Meet Marlon Ngo | Cellular Molecular Biologist & President of Tri-Star Koi LLC

We had the good fortune of connecting with Marlon Ngo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marlon, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
The most important lesson I’ve learned while running Tri-Star Koi is the significance of resilience and adaptability. Throughout my journey, I’ve encountered numerous challenges and unexpected obstacles, ranging from market fluctuations to shifts in consumer preferences. Additionally, working with live animals introduces an unpredictable element that can be particularly nerve-wracking. These experiences have reinforced the necessity of being able to quickly adapt and pivot as circumstances change. I’ve learned to stay open-minded, embrace change, and view setbacks as valuable opportunities for growth. This mindset has been essential for navigating the complexities of the business and ensuring long-term success.

What should our readers know about your business?
Tri-Star Koi is a small business located in the heart of middle Tennessee, specializing in Japanese import koi. When I first started this venture, my goal was to offer the highest quality fish while ensuring reasonable prices. I believe that providing exceptional koi should go hand in hand with outstanding customer care. I made it my personal mission to ensure that all our clients felt their purchase was more than just a transaction; I wanted them to feel valued and a part of our koi community.

What sets Tri-Star Koi apart from others is our commitment to quality and personal service. We carefully source each koi, focusing not only on their beauty but on their health and vitality. I take great pride in the health and welfare of every koi that leaves our farm. I also value the relationships I’ve built with my clients, many of whom return to us again and again because they know they can trust us to provide not just great koi, but also honest, knowledgeable support.

Getting to where I am today has certainly been a journey filled with challenges. The koi business is competitive, and there were times when it felt overwhelming, especially in the early days and even to this day. Each obstacle became an opportunity for growth.

Throughout this journey, I’ve learned that resilience is key. There were moments when I faced setbacks or made mistakes, but each experience taught me something valuable about the industry and myself. I’ve discovered the importance of adaptability and staying open-minded to new ideas and practices.

I want the world to know that Tri-Star Koi isn’t just a business; it’s a passion project that reflects my dedication to the koi community. My story is one of perseverance, and I’m excited to continue growing and evolving in this field. Looking ahead, I hope to inspire others to appreciate the beauty of koi and to share in the joy of this remarkable hobby. Ultimately, my goal is to elevate the koi experience for all our clients, making every interaction meaningful and rewarding.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were to visit our city, I would take them on a journey to explore the stunning natural beauty that Cookeville, Tennessee has to offer. Our city is well-known for its breathtaking landscapes and brewery scene. We’re surrounded by some of Tennessee’s most famous landmarks, including Cummins Falls, Fall Creek Falls, Rock Island, and the Caney Fork River, among many other picturesque destinations. It’s no surprise that our state is becoming an increasingly popular hotspot for both tourism and new residents.

In addition to these scenic attractions, Cookeville boasts a diverse array of local eateries and breweries, creating a unique culinary experience that satisfies both locals and visitors alike. Cookeville has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination to showcase to a friend.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
To begin, my journey as a koi dealer and business owner would not be possible without the support of many individuals. While I can’t name everyone, there are a few key people who have played a pivotal role in my career. First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude to my friends and family who have stood by me since the beginning. Starting a business is a daunting leap, and their encouragement has been invaluable.

I also want to highlight the importance of mentorship in this business. Finding a mentor can be challenging, especially in such a competitive field where many are reluctant to help potential rivals. I am particularly grateful to my friend and mentor, Russell Peters of PS Koi. He generously took a risk on me, guiding me through the ins and outs of the industry. His willingness to share his experiences and advise me on avoiding mistakes he faced in his own business has been incredibly helpful.

Finally, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our supporters and customers. Without you, we wouldn’t be where we are today. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for believing in me and for supporting Tri-Star Koi. Your trust and encouragement mean the world to me!

Website: https://www.tri-starkoi.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tri_star_koi?igsh=emZwYWxrZG44cWI0&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BBkP69HrT/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tri-starkoi4094

Image Credits
Tri-Star Koi LLC