Russell Herbert Jack is a yoga and mindfulness teacher from Southland, New Zealand. He specializes in Vinyasa Yoga, Qigong, and guided meditations, helping clients achieve harmony of body, mind, and soul. Russell is devoted to living in harmony with himself and with nature and conveying these skills to others. His classes will help you think clearer, improve memory and concentration, and improve your physical health and mental well-being.
How did you get started in this business? What inspired you to start this business?
I am a yoga and mindfulness teacher based in Southland, NZ. My parents introduced me to yoga when I was very young, and I am very grateful that they did. Yoga kept me in shape over the year, and through yoga culture, I also got into veganism and meditation. It had such a positive impact on my entire life and well being. So when I decided to drop out of school to pursue yoga teaching, it felt like I was following my true calling.
How do you make money?
I make money in various ways. I have outdoor yoga classes, guided meditations for energy healing, I also teach Qigong.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
I never actually planned on teaching yoga, but since I’ve done it my entire life, there were many people who wanted to take lessons from me. I normally do yoga outside, sometimes out on the beach. Many of my friends asked me if I could teach them, and so at one point, I started teaching. After I got certified, I was able to actually make money for my services. It took me about 6 months to get certified.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time that you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle it?
I never doubted if my business would work because I got clients even before I started to market my services. I also think I am very good at what I do.
How did you get your first customer?
My first customer was one of my friends, we actually bartered services. I thought him yoga and he helped me with my homework back in college.
What is one marketing strategy that you’re using that works well to generate new business?
I recently started a blog at russelljacksouthland.com that I hope will help me to scale what I do, but another wise I’ve had enough business with word of mouth advertising. Also, people, I engage with while volunteering or people who see me doing yoga outdoors usually ask about what I do.
What is the toughest decision that you’ve had to make in the last few months?
I am often “in my own head” and mind my own business so it took me a while to convince myself to come out of my shell and create a blog. I am not on social media, but I also realize that many people are, and you have to be where they are to make any kind of impact.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
I think success is very individual. For me, success is being able to always remember my purpose and make small steps towards it every day.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
It’s fun to see how my students get stronger and better at yoga.
What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
I am excited to continue growing my business and connect with more mindful and planetary-conscious people.
What business books have inspired you?
I like the “one-minute millionaire” book. I would like to be an enlightened millionaire someday.
What is a recent purchase that you have made that’s helped with your business?
I recently bought a camera and I would like to learn how to take more photos, Southland is a beautiful area.
Leave us with one point that few individuals know about your company.
We need more planetary-conscious entrepreneurs, I believe I am one of them. Please reach out if you resonate with what I do.