This interview is with Andrea Berkowitz, Owner at Warrior Girl Gifts, LLC.

Andrea Berkowitz, Owner, Warrior Girl Gifts, LLC

Andrea, could you tell us a little bit about yourself and your journey to becoming an expert in health and wellness?

I am a two-time breast cancer warrior, small-business owner, and cancer coach. After I was diagnosed with breast cancer 11 years ago at the age of 42, I went on a long journey of self-discovery and empowerment. I had a double mastectomy and 16 rounds of chemotherapy. I wanted to learn more about nutrition and wellness, so I enrolled at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and became a certified health and wellness coach. I spent two of those years coaching women on weight loss. I was diagnosed in 2021, about 7 1/2 years later, with a new and unrelated aggressive breast cancer. I had more chemotherapy, radiation, and a year on a chemo pill. I faced many obstacles during this time and learned the behaviors and habits to fight the cancer with strength and empowerment. I now coach women battling cancer to thrive through treatment.

What inspired you to merge your passion for health and wellness with entrepreneurship?

When I was going through chemotherapy the first time, I received 16 anonymous gifts from the "chemo fairy" that were left for me on my doorstep for each round. The gifts were uplifting, funny, and inspiring. It helped me get through the treatments, and at the end, I found out it was a group of my dear friends. I started Warrior Girl Gifts to spread the same love, hope, and humor to women battling cancer. This also inspired me to become a coach for women battling cancer because I found a passion for helping and inspiring others.

You've successfully integrated healthy habits into your own life, especially after battling cancer. What's one piece of advice you'd give to entrepreneurs struggling to prioritize their well-being while building a business?

Be patient. Do not try to squeeze too much into your schedule. It takes time to build a business, and there is no instant gratification. Self-care is a must!

Many entrepreneurs struggle with finding a balance between work and life, which can lead to burnout. What strategies have you implemented in your own routine to maintain this balance and avoid burnout?

I always make sure that 1. I take breaks for exercise and walking my dog; 2. I end my workday at 5 p.m. so that I can spend time with my husband; 3. I allow time for reading, watching my favorite shows, and personal self-care.

Building a successful business often involves facing challenges and setbacks. Can you share a time when your health and wellness practices helped you overcome a difficult moment in your entrepreneurial journey?

I have gotten hyper-focused on some tasks and realized that I needed to shut the computer off and call it a day. The next day, I woke up with a fresh and wide-open mind and was able to get my work done more efficiently.

As an entrepreneur in the health and wellness space, you're a source of inspiration for many. What are some non-negotiable habits or practices you believe every wellness entrepreneur should adopt for long-term success?

Practice what you preach. It is very hard to help others if you do not help yourself first. Your own personal experiences matter and can help influence the results of your clients. Also, finding a purpose in life and working on doing for others is essential for happiness and meaning in life.

How do you stay informed about the latest trends and research in both the wellness industry and the entrepreneurial world?

I have mentors with whom I work, and I also follow different publications that offer the newest research and information.

Social media can be a powerful tool for wellness entrepreneurs to connect with their audience. How do you leverage social media to share your expertise and grow your business while maintaining authenticity?

I try to share my own experiences to help other women; I give my audience the most authentic version of me. I do not use a teleprompter—I speak to my audience as I would speak to my friends.

What advice would you give to aspiring wellness entrepreneurs who are just starting and looking to make a positive impact on the world?

Stay authentic and true to yourself. Be patient, as it takes time. Hire the right people to help you move in the right direction. Do your research before spending money on your business. Start blogging all the time.

Thanks for sharing your knowledge and expertise. Is there anything else you'd like to add?

I am now three years cancer-free from triple-negative breast cancer, and I am THRIVING!