Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in coaching but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Berry Fowler, founder, and chairman of Fowler International Academy of Professional Coaching, located in Spokane, WA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Since 2008, Fowler International Academy of Professional Coaching has been providing Life and Business coach training and certification to motivated individuals who have a genuine desire to help others, own their own business, and reap the rewards of a highly skilled professional.
People choose us because of our reputation for offering practical, affordable, and effective professional coach training. Over 99% of our students report they feel completely prepared to offer excellent coaching to their clients by the time they graduate.
Tell us about yourself
I am a former classroom teacher who founded Sylvan Learning Centers in 1979 to provide individualized reading and math instruction to students who slipped through the cracks and fell behind in school simply because they had not mastered their basic skills. In 1986, I sold Sylvan and achieved my personal goal of becoming financially independent by the time I turned 40. Back then, I retired for the first of what would become multiple times.
One of the most important things I learned during my forty-plus-year career as an entrepreneur is retirement doesn’t work for me. I’ve tried it four times, and it just doesn’t work for me. Since Sylvan, all my businesses have focused on teaching others to help others. I love people, business, and being engaged.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
The thing I am most proud of is knowing my businesses have helped so many people improve their lives. With Sylvan, we have helped over four million students to reach their full potential. And, through Fowler International Academy’s 9,000 plus coach graduates in ninety countries around the world, we are helping thousands of clients every day to change their lives for the better.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Staying focused and motivated and never giving up is one of the most difficult challenges for many business owners. I have seen countless business owners give up as they are right on the verge of success. One thing that helped me stay the course in launching and growing my businesses is this quote.
Upon the plains of hesitation, bleach the bones of countless millions who, on the threshold of victory, sat down to wait, and waiting died.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Begin with the end in mind. Create a crystal-clear vision of where you want to end up.
- Develop well-articulated, detailed plans to achieve your goals and objectives.
- Take action!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
As a new entrepreneur, especially a new solopreneur, you may often have to defend your dream. Friends, colleagues, and even some family members may try to steal your dream by explaining all the reasons why you might fail. That is exactly why having a clear vision of where you want to go with your business and what it will be like and feel like when you succeed is so important.
Avoid the naysayers and surround yourself with only positive people who will provide you with the support and encouragement you deserve.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.fiacoaching.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FowlerInternationalAcademy
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/berryfowler/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.
