Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sophie Anson, Founder of EatStrong, located in New York, NY, USA.

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

I'm a nutritionist with a private practice on the UES. I truly love what I do, and most of my work involves helping men and women achieve their ideal weight without involving any gimmicks or fad diets. I struggled with my weight myself, so it's very personal to me, not merely academic! Separately,  I've launched a line of really yummy, chewable probiotics and ACV supplements (with others on the way). The reasoning behind this was that so many of my clients WOULD take better care of themselves (and their gut health) if only they remembered to take their probiotic... so making them taste great (but without any sugar) was a challenge I wanted to take on!

Tell us about yourself

I'm originally from Switzerland and moved here for college. Initially, I worked in executive search, then in finance. I never had a weight issue until after college, and then things started to unravel. I went back to school to become a nutritionist after tackling my own weight issues, and then opened my private practice right away. It was a risky move, but I'm so glad I did it. My clients motivate me every single day. They are all brilliant, well-read, determined, focused, strong, successful, and kind people who really know a lot about healthy nutrition but haven't the time to prioritize themselves. They count on me to guide them and support them through what is really an overwhelming challenge (at least initially). One has to suspend disbelief and trust that things will work out as planned, often in light of data to the contrary. It can be frustrating! I'm inspired by all of them, whether aged 11 or 82. They each bring stories, experiences, and emotions to the table and challenge me to find ways to unlock their particular "aha" moment.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I would say it is each time a client reaches their goal. And that moment of "I can't believe it"! that we celebrate together. Depending on the person, this can take months or even years, and it never ever ceases to be amazing! I get so overwhelmed with pride every single time - because I KNOW how much work is involved. On a more practical side, it's growing as a one-person business in an industry that is crawling with misinformation and outlandish promises. How can I compete against companies who promise 10 lbs loss per week or offer slimming "teas" and other nonsense? I take a lot of pride in not overpromising but in attracting those who are willing to take it slow.

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

Probably both the "best and worst" aspect of being a one-person business owner is... that you are only one person. There isn't anyone to celebrate the wins with. There are no paid holidays, 401ks, or health insurance plans. One has to do it all. And when things go really well, one has to take a minute to stop and thank the universe because no one else will take notice :)

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

  1. Be prepared to work long hours, roll up your sleeves, and really do it all.
  2. Know that it might take longer than you hope to scale up.
  3. KEEP LEARNING. Things change all the time, be humble enough to know where your gaps are and be willing to keep learning to grow.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I would love to shoutout my company www.loserschews.com as it is my baby :) and I'm so proud of what we've accomplished to date

Where can people find you and your business?

Website:
https://www.eatstrong.com/
https://www.loserschews.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SophieEatStrong/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eatstrong_sophie/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eatstrongsophiepachella/

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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