Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey by launching a wellness business but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Breanna Pizzuto, founder, and trainer in Talk Tools, based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is called Talk Tools, and we give workshops and offer consultations on mental health, active communication, suicide intervention, and psychological safety in the workplace. Our clients range from public service to non-profits to the general public.
Tell us about yourself
I have a passion for helping others; that's where it started and what keeps me going! Working in the social services field, I began to grow my experience using active listening and crisis intervention skills to help individuals struggling with their mental health and life challenges. After working with burnout in a toxic workplace, I decided to see if I could start a business teaching these all-important skills to a broader population. I am motivated every day by the thought of creating a safe place for people to feel comfortable to talk about challenging topics, connect and build community.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Knowing that I make a slight difference in the world.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Maintaining work/life balance. One of the best things about being a business owner is making your schedule. One of the hardest things is turning the business "off" to enjoy personal time outside of work. Given the sensitive nature and emotional demands of my career, I have seen self-care as a part of maintaining my business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Network, network, network! You never know who you're going to meet who will help you in your journey. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable - when starting a business, stability can be hard to come by, which is difficult for us more risk-averse folks out here! Don't forget to take care of yourself. Your business' best asset is you, and working 24/7 will wear you down and is ultimately not sustainable.
Where can people find you and your business?
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.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.
