(1) LAEDA: Entrepreneurship is a very challenging path to take with many different possible directions. What made you decide to become an entrepreneur?

Honestly, I started out in corporate and even though it was a structured position I found it to be unchallenging for the creative mind. I had ideas and different ways to achieve greater results and I was not living to my full potential and what I had to offer. I am a problem solver and a risk taker so becoming an entrepreneur did not scare me at all.

(2) LAEDA: Why did you choose your industry?

I am a life coach and I have always had a passion for young adults even as a young person. I grew up in Camden where many children lack the basic necessities and resources and most importantly, the mentorship. I gave what I could and helped where I was needed and I love to teach. Some young adults needed homework help, help finding resources (food), and I also held groups on the weekends regarding money management and self-confidence.

(3) LAEDA: Tell me about your experience while attending EDTP. What have the major takeaways been from the program? Have you had any “Ah-ha!” moments? How did the program help you?

LAEDA has helped a lot with understanding the business journey to entrepreneurship. I was able to put together a detailed business plan along with the homework requirements that helped me to focus on my products and services. My Ah-ha! Moment was honestly learning about my Different, Better, Special of what made my services unique and stand out from the rest. I saw a lot of coaching businesses emerge at the time of my formation and I needed to set my services apart, thus I was grateful for the push.

(4) LAEDA: Tell me about your journey on the road to business start-up. What have been some of the challenges, successes, failures, etc.?

I will start out by saying there are no directions or a specific guide on your entrepreneurship journey (believe me I looked) I am at the beginning stages of growth and though it seems very lonely at times, as I build my business and network I am starting to be connected to my people. Meeting like-minded entrepreneurs are extremely helpful when you are just starting out and understanding your product and what you have to offer is key!

(5) LAEDA: Could you tell me a little about where your business is today?

My business is fairly new and I am building connections and offering programs is where I currently am.

(6) LAEDA: Do you have any advice for future (or existing) entrepreneurs?

Yes, I’ve learned entrepreneurship is not for the faint at heart, it requires sleepless night, dedication, patience, confidence, and openness to correction because errors WILL happen. You will have amazing days and not so amazing days, but each day is a learning experience so please be kind to yourself, you’re new at this .

About Vanessa King:

Her coaching business is called Vanessa The Life Coach LLC and she specializes in coaching young adults to obtain resources while implementing developmental tools and teaching fundamental life skills. In addition, she also helps identify roadblocks to reaching goals and provides strategy and solutions along with holding monthly online courses in helping young adults to find their voice while transitioning into adulthood. Topics included are the following: depression, self-confidence, relationships, mentorship, college, finances and etc.

Vanessa King can be reached by the following:

Visit her on her website: Vanessathelifecoach.com

You can email her at info@vanessathelifecoach.com

You can visit her on her Facebook at: Vanessa The life Coach LLC

You can visit her on her Instagram page: Vanessa The life Coach LLC

You can call her at (267) 777-1353 (she is based in NJ)

The Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP) is a free, nine-week business skills training course offered in Camden, NJ in the Spring and Fall each year. Qualified entrepreneurs receive 72+ hours of training from industry professionals, business planning, and continued technical assistance. Apply online at www.LAEDA.com.