We were lucky to catch up with Lienna (Olena) May recently and have shared our conversation below.
Lienna (Olena), looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Setting up an independent practice is a daunting endeavor. Can you talk to us about what it was like for you – what were some of the main steps, challenges, etc.
My motivation for starting my own practice was to gain financial independence and design a schedule that fits my family’s needs. With the birth of my baby girl, it became even more crucial for me to work on my own terms, ensuring quality time with my husband and daughter.
Some of the key challenges I was facing was that as an introverted person, it was more of a challenge to network and connect with industry peers which was vital, so I began reaching out locally and online. It wasn’t easy, but I knew I had to step out of my comfort zone every day in order to grow my business.
I picked one area that would be easier for me to do which is being a guest for podcasts in the health and wellness field. I started reaching out to various podcasts daily and heard crickets at first. Then, I landed my first interview and it got easier the more podcasts I did. One pivotal podcast interview led to an invitation to speak at a conference alongside renowned experts. It taught me that opportunities arise when you step out of your comfort zone. The best things that happened in my life and business happened out of my comfort zone.
Another significant challenge was offering a self-pay practice without insurance. Learning to communicate the value of my services. I helped my clients see the worth in investing in their health, focusing on achieving results rather than just treating symptoms. Seeing remarkable client transformations, I offer even more value and more in-depth service by providing various packages whereby I can really walk with my clients to help them ultimately achieve their health and wellness goals. My clients are the heart of everything I do.
For aspiring professionals considering starting their own practice, don’t hesitate to choose a niche. It helps you stand out in a crowded field and positions you as an expert. I wish I would have done it earlier.
Mistakes aren’t failures; they’re opportunities to learn what works and what doesn’t so you can move forward. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who believe in your vision. They’ll be your pillars of strength during challenging times.
My journey is a testament to the power of determination, stepping out of comfort zones, and believing in yourself. It’s a beacon of hope for anyone striving for success in entrepreneurship while maintaining a balanced family life.
Lienna (Olena), love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
My journey from Ukraine to the United States has been an adventure that ignited my passion for holistic health.
Moving to the US when I was 22 years old with a translation degree, it was difficult to find a lot of translation jobs. It was during this time that I encountered my own health struggles, namely, relentless acne and gut issues. Traditional medicine offered pills and creams, but my problems persisted, affecting not just my physical health but also my mental well-being.
Deep inside, I knew there had to be underlying issues causing my health problems. I embraced my inner detective and embarked on a path to understanding the holistic aspects of health – that is what set my heart on fire. I returned to school to earn a Master’s Degree in Nutrition from the University of Bridgeport, adopting a whole-body and mind approach to healing.
My journey to clear skin and a healthier gut was no overnight miracle. It took time and patience, but the results were worth every effort. I’m now passionate about helping my clients discover the root causes of their health issues.
My clinical expertise lies in acne, gut problems, blood sugar imbalances and weight loss. . When a client comes to me with issues like bloating, constipation, acne, or more, I don’t just focus on symptoms. I see the whole person, considering their diet, absorption, sensitivities, gut health, hormones, stress, sleep, exercise, mental health, and life experiences.
In our first appointment, I delved deep into their health history, habits, medicines, supplements, and more. Together, we take baby steps towards a healthier lifestyle, focusing on nutrition, mental health, and sleep. Comprehensive functional medicine tests often come into play, helping us uncover bacterial imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, or leaky gut.
For instance, with my acne clients, we frequently discover underlying gut issues, nutrient deficiencies, thyroid concerns, and blood sugar imbalances.
What makes me stand out is my dedication to uncovering the root causes of my clients’ health problems to achieve lasting results. I assess each client individually, identifying the one area in their life that would make the most significant difference in their overall health.
If a client is experiencing burnout or extreme stress, we prioritize mental health and stress management because the gut and brain are intimately connected. My one-on-one packages, ranging from 1 to 6 months, cater to each client’s unique health goals. I also offer an online acne group program to help clients regain their confidence.
I always emphasize that improving health takes time; there’s no quick fix or magic pill. It requires a willingness to embrace new habits, change dietary patterns, and sometimes invest in comprehensive testing and supplements to expedite results.
Remember, health is a journey, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Have you ever had to pivot?
Life has this way of throwing curveballs when you least expect it. I was working tirelessly for a start-up overseas, pouring my heart and soul into it, with barely a moment to even think about my own business aspirations. Then, out of the blue, our entire US team was laid off, and everything changed in the blink of an eye. It was a wake-up call, a chance to pivot and make my dream of financial freedom and time for myself a reality. I realized that I had never truly invested in my own business before – it was time to go all in.
I took a leap, becoming consistent on social media, stepping out of my comfort zone, and even mustering up the courage to do a local TV interview. I reached out to more podcasts, something I’d wanted to do for years. I crafted my first packages, a long-held dream finally realized. Partnering with local businesses became a strategic move to reach more clients, and it started paying off.
But perhaps the most transformative change was working on my mindset. I stumbled upon an incredible book by Rachel Rodgers, “We Should All Be Millionaires,” and it was a game-changer. I’d wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone, especially fellow female entrepreneurs.
Here’s the thing: If you have a dream or a business idea, waiting for the perfect moment is a trap. There’s no such thing as perfect timing. Start today, even if you don’t have it all figured out. Take that next step, right in front of you. And remember, imposter syndrome is a struggle we all face. Don’t let it stop you from pursuing what you’re passionate about and love. You’ve got this!
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
Being a nutritionist isn’t just a job for me; it’s a calling that allows me to be a guiding light for my incredible clients on their health journeys.
My role is more than just providing information; it’s about offering unwavering support, being a source of encouragement, and helping them uncover their “why” for embracing healthier choices. Life can throw setbacks our way, and that’s when I’m right there, ready to help them dust off and get back on track.
But here’s the thing: I understand that one-size-fits-all advice doesn’t cut it. Each client is unique, and their journey is deeply personal. Take, for instance, a busy professional woman who’s always on the move. For her, we don’t just talk about healthy eating; we create strategies for quick, nourishing meals on the go. And when she’s dining out, I’m there to guide her toward the healthiest options.
Being a clinical nutritionist means tailoring habits and changes to fit their lifestyle seamlessly. It’s about making health a practical, achievable part of their everyday life.
So, whether it’s navigating busy schedules, making smart choices while dining out, or just being a friendly voice of encouragement, I’m here to ensure my clients not only reach their goals but enjoy the journey along the way. Together, we’ve got this!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://luckyavocadonutrition.com
- Instagram: @LuckyAvocadoNutrition
- Facebook: LuckyAvocadoNutrition
Image Credits
Some of the images are used from Pexels.com which are free images to use.