Ready to ditch the 9-to-5 and become your own boss? Kayla Schoonover and Zachery Uzlik did just that, diving headfirst into the booming world of dirty sodas! They discovered a winning formula in the trend of customizing sodas with flavored syrups, creating unique and delicious concoctions. But what started as a simple idea quickly blossomed into a full-fledged business.
Last July, they launched the Dirty Soda Company, and the growth has been nothing short of impressive. They've cultivated a loyal customer base throughout western Wisconsin, with some dedicated fans traveling up to 45 minutes just to get their soda fix.
Initially, the couple envisioned a trailer and a storefront. However, they soon realized the reality of entrepreneurship: hard work. They found themselves working seven-day weeks.
"It has its days. It's had its challenges, its ups and downs, just like any new business. It's a lot more work than we thought it was," Schoonover admitted.
And this is the part most people miss: Beyond the fun of selling at markets, there's a mountain of behind-the-scenes work. Think graphic design, social media promotion, recipe development, menu creation, event outreach, licensing, and taxes. The biggest surprises? The initial startup costs and the unexpected time commitment.
Their success is a testament to trial and error. They experimented with recipes, perfecting popular combinations like Sprite and Dr. Pepper mixes. They also focused on optimizing setup times and choosing the right locations, like Chippewa Falls’ Market on the River and New Richmond’s Market at the 45th.
They're strategically targeting specific demographics, such as the college town in Menomonie. The reward? Seeing the business thrive and customers returning, despite the long hours.
"It's been very rewarding to see customers come back and reach out and I mean, we have repeat customers that will drive from 45 minutes away just to come see us. So I think that makes it all worth it, in my opinion," Schoonover shared.
Looking ahead to 2026, they're aiming to open that trailer and storefront, expand their product line, and boost customer engagement through giveaways and scavenger hunts. They credit their strong customer support as a vital part of their success.
They remember the initial nerves of selling their first drink. Now, the positive feedback and the conversations with customers are a major source of satisfaction. The ability to put in the work and see it pay off, with customers driving long distances and returning for more, is the ultimate motivator.
"I think that's been super cool too, just to watch the business grow and, like he said, to be able to put in the work and then watch it pay off," she concluded.
What do you think? Would you trade a traditional job for the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship? Share your thoughts in the comments!
