Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Gena Lester, Founder of Educational Prep Centers, located in Southlake, TX, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I am a strategic online business coach. I work with educators, coaches, and consultants who are ready to scale their business by putting a plan and system in place that will allow them to reach multiple 6 figures and beyond.

Tell us about yourself

I started out as an education consultant who has a background in education and business. As my business grew, I realized that the current method of 1:1 limited my ability to scale. I set out to create a new model for our industry and was told that it would not work and that our customers would not adapt. I did not listen, and in 2019 I turned my business upside down and tripled my income that year and have continued to grow since that time. I now work with solopreneurs in the education field, as well as coaches and consultants who are ready to turn their business upside down and create a business and lifestyle they love.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

There are two that stand out as equal to me. First, I was writing 2 books and being ranked as a New York Times and Wall Street Journal best-selling author. Secondly, I was not listening to others' limiting beliefs and creating a business that allowed me to have the freedom to live life the way I want, not what is expected.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

Feeling like you are on a deserted island, I am all about community and connection. It is important that you surround yourself with others who are there to challenge and support you.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Stay away from Shiny objects...It's easy to be pulled by the newest thing that is out there. The reality is that you need to determine your lane and focus on the one thing that will get your where you are going.
  2. Invest in yourself, Be part of a mentor group or coaching program that allows you to find your business besties while challenging you to stay the course and giving you the tools you need to be successful.
  3. Do your research. It's easy to think we know what the market wants. Before I flipped my business model, I talked with my customers. I asked them what they needed, what was important to them on their journey, and what they would pay for the services. This allows me to put a strategic plan in place. This was key in making my offerings successful.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://educationprepcenters.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Edpreneur
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edpreneur_accelerator/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drgenalester/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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