What’s your backstory and how did you come up with the idea?
Cassandra had a career as a Gerontologist for many years. While working in corporate America she neglected her health and eventually her body shut down. Cassandra was diagnosed with systemic lupus. The treatment for this condition included chemo drugs with tons of other medication that caused Cassandra to end her career as a Gerontologist. Eventually Cassandra became fed up with the side effects of the medicine and began studying health & wellness. Cassandra developed a regimen that sparked remission with systemic lupus. This experience caused Cassandra to empower other women towards restoring their physical, emotional, and spiritual health thus Holistic Living Consulting was birthed.
Describe the process of launching the business.
Holistic Living Consulting was birthed in February 2018. When Cassandra launched the business she continued to work a job until January 2020. The beginning years was challenging working in the business after completing a day’s work. Cassandra is a big advocate of self-care so this constrained the opportunities in empowering women towards better health. The business did not receive capital so it was built using Cassandra’s personal income. The access to capital for minority women presents a challenge when doing business in a digital world. Despite the hurdles Holistic Living Consulting had a successful launch.
Since launch, what has worked to attract and retain customers?
Cassandra has been seen on media outlets like ABC, CBS, and NBC which helped increase brand awareness and attracting ideal target audience. The ability to attract and retain clients requires a long term strategy. To this effort the company has maintained a presence online on platforms that serve our ideal audience. Offering real value and showing concern will pay off in the long run. When a company provides great service eventually the word will spread since is atypical in our society.
How are you doing today and what does the future look like?
Today I am excited about the future and the opportunity to change the healthcare disparities that exist among minority women. Holistic Living Consulting has been accepted into a streaming tv service campaign and we look forward to taking the brand to the next level. The company is seeking sponsors for this project. Moving forward Cassandra will be providing more digital information to impact the health and wellness of women.
Through starting the business, have you learned anything particularly helpful or advantageous?
Starting a business requires tons of work. Before a person begins this venture it is imperative to determine their why of business. Having this information will keep you motivated on the days when it seems impossible. Taking professional courses in marketing, sales, and accounting will prove beneficial in operating a company. Establish business credit as soon as possible and operate your business like it is a Fortune 500 company from day one. The mind is powerful so if you believe your business is destined for greatness the right resources and people will come along and assist you in creating a business that last a lifetime.
What platform/tools do you use for your business?
Automation and systems will help you run your business so much easier. Holistic Living Consulting utilizes the following tools:
* CRM- Dubsado
* Email responder- Send in Blue
* Client scheduler- Calendly
* Social media- Twittimer and Later
* Graphics- Canva
What have been the most influential books, podcasts, or other resources?
As mentioned earlier the power of the mind is unbelievable. Listening to speeches from Les Brown and Lisa Nichols keep me thinking positive thoughts. Podcasts like Women Who Launch & Lead and She Boss Talk provide valuable information. Since my early years I have been an avid reader a few of the books that have been of valuable include Successful Women Think Differently and Repositioning Yourself.
Advice for other entrepreneurs who want to get started or are just starting out?
Trust yourself. Remember this your business no one will completely understand the vision God has given you.
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