Tim Tsao
About this Executive:
Name:
Tim Tsao
Company:
Kahiki Foods, Inc.
Interview Topics:
Agriculture and Food Processing
Region:
Region 1 - Central Ohio
From being recognized as "The best Polynesian restaurant in the world," and "One of the top 100 restaurants of the 20th century," Kahiki Foods has evolved into one of the top manufacturers of authentic Asian frozen food products. It was a real pleasure speaking with Tim Tsao about the incredible success of the company his father founded.
I was particularly struck by the Kahiki Foods mission statement that focuses on operating with "passion and the Aloha spirit." The Aloha spirit recognizes the interdependence of people and encourages mutual regard and affection with no obligation in return. While the Aloha spirit is a guiding principle of Kahiki Foods, I couldn't help reflect on how well the concept also describes Ohio. Tim and I had a great discussion about how Ohio is a state that people can truly call "home." A place where people say what they mean and mean what they say. A place where entrepreneurs can find a business community that wants them to succeed.
Q: Kahiki Foods is a phenomenal success. Do you think Ohio is a good place to start, expand or relocate a business?
A: Yes, for a variety of reasons. I think the cost structure in Ohio is better than most states, incentives are available to help reduce risk and quality labor is readily accessible and affordable. Ohio's central location minimizes distribution costs and the state's recent tax reform makes doing business here more affordable. All of these benefits make Ohio a location that warrants due diligence by any executive looking to make a capital investment.
Kahiki Foods has a steady stream of top-notch talent from the Food Science and Technology Department at Ohio State University. The talent we've brought into our team are passionate and eager to learn more. Equally important, we are able to find line associates for the operational side of our business. Hard-working, loyal workers with a passion for the work:life balance they enjoy in Ohio. We have many employees that have been with us for over 15 years.
Q: Let's talk more about the business climate. How does the new tax structure in Ohio help entrepreneurs increase their odds of business success?
A: The two aspects of the tax reform that are of greatest interest to entrepreneurs are 1) no tax on the first $1 million in annual gross receipts and 2) the elimination of taxes on the sales of goods and services to customers outside of Ohio. It is important to appreciate that entrepreneurs often put everything on the line to pursue their dream. They risk their own money, investors' money, often their friends' and family's money and may even max out their own credit cards. It is a big deal to go out on your own. As an entrepreneur, you are often boot-strapping your way to success. Having the state as a risk-sharing partner is an important, positive consideration when you are investing your money and reputation.
Q: You've lived in D.C., San Francisco, Beijing and New York City. How does living in Ohio compare to those locations?
A: In Ohio it is easier to found and grow a business. The environment is not as cutthroat as the cities where I've previously lived. Business costs are definitely lower. The public sector is very helpful and the banks are easy to work with.
It is also very easy to network here. There are many energetic communities of entrepreneurs and seasoned industry professionals alike, all with the desire to share and grow.
The other big difference is that I now actually get a good night's sleep. It is easy to get around in Ohio and you don't have to trade a long commute to live in a family friendly neighborhood. In the other places I've lived, I'd often drive to work in the dark and drive home in the dark at the end of the day. With a 45-60 minute, one-way commute and the extra hours required for offsetting overhead costs, you end up sacrificing your personal life for professional success. It wears on you after a while and the added stress can take a toll on your health.
Q: It's interesting that you mention the potential negative health implications of sustained stress. Studies from Duke, Yale and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute show that mental-stress-positive patients are at increased risk of various cardiac events. Your sense that daily stress can negatively impact health has a scientific basis.
A: I am not surprised. I know that simply by getting more and better sleep I am more productive. If you are able to lead a well-balanced life, I think you will also lead a longer life. Ohio is called the "State of Perfect Balance." I believe that is true for the employees of Kahiki Foods and for me too.