Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Janel Koloski, Founder of JoySoulJael, located in New York, NY, USA.

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

I have a Career & Mindset Coaching Business for people in the fashion & entertainment business that want to build a sustainable income, doing what they love, with no "survival jobs" required. I have worked with models, actors, writers, designers, photographers, and voice-over artists. I can help anyone that is an artist that wants to build a career out of their "daydream."

Tell us about yourself

I started pursuing a career in fashion & entertainment in 2005 but didn't hit my stride until 2013. After recognizing that I needed to approach modeling, acting, hosting, and producing like a CEO by creating a business plan and structure including craft, career & market research, and self-care, I maintained a 6 figure income solely in the arts in 2016. I officially opened my coaching company in 2022 because many artists saw my success and asked me to have coffee to "pick my brain." Before acting and modeling full-time, I tutored, coached, and received a bachelor's in psychology and elementary/special education. My love for teaching and desire to help other artists pushed me to get certified as a life coach, and the rest is history.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

So far, taking a client from not having an audition in 3 years, lacking confidence in her craft and self-worth, to booking a film from her reel without having to audition for the role. Now she is so on fire for acting that she has decided to study in Ireland and move to LA. She seems like a completely different person, and I am so proud of her and excited for her journey.

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

Rejection and being your own boss.

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

  1. Be very clear about why you started your business. It can't be about making money. You have to be passionate about your mission so you can pick yourself up when building your business gets tough.
  2. Create a structure for your business and build small habits that eventually become the foundation for running your business smoothly.
  3. Expect rejection and try to get through rejections as quickly as possible without letting them upset you. The faster you move through the people and opportunities that aren't for you, the sooner you will align with what will help you and your business thrive.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://linktr.ee/janel89
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janelloves/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janel-koloski-36239937/


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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