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Host Peter McCully welcomes Sarah Neal of Lantzville, who shares her remarkable journey from having a background in the frozen food industry to creating her unique business, InstaCake Cards, located in Parksville.
Neal recently struck a deal with Dragons Robert Herjavec and Arlene Dickinson on the TV program ‘Dragons’ Den,’ a significant milestone for any entrepreneur.
The cards began with a simple idea: sending birthday cards with a birthday cake. Her innovative solution was to create a product that combined a cake mix, frosting, a candle and a card in an easy-to-ship package. Her background in the food industry and a eureka moment inspired her to turn the idea into reality.
Neal emphasizes the advantage of thinking differently due to her dyslexia, which has made her more creative and allowed her to see opportunities where others might not.
“I’ve actually now turned it around,” she said. “I think it’s an advantage. For anybody out there, don’t take it as a disadvantage, especially young kids who have learning difficulties. Turn it around, make it your strength, because it makes you see things differently.”
The episode also explores her appearance on ‘Dragons’ Den’, where she sought investment to take her business to the next level. She wanted to partner with Dragons who could offer valuable guidance. The surprise came when Herjavec and Dickinson offered her a deal with a lower percentage than she initially asked for, which left her in shock.
The podcast also highlights the uniqueness of InstaCake Cards and the heartwarming stories from customers who have used the product to celebrate special occasions.
Neal offers advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of following your dreams, listening to your instincts, and not letting anyone deter you from pursuing your vision.
“If I don’t do this, would I regret it on my deathbed?” she said. “And if it is, then you must do it because I knew that if I let InstaCake go, I was going to regret it.”
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