Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shayna Hiller. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Shayna, 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.
I decided to start my health coaching practice in 2008. It was a challenging yet inspiring undertaking, as I was in my early 20s and had never worked for myself. I don’t come from a family of entrepreneurs, so I had no choice but to learn through trial and error, as well as several business trainings. Despite the inevitable obstacles, I was committed to creating a fulfilling and lucrative career supporting the health and wellbeing of others. At the time, there was no such thing as Zoom, yet I wanted to be able to work remotely since I lived between New York City and Costa Rica. I had the idea meet my clients on Skype and somehow it worked out. It felt unbelievable at times that I could earn money and ‘work’ while traveling. That excitement and feeling of freedom is what propelled me forward. Looking back, I realize that I over gave of my time and energy and had a difficult time charging my worth. That said, I don’t necessarily regret that since I ended up learning and growing from it. I also made my name my business name, which has pros and cons. Sometimes I wish I had named it something else that’s not directly associated with me. That said, there’s no ‘wrong’ or ‘right’, and it’s never too late to begin again, adapt, and evolve your business. All I can say is to trust in your ability to create a life you love, especially if it has to do with serving others. Our career plays such a crucial role in our overall health and happiness, and while it does require effort, it’s more of the ‘labor of love’ type, which is always well worth it!
Shayna, 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?
I began my professional journey at 21 years old when I embarked on my first Yoga Teacher Training in Costa Rica. I had started practicing yoga in college and immediately got hooked. During college, I didn’t have a clear direction on my career, so this came at the perfect time. My Yoga Training naturally led to a deep interest in health and wellness, so I trained to become a Certified Health Coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. I combined yoga teaching and nutrition coaching, both in person and virtually. I started hosting international retreats in 2010 and have been guiding at least two retreats per year since, in places like Hawaii, Costa Rica, Bali and Egypt. I noticed that many fellow yoga teachers were inquiring about how I was able to work for myself with such ease. This naturally led to teaching and creating courses for yoga teachers on mindful marketing and how to grow a lucrative and mindful business without losing their ‘zen’. I was a business coach for approximately 8 years. As life has it, my personal journey continued to evolve. My business is always a reflection of my life experience, what I’m learning, how I’m growing, etc. While I knew a lot about business, I noticed that I was always on the brink of burnout. I was not resourced and my nervous system was not regulated. I embarked on trainings in feminine healing, Tantra and embodiment, which completely transformed my life. I started teaching, guiding retreats, trainings and online courses for women and couples. What I’ve realized is that everything is ultimately connected. While we may know the strategy of how to build a successful business, if our energy is not balanced then it may be unsustainable or even unfulfilling. I’ve learned that self-care is actually the foundation of personal, spiritual and yes, even financial growth… not the other way around. I’d say what sets me apart from others is that I don’t subscribe to one modality. We are all unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. I have been exposed to many modalities and guided by world class teachers, which I am eternally grateful for. And this multi-disciplinary approach allows me to meet my clients where they are at.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
Training and knowledge are wonderful and important as it relates to acquiring the necessary skills to hold space and guide others, as well as receiving professional credentials. But nothing compares to real life experience. As I’m sure you have heard, ‘the experience is the teacher’… It is truly difficult for me to teach on a subject that I have not personally experienced, even if I have studied it. Knowledge is through the mind. Experience is through the body, and that type of lived ‘knowing’ transmits deeply to clients and students.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
The most effective strategy for growing clientele for me has been word of mouth and email marketing. With all of the technological advancements in our modern world, noting beats good old word of mouth. That said, if you don’t use your voice and let people know what you are doing then they won’t have anything to say or spread to others. I recommend offering services in exchange for testimonials when you’re just getting started, which you can add to your website and marketing material. Email lists are also huge, because unlike social media, people have to take an extra action and choose to subscribe to you. Meaning, they want you. They know you will be sending them information, and that’s what they’re there for. That said, I recommend that emails sent are not all sales emails but rather valuable content for your specific audience demographic/niche, in order to educate, inspire and build trust. Over time, email subscribers become customers and clients. Just watch!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shaynahiller.com
- Instagram: @shaynahiller
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShaynaBrielle
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shayna-hiller-21757b90/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGon9sy2KtFwk7om8vHalfA
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/shayna-hiller-health-coach-venice-2
