Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Asheida Arruda, Founder of Vocal Veda, located in Vancouver, BC, Canada.

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

My business is all about the Voice and Creativity! I teach people to become better singers, actors, and speakers through my holistic approach and programs, including the innovative and integrative work from Vocal Yoga. My business also includes my work as an artist and voiceover artist myself, so I know firsthand what it's like. I teach others to strengthen, balance, and connect with their voice, be it for their craft as a singer, actor, or public speaker, and take it to the next level. I help those who want to heal and tap into the power of their voice to recover confidence and well-being. I help children have greater awareness and control over how their use their voice while having fun singing and acting! My voice work takes a holistic approach, looking at the whole individual and their experience.

Tell us about yourself

It's been a journey and, of course, an ongoing one of self-discovery and mastery. I have always been entrepreneurial and an "out of the box" thinker. That was a big motivator- I'm creative and can be methodical. I also have a genuine interest in helping others and understanding the complexities of expression and the voice.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment has been internal discipline and holding space despite my own ups and downs. Knowing that through this, I can be a strong catalyst for change and inspiration for others. I also have had an incredible time working with successful artists seeing their creative process, and enjoying the uplifting momentum of ideas that spurs between my students and me. Another accomplishment has been my work as an artist and voiceover artist myself. The work I have done with my voice as a singer and voiceover artist transfers into my teaching, helping me be a more creative and effective teacher.

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

Maintaining balance and creating a stronger structure. That's been a challenge as I've been evolving and as I change, ideas and goals change too. Ironically enough, it's been about me finding my voice. Becoming more of who I really am so I can be of service to others in a higher way.
It's been a defining moment, as old perceptions and ideas have been stripped away to really get more clear on how I can help others.

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

  1. Your journey may look different than many others. In fact, it may look totally opposite than others. This is a time of building deep faith in the Self despite times you question it all.
  2. Be willing to learn from others. To be vulnerable enough to make mistakes or misunderstand to "inner stand." I'd also like to include being willing to ask for help. It requires that same vulnerability. That comes when we can feel safe in ourselves and the world. And that is the first stepping stone of working with the voice. (whether physically or metaphorically).
  3. Be willing to pivot when things are not working anymore. Sometimes it requires a different approach, mentoring, or deeper questioning around what inspires you. Remembering, things change. You change. It's okay to change and let go in order to regain a sense of lightness.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I think it's very important for people to develop skills and talents in this day and age. To help others with your skills and talents and find ways to share them, find ways to monetize it so it is sustainable and evolving. Going into business can build confidence and resilience while building foundations for financial stability and satisfaction. It will reveal your strengths and weaknesses. Sometimes it can reveal a lot of your weaknesses and wounds, but as a way to improve, heal and become more whole. Either way, find a way to always celebrate your wins, no matter how small, internal or external. And when there are really big wins, remember all the times leading to that point. It keeps you real, keeps you humble and grateful.

Where can people find you and your business?

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

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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