Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Rich Gonshak, Co-Owner of Chi Yoga Shack, located in Chicago, IL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My partner/wife and I own and operate a local community Yoga center for all ages.
Tell us about yourself
I started a daily Yoga practice in 2005 to help with injury prevention in martial arts. I was blown away! Once I started practicing, I practiced with the intention of teaching Yoga one day. A year later, I was teaching 20+ classes a week! I am motivated by being a student first in an industry of continuous education and watching students learn THEIR practice.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I had to try out a lot of different things to learn the best way forward. The easy part was showing up consistently and staying true to the practice. Surviving the pandemic was hard! I was able to go deeper and reinvent myself to come up with the teaching system I've always dreamed of.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Starting a business is like creating your own monster; you have to feed and tame it constantly, even though it takes on a life of its own. You have to be willing to trust others with your space and community.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be prepared not to make any money in the first couple of years.
- Location is key! It can be off the beaten path but do consider things like parking, walking/driving traffic, signage, and the feel of the space when you walk in.
- Pay close attention to your social media, trends, and marketing. Spend time and money. You'll get back what you put in (and more!)
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://shivashackchicago.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chiyogashack/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chiyogashack/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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