Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Dawn Giammalvo, Owner of Fitlosophy LLC., located in Franklin, TN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a Pilates instructor and a Health Coach. Most of my customers find me looking for one of the two services I offer, but quickly figure out that when you combine movement with proper nutrition and lifestyle choices - that is when the magic happens.
Tell us about yourself
I found Pilates in 2005 and quickly discovered that it was helping with the back pain I experienced from my scoliosis. My education is in social work, so I have always been motivated to help people. I felt this was a wonderful way to help other people who were also experiencing pain and couldn't live life the way they wanted, so I finished my comprehensive certification in 2009. About five years later, several family members became quite ill, and I was the one who took them to the appointments and helped with their care. I learned quite a bit about how the medical system worked and found holistic ways to help my loved ones get better. I decided that I wanted to help my clients with their health struggles, so I got my Health and Wellness Coaching certification from Vanderbilt and passed my boards shortly after. There is nothing better than knowing I am making a positive impact on my clients every day, whether it is helping them get out of pain, helping them to lose weight, or helping them make significant lifestyle changes to make their whole life better.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My vision for Fitlosophy is unlike any other Pilates studio or Health Coaching business. To be able to stay in business despite being so different is very rewarding.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Finding new clients! Being different is a double-edged sword. My clients are my best advertisements, and most of my new clients are referred by current clients.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be passionate about what you are doing. Starting out is difficult; you have to believe in your why with all your heart.
- Be able to articulate quickly to anyone why what you offer is better than anything else being offered in your field.
- Make sure to work all sides of your business. Starting out is time-consuming because there is so much to do, but find your rhythm and work on a different aspect of your business every day.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://fitlosophy.studio/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fitlosophyTN
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitlosophy_tn/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawngiammalvo/
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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