Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Leslie Gold, founder of Strides in Recovery, located in Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA, USA.

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

Strides in Recovery is a nonprofit organization that helps people with substance use disorders grow physically, emotionally, and mentally stronger, so they can do their best at the hard work of recovery. We achieve these results by coaching people in addiction treatment programs to complete 5Ks, 10Ks, and half marathons.

Tell us about yourself

As a volunteer coach at a Los Angeles addiction rehab program, I have coached hundreds of people in their first year of recovery over the finish line of the LA Marathon. Over the years, participants made comments such as "I learned that I'm stronger than I thought," "I realized I can do whatever I put my mind to.", and "I know now that I don't have to go through life alone."

Also, many program alumni came back years later to tell me that training for the marathon kept them in treatment and was critical to their long-term sobriety. These and many other stories got me thinking, "why don't other treatment providers offer recovery-focused running programs?" I decided to quit my corporate job, start a nonprofit, and bring the healing power of running to addiction treatment programs.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

It's not about my accomplishments. It's about what we at Strides in Recovery inspire others to accomplish. It's amazing to watch someone transform from not believing in themselves to experiencing the pride and joy that comes from crossing that finish line and wearing their hard-earned medal.

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

As the founder of a nonprofit, my biggest challenge is securing the funding we need to continue growing.

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

Reach out to the experts for guidance. Learn from your mistakes. Never give up.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.stridesinrecovery.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/StridesInRecovery
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stridesinrecovery/


If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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