In this episode, Steph sits down with Stephanie AndresenStevens as she shares her journey of self-healing and how it led her to start her own small business, Brilliant Bodywork. She emphasizes the importance of embracing scars and battle wounds, both physical and emotional, and learning how to heal and live with them. Stephanie also talks about the joy of small business ownership, the creativity it allows, and the ability to prioritize people over profit. Stephanie and her husband, Adam, work together in the business and she talks about how they prioritize their relationship. She also co-founded Restorative Inc., an organization that provides tattoo removal services to survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking.

Stephanie graduated from The Salon Professional Academy in Onalaska, WI, and has a Bachelor of Science in Business from St. Mary’s University, an Associate Degree from Minnesota State College Southeast Technical, advanced training in chemical peels and microdermabrasion at the Basali’ Institute and is also certified in Laser Therapies through the National Laser Institute. She is also the region’s ONLY Certified Medical Oncology Aesthetician and has reached the level of Reiki Master Teacher! Stephanie has been published in multiple publications for not only her work in the spa industry but her work in Restorative Ink as well. Restorative Ink is a nonprofit organization that offers survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking free removal of branding tattoos that were forcibly placed on their bodies to show ownership. Stephanie has been awarded with over 30 international awards, has been a recipient of the Jefferson award, and has also received the title of Esthetician of the Year two years in a row.

To connect with Stephanie and follow her businesses, head to https://restorativeink.com and www.BrilliantBodywork.com or on Instagram @brilliantbodywork and @restorative_ink .

Key Takeaways

Embrace scars and battle wounds, both physical and emotional, and learn how to heal and live with them.

Pivoting and adapting during challenging times is crucial for small businesses.

Small business ownership allows for creativity, prioritizing people over profit, and making a positive impact in the community.

Working with a spouse in a small business requires clear roles, effective communication, and leaving work at work.

Continuing to prioritize your relationship and making time for fun and date nights is important for a healthy work-life balance.

How to take pride of the ability to ask for help and cope with challenges