A bold entrepreneurial journey: Kayla Schoonover and Zachery Uzlik's Dirty Soda Company.
These local business owners embarked on a quest for independence, and their path led them to the world of customized sodas. The concept was simple yet captivating: create unique soda blends with flavored syrups, and watch as customers fell in love with the variety.
Since its launch, Dirty Soda Company has gained traction, attracting loyal patrons from across western Wisconsin. Some enthusiasts even embark on a 45-minute drive just to indulge in these special drinks.
But here's where it gets controversial... Schoonover and Uzlik initially envisioned a trailer and storefront, but the reality of running a business hit hard. They soon realized the immense dedication required, often working seven days a week.
"It's a lot more work than we thought," Schoonover admits. "It has its challenges, but seeing customers return makes it all worthwhile."
Beyond the markets, their work involves a myriad of tasks: graphic design, social media, recipe creation, and event coordination. The startup costs and time commitment were unexpected hurdles.
Their success is a testament to perseverance. Through trial and error, they've perfected recipes, optimized setups, and targeted specific demographics like the college town of Menomonie.
And this is the part most people miss: the long hours and hard work are justified by the satisfaction of seeing the business thrive.
"Seeing customers come back and hearing their positive feedback is incredibly rewarding," Schoonover shares.
Looking ahead, their goals for 2026 include expanding their presence with a trailer and storefront, diversifying their product line, and engaging customers through unique experiences like giveaways and scavenger hunts.
So, what do you think? Is the hard work and dedication of these entrepreneurs inspiring, or do you see potential pitfalls in their journey? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
