She's Crafted To Thrive

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 posi

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 pr

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 s

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

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

Think you need to work 60-hour weeks to build a successful freelance business? 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)Why pricing by deliverables instead of hours is the key to sustainable freelancing with chronic illnessHow to turn

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 Business Safety Net SeriesWhat happens to your business when you can’t show up?For so many entrepreneurs, especial

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

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 →

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 y

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 con

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

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 wi

In this heartfelt and wisdom-packed conversation, Nikita sits down with entrepreneur and community builder Pallavi Pande, founder of Dtcos and Dtcos Consulting. Paula 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

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 he

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

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 exhaust

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

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: