Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jeannie Oliver, Founder of Jeannie Oliver Wellness, LLC., located in Seattle, WA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a Functional Nutrition and Wellness Coach, NASM Certified Personal Trainer, and former pastry chef. I help busy professional women (and a few men) reduce stress, reshape their relationship with food, improve their health, and feel good in their own skin - all while enjoying delicious food and creating a sustainable healthy lifestyle.
Tell us about yourself
My story is a long one, with career and health twists and turns that led me from studying biology to training as a chef and pastry chef at Seattle Culinary Academy, to eventually becoming a Certified Health Coach. I have worked in both a clinical setting and in private practice for nearly ten years now, and I'm motivated by the desire to help others optimize their performance and quality of life. I love helping people avoid common pitfalls and unnecessary health challenges by learning to eat and move in ways that honor their bodies.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Seeing my clients have breakthroughs in their health and quality of life is amazing, and supporting them through the process is the most fulfilling accomplishment for me.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I think having your own business is sort of like having a child - you never really stop thinking about it, and for me, it can be hard to turn off and unplug from work when needed. Scheduling vacations and short breaks from work and social media is crucial if you want to avoid burnout. Also, as a recovering perfectionist, I can tell you that being a solopreneur will either break you of your perfectionism or it you will drive you crazy. I've made lots of mistakes as a solopreneur, but those inevitable screw-ups have liberated me from perfectionism and taught me to be kind to myself. I have also learned to ask for help and to hire people who excel in areas where I don't.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Your time and sanity are valuable, so don't waste time trying to save money by doing things yourself that someone else can do better in a fraction of the time. Get good business coaching or mentoring right away. Don't wait until you "can afford it" because it will pay off in spades down the road, and you'll save yourself a lot of stress and struggle. The same goes for tech and platforms. Choose the right option versus the cheapest option, and it will save you time and money in the long run.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Don't feel like you have to do things a certain way because that's how they do it in your industry. Be true to yourself and do what lights you up. The right clients will be drawn to you, you'll have more fun, and you'll be a lot less likely to get burnt out.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.joliverwellness.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JOliverWellness
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joliverwellness/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joliverwellness/
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.