Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jenna Shersher, Founder, and CEO of Twist Out Cancer, located in Bryn Mawr, PA, USA.

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

Twist Out Cancer provides psychosocial support to individuals touched by cancer through creative arts programming. Our community is comprised of individuals in treatment, out of treatment, previvors, caregivers, supporters, and artists who are committed to utilizing the creative arts as a mechanism for healing.

Tell us about yourself

I started Twist Out Cancer shortly after my own experience with Grey Zone Lymphoma, a rare blood disorder that at the time impacted less than 300 people worldwide. As a young adult facing a rare type of cancer, I was forced to face my own mortality and figure out what I needed in order to get through treatment and venture into survivorship. What became clear is that while there are a lot of organizations out there focused on raising critical funds for cancer research, there are few organizations focused on the emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis, both on the individuals and on their loved ones. I wanted to create a platform and safe space for individuals to come forward with their stories and for artists to create works of art reflective of their journey with cancer. All of our programs focus on using the creative arts to share stories, process their experiences, and give back to the community.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as the Founder and CEO of Twist Out Cancer is the vibrant and supportive community that has been created as a result of storytelling. I believe wholeheartedly that the more you share, the more the world opens up. I was very open, honest, and vulnerable about my experience with cancer. I believe that vulnerability has, in turn, allowed others to feel comfortable sharing their story.

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

Creating and building Twist Out Cancer has been incredibly rewarding. The hardest part of my job is navigating the inevitable loss that can occur within our community. Over the last ten years, we have lost a number of young people who we care deeply about. We are constantly reminded of the fragility of life.

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

  1. Surround yourself with people that are smarter than you and have the skill sets you need in order to make your dream a reality.
  2. Own the fact that you are going to make mistakes. At the beginning of this venture, I made a ton of mistakes but made sure to learn from them moving forward.
  3. Make sure you love what you do. The businesses that last are the ones driven by passion and heart. If you are not waking up and going to bed thinking about your venture, you may want to consider doing something else. Being an entrepreneur, especially in the beginning, requires a ton of time, energy, and passion. It is not for the faint of heart, so make sure you are doing what you love!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

If you know of anyone that has been touched by cancer that you think may benefit from our mission and work, please send them our way!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://twistoutcancer.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TwistOutCancer
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twistoutcancer/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/twistoutcancer
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/twist-out-cancer/

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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