Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Elaine Dusetzina, Owner of Evoke Strong Health and Wellness LLC, located in St. Johns, FL, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I have a health and wellness coaching business, where I facilitate behavior change in individuals with prediabetes, so they can take back control of their health and transform their life.

Tell us about yourself

I'm a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach and a Diabetes Prevention Program Lifestyle Coach. Before becoming a health coach, I served in the U.S. Navy for 11 years. My personal experience of health transformation led me to pursue health coaching and establish my business, as it allowed for more flexibility in my schedule. With two kids, I appreciate having the time to take care of their needs while also being able to serve others.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I enjoy celebrating the successes of my clients, whether big or small. When they gain insight into what's possible and make tiny changes over time, they experience the power of turning these health behaviors into lifelong habits. I feel these 'a-ha' moments experienced by those I serve have been my biggest accomplishment.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

For me, it's been promoting my business since day one. Unfortunately, I'm not particularly eager to put a spotlight on myself, so it's been hard for me to stay consistent with marketing my services. I have to remind myself every day that it's a disservice to others when I don't give them the opportunity to learn about what I do that would help improve their well-being.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. For those looking to start, I found it helpful to join a program that teaches you the foundations of starting a business. It was a blessing to discover the Service2CEO program when I thought about initially establishing a business. This program is provided by The Rosie Network, which is a non-profit organization with a mission to build stronger military families by developing entrepreneurial programs and support services that empower active-duty, veterans, and military spouses to realize the American Dream of small business ownership, increasing financial stability and self-sufficiency of those who have served our country. This program taught me how to develop a business plan and a 4-minute market pitch.
  2. For those who are looking to build confidence, I encourage you to join a Toastmasters organization. After I left the Navy, I transitioned to being a stay-at-home mom, and my presentation/speaking skills became out of practice. I knew my health coaching business would include speaking in front of an audience which terrified me. Public speaking isn't my forte, so joining a Toastmasters club was an uncomfortable experience. Yet, at the same time, it was the most rewarding as it opened my mind to other people's perspectives and helped me gain the confidence I sought.
  3. Running a business is hard, especially when you're doing it solo. While I'm still learning what works best for me, I've invested in programs that would help move my business forward. I value continuous learning, and that's the beauty of business ownership - there's always something new to learn that helps me grow personally and professionally.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.evokestrong.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/evokestrong
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evokestrong
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elainedusetzina/

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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