Deana Abdul-Karim
CEO and Owner of Good Dee’s
What inspired you to start your business?
My firstborn son. I had him in 2012 and could NOT shed the weight. Diabetes runs in my family (my mom has it) and I didn’t want that life for myself. I saw how difficult it was for her and I was on a mission. I discovered the keto diet and while I lost weight, I missed my treats. I LOVE food and I love to cook and bake so I went to the kitchen and started experimenting.
What challenges have you faced as a woman entrepreneur and how did you overcome them?
I would say that I am still continually facing challenges. The biggest challenge is the underestimating -- I am constantly spoken to as if I don’t “get it”. In addition, I’m frequently asked who else helped me with the business? To overcome them, I have just decided to stay the course and educate them with the knowledge I do, in fact, have.
What advice would you give to other women entrepreneurs?
KEEP GOING. It can seem so daunting and so many of us have so much on our plates. Make this time for your journey and your business.
What three traits define you?
Ambitious, Driven, Persistent.
What women inspire you?
My mom, hands down. She immigrated to the USA knowing no English and she helped my dad grow his business. They had to have my two eldest sisters meet them in Texas 1.5 years after she came so that they had enough money. She is one of the smartest women I know. I also have my three big sisters -- everyday they encourage me. My eldest sister always gives me words of affirmation and confidence boosts. My second eldest is the one who encouraged me to do the business! She said this is so good, you need to sell it. And my third is the business guru (and the first one in our family to get her MBA). She had invaluable advice. She’s now my executive coach.
How has being a WBENC-Certified WBE helped your business?
It let people know that this business was built by a woman -- despite all the hardships and challenges. I love buying from other women-owned businesses as well. The support from other females has been inspiring.
What do you see as the coolest or most important trend in your industry?
Ingredients matter. When a company cuts costs for an ingredient, the consumer knows and is SO smart.
As a business owner, what keeps you up at night?
All the companies or people who rely on MY business to pay their bills. If I have a slow sales day, I do become a worry wart!
What do you love about being a business owner?
My customers. They made me and my brand who I am today. I am FOREVER grateful.
What’s the hardest part about being a business owner?
Making decisions that sometimes affect everyone around you. I’ve made some that were financially painful and it does trickle down.
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t focus on your competitors-focus on competing with yourself.
What’s your favorite career moment?
Hitting number 1 on Amazon while I was recovering from my C Section in the hospital!.
What’s the best way to start your day?
Coffee and sitting with my kids. It’s a nice moment before they go to school and before I start my mad rush.
How do you unwind after a long workday?
I love to make tea and watch Reality TV. I also enjoy reading and catching up on current events on my phone. I had a dream of becoming a journalist at one point so the news is a big part of my day.
Fill in the blank:
When I face a challenge, I… keep going until I reach the other end.
If I could go back in time, I would tell myself… you are so much stronger than you ever thought.
The one thing I couldn’t live without is… my family.
By this time next year, I will be… successful beyond my wildest dreams.
To get my creative juices flowing, I… listen to music.
GOOD DEE’S
Good Dee’s is a brand your children with food allergies can call their own, your family members with diabetes can enjoy during special occasions and give those who just want to try a new lifestyle a healthy start. Good food, good company, and a good start to a better lifestyle.
