Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Lipson.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Blue Balloon started in 2008 as a side gig and in 2010, as word spread fast, I left my day job as a preschool teacher and went off on my own to make something bigger of this idea that kids can learn an instrument through writing their own songs. A friend designed the logo and branding and Blue Balloon became a reality. In 2013, with the hopes of starting a family and taking a “maternity leave” from teaching, I brought other teachers into the fold who specialized in other instruments and had various teaching styles. This was a pivotal moment in the growth of the company – I went on to find my strengths as a leader and began to scale this dream of a company.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
In the early days, every little bump in the road of my business felt catastrophic. I’ve learned over the years how important it is to reframe issues that come up as learning opportunities. Any struggle can become something that makes your company stronger. Every experience teaches us something if we’re paying attention!
As you know, we’re big fans of Blue Balloon Songwriting for Small People. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Blue Balloon was founded on the concept that anyone can write a song from the very first lesson. Unlike the classical tradition that’s centered around mastering an instrument before composing, we believe encouraging creativity and fostering each student’s unique sense of self-expression is the key to joyful learning early on that lasts a lifetime. Blue Balloon is in 7 cities and reaches hundreds of students weekly. We are proud to be one of the most innovative and creative companies out there giving kids an opportunity to express themselves creatively.
In addition to the amazing work Blue Balloon does, as a founder, I’ve also begun advising other founders, entrepreneurs, and other business owners at any stage ready to take their business to the next level. I am grateful for everything I’ve learned from my business, the highs and the lows – it has all taught me so much. I have had many incredible people help me along the way and I am thrilled to have space to share my knowledge and do the same for others.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
With so many years in business, I’ve had all kinds of luck — great things falling into my lap as well as difficulties descending upon me! From the friend who offered to design my logo to build her portfolio (incredible luck!) to the air conditioning breaking down at one of our largest events of the year (think 1000 people sweltering indoors on a 90+ degree day in NYC – terrible luck!) I’ve learned so much about how to weather any storm. Seeing any experience as a learning lesson makes it possible to move forward and take advantage of any opportunity that comes your way.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.blueballoonschool.com
- Instagram: @blueballoonschool
Image Credits
Sam Maher
Anna Schori
Isabelle Selby
