Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Joanne Dominico, Founder of Study with Joanne, located in Newcastle, ON, CA.

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

Through my business, "Study with Joanne," I help students (and anyone really) LEARN to be the best version of themselves by incorporating healthy habit building, time management, and research-backed strategies for improving overall wellness, productivity, and academic success. I work predominantly with students in middle school, high school, and post-secondary, but I often deliver workshops to parents and educators as well. I also refer to myself as a Media Learning Expert, as I've had several opportunities to be interviewed on local and national media outlets discussing strategies for learning more efficiently and effectively.

Tell us about yourself

I have worked in education for over two decades now with learners of all ages and abilities. I began my career as an Occupational Therapist working in schools across the Greater Toronto Area, in the USA, and Sunny Bermuda. I have been working in higher education since 2011 and currently work at Centennial College in Toronto, Canada. I offer private consulting through my personal practice, "Study with Joanne" and I am a dynamic and engaging public speaker who loves to deliver workshops and keynotes. (I love to talk and inspire people!)

I truly love what I do because I honestly do not remember anyone ever teaching me how to study and learn - and trust me, I could've used some tips back then! I find joy in being the person I needed when I was younger. I love that I can share tangible strategies that students can easily implement to see positive life changes. And it is so motivating to know that I am helping one student who may go on to help countless others in their lifetime. It's a beautiful thing!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

In 2018, I had the opportunity to deliver a TEDx talk, which was a wonderful experience. It had always been a dream of mine. While it was a LOT of work to prepare and prepare for the big day, I love that I got the chance to share my message and hopefully inspire students to be more active and get better grades.

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

For me, the most challenging part is finding balance. I work full time, am a Mom, and run my own business, so sometimes it can be difficult to find the time to do all that I would like to do. Sometimes I have to make sacrifices to fit it all in. It definitely helps that time management is one of my areas of expertise. However, it's still not easy, and I have systems to help me stay on top of everything from laundry and meal prep to social media posts and newsletters.

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

  1. Figure out your "why." I think it's important to understand why you want to start a business first. Is it a passion project, to fill a need in your community, or simply for extra income? Once you know what is fueling your desire to start a business, you will be better able to make decisions moving forward.
  2. Research what already exists in your area. It can be helpful to see what's already out there and learn or gain inspiration from others in similar businesses.
  3. Take advantage of free support and resources from your local business advisory center. They know a lot and are happy to share their knowledge and advise new business owners. It's also a great place to network and make new connections, leading to other opportunities.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://studywithjoanne.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/studywithjoanne/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studywithjoanne/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joannedominico/

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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