Human-Focused Fitness & Business Professional

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal and business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Gary Smalls, Public Speaking Coach, Mentor and Certified Personal Trainer of Dream Team 718 Consulting LLC and Dream Team 718 Wellness LLC, located in Far Rockaway, NY, USA.

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

Dream Team 718 Consulting LLC was created to provide a human and strength-based approach to leadership, sales, management, inner-city youth mentoring, and customer service. At Dream Team 718 Consulting LLC, we believe that all businesses and individual staff members can achieve great results if they place a premium on the development of the people that provide the services (staff) as well as the people that receive products and services (customers).

At Dream Team 718 Wellness LLC, we believe that healthy humans develop healthy relationships that will eventually build healthy communities. We want to see all our communities and cities get healthy, one person at a time. Dream Team 718 Wellness LLC was created to support New York City residents in accomplishing their wellness goals through comprehensive exercise and nutrition services. We are striving to address the immense obesity and mental health issues that are currently taking a toll on citizens locally and internationally.

Tell us about yourself

As far as Dream Team 718 Consulting LLC, I wanted to start this business because I had an opportunity to work in many industries. From Retail Banking to Workforce Development and I also felt that we could accomplish more if we took a human-based approach to achieve our goals. Too many times, I felt like the outcomes were valued more than the people that worked to achieve them. So, I wanted to do something different!

As far as Dream Team 718 Wellness, Sports have always played a big part in my life. I was always fascinated by athletes like Kobe Bryant, Bruce Lee, and Deion Sanders. My love for weightlifting was sparked by my high school gym teacher Mr. Sanchez, and I always thought I could be in great shape if I was willing to put in the work. My family and community have been challenged with nutrition and weight problems, so I wanted to be a part of the solution for my family and city.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

One of the biggest accomplishments for Dream Team 718 Consulting LLC was being a Keynote Speaker for the Bronx Eagle Academy's Convocation event. I was able to share my story of resilience and struggle with the High School Seniors. For Dream Team 718 Wellness, the biggest accomplishment was to be able to create a fitness program called 'Wellness Wednesday" to provide recharging exercise services to the staff, students, and faculty at my alma mater Baruch College.

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

One of the hardest things as a business owner is being very clear about your target market. I think sometimes it is tempting to believe you can serve everyone, but everyone is not a customer. There are a unique group of people who want and need your product or service, and it would be in your best interest to serve them.

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

You have to be patient.
Do not be afraid to ask for help (Team Building).
Commit to being a student of your business, industry, and craft.

Where can people find you and your business?

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gary.l.smalls
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mambamornings13/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garysmalls13/

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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