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

Nicole, how do you think about spending on things like launching a business when times are tough?

When I launched my business early 2022 we were already starting to see a shift in the economy. And many people said that moment, this year, was not a good time to start a business but to double up on saving. If I have a vision and feel lead to move on something, I’m all in. Where there is no risk there is no reward, and where there is great risk there is great reward. So I put all my money into birthing this business, from maxing out credit cards, to receiving money from friends and family. I am wholeheartedly committed to the vision. Because what would cost me more is living wishing I had, and never seeing that vision through.

Nicole, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I have been a Texas residence for 15 years, I definitely didn’t move here with becoming a business owner on my to-do list! But growing up seeing my father be an entrepreneur my whole life, that seed was planted early. Since living here I have had a series of businesses or self employed ventures, from brand ambassador, notary, even event planner. But for me I master each thing I do and do so at the highest level of excellence. My underlining mission has been to serve and create an exceptional moment while doing so. So I kept that same energy when I jumped into uncharted territory with my food and beverage business, Lush Vegan. We are a food and beverage business specializing in bringing a luxurious experience to our customers. With the mission to serve but doing so at a high level of excellence and creating that elevated experience that anyone can enjoy on a daily basis. That’s what sets me apart, I create an experience. Something that you can leave with, be changed by, and look forward to again. And it doesn’t have to be reserved for a special occasion, each and every day, moment and thought of your life should be, excellence! Nothing less.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

I can write a book about my resilience! Starting a food business has cost me a lot more than anticipated. Way much more than just financially. But, speaking financially, I have liquidated my savings to make this work. I have went back to Corporate America after a 3 year hiatus because I believe in my vision of Lush Vegan that much. I am wiling to do whatever it takes, become as uncomfortable as I may, seek all the help and guidance available so that I have the tools necessary to serve the community, and world through this avenue. You never know how strong you are when you’re at rock bottom until you’re the rock at the bottom. Once you recognize that strength you unlock a new level of tenacity.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

I’ve had to unlearn that success is the attainment of a thing. That had discouraged me a lot early on, by not having the restaurant, by now having a million in sales. Through life experiences, the best teacher, I have learned that true success is in the process not just the destination. The process is so rich with character building, with amazing battle wounds, with impact and inspiration unto those around you.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/lushveganshakes
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/lushveganshakes

Image Credits
Food Photography: Ciara Woodfield