The Big Questions – Christina Kingsbury, Riot Axe

Q: When was the moment you first knew you were meant to be an entrepreneur?

My path to business ownership was less about wanting to become an entrepreneur and more about a passion for this particular business. I worked part time at Riot Axe for years and had always dreamed of being able to take on a larger role within both this business and the sport of axe throwing. When the opportunity to become an owner collided with the opportunity to go into a business with a wonderful team of people, who are all integral to Riot Axe, I knew I had to go for it.

Q: What is the biggest challenge you have faced starting your business?

We took ownership of Riot Axe roughly six months into the pandemic. We knew it was a risk, but we wanted this business to continue to exist. For several long stretches of time, nearly all we could do was sit at home and hope people missed Riot Axe as much as we missed them.

Q: What is the biggest “win” you have experienced as an entrepreneur?

People keep coming back. It’s so cool to see names re-registering for leagues or to recognize people at events because they were in two weeks ago, or people who’ve made coming by for walk-ins a routine part of their week. It’s exciting every time.

Q: What is the most important piece of advice you would give to others who are starting their own business?

Record your long-term goals and recognize when you’re accomplishing them. It’s easy to lose sight of the forest for the trees when you’re always looking at the short term and daily tasks. The short term is so important and keeps your business going but remember to check in with why you wanted to do this and the amount you’ve accomplished might surprise you.

Q: What was the biggest key to your success? How do you measure success?

I think we’re pretty good at projecting the atmosphere we want at Riot Axe. This is a business, but it’s a very community oriented one. The strength of the league community, customers having positive experiences, and being able to organize events that give back to the larger community are all big indicators of when things are going well.