Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Portia Booker, Executive Producer and Host of Groove with Portia Podcast, located in Cleveland, OH, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Hello stranger! I am your Host and Executive Producer of Groove with Portia talk radio show and podcast. I invite individuals who have overcome adversity and found an opportunity to share their stories of "finding their groove." I also produce other podcasts and help hosts develop their talent on an already existing podcast.
Tell us about yourself
People know me as Portia, The Producer. Beginning my radio show and podcast is what saved my life. In 2016, I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder shortly after landing my dream job as a television producer for a major network. My dream would soon turn into a nightmare and would almost result in me ending my life over the stigma placed around mental health. Little did I know at the time my breakdown was my breakthrough to my true calling today. I tell people my diagnosis of bipolar disorder was the best earthquake in my life. When I left the television industry in 2017, I prioritized my mental well-being, and the opportunity to occupy the executive producer seat would fall into my lap organically. When I moved back home to Cleveland, Ohio, from out of state, the local radio station WOVU (95.9 FM) heard my voice as a guest host on another show and approached me with my own show time. I started Groove with Portia to share my journey of pivoting careers from a mental breakdown and encourage dialogue about mental wellness obstacles through storytelling.
What motivates me every day is the drive to share the stories of others who overcame similar obstacles as myself to clothe the world in knowledge. I believe sharing our stories will reduce the amount of individuals feeling alone through their darkest moments and increase their drive to make a difference in the world.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My greatest accomplishment is celebrating three years of Groove with Portia in October this year and landing a corporate client for podcast production services. I recall a time when nobody listened to my show or shared my flyer. I wanted to quit, but I stayed in the arena. I wrestled with advertising my talent for podcast production because I did not think I was good enough. Three clients in, and I'm still growing.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
As a business owner, I find it challenging to set boundaries at times. I have to remind myself that "NO" is a complete sentence. There is always the "urge" to answer one last call, edit one more show, speak with a new client, etc. I'm grateful to have set my work schedule where I am off on Mondays and Fridays to prioritize my mental well-being.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Number one, adopt a student-for-life mentality. When you become an entrepreneur, you will learn EVERYDAY!
Number two, surround yourself with coaches and mentors. They will help you stay afloat on the tough days and give guidance on ways to improve your business.
Number three, chase your dreams regardless of who believes in you. I've encountered so many talented individuals who will not take the leap to start their businesses because nobody else sees the vision. The word vision has two letters, "i's" for a reason. Let that sink in.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I am releasing my first audiobook titled "Finding Grace within Grief" on October 19th, 2022.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://linktr.ee/portiabkr
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pbookali
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/portia_hugs/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pabooker/
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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