Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Liz O'Riordan, an Author, Broadcaster, and Speaker based in Bury St Edmunds, England.

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

I am a breast surgeon who has had breast cancer. I am a successful author (The Complete Guide to Breast Cancer, Under The Knife), public speaker, broadcaster, and podcast host (Don't Ignore The Elephant). I use social media to educate the general public through short videos that explain everything related to cancer.

Tell us about yourself

I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 40 while working as a consultant breast surgeon. I had a local recurrence three years later, in 2018. I have a Ph.D. in molecular oncology. I had to retire as the side effects of treatment meant I could no longer operate. Educating people on social media is another way that I can help people.

Do you have daily rituals for work / wellness / fitness / mindfulness?

My only ritual is that I don’t look at my phone for the first 2-3 hours of the working day until I’ve got my projects finished – it means I’m not distracted by emails or social media. I always have a cup of tea in the morning after feeding the birds and the ducks before I start work, and just those few moments watching the blackbirds, robins, and bluetits have their breakfast always center me. And my daily dog walk is my thinking time – I’m always recording voice notes of things that come into my head.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I do not earn money from my social media engagement. What keeps me going is the incredible messages I get from followers who thank me for explaining things to them.

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

The huge amount of time, research, and effort that goes into creating high-quality content that I don't get paid for.

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

Keep it simple. Know who your target audience is and invest in apps that can streamline your work and make it look more professional.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: http://www.liz.oriordan.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oriordanliz/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Liz_ORiordan


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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