Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Hannah Strenger, from Eden Prairie, MN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a Queer Guide who helps LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs bring their full selves to business and life. There is a gap between what is taught in the traditional online business space and what we experience as queer individuals. My quest is to bridge that gap so that more queer entrepreneurs can create the impact and income they desire. Doing this work means more than guiding my clients through the logistical steps of coming out; it means being there for all of the tough interactions, the undoing of old narratives, the confrontations, and the challenges.
Tell us about yourself
I come from a background in animation, and when I first started my entrepreneurial journey, I fell into what came naturally - coaching creatives. It took me a couple of years to finally follow the pull to serve my fellow LGBTQ+ business owners, but looking back, I see how this work is truly a service to both my clients and me.
In every space I entered at the beginning of my business journey, I quickly realized I was in the minority, which felt pretty isolating. I intentionally sought out queer-centric spaces and support systems, which made all of the difference for my business and for my emotional well-being. Through my own experiences, I learned there is a severe need for folks to help others who, like me, want to be their authentic selves in their business and in life. That is why I am here today, guiding others on their journey, so they don't have to do it alone.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I am most proud of the fact that I am doing the work in real-time right alongside my clients. Being just a couple of steps ahead of them helps me to truly guide them on their journey and pull from my experiences to better serve them. I don't pretend to have all the answers, but I believe that is the beauty of what I am building. It supports. It's community. It's the guidance I wish I had when I started my own journey.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Specifically, as a queer business owner, one of the hardest things is the fact that you are basically coming out day after day. It's taxing both mentally and emotionally. By just being yourself, you open yourself up to all sorts of hateful comments, and that can affect how you show up in your business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Find a community of like-minded people. It makes a world of difference to have that support and to be able to learn/grow together.
- You don't have to have it all figured out right away. Take action towards what is lighting you up right now.
- Your knowledge isn't common knowledge... even if you think it is. Share it! Monetize it!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
The world needs your unique voice and message now more than ever.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.hannahstrenger.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahstrenger/
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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