Shawn Weber is the owner/operator of Crested River Cannabis Company and Mini Soda in rural southwestern Minnesota. His licensed hemp company participates in industrial hemp cultivation, product development, manufacturing, black label, white label, wholesale, online and retail sales. Shawn is also very active within the industry, promoting legalization, education, and acceptance of hemp-derived products and services. Known for his knowledge and persistence, we’re so excited to pick Shawn’s brain about his career progression and passion for his business.
What is something you’ve always wanted to learn?
Multiple languages. Something less common than French or Spanish, like Cantonese, Icelandic., or even Ukrainian, would be such a fun skill to have.
What piece of advice would you give young business owners?
If it’s too easy, you’re doing it wrong and probably going to fail. –
Nothing good comes easy. Furthermore, I believe that adversity builds character and resilience. I would be skeptical if you start a business and everything is fine, dandy, and awesome. (I’m not saying it’s impossible, but I would be skeptical.) Over time, the stresses, issues, roadblocks, and pitfalls become building blocks of success. This is where they say the journey is the dream. The work you put in becomes so much more valuable than the end result.
How did you get your start in business?
I first got my start in business during the 2008/9 downturn. My division was getting shut down, and I and two other employees acquired “the company.” After five years and five-thousand life lessons, I went back to corporate America for another eight years before jumping back in the entrepreneur game.
I didn’t realize I was wired for business until I understood that I wasn’t wired for rank-and-file employment. My start was organic. I learned all about business by being present in my career and realized I couldn’t work for anyone other than myself. From there, I was able to apply the skills that I acquired. –
What are you watching at the moment on Netflix?
Black Mirror *brain explosion emoji*
What do you think is the most essential professional/life skill?
How to communicate and manage people’s personalities and expectations.
What does success look like to you?
Personal happiness. It’s all relative.
How do you overcome obstacles?
By any means necessary, although ethically and reasonably.