Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Heike Yates, Founder of Pursue Your Spark, located in Silver Spring, MD, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I help empty-nester moms over 50 reclaim their health with Pilates and Intermittent fasting strategies to feel stronger and supercharge their energy. Combining simple Pilates and nutrition strategies for women 50+ to feel their best in their second half of life.
Tell us about yourself
I was born and raised in Germany and now live and run my two businesses in Silver Spring, Maryland. For the past 35 years, I have helped men and women thrive through my brick-and-mortar Pilates and fitness studio. I wanted to help more people get healthier and stronger, and that's when Pursue Your Spark was born.
Pursue Your Spark is helping empty-nester moms over 50 reclaim their health and strength to thrive during their second half of life. My online courses, The Empty Nest Reboot and the Fasted + Fit Over 50 Jump Start are some courses she offers. When my clients reach their goals, they can't believe they have stayed committed and have reached their health goals. They didn't have to sacrifice their time and stop eating the foods they love to feel vital and energized.
Incorporating Intermittent Fasting is a game-changer as they finally ditch the diets they thought they had to be on and instead eat for their health and to heal their gut. Feeling stronger and healthier than they have in years.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
That I've been successful in helping thousands of men and women enjoy a healthy and fit life, especially which can be difficult as we are aging. But teaching someone that the right nutrition and exercise can help you feel better and that getting older is not that bad is empowering. I successfully run two businesses as a women entrepreneur with little help. I did hire a VA two years ago to help out.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Owning two businesses can be hard on your family, and the time it takes away from them. Balancing priorities and setting boundaries with yourself and others can be challenging. During COVID, my brick-and-mortar business closed entirely, which gave me time to boost my online Pursue Your Spark brand, but it was still tough.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Make a business plan. Don't rely on your skills (whatever your business is) and think that people will come because you're so amazing. You need to know your income and expenses.
- Find a mentor. Someone that has gone before you and can support you as questions arise. Helping you avoid some of the often made mistakes of an entrepreneur.
- Don't give up too soon. Realize that creating a business takes time, trial, and error. As you improve your business skills, your business will be better. I re-branded three times until I found the right niche.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
When I'm not working, I can be found biking, hiking, traveling, and visiting my kids (especially now that I am a grandma of a beautiful baby girl).
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://heikeyates.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pursueyourspark
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heikeyates/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heike-yates-71864b6/
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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