Your Health Is on Your Plate

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Olga Afonsky, Founder of Food Remedies, located in Washington, DC, USA.

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

I'm a weight-loss nutritionist. I help people who want to get off the dieting rollercoaster and lose weight. So we partner to create a personalized nutrition plan that's enjoyable and sustainable. I combine nutrition science and physiology knowledge with coaching skills to support my clients on their weight loss journey. Most of my clients struggled with weight for years and tried all kinds of diets. My approach is not a quick fix or a diet; I focus on changing their eating habits and relationship with food. They find in me a friendly accountability partner who supports and guides them.

Tell us about yourself

When I first started, I worked at a doctor's office addressing all kinds of food-related health issues like blood pressure, high cholesterol, high blood sugar, digestive discomfort, and weight. The weight issue is probably the most challenging because it includes the food, behavior, emotional, and mindset aspects. It's like a complex puzzle with very individual pieces and unique for each client. And I love solving puzzles.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I had to switch from working in person and getting most of my clients through doctor's referrals to working 100% online with the beginning of COVID. I wasn't sure if my practice would survive without the referrals, but instead, my practice thrived. Last year was the best year so far. I'm also currently working on a weight loss course.

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

The hardest thing for me is marketing. I have tried many marketing strategies and tactics, taken a hundred classes and courses, and only now have I found what works for me. About six months ago, I started writing emails to people on my list. I write to encourage, motivate, and inspire them to create a weight loss journey or take better care of themselves. And people open my emails, like 40-45% open rate, so I find it rewarding.

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

Know the problem you are solving for people from their standpoint. How is it a problem for them? What are their pain points?
Be very flexible, ask many questions, and ask for feedback.
Start with market research and learn how your approach is better than the others.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://food-remedies.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/foodremedies
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodremedies/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olga-afonsky-0010b941/

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.

Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.