We had the good fortune of connecting with Alison Glowinski and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alison, other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?
Not caring what others think and not feeling like I had to do things in the same manner everyone else was doing them. Working for yourself is easy if you are simply following someone else template. It’s a lot more challenging if you are trying to carve a path all your own. It wasn’t a choice to work for myself, I never was able to properly work for someone else because I always had ideas of how to do it different. Not that my way is better or worse or right or wrong, it’s just mine and I had to forge a path that aligned with my greatest values and purpose.

What should our readers know about your business?
Happy People Hike is a lifestyle brand that encompasses e-commerce, events, community facilitation and non profit work. The overall goal of the brand to bring the healing power of nature to average, every day folks. You don’t need to climb a mountain to get the benefits of being outside. Our business model is unique in that we are not a non-profit but we team up with someone who is each year (sometimes multiple groups) to support their mission. We give a portion of profits, help them in securing volunteers and in marketing their programs. Nothing about this journey has been easy. It’s been very slow and steady growth with ample set backs and iterations. I think the only reason we’re still going is we have such a strong belief in what we are promoting through our mission and how we are building the business. If I had to pick one thing I wanted the world to know and learn from us is there is a way to build a profitable and successful business in an ethical manner that puts people and planet first.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If we were in Grand Rapids, I’d obviously take them to visit some of the city parks. Riverside Park is a favorite and Millennium offers a ton of options for some fun. I’m an old fashioned fan so the distilleries and cocktail bars are my favorite – Lumberbaron inside Amway and Two James Distillery are great. For some laid back fun, good food and a beer, we’d stop by Logan’s Ally. And then I’d want to take them to some of my favorite shops including Woosah and Rebel Giftshop. Fulton Street Farmers Market would also be a fun stop on the weekend!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
All of my friends and family deserve credit for where I’m at now. They have been nothing but supportive of every crazy idea. The biggest shoutout however goes to my ex-husband and still co-owner of Happy People Hike. We started the business together and went through various iterations before landing where we are now. When we separated (on very good terms!), while he maintains some ownership and still helps out with some things, I took over most of the company and have been gifted the freedom to do with it whatever I see fit. He has supported and encouraged every step we’ve taken.

Website: https://happypeoplehike.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happypeoplehike/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happypeoplehike/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKu-Uuw33BXG5APa5XVPJAw

Image Credits
Leigh Ann Cobb

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