Today we’d like to introduce you to Niki Cardwell.
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?
My story is really about following curiosity and saying yes to opportunities before I knew exactly how they would unfold. I think I’ve always been wired for entrepreneurship as I like building things, solving problems, making decisions quickly, and shaping the experience from concept to execution. Working for myself also gives me the flexibility I’ve always craved with the ability to create my own pace, my own structure, and my own balance between work and family. That level of autonomy has been one of the biggest motivators in building the career I have now.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I wouldn’t call the road smooth, and in hindsight I’m glad it wasn’t. Entrepreneurship forces you to figure out what you’re made of, not just financially or professionally but emotionally. You learn how to make decisions without perfect information, how to lead people, how to ask for help, and how to recover when something doesn’t work. I’ve had to learn how to trust myself, how to move forward when I’m unsure, and how to build structure around ideas.
The challenges have stretched me, but they’ve also shaped me into someone who can take on more than I ever thought I could.
As you know, we’re big fans of Ready Teddy’s Coffee. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Ready Teddy’s Coffee is a neighborhood coffee shop in Mt. Juliet where people can get great coffee and also feel part of something a little more local and personal. We serve espresso drinks, seasonal beverages, and a few light food options, but one of the things people comment on most is the atmosphere. It’s warm, slightly quirky, and has its own personality in a way that feels different from the bigger chains.
What makes us unique is how much intention we put into being a true community space. We work with local makers, carry retail from small businesses, and host things like Silent Book Club because we want the shop to be more than just a place to grab caffeine and go. I love when people linger, read, chat, shop, or make us part of their daily routine.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I’d love for people to know that Ready Teddy’s is for everyone. Whether you’re a regular, someone who drives through Mt. Juliet occasionally, or someone who just loves supporting local, we’d love to have you stop in and see what we’re building. Neighborhood spots only exist because the community supports them, and I’m grateful every day that ours does.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://readyteddyscoffee.com
- Instagram: readyteddyscoffee
- Facebook: readyteddysmj
