In a recent episode of the Iowa Tech podcast, host Kaylee Williams sat down with Justin Schoen, the CEO and co-founder of Force Fitters, to discuss his entrepreneurial journey and insights into the startup ecosystem in Des Moines. Justin, a native of West Des Moines, has been deeply embedded in the local entrepreneurial landscape for over a decade. He shared his background in marketing and digital marketing consultancy, a field he entered when digital marketing was still nascent in the early 2000s. His initial foray into entrepreneurship involved establishing a consultancy that specialized in digital marketing, where he worked with a diverse array of clients. This experience laid the foundation for his current venture, Force Fitters, a company that specializes in managing uniforms and corporate apparel for businesses. Justin's story highlights the evolution of digital marketing over the years and how his consultancy work with startups and established companies alike paved the way for his current entrepreneurial endeavor.
Force Fitters began in 2018, following the sale of GNL Clothing, where Justin had established an e-commerce platform. Recognizing an opportunity in the work apparel space, he and his partners founded Force Fitters to address the needs of clients who were underserved after the retail transition. With a focus on specialized apparel like flame-resistant clothing, Force Fitters operates as a B2B SaaS platform that streamlines the management of corporate uniforms and safety gear. The company has grown by leveraging Justin's existing network and relationships while maintaining a high retention rate by building features in step with customer needs. Justin also reflects on the importance of work-life balance, mentorship, and the supportive startup ecosystem in Iowa, emphasizing that successful entrepreneurship does not necessarily require constant hustle but rather a focus on efficiency and healthy boundaries. As Force Fitters looks toward future growth, Justin's experience and philosophy offer valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs navigating similar paths.
Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/justin-schoen-iowa-tech-entrepreneur
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