Barbara Rogers is a mom and an entrepreneur who replied to my blog last week. I couldn’t wait to learn how she made $4,000-$7,000 a month with her home business.
Before I move on to my interview with Barbara, I want to share a little about her business and the secret. If you’re like me you’re busy and don’t have time to read a bunch of stuff. I’ll give you a brief overview. And if you’re interested, the interview that follows will fill in the blanks. BTW, Barbara found a fit for this business and Paris Hilton.
Barbara has a book, “How to Make Boxes of Cash with Self-Storage Auctions,” a website, www.selfstorageauctioncash.com and an e-course that teaches people how to operate a profitable self-storage auction business at home. When Barbara first started out she made money immediately, “My first locker was profitable. I picked up the locker for $25; it was a 15-foot x 30 foot. I ended up making around $500. There were some chainsaws, tools, and other garage sale items. With self-storage auctions Anyone can do this business. The start-up investment is minimal, and you can go to as many auctions as your schedule permits.â€?
Second, I always like to find out the reason why one person’s business idea skyrockets while another’s is a flop. The secret for Barbara is her mindset. She said, “Somebody told me the ONLY thing I can control is between my ears.�
“So how I look at a challenge now, is like a chapter in a book. The chapter never ends until your goal is reached and they live happily ever after.�
“If something you try fails, try something else, and then something else if you need to. This chapter in your life only ends when YOU say it ends.�
“Once you OWN that mindset, you are unstoppable.�
“I was lucky enough to be in a Multi-Level Marketing business in my early 20’s and mentored by the successful people in the MLM. I saw that their goal oriented mindset did NOT change no matter what the circumstances were.â€?
Barbara Rogers Interview:
What tips can you give others who want to embrace their dream but, don’t have the confidence or feel they don’t have what it takes to succeed?
BARBARA: First, know what you want. Until you are clear about that, it is like hitting a moving target. What does it feel, smell, taste, and look like. Then design a plan to get it, if you don’t know how to get it. Find out who has achieved the goal you want and ask them how they did it. Then take ONE step at a time and ONLY do what’s in front of you. Step 2,3 &4 will work its way out when you are there. You gain more confidence with each step that you get done and have under your belt.
How do you manage juggling the responsibilities of being a mom/wife/entrepreneur?
BARBARA: Although I am a mom/wife/entrepreneur, my answer could actually apply to ANYONE. I went thru the Tony Robbins’ “The Time of Your Life,â€? course. What I took from this was to prioritize what is important in my life. DO those things first. At the end of the day, you can ask yourself, “Did I do the best job I could as a “mom”, did I do the best job as a “wife”, etc.?â€? Some days the answer is no, and I pin point what I could have done better and work on that.
With a 2-year-old daughter, I don’t work as hard as I did before she was born. Now, I go to 1-5 auctions a week. I am extremely picky with the lockers I get, so I work about 4-6 hours a week and that’s getting one locker and going through it.
Back in the day, I was attending auctions 5 days a week, getting up to 4 lockers a week, and selling on Saturday and/or Sunday. I was working over 60 hours a week.
So you can see, you can work the business at ANY level.
What is your average income for this business monthly/yearly?
BARBARA: Income for this business is directly related to how much you work, let me repeat that!
On the average, you are going to want to double your investment. When I was working the business hard it was to triple my investment.
When I was working the 50-60 hours, I was pulling in
$4,000 - $7,000 a month. It was a great income, because I was working the business hard.
What inspired you to start a business?
BARBARA: I actually like to think of my whole life as a business. I have the “mom” arm of my business, “wife” arm of my business, and “author” arm.
It makes it easier for me to create goals, and achieve them. Just like a business you have progress reports to keep you on track and it really stops the negative voices in my head because I am “on purpose” with every action in my business.
I have ALWAYS had an “independent” spirit. My mom owned several businesses in her younger years as I was growing up. She is such an inspiration to me.
How did you decide what kind of business to start and what if any personal challenges inspired you?
BARBARA: The first business I owned was an espresso bar from 1997 - 2001. After spending 4 years of working close to 90 hours a week, I decided to sell it for a profit that doubled my original investment in addition to the profits I generated annually. I needed to move on to a more flexible business.
I thoughtfully created a specific criteria that a new business venture had to be able to run out of my home to support my desire to have a family and be at home with my children.
In researching the marketplace, I discovered the self-storage auction business. Through discussions with my new husband, he suggested that I look into this type of business and find out more about it. Being the curious and industrious person I am, I dove head first into identifying if this would fit my requirements for the business I wanted to run.
Now, 5 years later, I have been running and working in my own self-storage auction business. During the first year, I had to figure out how to run the business profitably because there was no real resource for the overall industry. I found most people in these businesses were not interested in sharing their formulas for success.
I decided to create a book to assist people who are interested in running a flexible, profitable self-storage auction business at home. I felt it was important to share this valuable information with others, and to become the resource for those who need help getting it started.
I currently run the business from my home while enjoying the time I desired to share with my family, friends and other interests. I feel, “If I can do it, you can too!�
Were there any challenges that appeared to be more difficult because you are a woman?
BARBARA: I like to use some help when lifting heavy things. Although, the use of furniture dollies and carts really helps.
I feel being a woman really helps when you go to the auctions. The guys are more likely to get to know you, because you will keep seeing them on the auction circuit.
I look at being a woman as a HUGE asset.
What are your marketing plans?
BARBARA: I just started my marketing campaign. I have contacted Prison Libraries for re-entry programs. I am working right now on getting radio interviews.
Also, I was thinking that I would like to get a book to Paris Hilton because she mentioned her future plans of having a halfway house for ex-prisoners.
I am working with youth programs to get young people started early in running their own business. Next summer my husband and I will be offering a summer camp where the kids and I actually put my system into action.
Stay at home moms and dads who want an extra income love this idea. My system is flexible enough that you can go and get 1 or 2 lockers, and create an income at a hobby level and not overwhelm yourself.
Did you have a mentor when you started?
BARBARA: I actually used the hand I was dealt. I didn’t have a system to go by, that’s why I created one.
However, I did meet a few guys that have done this business for decades. I didn’t necessarily grill them for information, but just in years of conversations with them, I was able to pick up valuable information about the business.
Everybody is going to have people they connect to at the auctions, and to help facilitate that we will be offering apparel with our logo on it like hats and shirts. It is a great icebreaker, “Hey! You read the same book I did!”
How much money did you invest before your business became profitable?
BARBARA: I invested literally less than 2 weeks of time (which is money) between getting auction dates and attending auctions to see how they were run and what to expect.
Then $25 for a locker, and $50 refundable cleaning deposit. And that was it! At the time we didn’t have much more to invest!
Are your creative juices starting to flow? If you have been stuck you don’t have to be. Let me know what’s holding you back. Or, share what you are up to. Hey, you might be someone’s inspiration to get unstuck. In fact, please send this link to a friend today and spread the word.
This entry was posted on Monday, July 2nd, 2007 at 3:14 am and is filed under Work, Starting a Business, Work at Home Mom. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.28 Responses to “The Secret of a HOT Business ANYONE Can Start Now”
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July 2nd, 2007 at 2:29 pm
It is really exciting to see someone’s dream and hard work become reality! What a breakthrough in moving beyond fears and limiting beliefs, accomplishing goals and realizing true desires. It sounds like Barbara is truly “Mastering Her Financial Future�. I also admire Barbara’s personality as a wonderful human being. It seems that her endeavor is driven and includes her constant mission to help others along her journey. I admire her effort and dedication.
July 3rd, 2007 at 1:11 pm
What a fabulous article! Barbara sounds like so many of the moms out there that needed to find their way of covering both motherhood and financial contribution to the household. She sounds so motivated and excited to share her knowledge and experiences. I checked out her website too and it is wonderful. Her book seems like an easy read, and full of her “go do it” attitude. Thank you, Barbara, for sharing your successes with the rest of us.
July 3rd, 2007 at 1:40 pm
Wow, This is great information. Barbara is an Inspiration to all of us Moms! Thank you for sharing this wonderful information. I am truly exiced about this opportunity.
Thanks for Sharing Barbara.
Kelly
July 3rd, 2007 at 2:41 pm
I love to read about people that work hard with a positive attitude and make their dreams come true! Keep up the good work.
July 3rd, 2007 at 3:32 pm
I bought Barbara’s Book and read it immediately. It is simple not over complicated and I really feel I am ready for My first Auction - Thanks I will let you know how it goes. You have answered many of My questions and I have to Just Do it!
July 3rd, 2007 at 5:39 pm
I worked with Barbara in the storage locker auction business, sometimes sharing lockers to divide the cost & the load, and sometimes bidding against her. She has an amazing energy, knows all about the business, & is a delight to work with - whenever I split a locker with her I always knew we’d make money, she knows what to look for! I’m sure her book will be full of practical tips to help people get started - just hope all the readers don’t run the prices up too high!!
July 3rd, 2007 at 5:50 pm
Hello Grant,
Are you still involved with the storage locker auction business? If so feel free to reply with tips or insider secrets that would be helpful to people who are interested in making extra money using storage locker auctions.
Thank you,
Michelle
July 3rd, 2007 at 6:28 pm
Hi Michelle,
Yes, still in the business after 12 years. As far as sharing tips freely that have taken me years (& $$$’s) to learn, hmmmmm - I think not! Your readers will have to buy Barbara’s book to learn all the nuances of the business. I will make a couple of suggestions - take your time, go to as many auctions as you can, watch others, don’t jump in the deep end with a big locker that may put you off - I waited & watched for 6 months before buying my first one. Now if I’d had Barbara’s book I probably could have gotten started right away! Know where to recycle stuff in your area, it’s not only good for the environment but it saves you money at the dump. Thanks for helping promote her book - she really is an expert on these auctions, & can help women (& men) get started for a small outlay with potential huge returns.
July 3rd, 2007 at 6:59 pm
This was a great article. I’m a young woman starting a business (in the planning stages) and sometimes the research and planning can discourage me, but reading this article has made me push foward until I say it’s time to stop. Thank you so much for energizing me.
July 3rd, 2007 at 7:18 pm
Hello again Grant,
Thank you for sharing a few of your tips. I love the recycling tip. And for the price of 2 Starbucks Lattes and muffins a person could buy Barbara’s book. That sure beats going to the school of hard knocks.
All the best,
Michelle
July 3rd, 2007 at 7:23 pm
Dear Lauren,
Glad Barbara’s story inspired you. When I spoke to her on the phone I hung up feeling pumped up. I hope you will continue to vist my blog. My promise to you is that I will continue sharing inspiring stories from people who are in the trenches figuring it out and making it work no matter what.
Stay Pumped!
Michelle
July 3rd, 2007 at 8:01 pm
I have known Barbara from back when she started the coffee shop. She has a determination and energy that she applies to everything and also a way to plan and execute successful business projects.
I am certain her book is as well thought out as everything else I have ever seen her do.
Actually, she and I talked about her storage locker plans back in 2002 when she first got deeply into it and I could see that it worked nicely for her.
July 3rd, 2007 at 8:27 pm
Great article. Great to see the entrepreneurial spirit alive in kicking in young moms! Go Barbara!
Randy
July 3rd, 2007 at 9:15 pm
Very inspirational. Just shows what you can do when you are clear on what, have enough leverage to push you and enough purpose to continue to pull you. This gives me another story to share with my clients and possibly even a great business opportunity for them. Thanks for sharing Barbara!
Kevin Cole
Empowerment Quest International
http://www.empowermentquest.com
July 3rd, 2007 at 9:22 pm
Hello Kevin,
Glad you had a chance to see what Barbara is up to. Even better that you will tell others. Clearly it takes a village if we are ALL to succeed. We appreciate your support and trust that you will email this to people who it might help.
Peace,
Michelle
July 4th, 2007 at 9:47 am
Hey Lauren (and anyone else thinking about getting into business for themselves)!! Jump in!! The entrepreneurial water is AWESOME! With self-storage auctions you can keep your day job and start on your own business as well. Take a leap of faith, you never know what you can do until you try.
What else is there to research? Minimal investment. Flexible Schedule. Anyone can do this. AND my website is a resource where you can e-mail me questions if they pop up.
Everything is lined up and waiting for you!
July 4th, 2007 at 10:37 am
I AM INTERESTED IN TAKING A LOOK AT YOUR WEBSITE AND GETTING A COPY OF YOUR BOOK. I AM TRYING TO START MY OWN BUSINESS AND THIS WOULD BE SOMETHING GREAT FOR ME AND MY HUSBAND TO DO TOGETHER.
July 4th, 2007 at 12:51 pm
I know a lot of mom’s and hobbyists who would really love a business like this. It really makes sense. I am grateful I discovered it. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
July 5th, 2007 at 10:08 am
This is a very inspirational article. I am curious about how Barbara did her research. I have been looking for months for a home based business and haven’t found a prospect that doesn’t sound like a scam. Can anyone give me insite into where to search or find ideas for a valid business? I’m not sure what business I would like to be involved in, so I am looking for as many ideas as I can find. Any help with this would be immensely appreciated? I am even more convinced that I can create a profitable home based business after I have read this article. I’m glad I found this website. Please email me at: nroth1@msn.com
Thanks so much for the inspiration,
Nancy
July 5th, 2007 at 10:50 am
Hi,
What an awesome spirit. I am also very interested in a home based business. Are there valid sites for ideas? This sounds very interesting.
July 5th, 2007 at 10:50 am
Hello Nancy,
In my book “Weekend Entrepreneur 101 Ways to Earn Extra Cash,” there are lots of great ideas. And even better, the stories are from real people who have found success and are making a respectable income with their own business. I had been researching this topic for more than 5 years before I wrote the book with my co-author Jennifer Basye Sander. Yes, there are scams out there but everything isn’t a scam. In my opinion, if you continue to approach it with that in mind there is a good chance that when you find a legit business or a good idea you won’t believe it. After talking to 100s of people who have started different types of businesses I’ve discovered that a person’s ability to start their own business and profit is in direct correlation to their beliefs. And usually those same beliefs are dominant in other areas of that person’s life. Ask yourself, “Do I see the glass half full or half empty?” “Do I spend my time thinking about why things won’t work or all the possibilities of how it can work?” From time to time I try different business ideas out. In fact, in the near future I will be writing about businesses I am checking out. Recently, with zero investment, no advertising, no website, and no business cards I made almost 500 in one day. The 30 minutes of research I did to find out how to start the business I am talking about was simply this. I had a brief conversation with someone who runs a similar business and took notes that I followed to the letter. A week later, without even making a big effort I stumbled across a client who hired me. The reason I am sharing this story with you is because I don’t feel it is fair for me to tell people they can actually do some of these businesses if I haven’t personally tried a few of them out myself. And you ask, how did Barbara do her research? Because there weren’t any books on the subject she learned mostly by trial and error. As time went by she meet people at auctions whom she created an alliance with and it built from there. Now she has a book and an e-course. But similar to the business that I took for a test drive she made money right from the start. Nancy, I hope you will continue to visit for more inspiring stories and ways to make money.
Good luck,
Michelle
PS-it would be great if people would share their ideas here so that everyone could benefit from the information.
Keep me posted on your progress.
Michelle
July 5th, 2007 at 11:03 am
Hi Beverly,
You may want to pick up a copy of Entrepreneu Magazine. Of course I like womenentrepreneur.com and entrepreneur.com.
Best wishes,
Michelle
July 5th, 2007 at 11:19 am
Thanks so much for the information Michelle. I am going to read your book. I am not currently working so I have unlimited time to work on this. I would like to find a business that will replace the dull boring work of making someone else money, and making me the whipping boy. I am truly inspired. And yes, it would be great if people would post their ideas, insights, and pointers for those of us just starting out.
Thanks again,
Nancy
July 5th, 2007 at 1:38 pm
Determination, Vision and Hard Work! What a great, REALISTIC story of success from home. Thanks for sharing!
July 6th, 2007 at 10:45 am
Like Grant, I also worked with Barbara for a couple of years before I relocated to another state. Barbara and I were a good team because we were both enthusiastic and persistent to achieve our goals, both short and long term. I am not currently as active with auctions but the knowledge I gained in doing them for several years insures a real income option for me when the time is right. As Barbara says, this can be a part time or full time income driver based on the individual’s situation. Neither requires a big initial investment, so practically anyone can try it with little risk.
READ BARBARA’S BOOK FIRST! There are certain requirements that you need to be aware of before you jump headlong into anything new, including this. You will need to make sure you have good transportation to take responsibility of emptying the locker in the required time, for instance. Listen to Grant’s suggestion about watching and listening first. Go to several auctions without bringing any money to avoid temptation. If a locker looks too good to be true, it probably is. Do your research first and you will likely avoid most of the bad deals. Most of all, plan to have fun. This can be the ultimate Cracker Jack box for adults! Where else can you pay $10 for a locker and find a valuable item that may land you as a featured interview on the next Antiques Roadshow?
July 8th, 2007 at 11:15 pm
Barbara,
Thank you for inspiring me. I think this a great idea and something that I think I can do. I need to contact you for more information.
Thanks again,
Tina
July 9th, 2007 at 9:14 am
Barbara has a knack for making Money. She has the amazing spirit to work hard and always have a smile on her face. She is an inspiration to any entrepreneur.
Travis
July 10th, 2007 at 11:35 am
Barbara is such an inspiration to me, I’m her sister and have watched her blossom into such a positive successful woman who is always smiling and caring for others. I’m truly proud of her accomplishments:)
Love you Barb
Judy