Directors' Circle: Fiona Kroll, Coffee + Hops

Fiona Kroll is one of my favourite people, but that doesn't seem like much of an introduction so I'll give you a little more. We met when we were both working at council, both with sideline businesses. I left first to go fully self-employed and just under a year later - Fiona did the same. To see someone you have a lot of care and respect for do something that they have dreamed about but didn't really think was possible, and completely stick the landing - it's pretty cool. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Fiona Kroll from Coffee+Hops.
PS She's an amazing pet photographer - recommend 10/10!

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?  
A teacher, but goodness knows why.

What’s your favourite part about being a business owner?  
The freedom to set my own schedule, and to be able to work from home, with my dog Sam at my feet.    

How do you generate new ideas for the business?
My most creative ideas usually pop up on long, solo road trips, with the music blaring.  

Explain yourself in one word.  
Busy?

What is the best advice you have received recently, and still follow?  
Focus on purpose, not passion.  With passion, you are focusing on yourself, and your wants. But with a purpose you are focusing on others, and how best to understand/assist your clients. Helping others is where, ultimately, you will receive the most personal satisfaction.

Tell us something about yourself that is not on your LinkedIn profile?  
I have the most eclectic taste in music, from jazz to heavy metal, and everything in between.

Give a shout out to three local businesses.
Snap Printing Mackay - These guys have been amazing from the very start of my business.  I cannot thank them enough for their support over the last couple of years. 

Barking Mad Treats - An all-natural, preservative-free and local pet treat business. We use their training treats during our pet photography sessions, and their amazing cakes for our cake smashes.

The Life Approach - It was with the help of Jarrah that I finally made the leap into taking Coffee+Hops full time.  Both Karla and Jarrah are amazing women, and they have some very exciting adventures on the horizon.