“Anything is possible if you set your mind to it. Be prepared to work twice as hard as a regular job would require, and be willing to roll with the times. Don’t be afraid to make changes and try new things.”
– Chris Corbin, The Old School Trading Post
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to turn your passion into a business? To generate income from something that gives you joy? Have you considered working for yourself, but you weren’t sure what it would take? You’re not alone! Chris and Amie Corbin, owners of The Old School Trading Post, have been in your shoes. They know what it’s like to start from scratch, unsure how to build a business doing something they love. Twelve years ago, Chris and Amie took the plunge into business ownership and haven’t looked back. They’ve put in hard work, countless hours, and most importantly, passion, which shows in their thriving small-town business in Linton, Indiana. We reached out to Chris and Amie to get an inside view of what it’s like when a dream turns into reality. Take a look!
What inspired you to start this business?
I love the outdoors and saw a need for a full service outdoor sporting goods shop in our local community.
What is your background?
I grew up in the Linton area, hunting and fishing in the Greene-Sullivan State Forest. It’s always been a passion of mine. When I was younger, I made the decision to join the Army. I left home for eight years, but I always knew I’d be back.
What has been your biggest success to date?
Our biggest success is the loyal customers we have accumulated over the years. We’ve been lucky to be a part of many family vacations and weekend outings. It’s been great to watch kids grow up and carry on family traditions in the Greene-Sullivan State Forest. Being included in those memories means a lot to us. Our customers are the reason for our success and 12 years of growth.
What has been your biggest challenge?
Keeping the doors open 12 months a year has been very challenging. Our business is seasonal, but we want to be there year-round for our customers. Most shops like ours close for the winter, but we stay open. We do what we can to ensure we’re serving needs in every season.
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about starting their own small business?
Anything is possible if you set your mind to it. Be prepared to work twice as hard as a regular job would require, and be willing to roll with the times. Don’t be afraid to make changes and try new things.
What’s an interesting fact about your business that most people don’t know?
We recently added to our services and now offer custom shirts and design for the outdoorsman or woman, the off-road jeep or side-by-side enthusiast, or anyone! We have the ability to do one shirt or one hundred shirts. Anything you can dream up, we can make. We also have an Airbnb located right behind the shop, which is frequently rented.
When you’re not working, what activities do you enjoy?
I like to hunt and fish—the hobbies that started it all. I also have grandchildren, and we all know they provide lots of fun!
How has Crane Credit Union helped you over the years?
Crane has always been there when we needed funding for our crazy ideas. They have worked hard for us to help us grow and keep going. I remember when we were first looking at purchasing the property, a representative from Crane came with me to the site. He listened to my dream and helped make it a reality.
Crane Credit Union is proud to have business members like Chris and Amie who go after their dreams and bring us along with them. It’s not always easy, but it’s always an adventure, and we love to see the transformations. Check out The Old School Trading Post’s Facebook page at the link below, and don’t forget to stop in and see their new custom shirts, which can be ready in minutes!
