Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Shaniece Criss, Founder of Enthusiastic Leadership, LLC., located in Greenville, SC, USA.

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

I am the founder and president of Enthusiastic Leadership, LLC, which represents the “Dr. Shaniece” brand. I am an enthusiastic leader who joyfully inspires growth for individual and collective action, especially in the areas of public health and leadership.

For my business, I created a unique curriculum that integrates public health insights into leadership lessons. It is beneficial for any business because research demonstrates that partnering with a professional from outside your industry can be a catalyst for innovation in your company (The Harvard Business Review).

I have really enjoyed serving my clients. They have included leaders at universities, medical associations, manufacturing industries, and even a pest control company. I provide training, keynote addresses, consulting, and coaching. In addition, I create daily entertaining public health insights at the “Dr. Shaniece” Instagram account, which is an avenue for my clients to promote their companies through brand partnerships. I am also available as a guest contributor for news and talk show programs.

Tell us about yourself

I recognized the importance of health because, as a young child, I had severe asthma complications, which hindered my ability to live a full life. Based on my experiences, I completed a Master of Public Health degree from Emory University and a Doctor of Science degree from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Through public health, I learned that there are interventions and policies that can improve health for entire communities. I incorporated concepts, theories, and approaches from public health into the curriculum offered through Enthusiastic Leadership, LLC.

In conjunction with my health journey, I also had an interesting leadership path. I was president of the state Jr. Beta Club in middle school, Youth Governor in high school, and student body president in college. To equip myself with theoretical and practical approaches, I graduated from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government Mid-Career Master’s program with a focus on leadership.

I am truly excited to combine my passions, as well as aspects from other parts of my life. As a multifaceted individual, I have experience as an associate professor, researcher, elected official, community leader, and producer and host of a talk show. I can truly customize a specialized program for my clients.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

For many years, I operated as an independent consultant, so I was proud to formalize my business this year. I encourage anyone who is contemplating taking the next step with their business to go for it. Right now, my biggest accomplishment is that my clients have supported my transition and continue to invite me to work with their organizations.

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

In order to be effective, you need to continuously evaluate your business. In that process, it is important to prioritize and strategize your approach so that you don’t get overwhelmed.

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

  1. I believe that you need to have confidence in your journey.
  2. Be authentic in your approach.
  3. Be passionate about what you do.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

If you feel stuck, remember Derek Sivers’ words, “What’s obvious to you is amazing to others.” We all have an impact to make!

Where can people find you and your business?

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drshaniece/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaniececriss/


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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