We’re looking forward to introducing you to Taylor Halstead. Check out our conversation below.
Taylor, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
While intelligence and energy are both very valuable traits, integrity is the most important to me.
Intelligence helps guide good decisions, and energy helps you act on them; but without integrity neither can be sustained or trusted. Integrity means doing the right thing, being honest, dependable, and accountable for your actions even when nobody is watching. Integrity builds respect, trust, and consistency, which are essential in building quality relationships and especially when running your own business.
I believe that integrity is the foundation that gives intelligence and energy real purpose.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Taylor! The owner, baker, and treat dealer behind Izzy & Co. Dog Treats.
What began as baking healthy treats for my sweet late Boxer, Isabell (Izzy), quickly turned into something much bigger. Izzy was a picky eater, there wasn’t a single store brand treat she would eat… and trust me, we tried for years. I started making her treats and not only were they healthier for her, but she loved all of them!
Seeing how much she loved them and realizing there was a need in our area for healthy, all-natural options, I decided to take a leap of faith and start Izzy & Co. in February of 2022.
My husband Andrew and out three amazing children love to help with everything from packaging and deliveries to tagging along at markets (where the kids are mostly motivated to earn money to shop with other great local vendors!)
What started as a way to spoil our own Pup has become a mission to help other pet parents feel confident in the treats they’re giving their dogs. Today, we’re proud to see hundreds of happy pups enjoying our products; and just as many grateful owners who love knowing what’s in their dog’s treats!
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship with God has most shaped how i see myself today. My faith has grounded me and given me a sense of purpose and identity. Through my relationship with God, I’ve learned to see myself with grace – not defined by my mistakes, but by growth and forgiveness. It’s taught me humility, patience, and the importance of trusting in something bigger than myself. This relationship continues to guide my decisions, remind me of my worth, and shape how I treat others with kindness and understanding.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Times of suffering has taught me many lessons. It has shown me resilience in a way that is only built through struggle. It showed me the importance of trusting that things will work out, and often in ways better than I could’ve ever imagined. Suffering taught me empathy – for others and myself, patience, and a deeper appreciation for the good moments. It reminded me that growth often happens in discomfort and is necessary at times.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies I think the small business industry tells itself as a whole is that success has to look a certain way or happen on a certain timeline. There’s a lot of comparison – seeing others, sometimes even in completely different niches, grow fast, hit big milestones, or reach goals you haven’t yet. It can make you feel like you’re falling behind or not doing enough. But the truth is, every business is different and everyone’s journey is different. Growth doesn’t have to be instant to be meaningful.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
My family. My husband and my kids. They’re the heart of who I am and the reason behind everything that I do. At the end of the day, titles and things can fade, but the love and connection with share are what truly matters. In the end, that’s all you really need.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.izzyandcotreats.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/izzyandco.treats/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/izzyandco.treats
