Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in coaching but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amy Brady, Founder of StandUP, PBC, located in Denver, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
StandUP is a Colorado Public Benefit Corporation. At StandUP, we work with the non-profit, education, and government sectors. We work to support these organizations (and the individuals who work for them) in being their best so that they can make the greatest possible impact on the communities they serve. We do this through leadership development and coaching, team workshops, and a commitment to organizational culture shifts. All of our work is grounded in emotional intelligence, positive relationship-building, the coaching methodology, and a commitment to equity. Our clients include Denver Public Schools, Denver Parks and Recreation, The United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colorado, Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver, Denver's Office of Children's Affairs, The YMCA of Metro Denver, and so many more non-profits that are doing powerful work in the world.
Tell us about yourself
I think I always had the entrepreneurial bug. Shortly after having my third child, I realized that it was time to make the leap. I had spent 15 years working in some form of education, first as a classroom teacher and then for Colorado State University Extension creating youth programs in the Denver area. I had reached my highest potential at CSU, and so it was time to jump. I became a certified coach, reached out to all my contacts, and fortunately had some people and organizations take a chance on me during those early years.
What motivates me every day is the belief in humanity - knowing that when we all do our own work to break down our barriers and show up as our very best, that we can collectively create a resounding ripple of positive impact in our lives and communities. I am inspired every day by the people I get to work with who do the hard work of self-exploration (individually and within organizations) because they know it will make a lasting impact on the communities they serve.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I read recently that only 10% of women-owned businesses have more than a single employee (the owner). We are now a team of three. That feels pretty amazing to me. On this same note, I feel that releasing control of "my way" as I've brought on new people has been a huge accomplishment as it has empowered StandUP to grow in unimaginable ways.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing for me - was being a constant cliff-jumper. In order to stay ahead of what's happening in the world, it requires continuous leaps of faith. This can be exhilarating but also scary due to the level of risk in the unknown. I also really dislike detail work and anything to do with numbers. :) I am a visionary, a creator, and a connector, so I really struggle with all the "heady" stuff!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do the work. It takes grit to get started and get momentum going. Stay in the game. Keep learning.
- Be VALUES LED. Know who you are and show up that way consistently.
- Have a kick-ass support system that will remind you who you are and why your work matters when your inner voice gets loud and unkind.
- Seek out and embrace diverse perspectives. Always. Even (and especially) when it's hard.
- Always be learning. Read. Ask for feedback. Challenge yourself.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://standupteam.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StandUPteam.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standupteamdenver/
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.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.
