PICA Member Spotlights

Q&A with independent consultants who successfully “made the leap” and created the consulting career of their dreams

 

Q: Could you please introduce yourself and tell us the name of your business and your consulting specialty?

A: Hello, I’m Dave Merrick, Founder of Merrick Pet Wellness, LLC (DBA Merrick Wellness). My consulting specialty centers around the companion animal health market. I consultant for domestic and international companies for their product portfolios that include manufacturing, sales, and marketing in all channels (veterinary, pet retail and ecommerce), and animal health clinical research studies. Additionally, I have certifications in Cannabis Science and Medicine from the Academy of Cannabis Science and Green Flower.   

 

Q: How long have you been independent?

A: I established my business in 2013.

 

Q: What inspired you to “go for it” and become a solopreneur?

A: In the animal health space, we tend to help others out and feel free to share contacts, methods etc. However, as time went on, it was apparent that I was doing what some others were getting paid to do. There came a time when people had come to me for advice, and they realized they needed more of my time than just a simple question. 

 

Q: What did you do to get started?

A: While remaining a “W-2”, I started with smaller projects that I could handle. I had launched my own product for cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) for pets and luckily when that project ended, I had 2 projects going with Merrick Wellness.

 

Q: How did you get your first client?

A: My first project was helping an animal health drug and OTC manufacturer with their new manufacturing facility that included finding them a director of research and development.

My second project was helping a University of Wisconsin – Madison start-up that had developed nano technology for wound care that targeted hard to treat wounds. They had significant dog data and wanted to commercialize in the animal market.  

Q: What advice would you give to someone who’s thinking about making the leap to solopreneurship or who is just starting out?

A: I would advise someone thinking about making the leap to write a simple business plan that included key milestones. Example: Establish the LLC by X date. Gather all my contacts who may need my expertise or could recommend someone in need. Work on an “elevator pitch”. A good pitch is not an easy thing to do, however, the process of getting it done will help bring clarity to what you bring to the table. Overtime, you’ll need to update the pitch. And last, keep your day job until you feel you can consult full time.

Q: What’s surprised you the most about being self-employed?

A: How hard it can be to stay motivated and of course – taxes! Rather than the biggest surprise – was the biggest advantage – the amount of knowledge gained when working with these different companies. You see, it is a two-way street, and you can gain more than a fee when you consult.

Q: What’s been your biggest challenge?

A: Getting the next client. I use my network, attend conferences, etc.

Q: What does the word “solopreneur” mean to you?

A: Independent in business.

Q: What is something that many aspiring solopreneurs think they need that they really don’t?

A: Tough question. Perhaps they may think that they need an outgoing personality, when in fact, authenticity wins the day.

Q: Is there a particular quote or saying that you use as personal motivation?

A: “Stay sage”

Q: What’s next for you and your consulting business?

A: “Put one foot in front of the other”. Currently, an effort by me and others should result in the funding of our next efforts. That would be helping a portfolio of companies launch or license their products in the animal health market. Simultaneously, I am doing a soft search for new projects in case our funding does not come through. I also have a great team of marketing experts for companies that need service. We can optimize their Amazon, Meta, and website presence so they can take advantage of the newest tools available by those channels.

Q: How can people find out more about your business?

A: I can be reached via email (dmerrick@merrickwellness.com) or my cell (608.212.2142). Let’s talk!

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