Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Rachel Rodriguez, Founder of Shape Your Grape, located in Glendale, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Shape Your Grape has an inner drive to take a different perspective on life because we believe in living a health-conscious lifestyle. The way we challenge and shift this perspective is by designing a realistic approach, integrating practical strategies, and then tailoring it for you. Together, we'll design the healthiest and most sustainable way of living.
You'll get 3 integrated specialties in each virtual session.
- Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist
- Certified Personal Training
- Certified Health Coach
Tell us about yourself
With over 12 years of experience as a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist (RDN) in the health industry, I intentionally choose to view health through a very different lens. I'm not your typical RDN; rather than expecting the world to adapt to me, I find ways to adapt, an inner drive that began at a young age. My path has been distinct from that of other RDNs throughout my career. I advanced in operational management at a Fortune 500 Company and ran one of Southern California's largest dialysis clinics. I place a tremendous amount of value on cultivating relationships and organization. Finally, I want to be happy in life, and I make it a point to set this goal for myself every day while immersing myself with my clients.
My son has taught me that the little things in life are the most important that make you happy. Keeping this in mind, I noticed him one day with a mouthful of purple grapes, devouring each bite until he looked up at me with excitement, "mommy, it's delicious!" A moment frozen in time that I'll never forget, one for which I'm "grape-ful!" My world changed in the blink of an eye, and I craved a life of what is now an integrated way of living. One that didn't feel like a tug of war and was more along the lines of everything feeling complete.
Shape Your Grape and this mompreneur were both born! I'm in charge of my future now, and I've returned to my roots by doing what I do best: assisting others with a deep passion for food and exercise! It feels right as if I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be in this world.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
There are two moments that stand out as my greatest accomplishments. First, there comes a time when our clients reach a point of no return and draw a line in the sand because they want a new way of life and never look back. One client stands out where she "smashed her grape," accepted where she was in life, and began her new path by leading a health-conscious lifestyle. She finally got what she needed! This is why I'm so passionate about food and exercise because there is another way to live. I truly want to be the person along my client's new path! Second, we're kicking off our first course, The Roots Program, an online express training program to help anchor your life into a healthy lifestyle … Starting at The Roots! Our clients have been asking for this, and we're excited to create this.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Patience! One of the most challenging aspects of running a business is witnessing the hours of research, setting up procedures, and waiting through slow periods. Then, seemingly overnight, everything begins to fall into place, and growth occurs both within the business and within you as the owner.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Check yourself by ensuring that you are constantly evaluating whether you are working on your business or in your business. There's a difference!
- Keep a monthly journal to track your progress. I have a reminder at the beginning of each month. It was especially useful in the beginning when stale times could make or break you.
- Look outside your industry for ideas, processes, and systems, as well as a fresh perspective on how to differentiate your company.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
We shape the healthiest, most sustainable lifestyle - one bite at a time!
Are you ready to experience the taste of life?
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.shapeyourgrape.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shapeyourgrapelifestyle
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shapeyourgrape/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/shapeyourgrape
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3oCPgtl
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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