This month I’d like to introduce Lisa Birnesser, the creator of The Stress Relief Program. As an occupational therapist with 25 years of experience, Lisa posses the skills to motivate and empower people. Lisa’s interview was not only interesting but intriguing as well.
Q. What was the inspiration for opening your business?
In 2009, I was under incredible stress due to marital and financial difficulties. I was working long hours in my massage business that all eventually affected my health. I studied and learned new ways to deal with the effects of stress and I became passionate about sharing those techniques and information with others under great stress.
Q. What was your ultimate goal when you decided to open your business and has that goal changed?
My ultimate goal remains the same since I opened my practice. I am passionate about sharing ways to reduce the effects of stress in people’s lives by helping people do what matters most.
Q. How long have you owned your business?
Since September 2010
Q. What kind of training did you have before going into business?
My background training is in occupational therapy and massage therapy. I continually learn new coaching techniques from my coaches and mentors.
Q. Is running your business harder than you thought it would be?
Yes
Q. If so, why?
There are so many things to learn about running a business. It truly was a whole new world. It’s always challenging and never a dull moment.
Q. What advice would you give someone who wants to set up their own business?
Find a business coach as soon as possible. Follow different coaches on Facebook or ask other business owners who they follow. It’s never too early to work with a business coach if you are thinking about starting your own business.
Q. Do you work from home; or do you have an outside office?
I currently coach from home but will also have an outside office in 2012 for in-person coaching.
Q. What sort of work do you do for the business outside of business hours?
I also own Transformations Therapeutics, a private massage therapy practice for nearly 5 years.
Q. What percentage of your business comes from your web site?
50% from online. I also conduct workshops and retreats.
Q. What advertising methods do you find the most effective?
Social media is the most effective advertising, along with a well-designed website.
Q. Do you use social media; and how?
I use Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube. I manage most social media through a program called HootSuite.
Q. What kind of promotions do you do?
I have many new programs in the works from Black Friday Specials and beyond. A Stress Relief Spring Retreat is already planned for May 2012. I also interview other coaches once per month on the Stress Relief Expert Interview on a variety of subjects, such as relationships, mindset, money and nutrition.
Q. What community events, volunteer work, or charities do you support or sponsor?
I currently support PANCAN, Susan G. Komen Foundation and San Francisco AIDS Foundation.
Q. What are you plans for the future and how do you plan to extend the business in the competitive world?
I have many new products and services planned for 2012, including books, workbooks, workshops and retreats.
Lisa Birnesser is a Stress Management Coach, author and speaker at Stress Relief Solutions. She helps people who are overwhelmed with stress. When clients work with Lisa they learn how to relax, stay focused, and do what matters most every day. In her 26 years as an occupational therapist, Lisa held a variety of positions as therapist, therapy supervisor, and therapy instructor. She has experience in psychiatric and geriatric care, as well as practiced in home and outpatient clinical settings. Lisa has conducted stress management, coping skills, and assertiveness training classes. Recognizing the value of stress reduction, Lisa has devoted the last seven years of her professional life to her massage therapy practice. She has spoken to groups on a local regional and national level on a variety of topics in occupational therapy. Lisa received a bachelor of science in occupational therapy from the University of Kansas in 1985. She graduated from the Center of Rehabilitation Education massage program in Knoxville in 2005. She currently lives in Knoxville, Tennessee.