Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Janet Howard, Founder of Rosehip26, located in Amherst, MA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business name - Rosehip26 - was chosen so that it could shift with whatever I am offering and grow and ebb with its offerings. Rosehip26 is for earth-love and healing and includes renting two rooms in my home for Air BNB (walking distance to UMASS and Amherst college in Western MA), Kundalini Yoga offers, and Reiki Integrative Touch offering. My new memoir, "Field Notes on Letting Go - a memoir of truth-seeking, healing, and personal freedom" - launched on February 9, 2023. It is accompanied by a pondering workbook with writing prompts. My customers are yoga students, travelers, people affiliated with UMASS in some way, and those looking for integrative touch to manage stress, sleeping, anxiety, or other needs.
Tell us about yourself
I first started Air BNB-ing rooms to help cover expenses for my kids' college. I had an over 30-year career in healthcare sustainability, and last year I resigned so I could focus on whatever was next. I went to Hawaii and volunteered on an agriculture project, went on a vision quest, and then the book was born. I am motivated by following my heart. Right now, I am only doing what moves me spiritually and passionately.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I have hosted over 400 guests at my home and met people from all over the world. More than a business, I call it a "side gig" because I frequently leave and go on an adventure and halt my Kundalini yoga classes while I am traveling.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
I love the actual work - the kundalini, the reiki, the book-writing. But marketing, promotion, advertising - all that stuff - it's hard for me to get myself to do it. I think I have grown very slowly for that reason, but I think it was also the pace that was right for me.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Work out of your home, if possible, because it keeps costs down and offers opportunities for tax advantages. I like starting small and growing from there.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.rosehip26.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janet.howard.rosehip26/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rosehip26/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janethoward2/
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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