Business With Chronic Illness: Women Entrepreneurs Navigating Burnout & Autoimmune Conditions

What would it look like to build a multi-million dollar business while raising six kids, advocating full-time for a child with autism, and navigating everything that nobody put in the business plan?That's exactly what Julie Cole did, and she didn't do it by following the standard playbook.Julie is the co-founder of Mabel's Labels, a brand she started almost 23 years ago with her sister and two college friends when her eldest son was diagnosed with autism at three years old. She left a career in law, started making labels in a basement at 2am, and built something real, not because the timing was perfect, but because she figured out what her actual capacity was and built around that.In this conversation, Julie and Nikita get into the conversation most business advice skips entirely: what actually has to shift when you're a mom, a caregiver, and an entrepreneur all at the same time, and why the skills you're already using at home are more valuable than you think.In This Episode, You'll Learn:Why capacity is the first conversation, not the last: before strategy, before offers, before anything else, you need to know what you can actually carry and Julie's story shows exactly what happens when you get honest about that firstHow the skills you're already using as a caregiver translate directly into business: advocacy, research, negotiation, flexibility under pressure — these aren't soft skills, they're the exact skills that build something sustainableWhy entrepreneurship gets romanticized and what the real version looks like: Julie is direct about what those early years actually looked like, and it's not TED talks and wine nightsHow building a values-led company culture protects both your business and your life: From results-only work environments to neurodivergent hiring, Julie built a company that worked for real humans living real livesWhat the "care gap" actually means for women entrepreneurs: Whether or not you have kids, the invisible load is real, and building a business that pretends otherwise is building on a weak foundationWhy visibility creates credibility, which creates loyalty: Showing up — even when life is heavy, even when the pace feels impossible — is not about hustle, it's about trust⭐ Enjoyed this conversation? Leave a review and share it with another mom who's building something — she needs to hear this one.Leave us a Review and share this episode with a friend.Share Your QA's or ThoughtsProducts We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Join our Community Channel Here.

Though burnout is often described as being beyond tired, and in a clinical definition, is a state of emotional, mental, and often physical exhaustion brought on by prolonged or repeated stress. Janet Diaz shares a perspective and practical insights for chronic illness management while building your dream business that completely reframes how we understand burnout, especially when you're managing autoimmune conditions while building a business. Janet is the co-founder of Soulcraft Journeys, creating transformational retreat experiences. She has also navigated decades in corporate roles while managing rheumatoid arthritis, ultimately discovering that her biggest challenges led her to exactly where she was meant to be.What you will learn:Why burnout is really about disconnection, not exhaustionHow to recognize when you're wearing a mask to hide your health strugglesWhy your original plan falling apart might be redirecting you to your purposeHow chronic illness progression can actually clarify your prioritiesThe power of slowing down to reconnect with your inner wisdomHow to transition from survival mode to building something meaningfulWhy adaptation and resilience are entrepreneurial superpowersThis episode is for you if:You feel disconnected from your business purposeYou're pushing through chronic illness while maintaining a professional facadeYour original life plan got completely derailed by health challengesYou're in survival mode as the primary breadwinner with chronic illnessYou're ready to build something that aligns with your authentic self🎧 Want to learn more about today’s guest?Connect with Janet Diaz:Website: https://soulcraft-journeys.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/soulcraft_journeysVisit CraftedToThrive.com for guest details, key takeaways, and extra links mentioned in this episode.🌿 If you’re navigating entrepreneurship and chronic illness, or simply craving a more sustainable way to grow your business without sacrificing your health, energy, or self-care priorities, explore Chronically You & Profitable (CYAP).CYAP is my capacity-first business system designed for women entrepreneurs, creatives, and women with chronic illness who want sustainable growth and burnout support while keeping life and wellness first.It helps you use your voice and story to build a business with systems and strategies that run smoothly, so your work supports your life, not the other way around.⭐ Enjoyed this conversation? Leave a review and share it with another CEO woman or creative entrepreneur growing a health-first, sustainable business.📱 Stay connected: Follow me on Instagram.

What happens when you disappear from your own podcast without explanation? In this vulnerable return episode, I'm sharing the real story behind my unannounced break and what it taught me about the transitions we don't talk about in business.I'm Nikita Williams, your host, and after running Business with Chronic Illness for years, I found myself in a quiet transition that didn't come with announcements or pretty bows. Sometimes something inside you changes before the outside world even knows it's happening.In this episode, we explore:- The quiet changes happening in your business that deserve space and time- How your body constantly gives you feedback about what your business needs- Why persistence doesn't always look like showing up- The difference between obligation-based consistency and aligned sustainability- How to protect what you're building when your capacity changes- Permission to move through transitions privately before sharing them publiclyThis episode is for you if:- You've felt something shifting in your business but can't name what it is- You're tired of forcing consistency when your capacity has changed- You've ever needed to step away from something without a perfect explanation- You're navigating health changes that affect your business operations- You want permission to honor your transitions even when they're messyThings mentioned in this episode:Join us for our First BWCI Insider Group Live CallHere's the Blog Series on Transitions from: Andrea Nakayama, Functional Nutrition SpecialistJoin our Built to Breathe community on Substack for more real-time conversations.Subscribe to the Chronically Profitable email series for business strategies that work with your reality, not against it.✨ Thank you for listening.Here's how to connect with Nikita, your host:→ Grab your Free Curated Podcast for Business Growth Playlist→ Grab Your Free 5-Day Private Podcast Series to Help You Make Sales with Ease with Long-Form Content and Nervous-System-Friendly Marketing Strategies for Women with Chronic Illness & Burnt-Out Entrepreneurs.⭐ Loved this episode? Leave a review and share it with a friend who’s ready to grow their business without burnout or sacrificing their well-being.📱 Stay connected: Follow me on Instagram.

You've been posting daily. You're showing up in stories. You're creating reels that disappear into the void. And yet—it's taking more and more content just to be seen, let alone convert followers into paying clients.If you're exhausted by social media and wondering why it's getting harder to turn all that effort into actual business growth, you're not alone. The game has changed in 2026.In this episode (originally recorded during Super Bowl weekend 2024 and more relevant than ever), I sit down with Isabella Sanchez Castañeda—podcast strategist and host of the top 5% podcast On East Media, Inc.—to talk about why short-form content is no longer king, and why long-form content like podcasting is the strategy that will save your sanity and grow your business.Isabella breaks down exactly what's happening with "short-form fatigue," why our nervous systems are craving something deeper, and how to make the shift to long-form content that actually converts—without burning yourself out in the process.What You'll Walk Away With:Why in 2026, business owners must shift from short form to long form content strategies to thrive.How Social media fatigue is real; many users are abandoning platforms like TikTok for deeper connections in podcasts.The key to successful long-form content lies in intention, intimacy, and low interruptions; it builds trust and engagement.Creating long-form content is not only essential for conversion but also for maintaining mental health as entrepreneurs.Leave us a Review and share this episode with a friend.🎧 Want to learn more about today’s guest?Visit CraftedToThrive.com for guest details, key takeaways, and extra links mentioned in this episode.Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Join our Community Channel on Substack, our Built to Breathe CommunitySubscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free, exclusive email series that shows you how to sell with self-trust, create content that converts, and use long-form strategies, especially podcasting, to attract dream clients consistently, even during the ups and downs of business and life. You'll learn how to build a rhythm that helps you sell even while you rest.

Not everyone started this year with "new year, new you" energy. If you're a woman entrepreneur navigating grief—from a loss, a diagnosis, a relationship, or a version of yourself you had to let go—you're probably wondering: can I grieve this AND still show up for my business? Can I hold both grief and growth while building a sustainable business?In this replay of one of 2025's most downloaded episodes, I sit down with Amanda Guin, an emotional intelligence coach, traumatology expert, and widow who lost her infant daughter to a congenital heart condition, navigated endometriosis and infertility, and became a solo parent after her husband's suicide. We talk about why "coping" keeps women entrepreneurs stuck, what it means to explore healing instead, and how to hold the duality of grief and growth while creating a business that adapts to your capacity.Inside this episode, you'll learn:Why coping feels stagnant and what exploring your emotions looks like insteadHow to hold duality: grieving AND showing up, struggling AND growing, loss AND joyAmanda's APPLI framework for acknowledging where you are and choosing your next stepThe difference between "big T" and "little T" trauma and why your body doesn't rank your painHow to build a sustainable business rooted in empathy and emotional awareness while processing griefWhy there's no blueprint for grief—just your own process of healing to trustThis episode is for you if you're:A woman entrepreneur is currently grieving while trying to run your business. You're feeling stuck in "coping mode" instead of actually healing and moving forward. You find yourself ranking your trauma or grief and not giving yourself permission to feel it fully. Or you're navigating loss, burnout, or a major life transition while managing chronic illness.Connect with Amanda Guin: At growwithpurposecoach.comFollow Business With Chronic Illness for weekly conversations on entrepreneurship, burnout recovery, and building a business with autoimmune conditions and chronic illness.Leave us a Review and share this episode with a friend.Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Join our Community Channel on Substack, our Built to Breathe CommunitySubscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free, exclusive email series that shows you how to sell with self-trust, create content that converts, and use long-form strategies, especially podcasting, to attract dream clients consistently, even during the ups and downs of business and life. You'll learn how to build a rhythm that helps you sell even while you rest.

This year, expect empowering conversations with business owners navigating chronic illness and autoimmune disorders. Learn from their experiences, strategies, and lessons, with a focus on sustainability and health. Episodes will feature guests discussing new diagnoses, caregiving, and adapting business practices. Join the community on Substack for exclusive content and stay connected. Tune in for inspiration, support, and practical advice on building a profitable business while prioritizing your health.Takeaways:Navigating chronic illness while building a business requires a unique approach that respects your body's needs.This podcast emphasizes the importance of sharing real experiences of entrepreneurs with chronic illnesses.Listeners can expect more diverse voices discussing the realities of business and caregiving in upcoming episodes.Our conversations aim to empower those managing their health while creating successful businesses without burnout.We're committed to fostering a community where chronic illness and entrepreneurship intersect positively.The upcoming season will explore new diagnoses faced by entrepreneurs and how they adapt their business strategies.Leave us a Review and share this episode with a friend.Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Join our Community Channel on Substack, our Built to Breathe CommunitySubscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free, exclusive email series that shows you how to sell with self-trust, create content that converts, and use long-form strategies, especially podcasting, to attract dream clients consistently, even during the ups and downs of business and life. You'll learn how to build a rhythm that helps you sell even while you rest.

The journey of entrepreneurship can often feel at odds with the realities of living with chronic illness, particularly when it comes to the concept of capacity. In this episode, we tackle the often-misunderstood idea of capacity, shifting the narrative from a relentless push for more to a compassionate understanding of what we can realistically manage. Capacity isn't just about productivity; it's about how much our bodies and minds can handle at any given moment, especially when faced with the unpredictable nature of chronic health issues. We explore the three primary forms of capacity that influence our entrepreneurial experience: emotional, cognitive, and energetic. Emotional capacity is crucial for handling the stress of marketing and visibility, particularly for those of us who may struggle with the expectations of always being “on.” Cognitive capacity reflects our ability to think and make decisions, which can be severely impacted by the demands of content creation and the fast-paced nature of social media. Lastly, energetic capacity speaks to the physical and sensory energy we can muster, which is often the most variable due to chronic health conditions. This episode emphasizes the importance of creating business systems that align with our current capacity rather than pushing us to meet unrealistic expectations. By focusing on long-form content, such as podcasting, we can share our stories and connect with our audience without the stress of constant output. The key takeaway is that our capacity is not the enemy; instead, it’s our perceptions and business practices that need to adapt to honor our humanity. This understanding fosters a more sustainable approach to entrepreneurship, allowing us to thrive not despite our chronic illnesses but alongside them.Takeaways:Understanding capacity in business is not about doing more, but about what your nervous system can handle.Marketing strategies need to reflect the reality of fluctuating capacities, especially for those with chronic illnesses.Creating a business model that honors your humanity can lead to sustainable success without burnout.Podcasting serves as a capacity-aware marketing tool, reducing stress while allowing for authentic connection.✨ Thank you for listening.Here's how to connect with Nikita, your host:→ Book A Sales Call Here→ Grab your Free Curated Podcast for Business Growth Playlist→ Grab the Podcast Planner + App to start and grow your podcast with ease.→ Grab Your Free 5-Day Private Podcast Series to Help You Make Sales with Ease with Long-Form Content and Nervous-System-Friendly Marketing Strategies for Women with Chronic Illness & Burnt-Out Entrepreneurs.⭐ Loved this episode? Leave a review and share it with a friend who’s ready to grow their business without burnout or sacrificing their well-being.📱 Stay connected: Follow me on Instagram.

What if your business didn’t fall apart every time your life asked you to slow down?In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness, we’re naming a hard truth many entrepreneurs live with quietly: most businesses are built to work only on your best days.When you rest, everything stops.When life gets real, momentum disappears.And you’re left feeling like you’re starting over again.That’s not a you problem.It’s a systems problem.In This Episode, We Cover:• Why most businesses are actually self-powered machines• How hustle culture normalized over-functioning• Why consistency always requires capacity (and capacity isn’t constant)• The nervous system cost of tying income to daily output• Why businesses collapse during hard seasons• What it means to build a business that supports you• How long-form content (like podcasting) creates stability during low-capacity seasons• Why evergreen content keeps working even when you’re offline✨ Thank you for listening. Here's how to connect with Nikita, your host:→ Book A Sales Call Here→ Grab your Free Curated Podcast for Business Growth Playlist→ Grab the Podcast Planner + App to start and grow your podcast with ease.→ Grab Your Free 5-Day Private Podcast Series to Help You Make Sales with Ease with Long-Form Content and Nervous-System-Friendly Marketing Strategies for Women with Chronic Illness & Burnt-Out Entrepreneurs.⭐ Loved this episode? Leave a review and share it with a friend who’s ready to grow their business without burnout or sacrificing their well-being.📱 Stay connected: Follow me on Instagram.

Does your marketing disappear every time you take a break? You're not alone, and it's not a consistency problem. It's a systems problem disguised as a marketing problem.In this solo episode of Business with Chronic Illness, I'm sharing why so many women entrepreneurs with chronic illness, burnout, or unpredictable capacity feel like they're constantly restarting their marketing from scratch. The truth? You don't have a marketing strategy; you have a performance schedule. And when you stop performing, your business stops breathing.In this episode, you'll discover:Why your marketing feels fragile (and it's not because you're inconsistent)The hidden cost of marketing that depends on you having good days all the timeHow long-form content creates business stability even when your life doesn't feel stableWhat happens when you anchor your business in a sustainable system instead of daily postsThree ways to build a marketing system that works when your capacity shiftsIf you're tired of feeling like you're rebuilding your marketing every three months, or you're scared to rest because your visibility will disappear, this episode will show you a different way. A way where your voice does the heavy lifting even when your body cannot.This episode is for you if:You disappear when you don't feel well and feel like you're starting over every time you come back.You want steady clients but can't keep up with posting or launching the way everyone says you should.You're scared to market because you don't know if you can handle leads on a flare week.You know you need to be consistent, but your energy just isn't predictable.You feel like you're working all the time but not seeing sustainable results.✨ Thank you for listening. Here's how to connect with Nikita, your host:→ Book A Sales Call Here→ Grab your Free Curated Podcast for Business Growth Playlist→ Grab the Podcast Planner + App to start and grow your podcast with ease.→ Grab Your Free 5-Day Private Podcast Series to Help You Make Sales with Ease with Long-Form Content and Nervous-System-Friendly Marketing Strategies for Women with Chronic Illness & Burnt-Out Entrepreneurs.⭐ Loved this episode? Leave a review and share it with a friend who’s ready to grow their business without burnout or sacrificing their well-being.📱 Stay connected: Follow me on Instagram.

In this replay episode, I’m sitting down with certified coach and first-gen eldest daughter Nikkei Lamodi, to talk about what it really looks like to be an eldest daughter or late bloomer living with chronic illness and running a business.We get into the invisible pressure of being the “strong one,” why eldest daughters are so prone to people-pleasing, perfectionism, and over-responsibility, and how all of that bleeds into your business, your boundaries, and your body.Nikkei shares her story of caregiving, grief, chronic illness diagnosis, and the moment she realized she was sacrificing her time, money, and desires for everyone else. From there, she walks us through her four “eldest daughter skills” that help you protect your capacity instead of burning it out:Direct communication with graceBoundary care (boundaries that are for you, not rules for other people)Talking to yourself like a best friendAsking “What else is true? What else is possible?”If you’re an eldest daughter or late bloomer navigating chronic illness, family expectations, and the pressure to hold everyone together while growing a business… this conversation will make you feel so seen.🎧 Want to learn more about today’s guest?Visit CraftedToThrive.com for guest details, key takeaways, and extra links mentioned in this episode.🌿 If you’re navigating entrepreneurship and chronic illness, or simply craving a more sustainable way to grow your business without sacrificing your health, energy, or self-care priorities, explore Chronically You & Profitable (CYAP).CYAP is my voice-first business system designed for women entrepreneurs, creatives, and women with chronic illness who want sustainable growth and burnout support while keeping life and wellness first.It helps you use your voice and story to build a business with systems and strategies that run smoothly, so your work supports your life, not the other way around.⭐ Enjoyed this conversation? Leave a review and share it with another CEO woman or creative entrepreneur growing a health-first, sustainable business.📱 Stay connected: Follow me on Instagram.

If you’ve been looking at your audience lately — your email list, your downloads, your Instagram following — and thinking, “It’s just not big enough,” this episode is your gentle reset.Today, I’m sharing an archived audio I originally recorded for my private client podcast. It’s a quiet reminder that the size of your audience has never been the thing that determines your success… the root system of your business does.Inside, I share a story about repotting one of my new plants (yes, your girl is officially a plant mama 🌿) and what it taught me about sustainable business growth, especially for creative CEOs living with chronic illness or navigating burnout.Whether you’re planning for 2026, feeling behind on your goals, or questioning whether your tiny audience can actually support a profitable, ease-filled business — this episode will remind you that small can be mighty, and depth can be more powerful than size.Because sustainable businesses don’t grow by getting louder… they grow by getting rooted.In this episode, we explore:Why your audience is not too small to support real growthHow tiny, intentional communities create long-term sustainabilityThe plant metaphor that changed how I look at business developmentWhat really matters more than list size or follower countHow to build a business that feels nurturing, easeful, and profitable (even in low-capacity seasons)Why creative women and entrepreneurs with chronic illness thrive in depth-first business modelsKey TakeawaysA tiny audience can lead to powerful, sustainable results when you focus on connection over volume.Growth that ignores your health, your energy, and your capacity isn’t actually growth — it’s burnout.Your 2026 plan doesn’t have to be bigger; it has to be deeper.Small but mighty businesses create the strongest root systems — the ones that quietly grow, flourish, and stay profitable long-term.Who This Episode Is ForCreative CEOs craving sustainable business strategiesEntrepreneurs with chronic illness who want growth without sacrificing their healthWomen navigating burnout who want to rebuild without pressureAnyone who feels behind on their 2025 goals and wants a calmer way to approach 2026✨ Thank you for listening. Your Next Step:→ Grab the Podcast Planner to start and grow your podcast with ease.→ Or, learn my Voice-First System — Chronically You & Profitable (CYAP): the signature method featured and practiced on Business With Chronic Illness Podcast: CEO Women for Sustainable Growth and Burnout Support.This system is designed for a woman entrepreneur, creative, a chronic boss, or a woman with an autoimmune illness who want simple business growth, sustainable sales, and burnout support, without sacrificing their health, energy, or self-care priorities.💛 Inside CYAP, You’ll Learn How To:Manage your health and business with confidence.Grow a health-first business that supports your wellness, creativity, and income.Create sustainable systems that let your business serve your life, not take away from it.⭐ Loved this episode? Leave a review and share it with a friend who’s ready to grow their business without burnout or sacrificing their well-being.📱 Stay connected: Follow me on Instagram.

Tired of waiting for the perfect moment to start your creative business? Struggling with burnout from trying to follow cookie-cutter business advice that doesn't fit your life?In this episode, I talk with Margo Tantau: creative director, licensing agent, and host of Windowsill Chats Podcast, about building a sustainable creative business by following your gut instead of formulas. Margo shares her non-linear path from corporate to running her own licensing agency, and why starting imperfectly is actually the key to long-term success.We talk about why perfectionism keeps women entrepreneurs stuck, how to create a business that adapts to your capacity (not the other way around), and why vulnerability and connection beat marketing funnels every time. If you've been holding back because you're afraid of starting over or don't have it all figured out, this conversation gives you permission to begin—and evolve without burnout.In This Episode, You'll Learn:Why you're stuck waiting for "perfect" to start your creative business – and how to give yourself permission to begin imperfectly and evolve as you learn.How to recognize when you're actually evolving, not starting over – Your past work, pivots, and changes aren't wasted—they're building blocks for what comes next.Why your gut knows more than cookie-cutter formulas – How to trust your instincts to build a sustainable creative business that fits your life, not someone else's blueprint.What burnout is really telling you about your business approach – and how to create a capacity-first business that adapts to your energy and circumstances instead of draining them.How to reframe "I'm starting all over again" into "I'm recalibrating" – A simple mindset shift that helps you move forward without the weight of feeling behind.Where your creativity already shows up – even if you don't think you're "creative enough" to start a business.How to build connections and relationships instead of relying on perfect marketing – Why vulnerability and authenticity create sustainable growth for women entrepreneurs without burnout.🎧 Want to learn more about today’s guest?Visit CraftedToThrive.com for guest details, key takeaways, and extra links mentioned in this episode.🌿 If you’re navigating entrepreneurship and chronic illness, or simply craving a more sustainable way to grow your business without sacrificing your health, energy, or self-care priorities, explore Chronically You & Profitable (CYAP).CYAP is my voice-first business system designed for women entrepreneurs, creatives, and women with chronic illness who want sustainable growth and burnout support while keeping life and wellness first.It helps you use your voice and story to build a business with systems and strategies that run smoothly, so your work supports your life, not the other way around.⭐ Enjoyed this conversation? Leave a review and share it with another CEO woman or creative entrepreneur growing a health-first, sustainable business.📱 Stay connected: Follow me on Instagram.

I feel like I'm doing everything right. I meditate. I have boundaries. My life is actually pretty good. So why do I still feel burnt out? Why can't I keep up with my business the way I want to? Why does it feel like something's still off?If that sounds like you, this episode is going to connect some dots you didn't even know needed connecting.Jen Yundt Coles is a functional medicine health coach, SIBO specialist, and someone who literally had a heart attack from stress she didn't even realize was stress. In this conversation, we talk about the hidden stressors that are quietly sabotaging your business with chronic illness—and what to do about it.We talk about:Why your gut health is directly messing with your business decisions, your creativity, and your energyThe types of stress you're not even counting (and how they're stacking up in your body)What happens when you keep pushing through until your body literally forces you to stopThis episode is for you if:You disappear when you don't feel well and then feel like you're starting all over again every time you come backYou can't keep up with the pace everyone says you should be moving atYou know you need better systems but strategy alone isn't fixing what's actually wrongListen for:Why your body might be in fight-or-flight mode even when your life looks fine on paperThe question Jen asks herself every single morning that changed how she runs her sustainable businessHow to actually run a business with chronic illness without feeling like you're always proving yourselfThe truth: You're not broken. You're not lazy. Your body is trying to tell you something—and when you finally listen, building your business gets so much easier.🎧 Want to learn more about today’s guest?Visit CraftedToThrive.com for guest details, key takeaways, and extra links mentioned in this episode.🌿 If you’re navigating entrepreneurship and chronic illness, or simply craving a more sustainable way to grow your business without sacrificing your health, energy, or self-care priorities, explore Chronically You & Profitable (CYAP).CYAP is my voice-first business system designed for women entrepreneurs, creatives, and women with chronic illness who want sustainable growth and burnout support while keeping life and wellness first.It helps you use your voice and story to build a business with systems and strategies that run smoothly, so your work supports your life, not the other way around.⭐ Enjoyed this conversation? Leave a review and share it with another CEO woman or creative entrepreneur growing a health-first, sustainable business.📱 Stay connected: Follow me on Instagram.

What do you do when your health changes and the business you've built can't keep up?In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness, I sit down with Jemi Crookes, founder of The Think Lab, to talk about what happens when a diagnosis forces you to redefine leadership, business, and success itself.After a misdiagnosis of Type 2 diabetes, Jemi discovered she was actually living with Type 1.5 (LADA)—a rare form of autoimmune diabetes that upended everything she knew about her body, her energy, and the way she worked. She left her corporate executive role and rebuilt her business from the ground up, using AI, authentic leadership positioning, and personal branding to create more freedom and less burnout.In This Episode You'll Learn:✅ How Jemi turned a life-changing diagnosis into a business that supports her health✅ The difference between corporate leadership and capacity-honoring leadership✅ Why "your job title is rented, but your leadership is forever"✅ How to use AI as a tool (not a replacement) for your positioning and time✅ What it really takes to build a brand rooted in your values and lived experience✅ The mindset shifts that allow you to keep growing—even when your energy fluctuates✅ Why you can't position yourself (even if you're a strategist) and who can help✅ How advocating for your health teaches you to advocate in businessYou'll hear how Jemi learned to trust her intuition when doctors got it wrong, design business models that flex with her energy, and help other women leaders build brands that can thrive, no matter what life brings next.A gift from Jemi, our guest - Custom GPT tool: SO FUN!!!! https://chatgpt.com/g/g-67d37e2edbf48191b062e108c6bb1994-tf-leadership-intro-ida 🎧 Want to learn more about today’s guest?Visit CraftedToThrive.com for guest details, key takeaways, and extra links mentioned in this episode.🌿 If you’re navigating entrepreneurship and chronic illness, or simply craving a more sustainable way to grow your business without sacrificing your health, energy, or self-care priorities, explore Chronically You & Profitable (CYAP).CYAP is my voice-first business system designed for women entrepreneurs, creatives, and women with chronic illness who want sustainable growth and burnout support while keeping life and wellness first.It helps you use your voice and story to build a business with systems and strategies that run smoothly, so your work supports your life, not the other way around.⭐ Enjoyed this conversation? Leave a review and share it with another CEO woman or creative entrepreneur growing a health-first, sustainable business.📱 Stay connected: Follow me on Instagram.

Ever had one of those moments where you're building your business and you get a text from family, someone's sick, someone needs you, and you instantly think: "I should be there. What kind of person am I for not dropping everything?"In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Analía Gómez Vidal career coach who built her business while being thousands of miles away from her family in Argentina. We get honest about what to do when family needs you and your business needs you at the same time.Analia shares how she navigated family health emergencies from another continent, rebuilt community from scratch, and why you don't need everything figured out to move forward.What You'll Learn:✨ How to make decisions when family needs you and your business needs you at the same time✨ The two-layer approach to building community from scratch (local connections + people who understand your journey)✨ Why "having it all figured out" is keeping you stuck—and what to do instead✨ The honest conversation about privilege: the financial preparation and resources that make big transitions possible✨ How to stop feeling like you're betraying your family by choosing your business🎧 Stay in touch with Dr. Analía and receive her career coaching prompts, resources, and updates by signing up to her newsletter here. My free Multi-Year Planner is a tool I developed and use for my own business. It helps you organize your short, medium, and long-term goals in one snapshot and track your work as you make progress. It is a versatile tool that helps you whether you are building a business, job searching, or working on a long-term project with multiple milestones. Want to learn more about today’s guest?Visit CraftedToThrive.com for guest details, key takeaways, and extra links mentioned in this episode.🌿 If you’re navigating entrepreneurship and chronic illness, or simply craving a more sustainable way to grow your business without sacrificing your health, energy, or self-care priorities, explore Chronically You & Profitable (CYAP).CYAP is my voice-first business system designed for women entrepreneurs, creatives, and women with chronic illness who want sustainable growth and burnout support while keeping life and wellness first.It helps you use your voice and story to build a business with systems and strategies that run smoothly, so your work supports your life, not the other way around.⭐ Enjoyed this conversation? Leave a review and share it with another CEO woman or creative entrepreneur growing a health-first, sustainable business.📱 Stay connected: Follow me on Instagram.

🌿 If you’re navigating entrepreneurship and chronic illness, or simply craving a more sustainable way to grow your business without sacrificing your health, energy, or self-care priorities, explore Chronically You & Profitable (CYAP).About this Episode:In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness, I'm joined by Jessica Setnick, RD, CSSD, LD—a registered dietitian, eating disorder specialist, and founder of a nonprofit making eating disorder care accessible—to talk about the invisible energy drain keeping entrepreneurs burned out: food shame.Jessica opens up about her own journey of having to go to therapy just to learn how to charge for her services, what she calls the "Mother Teresa trap" that keeps service-based entrepreneurs undervaluing their work. She shares how shame around food, eating, and body image is completely invisible (you can't look at someone and know what they're eating), and why this hidden struggle is stealing the energy women entrepreneurs need to recover from burnout.We dive into why stress changes your brain chemistry and turns food into mood-altering medication, the critical difference between shame and regret (and why one keeps you stuck while the other moves you forward), and Jessica walks through practical ways to spot shame-based patterns that are draining your business capacity.By the end of this episode, you'll walk away with:A framework for recognizing food shame - the specific signs that shame (not just your chronic illness) is keeping you burned out, including eating differently alone versus with people and overthinking every food choice.Understanding the stress-food-shame cycle - why your body uses food as medication when you're burned out, how this is brain chemistry (not a character flaw), and why weight stigma myths like "eat less, move more" ignore hormones, stress, and chronic illness.Permission to recover imperfectly - Jessica's reframe that recovery isn't about never having thoughts about food; it's about keeping the struggle at the thought level instead of letting it drive your behavior, plus where to start when you're ready for support (books, resources, and finding eating disorder-informed care).Jessica's story reminds us that you cannot fix burnout by pushing harder when shame is stealing your energy; sustainable business growth starts with compassionate, practical tools that help you nourish yourself and reclaim the capacity you need to show up.🎧 Want to learn more about today’s guest?Visit CraftedToThrive.com for guest details, key takeaways, and extra links mentioned in this episode.CYAP is my voice-first business system designed for women entrepreneurs, creatives, and women with chronic illness who want sustainable growth and burnout support while keeping life and wellness first.It helps you use your voice and story to build a business with systems and strategies that run smoothly, so your work supports your life, not the other way around.⭐ Enjoyed this conversation? Leave a review and share it with another CEO woman or creative entrepreneur growing a health-first, sustainable business.📱 Stay connected: Follow me on Instagram.Links referenced in this episode:craftedtothrive.comjessicasetnik.comhealingyourinnereater.com

Ever look at everything on your business plate and think "there's no way I can do all of this"?This episode is for entrepreneurs with chronic illness who feel overwhelmed trying to grow their business while managing fluctuating capacity. CEO of Functional Medicine Nutritionist Andrea Nakayama shares how she built Functional Nutrition Alliance while managing Hashimoto's, grief, and single parenthood—without burning out.We're diving into business strategies for chronic illness entrepreneurs, including the "base camp method" for sustainable business growth, why persistence beats consistency when your capacity changes, and how to pivot your expectations when chronic illness impacts your business.What You'll Walk Away With:✅ The Base Camp Method - A practical framework for breaking down overwhelming business goals into manageable steps when your capacity fluctuates with chronic illness✅ Persistence vs. Consistency Mindset Shift - Understanding why showing up YOUR way matters more than rigid consistency, and what sustainable growth actually looks like for entrepreneurs managing chronic illness✅ The Five P's Framework - The exact formula (Passion, Permission, Purpose, Persistence, Perseverance) that kept Andrea going through grief, Hashimoto's, and single parenthood while building a thriving business✅ How to Recalibrate Your Capacity - Practical ways to pivot your expectations and tune into your nervous system so you know when you're actually doing too much versus just feeling overwhelmedResources for Entrepreneurs with Chronic Illness:The Five P's for Sustainable Business Growth: Passion, Permission, Purpose, Persistence, PerseveranceBase Camp Method: Andrea's approach to business growth with chronic illness without burnoutFunctional Nutrition Alliance: Training programs for practitioners managing chronic illness🎧 Want to learn more about today’s guest?Visit CraftedToThrive.com for guest details, key takeaways, and extra links mentioned in this episode.🌿 If you’re navigating entrepreneurship and chronic illness, or simply craving a more sustainable way to grow your business without sacrificing your health, energy, or self-care priorities, explore Chronically You & Profitable (CYAP).CYAP is my voice-first business system designed for women entrepreneurs, creatives, and women with chronic illness who want sustainable growth and burnout support while keeping life and wellness first.It helps you use your voice and story to build a business with systems and strategies that run smoothly, so your work supports your life, not the other way around.⭐ Enjoyed this conversation? Leave a review and share it with another CEO woman or creative entrepreneur growing a health-first, sustainable business.📱 Stay connected: Follow me on Instagram.

What if the key to building a sustainable business with chronic illness isn't working harder, but setting better boundaries? In this episode, Brenda Snow, an Amazon Best Selling Author, shares how she built a 420-person company over 30 years while managing MS (Multiple Sclerosis) - without sacrificing her health or burning out.If you're living with chronic illness and running a business, you know the struggle:You feel like you need to be extraordinary just to keep up. You're constantly starting over after flare-ups. You can't keep up with the pace everyone else says you should be moving at. And you're terrified that setting boundaries will mean losing clients, revenue, or credibility.In this episode, you'll discover:Why you don't need to be extraordinary to succeed in business with chronic illness—and what to do insteadThe predictable emotional phases you'll cycle through (grief, anger, acceptance) and how to navigate them without shameHow to set health-first boundaries that protect your energy without losing clients or revenueThe "hire to your weaknesses" strategy that allowed Brenda to scale to 420 employees while managing MSWhy transparency about your health builds trust with your team instead of undermining itHow to give yourself more time than you think you need (and why this is the secret to sustainability)The power of storytelling as a healing tool and how sharing your chronic illness journey helps you AND your audienceBuilding a sustainable business with chronic illness doesn't require you to be superhuman. It requires health-first boundaries, strategic delegation, and the permission to work at a pace that honors your body. Brenda's 30-year journey proves that long-term success is possible when you stop trying to keep up and start building a business that works WITH your chronic illness, not against it.🎧 Want to learn more about today’s guest?Visit CraftedToThrive.com for guest details, key takeaways, and extra links mentioned in this episode.🌿 If you’re navigating entrepreneurship and chronic illness, or simply craving a more sustainable way to grow your business without sacrificing your health, energy, or self-care priorities, explore Chronically You & Profitable (CYAP).CYAP is my voice-first business system designed for women entrepreneurs, creatives, and women with chronic illness who want sustainable growth and burnout support while keeping life and wellness first.It helps you use your voice and story to build a business with systems and strategies that run smoothly, so your work supports your life, not the other way around.⭐ Enjoyed this conversation? Leave a review and share it with another CEO woman or creative entrepreneur growing a health-first, sustainable business.📱 Stay connected: Follow me on Instagram.

Can you really grow your business when you’re living with chronic illness, burnout, or limited capacity? Absolutely, if your content helps people make informed decisions, you don't have to focus on or obsess about downloads.In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness, with host Nikita Williams. I’m sharing how I signed clients from my podcast while I was healing from endometriosis and recovering from surgery, and how I turned a small but mighty audience into consistent revenue using sustainable business strategies that honor my health first and prevent burnout.This is part of The Business Safety Net with a Podcast Series, where we explore how long-form content can create sustainable growth, marketing, and sales systems for women entrepreneurs and CEOs managing chronic illness or looking for burnout support.You’ll hear how I use my CGS Framework: Connect, Give, Serve — to create content that converts, even when I can’t be “on.” Because your business should support your wellness, not sacrifice it.What You’ll Learn:Why downloads and likes don’t pay your bills... decisions doHow my podcast brought in four clients in the first 10 episodes without a huge audienceWhat it means to create decision-driven content instead of algorithm-driven contentHow the CGS Framework (Connect → Give → Serve) helps you turn listeners into clientsWhy podcasting is a business safety net for burnout support and chronic illness entrepreneurshipInside The Business Safety Net Series:This episode is part of The Business Safety Net with a Podcast Series on the Business with Chronic Illness podcast, created for women entrepreneurs with chronic illness, creatives, and CEOs who crave sustainable business strategies, burnout recovery, and health-conscious growth that works even in low-capacity seasons.Catch up on the series:1️⃣ Ep 1: The 30-Minute Connection Strategy That Built My Business With Chronic Illness2️⃣ Ep 2: How My Podcast Signed Clients While I Was Healing (this episode)3️⃣ Next: How to Take a Break Without Losing Clients or Momentum as a CEO With Chronic Illness✨ Thank you for listening. Your Next Step:→ Grab the Podcast Planner + App (coming soon) to start and grow your podcast with ease.→ Or, learn my Voice-First System — Chronically You & Profitable (CYAP): the signature method featured and practiced on Business With Chronic Illness Podcast: CEO Women for Sustainable Growth and Burnout Support.This system is designed for a woman entrepreneur, creative, a chronic boss, or a woman with an autoimmune illness who wants simple business growth, sustainable sales, and burnout support, without sacrificing their health, energy, or self-care priorities.💛 Inside CYAP, You’ll Learn How To:Manage your health and business with confidence.Grow a health-first business that supports your wellness, creativity, and income.Create sustainable systems that let your business serve your life, not take away from it.⭐ Loved this episode? Leave a review and share it with a friend who’s ready to grow their business without burnout or sacrificing their well-being.📱 Stay connected: Follow me on Instagram.

Think you need to work 60-hour weeks to build a successful freelance business with chronic illness or burnout? Amanda Bourbonais proves otherwise. After a severe chronic Lyme disease crisis forced her to leave corporate life, she built a six-figure copywriting business working just 20-25 hours per week, and she's maintained that rhythm for five years.In this episode, Amanda shares how she turned rock bottom into a business foundation, why "I started my business so I could take naps" became her guiding principle, and how she prices projects based on deliverables (not hours) to create sustainable income. If you've been told you need to hustle harder or wait until you're "healthy enough" to start your business, this conversation will change how you think about capacity, pricing, and what's actually possible.What you'll learn:How to structure a freelance business that generates full-time income on part-time hours (20-25 hours/week) and supports you as you healWhy pricing by deliverables instead of hours is the key to sustainable growth for freelancing with chronic illnessHow to turn your health journey into a business asset and find clients who value your unique perspectivePerfect for: Freelance writers, consultants, and creatives with chronic illness who want to build sustainable businesses without sacrificing their health.Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Loved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free, exclusive email series that shows you how to sell with self-trust, create content that converts, and use long-form strategies, especially podcasting, to attract dream clients consistently, even during the ups and downs of business and life. You'll learn how to build a rhythm that helps you sell even while you rest.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Join Chronically You & ProfitableJoin & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on Instagram

When I first started my coaching business, I had maybe 30 minutes of energy in a day. And while the online world told me I needed to post multiple times a day, go to endless networking events, and keep up with algorithms, I simply couldn’t.What I did know? Connection creates sales.In this episode, I’m sharing the 30-Minute-a-Day Connection Strategy I used to build a six-figure business while living with chronic illness and how it became the foundation of my podcast, the biggest safety net in my business.You’ll hear:Why connection matters more than constant content.How small, intentional actions add up to clients and collaborations.How podcasting turns those actions into an evergreen safety net that works when you can’t.✨ Quick Win: At the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with a simple 30-minute challenge you can try this week to create more connection in your business without burning out.The Podcasting As a Business Safety Net SeriesWhat happens to your business when you can’t show up?For so many entrepreneurs, especially those navigating chronic illness, burnout, or unpredictable seasons of life, the biggest fear is: what happens to my clients, my income, my visibility, when I don’t have the capacity to be online every day?That’s why I created The Business Safety Net Series. In this special 4-part series, I’m showing you how to build a business structure that holds you with podcasting as the anchor.You’ll learn how to:Use simple strategies that grow your business in just 30 minutes a day.Turn a small but mighty audience into consistent profits.Create content that actually converts, not just noise.Build a flare-proof, burnout-proof marketing and sales system.Because your business deserves a safety net, one that brings peace, ease, and revenue, even when life gets messy.Book A Sales Call to Learn how to work with me 1:1Join The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales. To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Join Chronically You & ProfitableProducts We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Loved this episode? Leave a review:https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on Instagram

In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness, I'm joined by Jason Winters, an energy alignment coach and EFT tapping practitioner, to talk about the warning signs that your business is built out of alignment, especially important for entrepreneurs managing chronic illness and unpredictable energy levels.Jason opens up about his experience with rapid business growth that felt unsustainable, from lowering his prices out of fear to over-delivering because of self-worth issues. He shares how he recognized these patterns as symptoms of deeper misalignment and the practical steps he took to restructure his business around what actually serves his life and energy.We dive into why entrepreneurs with chronic illness are particularly vulnerable to business burnout, the difference between fear (which is natural) and doubt (which comes from learned trauma responses), and Jason walks through his truth work method for clearing limiting beliefs that keep you stuck in exhausting cycles.By the end of this episode, you'll walk away with:A framework for recognizing misalignment - the specific signs that your business decisions are coming from fear instead of values, and why over-delivering often signals deeper issues.Practical tools for realignment - Jason's truth work technique for separating thoughts from feelings, plus how to check your decisions against your core values instead of external pressure.Permission to build differently - understanding why rest builds trust in your business and how to create systems that honor your natural capacity rather than fighting against it.Jason's story reminds us that sustainable business growth isn't about pushing harder; it's about building from a foundation that actually serves your energy and values from the start.Leave us a Review and share this episode with a friend.Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free, exclusive email series that shows you how to sell with self-trust, create content that converts, and use long-form strategies, especially podcasting, to attract dream clients consistently, even during the ups and downs of business and life.You'll learn how to build a rhythm that helps you sell even while you rest.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Join Chronically You & ProfitableJoin & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on Instagram

Selling doesn’t have to feel hard, especially when you're navigating the challenges of chronic illness or burnout.In today’s episode, we dive into the three key problems that often keep us from converting leads into sales and how to tackle them with what I call the rooted sales process. We discuss the emotional and physical challenges that can make selling feel pushy or draining, leading to feelings of inadequacy and frustration. You'll learn how to create a sustainable approach to sales that aligns with our unique capacities and circumstances. Join me as I share practical steps to help you shift your sales strategy from survival mode to one that fosters peace and connection, enabling you to thrive in your business, even on your toughest days.Leave us a Review and share this episode with a friend.Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Loved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free, exclusive email series that shows you how to sell with self-trust, create content that converts, and use long-form strategies, especially podcasting, to attract dream clients consistently, even during the ups and downs of business and life.You'll learn how to build a rhythm that helps you sell even while you rest.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Join Chronically You & ProfitableJoin & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on InstagramNavigating the challenges of running a business while managing chronic illness can feel like an uphill battle, often leading to feelings of inadequacy and burnout. We dive deep into the common struggles faced by women entrepreneurs who grapple with fluctuating energy levels and the societal expectations of constant hustle. Throughout this episode, I share critical insights on the emotional toll of sales and marketing, especially when the traditional narratives push the idea that success is synonymous with relentless effort and discipline. We explore a foundational pre-sales approach, designed to help you sell from a place of calm and stability rather than from anxiety and pressure. This method encourages you to understand your unique circumstances and to create a sales process that honors your health and well-being. By focusing on things from the inside out, you can shift from a fear-based decision-making paradigm to one grounded in peace and clarity, enabling you to attract clients aligned with your values without the overwhelming fear of rejection or failure.What you'll walk away with: Why selling feels hard? How to create calm in your mind and body when marketing. What does creating a sustainable business involve, by understanding that consistency doesn't mean doing the same thing every day? How to regain peace and clarity in your business decisions, especially in challenging times.

What happens when your growing business starts demanding more than your body can give?In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness, I'm joined by Stephanie DiPisa, founder of Solara Suncare, mom of three, and Chronic Lyme advocate, to talk about the hard but necessary truth: sometimes the best thing for your business is doing less, not more.Stephanie opens up about launching her first business at 40 with no beauty industry experience, building Solara into a successful brand sold everywhere from Target to Neiman Marcus, and how her journey with chronic Lyme disease taught her to recognize when it's time to intentionally slow down. She shares why she had to pause her business completely for a year, how that break actually made her products better, and the warning signs that tell her it's time to "turn down the faucet" on growth.By the end of this episode, you'll walk away with:Why forced health breaks can actually strengthen your business and improve your offerings in unexpected ways.How to recognize when you're slipping into unsustainable patterns before you reach a complete breaking point.How shifting away from "catching up" fear and toward intentional choices that prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term gains.Stephanie's story is a reminder that building a successful business with chronic illness isn't about pushing harder; it's about listening to your body's wisdom and creating something that can thrive even when you need to rest.Companies mentioned in this episode: Global Lyme Alliance Project Lyme Ali Moresco Tick Chicks Leave us a Review and share this episode with a friend.Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Loved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free, exclusive email series that shows you how to sell with self-trust, create content that converts, and use long-form strategies, especially podcasting, to attract dream clients consistently, even during the ups and downs of business and life.You'll learn how to build a rhythm that helps you sell even while you rest.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Join Chronically You & ProfitableJoin & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on Instagram

Ever been told to "just journal it out" and felt completely stuck? You're not broken—you're just trying to force a system that wasn't designed for your brain, body, or energy.In this episode, I'm sharing why writing feels impossible when you're burned out (spoiler: it's not a mindset problem), the neuroscience behind why speaking works better than writing for many of us, and my Voice-First Content Strategy that's changed everything for me and my clients living with chronic illness.If you've been struggling to create content, write emails, or get your thoughts out of your head, this episode offers a completely different approach that actually works WITH your capacity instead of against it.What You'll Learn:Why burnout makes writing cognitively harder (and it's not your fault)The science behind verbal vs. written processingMy Voice-First Content Strategy that turns one voice memo into 10+ pieces of contentHow speaking builds trust and converts better than writingPractical steps to start using your voice for content creation todayWhy your voice is your most powerful business tool, especially when you're healingPerfect for: Entrepreneurs, coaches, and creatives dealing with burnout, chronic illness, ADHD, or anyone who's ever felt stuck trying to write content.Research & Statistics MentionedYamada et al. (2021): Burnout affects the prefrontal cortex, impacting planning, focus, and language organizationScientific Reports (2017): Third-person self-talk improves emotional regulationJournal of Positive Psychology (2012): Speaking about experiences boosts mood more than writingEdison Research: Podcast listeners are 54% more likely to purchase after hearing a brandIndustry Data: 65% podcast completion rate vs. 15-20% email open rateLeave us a Review and share this episode with a friend.Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Loved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free, exclusive email series that shows you how to sell with self-trust, create content that converts, and use long-form strategies, especially podcasting, to attract dream clients consistently, even during the ups and downs of business and life.You'll learn how to build a rhythm that helps you sell even while you rest.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Join Chronically You & ProfitableJoin & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on Instagram

What happens when your capacity looks different every single day, but your business still has to keep moving forward?In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness, I’m joined by Ashley Carlson, an agency owner, mom of two, and chronic illness advocate, to talk about the hard but freeing truth: you can do anything, but you can’t do everything.Ashley opens up about building and growing her agency while navigating multiple chronic illness diagnoses, monthly IVIG infusions, and the everyday realities of parenting. She shares how she’s redefined productivity, learned to ask for help, and built systems that allow her business to run even when she needs to rest.By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with:Practical systems for sustainability – why delegation, accountability, and team support make your business more resilient.A new way to define success – learning how to honor today’s 100% (even if it looks different from yesterday).Permission to rest without guilt – shifting out of the perfectionism trap and embracing flexibility in life and business.Ashley’s story is a reminder that running a business with chronic illness is not about pushing harder—it’s about creating support, sustainability, and joy along the way.Connect with Ashley:Website: https://www.elevatevbsolutions.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevatevbsolutions/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleymcarlson/Leave us a Review and share this episode with a friend.Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Loved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free, exclusive email series that shows you how to sell with self-trust, create content that converts, and use long-form strategies, especially podcasting, to attract dream clients consistently, even during the ups and downs of business and life. You'll learn how to build a rhythm that helps you sell even while you rest.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Join Chronically You & ProfitableJoin & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on Instagram

In this powerful conversation, Justine opens up about how living with multiple autoimmune conditions for over 20 years didn't limit her business success—it became her secret weapon. From closing $5K sales calls from hospital beds to building a thriving consultancy, Justine shares why chronic illness taught her the exact skills that make entrepreneurs unstoppable.What You'll Walk Away With:The "Never Be Outsold" mindset shift that transforms how you approach sales conversations and protects your core beliefs—especially when others doubt what you're capable of with chronic illnessA practical curiosity framework for turning daily statements into powerful questions that help you advocate for yourself in healthcare, business decisions, and client relationships (plus simple habit-stacking techniques to make this automatic)The authentic sales approach that leverages your natural empathy and need for deeper connections—why women with chronic illness often outsell traditional "bro marketing" tactics by 5-20%Connect with Justine:Website: JustineBeauregard.comInstagram: @JustineBeauregardCoachLinkedIn: Justine BeauregardIf this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with another entrepreneur who needs to hear that their chronic illness isn't holding them back—it might just be their most significant business advantage.Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Loved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free, exclusive email series that shows you how to sell with self-trust, create content that converts, and use long-form strategies, especially podcasting, to attract dream clients consistently, even during the ups and downs of business and life.You'll learn how to build a rhythm that helps you sell even while you rest.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness Join Chronically You & ProfitableJoin & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on InstagramLinks referenced in this episode:craftedtothrive.comentrepreneur.compeopleoverprofit

In this heartfelt and wisdom-packed conversation, Nikita sits down with entrepreneur and community builder Pallavi Pande, founder of Dtcos and Dtcos Consulting. Pallavi shares how growing up in India, navigating chronic pain, and honoring her cultural values led her to build not one but two purpose-driven businesses while parenting and caregiving in a multi-generational household.Whether you're living with chronic illness, burnout, or you're just tired of traditional hustle culture, this episode will remind you that rest is not retreat—it’s strategy.You’ll walk away with:A new lens on productivity that centers chronic illness, cultural nuance, and real life—without sacrificing impact or purpose.Tangible ways to honor your body and capacity while still showing up for your business and your people.Courage to stop performing “strength” and start building with community, creativity, and authenticity at the center.This episode is for you if you’ve ever asked: “How can I build something meaningful without burning out?”🪴 Resources, links, and guest goodies are in the show notes below.Connect with Pallavi:https://www.linkedin.com/in/pallavi-pande-bb5abb1b/https://www.instagram.com/dtocsplates/Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Loved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free, exclusive weekly that shows you how to sell with self-trust, create content that converts and lasts, and use long-form strategies (my fav is podcasting) to attract dream clients consistently even during the ups and downs of business and life.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness Join Chronically You & ProfitableJoin & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on Instagram

Is food guilt quietly draining your capacity to show up in parts of your life and business?In this episode, we explore what cravings, restriction, and shame around food might be trying to tell you not just about your body, but about your business.I’m joined by integrative nutrition health coach Laura Banks, who shares her personal journey from hiding candy wrappers in her classroom to helping women heal their relationship with food in a way that actually increases clarity, consistency, and energy.Together, we unpack the hidden emotional link between what you eat, how you feel, and how you function as a creative, a business owner, or someone simply trying to hold it all together.You’ll learn how to:Overcome being stuck in a cycle of “starting over”.Stop being burned out by restriction & trying to “get it right”.Create momentum in both your health and business routines.This conversation will help you understand why. And what to do next. Because this isn’t about willpower—it’s about capacity. And when you heal the pressure you place on yourself with food, you unlock space for self-trust, more aligned decisions, and sustainable progress.Things to Check out from our Guest:Seismic Shift is Laura's 8-week group coaching program that gives women the education, mindset shifts, and community they need to finally get consistent with healthy living. Visit bhealthyhabits.com/seismic-shiftIsn't She Powerful Podcast - https://bhealthyhabits.com/podcastSend Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Loved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness Join Chronically You & ProfitableJoin & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on Instagram

If you’re trying to make money while managing chronic illness, this episode is your gentle nudge and grounded strategy all in one.Whether you’re dreaming of replacing your income, supporting your household, or finally getting paid for the work you love—this episode breaks down how to create a business that supports both your health and your bank account.I’m walking you through 3 essential shifts that have helped me (and my clients) earn sustainable income—even through flare-ups, fatigue, and doctor’s appointments. These aren’t quick hacks or hustle-heavy tactics. They’re real-world shifts that meet you where you are.Inside, we’ll cover:Why your lived experience with chronic illness is an asset (yes, really)How to leverage what you’re already good at to start earning nowWhat to do if you’re stuck between needing income and not having the energyWhy “being consistent” isn’t the only path to growthThe identity shift that helped me move from survival to a successful businessHow to align your offers with your real life, not a fantasy scheduleWhether you’re exploring coaching, freelancing, consulting, or creative services, this conversation will help you think differently about what’s possible for your income, energy, and ease.📌 This isn’t about pushing through. It’s about building a business that pays you back—without burning you out.Whether you’re dreaming of replacing your income, supporting your household, or finally getting paid for the work you love—this episode breaks down how to create a business that supports both your health and your bank account.Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Loved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness Join Chronically You & ProfitableJoin & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on Instagram

If you’ve ever felt like you were just trying to hold it all together… this episode is a soft landing.Whether you’re navigating grief, chronic illness, trauma, or life just isn’t turning out the way you imagined, this is a conversation about what happens when you’re no longer okay, and the blueprint for “moving on” doesn’t fit your reality.This week on the podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Amanda Guin a compassionate emotional intelligence coach, trauma-informed educator, and woman who has lived through unimaginable loss. Amanda’s story includes the death of her infant daughter, the suicide of her husband, years of endometriosis and chronic illness, and still… she continues to grow, serve, and show up with heart.But she’s not here to tell you to “push through.”Instead, she shares something powerful:“I don’t want to just cope. I want to explore.”Inside this episode, we explore what it looks like to:Reimagine what healing can mean after grief, illness, or lossAllow growth to unfold even when you feel stuck or exhaustedLet go of the pressure to “be okay” and create space for dualityBuild a life and business that honors your pain and your potentialAnd most of all remember that you’re allowed to take your timeThis episode is a gentle invitation back to yourself.To pause. To breathe. To remember: you’re not behind, and you’re not broken.🌿 If you’re in a season where:Your capacity looks different than it used toYou’ve lost someone or some version of yourself along the wayYou’re rebuilding slowly and quietly, unsure of what’s nextOr you’re just tired of pretending you’re fine…This conversation is here to hold you.You don’t have to do it all.You don’t have to rush.And you don’t have to “cope” the way the world expects you to.🤍 More About AmandaDr. Amanda Guin is a trauma-informed emotional intelligence coach with a Doctorate in Community Care & Counseling, a Master’s in Public Health, and multiple certifications in youth mental health and suicide prevention. Her work blends research, lived experience, and emotional wisdom to help people heal through grief, find purpose again, and grow through life’s hardest transitions.Learn more at growwithpurposecoach.comSend Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Loved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness Join Chronically You & ProfitableJoin & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on Instagram

Have you ever wondered how someone builds an entire haircare brand without any outside investors while navigating cancer, health challenges, and life constantly interrupting their plans?In this episode, I’m talking with Lynn Power, founder of Masami, a clean haircare brand built from the ground up. Lynn shares her journey of launching and growing multiple businesses while dealing with:✨ A cancer diagnosis that changed everything✨ The reality of building slow when fast growth wasn’t possible✨ Learning to pivot her dreams when life didn’t go as planned✨ Why traditional “success” metrics can actually sink your business✨ How to build a business that works for your life not the other way around💛 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✔️ Why chasing big retailer deals or traditional success metrics can actually hurt your business and how to decide what growth is worth pursuing✔️ How Lynn built Masami and other brands without investors by leveraging community and partnerships✔️ Why slow growth and redefining success became her path to resilience and how you can apply the same mindset when life interrupts your plansIf you’ve ever felt like your health, capacity, or life circumstances keep you from growing your business the way you want to, this conversation will show you that you’re not behind you’re just building in a way that honors your reality.💛 Connect with Lynn:Shop Masami & save 15% Check out Power Beauty CollabSend Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Loved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Join & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on Instagram

In today’s episode, we’re exploring a question so many women with chronic illness as entrepreneurs may avoid asking themselves:Is denial about your health keeping my business – and your life – stuck or even limiting my growth?I sit down with Diane Hinds, an entertainment publicist, creative producer, and author, who opens up about how denial shaped her early years living with sickle cell disease and how it nearly cost her everything. She shares why pushing through was her default, how it impacted her health and career, and what changed when she finally embraced her limitations.We talk about:🔹 How denial shows up as overworking, over-serving, and ignoring your body🔹 Why slowing down isn’t failure but a powerful choice🔹 The surprising connection between embracing limitations and creating sustainable business success🔹 Navigating family, identity, and career with a chronic condition🔹 Finding joy in what you do when your body feels like it’s working against youIf you’ve ever felt like your health is holding you back from your purpose, or you’re tired of pretending everything’s okay when it’s not, this conversation is for you.Connect with Diane: https://www.dianehindswrites.com/Companies mentioned in this episode: Anne Perry Radio 1 BBC Essex Radio Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Loved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Join & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on Instagram

Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The Free 5 Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Loved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Join & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on InstagramIn this episode, we dive deep into the essence of what it means to thrive amidst chronic illness and entrepreneurial challenges. Nikita Williams takes us on a reflective journey, celebrating the podcast's 200th episode by sharing her evolution as both a person and a business owner. The conversation is rich with insights on the power of vulnerability, the necessity of community, and the unique ways women with chronic illnesses can redefine success. Nikita emphasizes that while the road has been anything but straightforward, it is the commitment to growth and self-discovery that has allowed her to flourish. She encourages listeners to embrace their narratives and reminds us that our differences are what make our stories powerful. This episode serves not only as a personal milestone but also as a source of inspiration for anyone navigating the dual challenges of health and ambition.

Drawing from personal experiences and the latest research, we delve into the profound impact of working with chronic illness in entrepreneurship. This episode is all about shifting the narrative around how we approach business as women living with chronic conditions. We discuss the importance of recognizing that our health should dictate our work style, not the other way around. By challenging the status quo of 'always being on,' we encourage listeners to embrace their unique rhythms and to create business growth and business models that accommodate their health needs. The conversation includes strategies for reconnecting with one's passion and purpose in business, ultimately leading to more aligned and successful ventures. We also introduce our new initiative, 'Rooted Sales,' designed to help our community rediscover their strengths and craft sales strategies that feel authentic and natural to them. As we wrap up, we invite everyone to join us on this journey of transformation, where we prioritize both personal well-being and professional success.Takeaways: Navigating chronic illness while starting a business requires tailored strategies that prioritize health and well-being. Many traditional business models are not designed to support the unique needs of entrepreneurs with chronic conditions. Embracing your individuality and personal story can significantly enhance your business's appeal and effectiveness. Burnout is a common challenge for entrepreneurs with chronic illness, but it doesn't signify personal failure, just the need for a different approach. Companies mentioned in this episode: Harvard Business Survey SBA.gov Psychology Today Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The Free 5 Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Loved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Join & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on Instagram

If you’re navigating chronic illness, burnout, or just done with hustle culture—but still want to grow a profitable, purpose-driven business—this conversation is for you.In this episode, I’m joined by podcast strategist Isabella Sanchez Castañeda for a deep dive into how long-form content like podcasting is becoming essential for business growth in 2025. We explore how podcasting supports sustainable marketing, deeper visibility, and better client attraction, especially for coaches, creatives, and service providers who are tired of short-form content that doesn't convert.Inside this episode, we talk about:Why podcasting is a low-pressure, high-connection strategy for coaches and consultantsHow long-form content builds trust, nurtures leads, and supports mindset shiftsWhy content fatigue is real (especially for neurodivergent and chronically ill entrepreneurs)The 3 I’s of effective long-form marketing: Intention, Intimacy, and less InterruptionHow to align your marketing with your energy, capacity, and valuesWhy podcasting creates a coaching-like experience that converts without constant sellingHow to shift from fast growth to slow, aligned, and profitable growth—without burning outWhether you're a business coach, a creative entrepreneur, or a mission-led founder navigating chronic illness or fatigue, this episode will help you rethink your content strategy through a more human, powerful lens.🎧 Tune in and discover how to grow a coaching or service business in a way that truly supports your body, your goals, and your impact.🔗 Links To Connect With Our Guest: Follow Isabella on IG: @isamedia.incLearn more about The Longform LabSend Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsLoved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Join & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on Instagram

If you’ve been told that lead generation means pitching constantly, being visible everywhere, or following a one-size-fits-all funnel strategy… this episode is going to feel like a deep breath.In this solo episode, I share the most powerful (and overlooked) way to grow your audience, build trust, and attract aligned clients — through the sustainable and soul-led path of community and collaboration.Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your approach as a coach, creative, or service provider living with chronic illness, I’ll share how to use your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents to build visibility and create genuine relationships that convert — without pretending, burning out, or pushing beyond your body’s limits.You’ll walk away with:The #1 mindset shift that makes collaboration sustainableHow to attract aligned leads using your actual interests (not just business strategies)A simple weekly rhythm for connection, even if you only have one good hour a weekReal-life examples of how I grew my podcast and audience without paid ads or constant postingGentle journal prompts to help you turn your personality into your magnetThis episode is a gentle nudge to do things differently — and proof that you can generate leads from a place of alignment, joy, and rest.Connect With MeSend Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsLoved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Join & Follow Nikita & our Community Channel on Instagram

Thinking about leaving your 9–5, but chronic illness makes it feel impossible?In this honest and empowering episode, I sit down with Liz Carmines—business owner and social media strategist—who shares her personal journey of navigating pain, brain fog, and burnout while working in corporate…and how she knew it was time to leap into full-time entrepreneurship.We talk about the guilt of “not doing enough,” the emotional cost of looking fine when you're not, and the surprising things that made the transition feel safer and more doable.If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What happens if my health flares up and I can’t keep going?” or “Can I really run a business with this body?” — this conversation is for you.In this episode, we explore:Why corporate flexibility isn’t always enough when you’re in painHow chronic illness shapes our fears around financial and emotional stabilityWhat to do before quitting to transition smootherA way to structure your business for peace of mind, not just profitThe healing power of agency, boundaries, and building a team earlyMindset shifts that help when fear or impostor syndrome creeps inWhat to consider now if you want to leave your job laterWhether you’re side hustling with limited energy, stuck in guilt loops at work, or just craving more freedom on your terms, this episode will make you feel seen and supported.Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsSupport the showLoved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness.To Start and Grow A Coaching or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Follow Nikita on Instagram...HxhJyqgDiFfQhQugJdkG

In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness, I’m unpacking the unseen, unspoken emotional workload that so many of us carry before we ever open our laptops or talk to a client. From managing symptoms in silence, to performing “fine” for others, to overthinking how we’re perceived — this episode is about the labor that never makes it on our to-do list, but deeply impacts every part of how we run our businesses.I’ll share personal stories, client moments, and the powerful mindset shifts that have helped my clients reclaim their capacity, set true boundaries, and build businesses that actually honor their health — not compete with it.What You’ll Learn:Why your emotional labor counts (even if you don't see it, if no one else sees it)How the invisible cost of “being fine” shows up in pricing, planning, and perfectionismThe real reason you’re tired — and why it’s not your faultA simple question to help you design your business around your actual capacityHow to build in space for recovery, without guilt or shame🔗 Resources & Next Steps:Research mentioned in this episode - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6430278/🎧 Listen to more episodes of Business with Chronic Illness💬 DM me the word GENTLE or Thrive on Instagram to learn about Chronically You & Profitable — my program for building a sustainable coaching business with chronic illness.✨ I use HoneyBook to simplify client onboarding, automate my calendar, and keep my business flowing—even on low-energy days. Check it out here to save 50%.Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsSupport the showLoved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/ Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here! Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness. To Start and Grow A Coaching or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Follow Nikita on Instagram...

Your voice might be trying to tell you something—and it’s not just about being hoarse or tired after a long day. In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness, Nikita reconnects with vocal vitality coach Brienne Hennessy to explore the surprising signs your voice could be sending you about your energy, alignment, and burnout levels.If you’ve ever lost your voice before a big launch, felt drained after a short client call, or brushed off vocal changes as “just allergies” or a “normal side effect” of your chronic illness—this one’s for you.Together, we dive into:How voice issues can be an early red flag for burnout (before you even realize it)What it looks like to trust your intuition—even when it’s inconvenientThe subtle difference between pushing your voice vs. tuning into itVisibility, resistance, and why showing up doesn’t always mean being “louder”Letting go of “business as usual” and creating a more sustainable rhythmBrianne shares how our voice is both a tool and a mirror—and when we listen closely, it can guide us toward better health, alignment, and confidence in business.🎧 Listen now to catch the signs early and protect your most underrated business asset: your voice.🛠️ Resources Mentioned:Book a voice screening with Brienne HennessyGrab the Voice Emergency KitFollow Brianne on LinkedInSend Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsSupport the showLoved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/ Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here! Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness. To Start and Grow A Coaching or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Follow Nikita on Instagram...

What if you didn’t have to show up every single day to grow your business? In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness, we’re challenging the idea that visibility requires constant online presence—especially when you’re living with chronic illness.You’ll learn how to build a marketing system that works with your energy, not against it. I’m sharing a simple, sustainable approach to content that gives you room to rest while still attracting clients and growing your brand.Whether you’re just starting or shifting away from the daily content grind, this episode will help you reframe what it means to market your business on your terms.What We’ll Cover:The myth of “being on” 24/7Why consistency ≠ daily effortA 5-step marketing approach that honors your energyHow to use long-form content as your anchorReal-life examples of clients creating ease in their marketing🔗 Links & Resources:Book a sales call to work with me → thrivewithnikita.comJoin the email list for exclusive content and coachingMessage on Instagram with your takeaway usingSend Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsSupport the showLoved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/ Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here! Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness. To Start and Grow A Coaching or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Follow Nikita on Instagram...

If you feel stuck, burnt out, or like success is harder for you than it is for everyone else—you’re not broken. But you might be building your business the hard way.Too many entrepreneurs try to grow their businesses like they don’t have real-life challenges—whether it’s chronic illness, past trauma, or just a different way of thinking and working. We’ve been conditioned to believe success only comes from pushing harder, doing more, and following someone else’s formula. But what if that’s exactly what’s keeping you stuck?In this episode, we’re talking about: 💡 Why you keep hitting walls, even when you're following “proven” strategies. 💡 How to stop working against yourself and build a business that actually fits your life. 💡 The hustle culture trap that keeps entrepreneurs in burnout cycles. 💡 What it really takes to create a sustainable, profitable business without overworking.🎧 Next up episode: We’re talking about how to market your business without being ‘on’ all the time. If social media pressure has you exhausted, you don’t want to miss this one! Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsSupport the showLoved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/ Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here! Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness. To Start and Grow A Coaching or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Follow Nikita on Instagram...

What If Your Business Actually Worked With Your Health Instead of Against It? Traditional business advice wasn’t made for those of us managing chronic illness. The hustle, the long hours, the pressure—it’s exhausting and unsustainable. But what if your business could be built around your energy, your health, and your actual life?In this episode, I sit down with Nitika Chopra, founder of Chronicon, to discuss how she built a thriving business while navigating unpredictable health challenges—and how you can, too.We’re diving into:✔️ The #1 mindset shift that makes flexible income possible✔️ How to create a business model that respects your energy levels✔️ Charging what you’re worth—even when you doubt yourself✔️ Making visibility work for you (even when you don’t feel your best)✔️ The financial reality of running a business with chronic illnessIf you’ve ever thought I want to start or grow my business, but I don’t know how to make it work with my health—this episode is for you.Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsSupport the showLoved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/ Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here! Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness. To Start and Grow A Coaching or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Follow Nikita on Instagram...

After an unintentional break, Nikita returns with a fresh perspective—not just on her podcast, but on her own evolving identity with chronic illness. In this candid and thought-provoking episode, she shares the shifts she’s experienced, including why the term chronic illness warrior no longer resonates with her and how that realization is influencing her work, business, and even the future of the podcast itself.Could the show be getting a new name? Is hustle culture quietly sabotaging our well-being? How can long-form content create a sustainable business without social media burnout? Nikita explores these questions and more, offering a glimpse into what’s ahead in 2025 and how she’s embracing business growth that prioritizes alignment over exhaustion.Plus, she teases an upcoming conversation with a returning guest who has mastered the art of building a business while honoring her energy. You won’t want to miss it!🔔 Next Episode Teaser: What if the key to success isn’t working harder—but working in alignment with your capacity? A special guest will join us next time to share her secrets. Stay tuned!Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsSupport the showLoved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/ Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here! Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness. To Start and Grow A Coaching or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Follow Nikita on Instagram...

In this empowering episode of Business with Chronic Illness, I’m joined by certified coach Nikkei Lamodi, who helps eldest daughters create healthier relationships with family, work, and themselves—without sacrificing their time, money, or desires. Together, we dive into the unique challenges eldest daughters face when balancing life, chronic illness, and running a business.Nikkei shares her personal journey of caregiving, managing chronic illness, and building boundaries that support her well-being. She breaks down her four eldest daughter skills—direct communication with grace, boundary care, self-compassion, and asking, "What else is possible?"If you’re the eldest daughter navigating the pressure to please others while trying to grow a business, this episode will leave you feeling seen and equipped with tools to protect your peace and capacity.Tune in to learn:Why eldest daughters with chronic illness often struggle with guilt, perfectionism, and people-pleasingHow to set boundaries that serve you without feeling selfishPractical steps to reclaim your energy and redefine your relationshipsThe importance of self-compassion and changing harmful narrativesThis conversation is a must-listen for anyone balancing chronic illness, business, and family expectations.Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsSupport the showLoved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/ Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here! Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness. To Start and Grow A Coaching or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Follow Nikita on Instagram...

It’s the last month of the year, and I’m coming to you with reflections, lessons learned, and insights for what’s ahead in 2025. This year has been a journey—embracing slow growth, navigating life with chronic illness, and unlearning.In this episode, I’m sharing the importance of taking time to reflect on your wins and challenges from 2024, how that shapes the goals we set for the new year, and my personal lessons about mindset, business, and relationships. I’ll also dive into what I think will matter most in 2025 for entrepreneurs with chronic illness—things like community building, long-form content, and creating human-centered marketing.What You'll Gain from This EpisodeClarity and Confidence for 2025: Walk away with actionable insights to set meaningful goals that align with your life and business, especially if you're living with chronic illness.A Fresh Perspective on Growth: Discover how embracing slow growth and self-compassion can unlock more success and joy in both your personal and professional life.Exclusive Predictions for Entrepreneurs with Chronic Illness: Get ahead of the curve with practical advice on trends like community building, long-form content, and creating offers that reflect your unique strengths and values.Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsSupport the showLoved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/ Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here! Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness. To Start and Grow A Coaching or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Follow Nikita on Instagram...

In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness, I’m joined by Lauren Perna, the owner of Lauren Perna Communications and a passionate mental health advocate, to discuss how embracing your chronic illness story can shift your mindset, your confidence, and your business. Lauren shares her powerful journey of navigating anxiety, depression, and chronic illness while building a thriving content and copywriting business in the life sciences industry.We dive into her life-changing decision to stop drinking and how it led to clarity, confidence, and the ability to connect with her strengths like never before. Lauren also reflects on the impact of misdiagnosis, the role of acceptance in thriving with chronic illness, and how her experiences have shaped her unique approach to business and advocacy.What You’ll Learn:How embracing your chronic illness story can build deeper, more authentic client connections.The unexpected clarity and confidence Lauren gained after quitting alcohol—and how it transformed her business.Practical strategies for identifying your strengths and outsourcing tasks to reduce overwhelm.How to create a flexible, chronic illness-friendly business model prioritizes your well-being.Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsSupport the showLoved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/ Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here! Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness. To Start and Grow A Coaching or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Follow Nikita on Instagram...

Starting a podcast doesn’t have to mean a fancy studio, expensive gear, or a perfectly curated setup. In this episode, we’re diving into how you can start and grow a podcast your way—even if that means recording in your pajamas from bed. If you’ve been overthinking every step, comparing yourself to others with professional setups, or feeling stuck because you don’t have the “perfect” equipment, this episode is here to set you free.Here’s what you’ll walk away with:Why podcasting in your pajamas (or whatever feels comfortable) can lead to greater consistency and long-term success.What you don’t need to start podcasting, so you can stop over-researching and start recording today.How to trade perfection for persistence and build a podcast that fits your life and energy.Simple tools and tips to start recording on a budget with gear you probably already have.Podcasting doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to feel good and serve your goals. Tune in and let me show you how to make podcasting easier, more comfortable, and totally doable—pajamas and all. 💛Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsSupport the showLoved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/ Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here! Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness. To Start and Grow A Coaching or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Follow Nikita on Instagram...

Money stress hits differently when you’re also managing chronic illness. In this episode, Nikita sits down with money coach Aqura Nicholson to unpack money trauma and explore practical steps for creating financial stability. From breaking the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle to building a cushion without compromising health, Aqura and Nikita dive into shifting mindsets and tangible ways to start saving and earning, even when finances feel tight. Join us to learn how to move from stress and survival mode to financial confidence.What You’ll Learn:Practical steps to overcome money trauma and break free from paycheck-to-paycheck cyclesTips for talking about money without fear or shame, especially with chronic illnessHow to approach debt management without feeling overwhelmed or restrictedRealistic ways to start saving, even on a tight budgetWhen and how to think about bringing in extra income to meet financial needsCreating a financial plan that aligns with your unique health and lifestyle needsSend Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsSupport the showLoved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/ Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here! Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness. To Start and Grow A Coaching or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Follow Nikita on Instagram...

In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness, we’re diving into how you can finish the year with purpose and momentum—without compromising your health. With the year-end rush, holiday season, and constant pressure to hit goals, it can feel overwhelming to balance your business with your well-being. But what if you could wrap up the year feeling accomplished and rested?I’m sharing practical tips for setting up a sustainable rhythm in your business that allows for growth while honoring your need for rest. We’ll talk about the value of planting seeds now—whether for rest, new connections, or future projects—and how these small, intentional actions can set you up for a more fulfilling and productive start to the new year. Join me for a conversation on finishing strong, avoiding burnout, and cultivating the rest and resilience you need to thrive.What you'll walk away with after listening to this episode:Reflecting on Year-End Goals: Tips to prioritize goals and align them with your current energy levelsRest or Hustle? How to decide whether to push forward or take a step back as the year closesPlanting Seeds for Future Growth: Small but impactful actions to prepare for success in the new yearThe Power of Community: How connecting with your network now can lead to growth and supportPractical Tips for Sustainable Productivity: Building a plan that respects both your health and your business goalsTune in for practical advice, personal stories, and encouragement to finish the year in a way that feels right for you. Whether you’re ready to hustle or rest, this episode will help you find the balance you needSend Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsSupport the showLoved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/ Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here! Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free exclusive weekly email series designed for creatives and women with chronic illnesses. You'll learn how to make a liveable income with your hobbies, professional skills, and innate talents by building a successful online coaching business with simple strategies that work for you, even on flare days, and feel better living with chronic illness. To Start and Grow A Coaching or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Book A Free Sales Call With Nikita Here.Follow Nikita on Instagram...