Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jelina Shah, a clinical pharmacist, and holistic diabetes health coach based in Whittier, CA, USA.

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

I help people with Type 2 Diabetes and Prediabetes reverse their condition so that they can live as the happiest, healthiest version of themselves without needing a ton of medications, fad dieting, calorie counting, or strenuous exercise.

Tell us about yourself

I have a family history of diabetes (my dad has diabetes, as well as some uncles, in fact, one of my uncles passed away from complications related to diabetes). I was 65 pounds heavier, and the doctor turned to me and said that is not a matter of if but a matter of when I would get diabetes. I did the popular calorie-restrictive, low-fat diet and worked out 1-2 hours a day which helped me lose some weight, but I was miserable. I was starving, tired, and still overweight. I met a friend who lost 60 pounds; she introduced me to losing weight by using my mindset. I researched it and realized it really worked. I worked as a pharmacist to help people manage their insulin and started to teach them these techniques. Before I knew it, my patients were coming off their meds, losing 30-40 pounds, and reversing their condition in just 3 months. Many people think health means deprivation or being militant, but it doesn't have to be. By understanding how the body works and how to change the behavior patterns we have, we can get sustainable, long-lasting results.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Having the opportunity to be on platforms like podcasts and creating masterclasses where I can spread awareness about treating chronic diseases like diabetes holistically.

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

Being a solopreneur can be lonely sometimes. The only living creature I interact with is my dog a lot of days, so I have to be intentional about making time to spend time with people.

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

  1. Make sure you are passionate about your business. I had no idea I would live, eat, breathe, and dream about my business. I love what I do so much it doesn't bother me, but if I didn't have this passion, I don't think I would last.
  2. Don't be afraid to ask for help. People are willing and want to help you succeed.
  3. Don't fixate on the outcome; invest in the process. We don't have complete control over the outcome. You can influence an outcome, but at the end of the day, many factors can influence the outcome, which will feel disempowering. By investing in the process, you know you can do something now, and it feels empowering. You don't have to wait to see how things turn out when you are invested in the process because you are working on it in real time.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.jelinashahconsulting.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jelinashahconsulting
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jelinashahconsulting/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jelina-shah/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.sugarbomb


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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