Dr. Jelina Shah is a Clinical Pharmacist and Holistic Diabetes Health Coach for people with Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes with over 15 years of Healthcare experience. Jelina approaches diabetes differently. Not only does she address the medications and the health risks associated with diabetes, but she also focuses on the root causes by attending to the emotional and mental aspects of the disease. She has helped hundreds of patients sustain lower blood sugars, lose weight and take fewer medications so they can live their happiest, healthiest lives.
What were your initial years of growing up like? Tell us about your life before starting your corporate journey/venture/initiative.
I have always loved teaching others. I remember lining up my toys like they were in class and creating worksheets. Helping and teaching others has been inside of me since I was young. I wanted to become a doctor and a teacher…my current role allows me to do both!! I’ve always loved learning and being creative!! I used to (and still love) to dance, paint, draw, write, and craft projects. I am by no means an artist or writer, but I still find joy in all those things. My current role allows me to even utilize some of these skills (like creating workbooks for clients). Funny that what we loved to do as a young child is a key to what we love as an adult.
Tell us something about your initiative/business. What is it about and how is it helpful for people?
I help people with Type 2 Diabetes and Prediabetes overcome their cravings and finally lose weight! With so much information out there, it is hard to know what is fact and what is fiction. My program helps people live their sweetest life by enjoying the foods they love, moving effortlessly, and feeling healthy in the process. Many of us view being healthy as being restrictive and depriving, but I know that is not the case. I want to help people feel joyful, empowered and free while becoming healthy.
While the global pandemic of COVID-19 is associated primarily with adversities, it has also brought about a true boom in startups, with successful entrepreneurship in many countries. The pandemic has impacted all of us in one way or another. Would you like to share your experience on a personal and professional level?
After years of dreaming of living in California, I was determined to move to California from Colorado because it was my soul’s calling. I moved to April of 2020 which was at the beginning of the pandemic. Navigating a move during that time was an extra challenge I wasn’t expecting, but I didn’t let the pandemic ruin my dream. Years later, I am glad to report that was the best decision I have made! That big move also helped me realize how strong I am and what I am capable of doing on my own. As a result, a couple years later, I quit my corporate job and started my own business!
What has been the response of the users/consumers towards your venture?
People have been incredibly supportive and I have been excited to share my expertise. I had no idea I would be featured on so many podcasts or interviewed so frequently!! There is so much curiosity surrounding my work and since I have had such a personal journey with weight loss and prediabetes, it has been refreshing to share what I know.
How has your life changed because of your initiative/venture?
EVERYTHING!!! I was so used to having a set, inflexible schedule and having someone to tell me what to do. So, when I decided to start my own business, I was lost and not very efficient. I had to learn how to create different routines and de-condition myself around sticking to certain times. I learned to be more flexible. I have learned how to cultivate real relationships, create boundaries, and how to be in integrity with myself.
Do you have anyone who is the biggest support system in your life? Please let us know.
My family and friends are my biggest support system. Being a solopreneur means that there isn’t anyone to bounce ideas off of, celebrate wins, or commiserate with. Having family and friends is crucial so you feel connected and can share your experiences (even if they may not fully understand, they try).
Would you like to share with our young budding women entrepreneurs the change you would like to see in the world if given an opportunity? OR Share a motivational message for the audience/women who are reading this.
It is NEVER too late to change. I made the decision to move to California to start a new life at 39 and quit my corporate job to start my own business at 40. If you want to live the life you want, start today to make the changes. You deserve the life you want.
