Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Shannon Siriano Greenwood, Founder of Rebelle Con, located in Richmond, VA, USA.

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

Rebelle is an organization that supports women in defining and creating their own version of success. We believe that when women support one another, AMAZING things can happen. We bring them together at live events, connect them with one another in our peer mentorship program, and tell their stories in Rebelle Magazine.

Tell us about yourself

When I sold my first company, I didn't know what I was doing. And worse than that, I had no one to ask. I was an ambitious, do-everything-myself type of person, and I was burning out on regular 3-year cycles. I knew there was a better way, so I started following my curiosity and realized there was a whole community of women who were also trying to figure things out on their own. Sharing women's stories is what drives me because when all the important conversations happen behind closed doors, no one wins.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My most recent accomplishment as a business owner is publishing and printing Rebelle Magazine. When the pandemic forced us to cancel many events, I knew I wanted a way to stay connected with our community and keep telling their stories. This new format allows us to reach more people and bring the right-minded people into our community.

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

Keeping things profitable. When you work in the inspiration space and want to help transform the lives of your clients and customers, keeping an eye on that bottom line can be a challenge. I often remind myself that sustainability matters. If my company's financials aren't as healthy as they can be, we cannot help as many people as we want to.

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

  1. Have a clear plan for your business model and review it often; so many people start a business without understanding P&L and profit margins.
  2. Co-create with your customers. They will give you the feedback you need to create the right product/service to fill the need in your market.
  3. Find support. You literally cannot do this alone. Find people who can help you both emotionally and logistically in your journey.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Spending time around people who inspire you will not only affect your career, it will change your life.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://readytorebelle.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/readytorebelle/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonsiriano/

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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