Nadia Pupa wanted to start a company where she, her staff and her clients could all thrive. In 2015, the San Diego, California-based entrepreneur started her company, Pique Publishing, to that aim. She and her team work with both authors and corporate clients on all forms of publishing and written content. Pupa is proud of her team’s work, and of having built a positive and encouraging environment for everyone involved.
Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.
How is your business different from others in your industry?
After years of working in the publishing world, I realized there’s a gap in the market between content and design. At Pique Publishing, we bridge that gap to help clients with the creation of everything from digital training materials and other assets, to printed items like magazines, books and brochures.
Tell us about your biggest success so far.
Winning the San Diego Business Journal’s 2023 Business Woman of the Year Award in the Small Company category.
What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?
Figuring out how to scale up. I have addressed this by enrolling in the Nasdaq Milestone Circles program, which has been a great resource for helping me accelerate my company’s growth.
What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs?
I wish I had taken the time to learn accounting and budgeting skills. It hasn’t hindered my company’s growth, but had I taken more initiative at an earlier stage, I wouldn’t have felt so overwhelmed come tax season.
How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?
I reflect on my previous successes and accomplishments. I think about making a difference in someone else’s life, or how my efforts in creating my podcast – The Editor’s Half Hour – might have inspired another editor in their work.
What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?
“About Damn Time” by Lizzo.
Who is your most important role model?
My parents. They offer me business advice, as well as the moral support I need when things get tough – and entrepreneurial life is not easy! My parents are my lighthouse, helping me navigate my way through the ups and downs of running my own firm. ◼
Instagram: @editors_half_hour
Youtube: @PiquePublishingInc
Facebook: @PiquePublishing
LinkedIn: @PiquePublishing
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