Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in writing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mila Johansen,  Founder of From Pen to Published, located in Nevada City, CA, USA.

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

I coach writing, publishing, and public speaking. I love to make the process easy and accessible. Everyone has at least one book to write, and it's never been easier to self-publish - simple as 1-2-3. The shortest book you can publish on Amazon is 36 pages. Anyone can write a 36-page book in a day or two about something they know.

Tell us about yourself

I've taught writing, publishing, and public speaking for the past few decades. When COVID hit, I had to reinvent myself and learn how to take all my in-person classes and put them online. I took a ton of classes and had many mentors. I also mentor many people, helping them make their dreams come true of becoming published authors. Reinventing myself turned out to be very good for me extending my reach globally. Now I teach people from all over the world.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I am now the bestselling author of 9 books and have helped many clients publish their books and achieve their dreams. I've developed my signature talks and have been speaking at one to two summits and podcasts a week for the past two years.

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

I've really struggled with learning funnels and CRMs to create my online programs and build my email list. I've taken tons of tutorials and am now getting better at the process. I now have a substantial email list and several lead magnet gifts for summits, podcasts, and giveaways.

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

  1. Take tons of classes, both free and paid.
  2. Make it fun, and enjoy the process.
  3. Be generous - the more we give, the more we get!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.milajohansen.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/writeyourshortbook
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pentopublished/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/johansenmila
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mila-johansen-pentopublished/

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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