buyer.

Second, always be prepared for unexpected opportunities. The offer to buy my business came unexpectedly, but having clear, organized financial records and a solid understanding of my business’s value allowed me to make informed decisions quickly.

Finally, ensuring the business can operate without you is key. By the time I was ready to sell, the business had established processes and a trained team that could manage day-to-day operations, making it more attractive to buyers.

Selling a business can be a profoundly rewarding conclusion to a chapter of your entrepreneurial journey, offering both financial rewards and the satisfaction of seeing your creation continue to grow under new ownership.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

One of the most rewarding strategies for growing my clientele has been fostering strong relationships within the communities I serve. This approach is rooted in trust, transparency, and consistent engagement. By actively participating in community events, leading workshops, and providing tangible solutions to pressing environmental issues, my firm has established a reputation as a reliable and dedicated partner in environmental advocacy.

Word-of-mouth has been incredibly powerful for us. Satisfied clients and community members often share their positive experiences with others, which has been instrumental in attracting new clients who require similar services. This organic growth strategy not only brings in new business but also ensures that the clients we attract are aligned with our values and mission, which leads to more meaningful and impactful projects.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.keyenvi.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/key.environmental.consulting
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/key-environmental-consulting