Guest:
Introduction:
- Transitioned from military service to entrepreneurship.
- Experienced injury during deployment, leading to time at Walter Reed.
Inspiration for J Dog:
- Participated in Boots to Business, an organization aiding veterans' transition into business.
- Introduced to J Dog during a 12-week training, a veteran-established franchise.
Beginning of Rags to Riches:
- J Dog's operation led to the accumulation of items which spurred the idea for Rags to Riches.
Boots to Business Program:
- A 12-week program through Mississippi State University.
- Helps veterans formulate business plans and navigate the start-up process.
Background of J Dog Franchise:
- Founded by Jerry Flanagan and Tracy Flanagan.
- Originated from Jerry's struggles post-military and his initiative to haul furniture.
Lillie's Personal Background:
- First job at 18 was a secretary for the American Red Cross.
- Joined the military at 23 inspired by "Be All You Could Be" commercials.
Marketing Scam
- Paid $3,000 to a marketing company, thinking they were partnering with a local school
Proudest Accomplishment
- Establishing a store in Pickerington, a community that welcomed them warmly
- Recounts their journey of trying multiple places before settling in Pickerington
Fascinating Finds
- Found a wire recorder from the 1920s or 1930s
- Stumbled upon rare and valuable Beanie Babies
Resale Shop Origins
- Encountered hoarder houses, often filled with new items with tags
Pricing Strategy
- Pricing of items determined through eBay searches and Google Lens.
Brand Building and Market Competition
- Emphasis on fostering a community over competition.
- Handwritten letters to 5,000 community members introducing their business.
Unique Marketing Approaches
- Word of mouth as the primary marketing strategy.
- Emphasis on being veterans and community-oriented.
Operational Efficiency
- Regularly rotate items in the shop to keep displays fresh.
- Seeking customer feedback on desired items and fulfilling their requests.
Leveraging Networking:
- Lillie emphasized the importance of networking as the basis of their business endeavors.
Investing Time:
- The most significant investment for the Lillie has been donating their time to various causes and projects.
Quick Fire Round
- Advice on Starting a Business
- Handling Recommendations
- Future Vision
- Motivation
- Achieving Goals
- Books & Impact
- Definition of Success
- Recent Meaningful Purchase.
- Contact Details: Business: R2R Ohio; Location: 24 West Columbus Street, Pickerington; Website: r2rohio.com; J Dog website: jdog.com
Lillie Williams
J Dog Junk Removal
Rags 2 Riches
Becoming by Michelle Obama
https://cosmosandcommerce.com
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