Meet Jacob Johnson: Founder and CEO

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jacob Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jacob, what do you attribute your success to?
How you treat everyone you interact with under the brand name. From customers, suppliers, fans on social media, those who email and call. It all matters. And it all culminates over time. We may falter at times, but we actively do our best to make you feel valued, heard, and cared for when you engage with us. We want all products you purchase from us to provide an excellent experience. We want any issues that may arise to be solved in a manner that is convenient for you. We want to serve you well. This is our primary focus. Top-notch candles. A worthy social mission. And a warm, welcoming customer service experience. That is what is growing the Calyan brand.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Calyan Wax Company is a social ventured with a focus on crafting top-notch candles products and funding the fight against human trafficking. We invite the everyday American to become a social advocate against trafficking by enjoying a simple soy candle. Calyan stands for justice. We do things the honest (sometimes harder and slower) way. We care deeply for others. We are reliable, responsive, and pursue excellence in all we do. We humbly serve our God, giving Him the credit for all successes of the business. Practicing business with these principals has done us well. Operating a business is a constant struggle with problems always around the corner. Thankfully, problems can be solved and over time, you get more confident that you can solve the problems that come up. I have so much over the last three years of doing Calyan. I’ve learned more patience. I’ve learned a better work-life balance. I’ve learned that things will be okay. Things always work out. No need to get to worked up or too worried. I’ve grown in my faith. I’ve felt God’s presence, His comfort, His peace more than I ever had. I want the world to know that Calyan is a brand you can trust, a brand that is reliable, and a brand that is laser focused on crafting the absolute best products and putting an end to human trafficking.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
I would give them a tour of the new Calyan facility 🙂 Then would check out some local coffee shops/breweries. Maybe check out some trails depending on the weather. Nothing too crazy.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
So many people have played a role in making Calyan a success. For starters, my wife, Kameron. She has been with me since the first candle was poured. She has supported my endeavor without wavering despite financial struggle, sweating with me a local markets during the hot summer, late nights working to get orders out, and just putting up with my general obsession with the business. She keeps me balanced! My mom who let me use her home for 2.5 years as Calyan’s HQ. We literally filled her house with all things candles. We had up to 7 guys working for Calyan while we were still there. Her home allowed us to operate super lean in the ultra-formative days. She’s also a fantastic listener! Then there is Mike (owner of Mad Mike’s Ice Cream in Pantego) who helped me with all things warehouse. Shipping, receiving, building pallets, etc. He has encouraged me to stay optimistic and role with the punches. There are countless other mentors, investors, friends, and family that have supported me in Calyan. I am so thankful for each of them and hope to be a part of other entrepreneur’s journeys through the years.