An Inspired Chat with Kyle Hollenbeck of North Phoenix

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Kyle Hollenbeck. Check out our conversation below.

Hi Kyle, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
In the first 90 minutes of my day, I wake up and immediately stretch to awaken my body. I then head to the gym for a workout, focusing on my fitness goals. After exercising, I enjoy a refreshing sauna session to relax and recover. Once home, I catch up on emails to ensure I’m organized before my early morning calls. Then i spend time with my son and wife, This routine sets a positive tone for my day, enhancing productivity and well-being.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a cofounder of AZ Lemonade and BLT Kitchens, two companies dedicated to making a positive impact as a resource center and a beverage brand. AZ Lemonade offers a refreshing twist on traditional lemonade, focusing on unique flavors made from fresh, quality ingredients. We are in over 1,500 locations and eight western states . Meanwhile, BLT Kitchens is committed to helping entrepreneurs in the food industry have a place to cook and grow their business with our three shared kitchen facilities. What sets our brands apart is our emphasis on creativity and community engagement. We’re currently working on expanding our product offerings and outreach programs, aiming to inspire both young entrepreneurs and food enthusiasts alike.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
My parents, plain and simple. My father exemplifies an incredible work ethic, showing up to work every day as a dedicated company man. My mother shares this commitment but adds an entrepreneurial flair that inspires me. I am grateful for the values they instilled in me, and I firmly believe that the harder you work, the luckier you get.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
As corny as it may sound:
To my younger self, I would say, “Never give up. Sometimes when a door seems to close, remember that another one will open, so don’t let it discourage you. People will come in and out of your life, and you might wonder how you’ll manage without them. Trust that there’s something better coming your way. Embrace the journey, and have faith in your resilience and ability to adapt. You’ll find your path and discover strengths you never knew you had.”

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
I rely heavily on the ideas of my key team members within our company. As Steve Jobs famously said, “Hire smart people and don’t tell them what to do; let them tell you what to do.” This philosophy guides me in fostering a collaborative environment where everyone’s insights are valued. Additionally, I greatly appreciate the guidance from my consultants and mentors, with whom I work closely on a weekly basis. Their expertise and perspective help shape my decisions and drive our success.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?

Many may assume that I simply got lucky or that my journey was easy. I believe that people often overlook the hard work, dedication, and resilience that go into building something meaningful. Every achievement comes with its share of challenges, setbacks, and sacrifices. While luck may play a role, it’s not the foundation of my success. It’s the countless hours of effort, the lessons learned from failures, and the unwavering determination to push through obstacles that truly define my legacy. I hope people recognize that success is a blend of preparation, perseverance, and the willingness to keep striving, even when the path gets tough.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.azlemomadestand.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azlemonadestand/?hl=en
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-hollenbeck-09bb6121?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app