Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jenni Jo McLaughlin, Owner of Jenni Jo, LLC., located in Portland, OR, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Jenni Jo is my name, and Taming Tension is my game! I started out in the wellness industry in 2003 as a therapeutic massage therapist. I also love live music. So I combined the two and am a self-titled Massage Therapist to the Rockstars! I've had the incredible opportunity to work with a variety of dynamic artists and performers over the span of my career. In 2019 I invested in an Airstream Basecamp to transform into a mobile studio in hopes of making therapeutic massage and bodywork accessible to artists in all kinds of venues!
Tell us about yourself
I was inspired to pursue a career in the healing arts after living with and taking care of my grandmother, who lived with severe rheumatoid arthritis most of her life. After 6 months of intentional healthy touch, she was sleeping more soundly, her demeanor had softened, and her pain a little less sharp. It was deeply moving for me. To know that I could help someone feel better in their skin, well, that's all I needed. I'm forever motivated by that precious time I had with my grandma and how profoundly monumental that was for me.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My greatest accomplishment (so far!) was being hired by Faith Hill to tour with her as her personal massage therapist! I toured for 2 solid months and had the time of my life doing what I'm so passionate about! It was incredibly humbling and inspiring for me. I was so grateful to be acknowledged, seen, and appreciated for my craft by someone I admire and respect, not only as a musician but as a human too!
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
For me, finding balance with it ALL is the hardest part of business ownership. As a single mother to twins, my energetic capacities have changed. So my business scope has shifted as well, and I've not been able to see my regular clients like I used to. Transforming from one business model into another gracefully and in full clarity to my cherished loyal clients and colleagues is challenging! Especially since the needs and activities of my children grow increasingly larger, dedicating the time to my creation and business becomes smaller; it's a juggling act!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be proud and be loud! Example: I've ALWAYS had tee shirts and sweatshirts made with my logo and business info. I am always marketing myself! You never, ever know who will notice and become your next client!
- Become an expert in your chosen career and put your prices where you're uncomfortable.
- Never be afraid to seek mentors.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://jennijo.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heyjennijo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyjennijo/
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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