Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal and business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Erin-Kate Escobar, Founder of Erin-Kate Escobar Consulting LLC., located in Los Angeles, CA, USA.

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

I run a DEI (Diversity, Equity Inclusion) Consulting Business where I work in collaboration with a select number of small businesses and organizations that are seeking structural DEI changes that specifically challenge systems of oppression on intrapersonal, interpersonal, cultural, and systemic levels. I also offer coaching to those in need of resources, strategy, and education in pursuit of DEI projects and efforts.

Tell us about yourself

I started my own DEI consulting business because I believe we are best able to navigate and challenge oppression when we show up as whole humans. I work with organizations to help them build more inclusive workplaces where people can show up as their full selves and thrive. I help them develop and implement DEI strategies that include healing and anti-racist practices.

I am motivated to do this work because it centers on people and their needs. I believe that approaching our work through the lens of human needs has the power to transform the way we create more inclusive environments for all. This motivation is reinforced when I hear clients challenge oppression and change the way they have “always done things,” and integrate practices that center human well-being and inclusion.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I have had the opportunity to create systems that will outlive my time with an organization– whether it’s pay equity, inclusive hiring processes, culturally competent and relevant professional development, or Employee Resource Groups that will ensure the DEI work carries on. I’m also proud of learning how to practice what I teach. I’m learning how to rest, learning how to build in time off and downtime, and create the space I need to feel wholly human so I can show up to work from a place of abundance.

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

I love building my business, and I find the process of finding clients and the work exciting. That said, I feel like there are always things that I could be doing to help my business be better. It’s hard for me to believe that rest is sometimes the best thing for my business! Not only do I need to take care of myself to do my best work, but I also need to ensure I can continue working and creating a good environment for anyone else involved in my business as well. It’s practice!

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

  1. Build-in intentional rest. (I dare you to build in the sabbatical of your dreams!)
  2. Create something that is sustainable. Bigger isn’t always better. Think, “what do I need to nourish me so I can fulfill the values of my business and my offerings are truly an authentic-to-me product, service, or idea?”
  3. Find, build, and join a community of folks who are passionate about building their businesses as well–and also prioritize rest and well-being.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.erinkateescobar.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinkateescobar/

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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