Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Joshua Medeiros, Founder of Etéreo Scents, located in Fall River, MA, USA.

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

In 2016, I was at the peak of my health challenges. I was dealing with a mystery condition at the time that would send me spiraling downward and not finding relief. When I was diagnosed with Chronic Lyme, it was then I decided to make my health my number one priority. Throughout that process, I found myself wanting to incorporate more natural treatments to my symptoms - one of them being my sensitivity to chemicals. I looked towards natural elements that nature provided to help me cope. I started to use essential oils in my daily life and created sprays that would return me back to a time when I enjoyed aromas. Years later, in my kitchen, something in my spirit told me to share this with others who may be dealing with the same challenges, and so I created Etéreo Scents - products that were free from harsh chemicals and that would create an atmosphere of calm and tranquility. My line includes essential oil roll-ons that help with anxiety, stress, pain, headaches, migraines, help boost the immune system, and even one for children that have a hard time concentrating or are anxious, room and linen sprays made from natural ingredients, Essential oil blends made by me, car diffusers, bath salt soaks, hair & scalp Rejuv Spray, body sprays, relaxation spray mists, soy wax melts, and nail and cuticle oils - all made with either Pure essential oils, natural fragrance and chemical-free ingredients. My customers are those that are tired of being negatively affected by chemicals and want natural substitutes in order to live a life less toxic. Those who are tired of suffering and looking to get to the root causes of their stresses. Those that are looking for relief and not have to worry about buying products that are going to affect them.

Tell us about yourself

There are so many businesses out there that claim to be clean, but they add so many chemicals to their products, and it causes damage. What motivates me is to continue to be of service to those people, which helps me, in turn, continue with my healing process but also with hopes of educating more and more people out there to turn away from the toxicity that they see from big-name companies. I got tired of seeing commercials or seeing companies claiming that their products were clean and natural. When doing the research, I found that to be not true. There were multiple chemicals in those products that were harmful to the human body, and so a part of doing this business was to fill in the gap and show people that this is a more natural way and that these ingredients that I am using are ingredients that are safe. If you can't pronounce an ingredient and it sounds like gibberish, it's most likely toxic. The feedback that I have gotten from customers who have told me that they have found relief from anxiety, stress, and insomnia also motivates me. People who had to stop using all kinds of sprays because they just couldn't tolerate it and react instantly are able to use my products and not have any reactions.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment was bringing into fruition what I have dreamt about in order to help people gain relief and make better choices with the products they are purchasing. Being able to spread out my products to different locations where I have gained the trust of the business owners. Educating and gaining the trust of others to believe in what I have to offer. Being honest with people is the most important thing. I don't tell people things just because I want to make a sale, and I believe the people I encounter see that. Finally, loving what I do is a huge accomplishment for me. Seeing people smile and get relief or even just get so excited about how they are finally able to use something they love and not worry about feeling sick.

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

One of the hardest things for me is getting some people to believe in the truth about natural medicine and how living a less toxic life can change their lives. I believe here in the western world, we are so brainwashed by western medicine that it's hard for most to make the change or even change to something new because we are creatures of habit and also have the attitude that we like what we like. I was awakened because I, too, was brainwashed and, at first, just could not see how doing all these natural things would do anything. But when I found myself desperate, I was willing to try anything, and it was getting rid of all things toxic, whether it be physical, spiritual, or mental. It all had to go if I was to get any better.

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

The biggest tip I would give anyone looking to start a business is to let go of the fear of what if's. It's ok to feel it, but don't hold onto it. The idea was given to you for a reason, and the Universe has your back. All you have to do is show up and take action. Ask for help, and it will all come the way it is supposed to come. Never give up even when things seem like they are falling apart because what I have come to realize is that nothing comes easy, and anything beautiful comes from a mess first.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Yes, if anyone is reading this, know that you are worthy, and no matter what has happened in your life, don't let it stop you from being the amazing person you were created to be.

Where can people find you and your business?

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/etereoscents
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etereoscents/

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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