Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in coaching but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Myriam Glez, Founder of Athletes Soul Inc., located in Venice, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Athletes Soul is a non-profit organization founded by former elite athletes to support athletes transitioning away from sports, raise awareness about the challenges of athletic retirement, and encourage athletes to develop beyond sports. We offer educational resources, group and individual coaching, and networking opportunities to collegiate, professional and Olympic athletes.
The majority of athletes do not choose when to end their athletic career - injury, program cut, deselection, concussion, etc. These athletes have dedicated their whole life to pursuing their sport at the highest level and have not developed outside of sports. Their whole identity and lifestyle revolve around sport, and when it is taken away, they are completely lost, sometimes leading to depression, financial stress, substance abuse, etc. Our goal with Athletes Soul is to facilitate their transition and mitigate the risk, especially on the emotional side.
Tell us about yourself
I am a two-time Olympic athlete for two different countries (France and Australia). I have participated in 4 Olympics for 4 different countries. I had two retirements from sport, one not chosen and one chosen. I understand the difficulties that come with athletic retirement. I have worked at every level of sport and in every position, and I am familiar with athletes' struggles. What motivates me every day is to be able to offer a service that I know is desperately needed and have a direct impact on these young adults' life.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Our biggest accomplishment so far has been starting a non-profit from scratch and growing to support over 80 athletes individually for 3+ months.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The lack of time to do everything needed is the most difficult thing. There is never enough time in the day! It's important to be able to walk away even if there is still a lot to do so that you can last the distance. I often want to do it all at once but know that I will not last if I do that. For a non-profit, the difficult part is always to raise more funds.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Have a plan so you can be strategic with your time.
- Take some break and take care of yourself so you can last the distance.
- Make sure to bring in people to help you and give you perspective. You can't do it all on your own.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.athletessoul.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/athletessoul
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/athletessoul/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/athletessoul/
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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