I became involved in entrepreneurship early on, whether it was selling popcorn for the Boy Scouts or chocolate bars to earn money to go to Northern Pines church camp in the summer.
However, I think my first “business” was a partnership with my friend Randy. We would head out to the local golf course and wade in the ponds, fishing out golf balls.
Cleaning them up would reveal several that were still nearly brand new. We then sold the good looking balls back to golfers and promptly spent our earnings on snacks and sodas (a.k.a. “pop” in Northern Minnesota) right there at the golf course.
I’ve had several businesses over the years, some successful, some not so much. And, I remember vividly when the internet arrived.
In the 1990's, I owned a hiking tour company and immediately latched onto the internet as a cost-effective means to get my message out.
When the "World Wide Web" arrived I could publish my extremely expensive 4-color brochure online for a fraction of the cost.
Since then, I’ve done it all when it comes to internet marketing. When I owned Crutch Buddies, my crutch accessories business, I became a master of SEO, website construction, social media and more.
I had to, I was a solopreneur who wore all the hats.
Following my years as an educator and entrepreneur, I’ve come to realize the most powerful form of marketing is to position yourself as an expert, as an educator and advocate for the success of your customers.
Through my own personal challenges with addiction and recovery, I have developed a deep fascination about how our brain works, what makes it tick and the untapped power it contains.
My personal story is rich with experiences directly related to understanding thought and emotion, then using those learning moments and that knowledge to live a healthier, happier and more fulfilling life.
In my personal mission to help those find freedom from addiction I have become a Certified Addictions Recovery Coach and Interventionist, as well as a podcast and online conference host.
Now I am using my experience and skills to help Addictions Recovery therapists, counselors, coaches and other mental health professionals effectively get their message of hope, healing, and serenity to those who need it most.