Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Joe Van Haecke, Founder of Inspire Me Mr V, located in Urbandale, IA, USA.

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

I'm an executive success coach, using the process of improv along with sound coaching techniques to provide a unique coaching experience that focuses on achieving the success everyone deserves. Anyone can learn the process of improv to start living a "Yes, And..." Life while surrounded by "yeah, but" people.

Tell us about yourself

I've seen the transformation that occurs when we apply the improv process to our personal and professional lives. My clients, as well as myself, gain the courage to step outside their comfort zone, take big risks, accept failure as a step toward success, and become better communicators and collaborators. These essential skills are fundamental in surviving today's competitive market. Improv is not just for actors anymore.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Being brave enough to walk away from a successful teaching career and start my business. It happened right before the pandemic started. I could have easily returned to teaching, and I knew I had to give this business an honest chance. It's been a struggle, and now clients are asking for more coaching as well as in-person workshops for their teams.

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

Asking for help. Not just asking, but knowing who to ask, what specifically to ask for, and when to ask for the right help. Initially, it felt like a weakness, and I've learned that it's okay and empowering to ask for the right help.

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

  1. There will be times when you feel like giving up. If your idea is important to you, don't. Hang in there, find someone to talk with, and have a champion or coach that will be honest with you while holding you accountable.
  2. Grow your network and connections. Find your people that understand what you want to do and will connect you with the right people.
  3. Recognize you were made for hard things.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

There are days when I worry about how I'm going to put food on the table. Those seem to be the days that a seed will unexpectedly sprout. The more seeds you spread and tend to, the more harvest you'll sow.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://inspirememrv.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InspireMeMrV
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirememrv/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/InspireMeMrV
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-van-haecke/

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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