Cathryn Smeyers, Founder of Kicklab
Names: Cathryn Smeyers
Founder: Kicklab
In one sentence, what problem do you solve and for who?
I provide youth and family-focused soccer training that combines innovative coaching with cutting-edge technology to enhance skills, boost athletic performance, and foster a fun, supportive environment for players of all levels.
What's your story?
I became passionate about creating Kicklab because of my son's love for soccer and our soccer family background—my husband is from Europe, so the sport has always been a big part of our lives. I wanted to provide a fun, new recreational option where soccer lovers of all levels could come together to play, watch games, and share in the love of the sport. My goal is to make soccer accessible to everyone, not just elite players, and to create a space where all athletes, from beginners to advanced, can enjoy the game and improve their skills.
What does BEING a FoundHer mean to you?
This was a total career change for me!!! I was an educator and worked in corporate L&D for nearly 10 years before making this move. Before that, I was a program manager in higher ed, and before THAT, I was a teacher. So this was all out of left-field (no pun intended).
To me, being a FoundHer means taking a chance. Doing something you believe in and trusting that the skills and abilities you've honed throughout your career and your life, will set you up for success in any endeavor—however far flung. It means grit and resilience, and taking chances.
How do you support other female founders and women in business?
I am new to this world, so I'm doing everything I can to navigate and get involved. I feel like I don't have a ton of wisdom to offer yet, but I'm an open book, an amazing listener, and a people-connector. Inside and out of my professional career, I always seek to bring people together and help others problem solve.
What is ONE BOOK that you would recommend every female business owner read?
Again, I could use some additional recommendation on this, but I did recently read The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins. It was very helpful for me, especially in making such a big life and career change.
Who is a female entrepreneur you look up to and why?
I love what Bethany Frankel has done and how her career has exploded, but I think that's just the story I've seen most closely through the media. I look up to people who took chances and made changes, even in the mid-to-later stages of life.
What are the first five things that you did when you were starting your business?
Tell my family
Think of a name
Write a business plan
Create a brand identity
Consult with others
Who is someone who has helped change or shape your business for the better and what did they do to help you?
We're still so new, so I might need to get back to you on this. My husband is a huge part and support in this. Though it's my business, we've been collaborators from the start. I'd say his support and encouragement is what got me to where I am today.
At what point did you make your company a full time gig? How did you know the time was right?
When we signed a 10-year lease :) ! Then it was like, “okay, this is REAL...time to tell my boss”.
What lesson or skill did you take with you from a prior job to help you succeed in your role today?
The importance of building strong, trusting relationships.
Let’s talk social media—who handles it for your company (you, an internal team member, an outsourced solution?) and what is the secret to making it successful? What is the biggest challenge?
Trying to do everything on my own right now and flailing a bit. I have signed up for coaching, but I'm currently doing everything myself.
How did you land your first client?
Good question! Through marketing and word of mouth. We created a website and opened registration.
What would you do differently if you were starting your business today?
I made some mistakes early on with my branding and my website. I would have done that differently.
What are three strategies you use to market your business, grow brand awareness and generate bottom line growth?
Networking
Bi-Weekly emails
Introducing our space to soccer players, coaches, and teams
What was an obstacle you overcame to get your business where it is today?
Finding the space! Getting a special-use permit.
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