Today we’d like to introduce you to Deanna Ratnikova.
Deanna, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
When the pandemic hit in 2020, I started to explore San Diego by foot, focusing on the natural attractions nestled within our urban environment. Even though I had lived here for eight years at that point, there were so many gems I’d never truly appreciated or even noticed.
Each time I discovered something new on my urban outings, I’d share with friends and colleagues. Before long, people started coming to me asking for tips on where to go for a dog-friendly walk, a waterfront stroller run; the list goes on. I started to consider how I could share with others my favorite outdoor spots within the city.
Around this same time, my significant other gifted me with an informational card deck to enhance our relationship. The cards—visual, non-sequential, just enough text to give me the gist—were the perfect medium to match my short attention span coupled with my daughter’s frequent calls for “Mommy!”. In the few minutes I had to delve into the deck without an interruption, I was inspired to try something new, and this is when my idea for The GO Deck, my side hustle, started to take shape.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The biggest struggles are those that happen in my own head. Once I had the idea for this informational card deck, I started to look into costs and also began telling others about my idea. When I described the product to people, there was more confusion than enthusiasm. I started having doubts about the idea and worried that I could be wasting money that would be better spent on my family and our future. Between the self-doubt and financial concerns, I puttered about for a while, not making much progress.
One fateful doctor’s appointment, however, changed my outlook. I had two separate issues that caused concern. In the time it took to conduct follow-ups and get tests/results, I realized how regretful I would be if I didn’t pursue this product idea. After that, I put the pedal to the metal on The GO Deck. There’s been ups and downs since then, but they’re manageable when I remind myself how fortunate I am to have the opportunity to ride the entrepreneurial roller coaster. Not everyone is able to pursue their passions, and I’m very grateful to be able to do so.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next, you can tell us a bit more about your business.
My business creates products to help people explore the urban outdoors, inviting them to connect with others surrounded by the city’s often-overlooked nature. Our first product, The GO Deck San Diego, is 52 cards showcasing the city’s natural attractions–you could visit a new place every week! On each card, I provide details about the location, how to get active there, and nearby extra attractions also worthwhile.
This product marries my two passions: spending time outdoors and being active. After embracing the 9-5 grind and becoming a parent, I struggled with staying active and healthy. These two simple goals–time outdoors and movement–turned it all around. I stopped obsessing over perfection and duration; I just get outdoors each day and go (even if it’s just a walk to the mailbox and back)!
I focus on urban environments because getting to “The Great Outdoors” (i.e., national parks, wild and remote places) is not easily accessible, nor affordable, for all. Plus, there’s abundant nature within urban environments; we only need to adjust our focus to see it!
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
I’m mindful of the privileges I have that have afforded me advantages in life/success and now allow me to pursue this passion.
Pricing:
- $19.95 for The GO Deck
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thegodeck.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegodeck.sd/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094255120208
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanna-ratnikova/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGODeck
Image Credits
Stefanie Blue
