Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in coaching, but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Deborah Nichol, the founder of Crimson Raven Group, a leadership training & self-development Company, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

Tell us all about your business...

We are a Leadership Training & Self-Development Company. We’re blending brain science, psychology, and leadership training into a fun virtual picnic environment to enhance learning and engagement. We focus on human beings first, and creating compassionate leaders. We are in partnership with CARES SOCIETY, a non-profit that provides workshops and self-development training to those who are wanting to be the best they can be for themselves, their family, and their community.

What's your background and motivation to grow as a business owner?

Four years ago, I suffered a double brain injury. I lost my speech and couldn't even tie my shoes. When I felt better, I created a 10 Day Happiness Challenge; I was just about to launch it when covid hit. I've come a long way since then with the help of a team of people. During covid, I was fortunate enough to meet a fantastic group of people. I connected with one particular individual who would become my mentor. At one of our first sessions, he asked me what my big dream was. I told him, and he said, why aren't you doing that? He continued to say that if you build a business, that's what you do, and that's okay, but if you want to create an empire, then that's what you build. So the empire-building began, I partnered with two psychologists, and we made a series of modules such as Thriving in Chaos and Uncertainty, Mental Health SOS, Personality assessments, Happiness challenge, Diversity and Inclusion in the workplace and much more. The idea behind Crimson Raven Group was to create a learning environment that is thought-provoking and fun, and we started a virtual leadership picnic day.

As an entrepreneur, what does success ultimately mean to you?

I feel that the most significant accomplishment so far is building a business from an idea and getting others on board and excited about the vision. (we also partnered with Kennedy Events in Silicone Valley, they've worked with Google, Salesforce, Pinterest, etc.)

What's one of the hardest things that come with being an entrepreneur?

The hardest thing for me is the pressure I put on myself because people count on me to make this business a success. I wouldn't want to let them down. The funny thing is, It is also one of my motivators, making a difference in the lives we serve.

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

  1. Having a mentor, that is the biggest difference-maker to my business.

2. Creating collaborations with other businesses, trading with other experts for professional services helps the pocketbook when you're first starting out.

3. Continue learning and growing personally and professionally.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Thank you for allowing me to share part of my Journey, I wish all the best to those dreaming about and creating their own empire!

Where can people find you online?

https://www.crimsonravengroup.com/
https://www.instagram.com/crimsonravengroup/?hl=en
Or email me directly at deborah@crimsonravengroup.com

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as an entrepreneur or business coach that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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