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

Hi Ryan, what is the most important factor behind your success?
A little bit of mystery. I think conventional entrepreneurial wisdom tells us to specialize immediately and yell our specialization from the mountaintops. I have observed that this often leads to a lot of short term success but that engagement and interest fades quickly. I have approached self promotion with a bit more ambiguity/humility and I believe that has contributed significantly to my longevity as a small business (15+ years).

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?
I run a boutique design shop in Indianapolis and try as hard as I can to stay as small as I can. This is a tough commitment in a culture that constantly pressures entrepreneurs to grow and scale. However, I have found that being very intentional and thoughtful about the size and scale of my business has allowed me to maintain a level of control that most easily adapts to market conditions and more importantly bends around my families needs. I want people to understand that not only is remaining “small” possible it also quite profitable.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would immediately sign up for a walking tour of Indiana Avenue with Sampson Levingston. His blend of historic storytelling and modern calls to action are unmatched across the country. Dorman street is an excellent neighborhood bar on the Eastside of Indianapolis and head just a couple of blocks over for a dinner at Livery. Julieta’s tacos at the STUTZ building is a must as is some coffee at Provider or Commissary.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Sampson Levingston. Sampson is a local historian, educator and all around incredible human who makes Indianapolis better every day. He inspires me to learn, to grow and to move through the world with more intention and care.

Website: www.2ndst.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/2ndstcreative/

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