Though Lori was already a professional in the field of health and wellness, the birth of her son changed her life and gave her a new perspective on the connection between mind & body health. She now devotes herself to helping moms get back in shape post-partum with her signature programs. Her interview inspires us to let go of our own fears and embrace the life we were meant to live.
What inspired you to become a holistic entrepreneur?
I was a licensed clinical professional counselor for several years and was always physically active. (I have a history of competing in gymnastics, diving & kickboxing). After I had my son (in January 2011) I realized that health was not just mind OR body. The 2 aren’t mutually exclusive. I completed my personal training & nutrition certifications to learn more and eventually started helping other moms get back in shape post-partum. I created Breakthrough Mind & Body as a way to provide information & motivation to people around the globe, and began developing products and memberships that would allow me to help as many people as possible My passion evolved into what you see now and I couldn’t be happier!
Tell us about your business or practice.
Health is not just physical – I’ve found in my personal & professional experiences, that whole body wellness includes physical fitness, nutrition and emotional health. What we eat, how we move and how we think all play a significant role in our health & well-being, which is why I don’t discount any of them when creating programs or working with clients.
What is your current business model? (Examples: provide services to clients/patients 1:1 in person or virtually, group programs, membership structure, product-based, etc.)
I just launched a 12-week transformational program for moms; it includes physical fitness, nutrition guidance and personal development all crafted & created specifically for the post-partum mind & body! I am launching a VIP membership area in early Summer 2015, since my ability to provide private coaching is limited due to time constraints. I don’t like when I have to turn people away from coaching, so I’ve been creating programs & the soon-to-be membership area in order to help as many women as possible.
What has been one of your favorite moments as a business owner thus far?
My favorite moments are always when I receive a text, email or phone call from someone who has experienced a life-changing experience. Whether it be a mom who texts me excitedly about having lost 10 pounds or someone halfway across the world that experienced an incredible shift in their life; it’s all equally amazing, inspiring & memorable. I’m proud of each & every person I get to work with and am so honored when they share their successes with me.
What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced in running your business or practice?
Facing my fears. I’ve completely stepped out of the box and away from everything I ever knew. I worked 60+ hours per week for many years. As soon as I had my son, I knew I wanted to stay home with him and was put on this earth to do more than trade my time for money. I knew I could make a difference. And I relentlessly searched for the vehicles that would let me do just that!
How have you overcome those challenges?
Like I said, I KNEW there had to be a way that I could be available to my son and pursue my true passion. I wanted to help create the same life-changing experiences for others that I had undergone after having him. My husband has supported me 100% and I’ve been relentless in my drive to make it happen.
How do you find new clients?
I love social media, especially Instagram (@LoriSuperfoods) and Facebook… I’m also grateful for a constant stream of referrals because the people I work with have great results and want to share their successes with friends and family.
What have you found to be most effective in securing new clients to sign up for your services?
Typically, clients follow me and I earn their trust through social media. The relationships transpire from there. Even if I receive a referral, I encourage them to read articles I’ve written and follow my social media so they can see that I’m consistent with the guidance & inspiration I provide.
What do you do to keep your existing clients engaged in the long term?
Social Media, weekly emails & a VIP membership
As your own boss, what is your best strategy for staying focused and productive during your workday?
I love what I do. My son is my ‘why’ and the force behind everything I do, and I make him part of my daily business activities.
If you could start your business over again from the beginning, what would you do differently?
I would’ve started it 10 years ago!
What were some of the first mistakes you made that you would tell a new holistic entrepreneur to avoid?
Being hesitant & afraid. Don’t give up on yourself & never succumb to your own fears!
What are the top three business tools or resources you couldn’t live without?
- My Network. I have an amazing circle of mentors that keep me inspired & educated. 2. Social Media. It has really helped me reach so many more people; nothing is more satisfying than being able to speak to or work with someone halfway around the world at the drop of a hat! 3. Books. My own personal development is extremely important to my business, and I’m a perpetual student of life. I’m constantly reading & learning and I love sharing new skills with my fans & readers.
What has been your most effective method for growing your business?
Social Media, growing my presence & respect in the industry
What is the craziest thing you’ve ever for done for your business?
Spent $2000 on a business marketing training. It was a lot of money at the time!
What is your favorite indulgence?
My daily bar of Green Tea-infused dark chocolate!
Most exotic thing you’ve ever eaten?
Duck tenders
Most memorable place you’ve ever visited?
My parents’ home in rural Wisconsin. It’s amazing to be with family and now I get to create wonderful memories with my son that I experienced as a child.
Last book you read?
The Slight Edge
If you could only have one kind of food for the rest of your life, it would be…
Mexican! I’m a sucker for chips & fresh guac!
What is your go-to breakfast?
A strawberry superfood shake, maybe with some chia seeds mixed in. Yum! Shakes & smoothies are way underrated in their ability to pack a nutritional punch!
What do you find most fascinating about the human body?
When it’s fueled well, it performs well. How we treat our bodies (how we eat, how we move, how we think) has an incredible impact on our daily lives.
What do you love most about being an entrepreneur?
Helping people in the way that feels most comfortable & real to me. I can authentically use my passion & wisdom to help change lives!
Lori Streator is a Fitness + Nutrition + Personal Development Coach/Specialist based out of Chicago, IL. You can find out more about her and her business, Breakthrough Mind & Body, at www.BreakthroughMindandBody.com.
