Exploring Wellness with Katie
As a Midwest girl with Iowa farming roots, Katie McClammer was motivated by her core values of community, nature and consciousness to follow her passion in becoming a Wellness Guide. After a 20-year career as a marketer in startups, nonprofits and Fortune 500 leadership, Katie was inspired to chase after HER dreams. She pivoted and became her own boss, taking on the challenge of being a consultant for natural food brands. With that experience, her enthusiasm for fostering micro and transformative change grew, and she became a certified Health Coach.
Katie is able to balance being a mom of two adventurous boys and wife to her favorite explorer, her husband Patrick, while also being a Wellness Consultant, Retreat Host and Mindfulness Guide. She has spent her whole life training for this journey as an entrepreneur to create and serve her community!
The INTERVIEW
Q: First things first... what is the name of your business and how did you choose it?
A: My business name is Exploring Wellness with Katie. To explore is to travel through new territory, or search for gifts. I love the outdoors and am committed to wellness. I guide my clients to discover balance in life, whether that’s on a hike, in a workshop, or a coaching session.
Q: What excites you about the community of Women-Owned Wednesdays?
A: I love supporting women in business! It is clear that bonding with females and sharing our wisdom is crucial. I feel that strongly after 20 years in a male-dominated career. Whether it’s online or in-person, connecting with like-minded women creates positive ripples that I see and feel already. Grateful for the WOW community!
Q: Where did the idea for Exploring Wellness with Katie come from?
A: In 2020, I decided to leave my full-time job of corporate strategy and digital leadership with a Fortune 500 company. I pivoted to offer marketing consulting to natural food brands. I loved having my own business and decided to pivot again, focusing on personal growth and empowerment.
Q: What was your mission when starting out?
A: To combine my passion and talents into a lifestyle business that aligns with my true self. When I started this new venture, I was making concessions either personally or professionally. Over time I decided to craft a niche that serves most facets of my life.
Q: Who or what inspires you?
A: I am driven to inspire my boys. They see amazing women making a difference as teachers, coaches, artists, chefs and more. As young boys, they discovered when women received the right to vote and were shocked. They assumed women have always had equal rights.
Q: How do you start your day?
A: I start my day at sunrise outside on my patio. I listen to the birds, watch the gorgeous sky, and feel the crisp air. Then I give my husband a hug and get the kids ready for school. I do a quick yoga session in my office before starting work. My days are productive because they’re planned ahead of time. There’s always a sticky note (or 4!) on my desk. It ensures that I focus on what is most crucial.
Q: What have been the most important factors that you have learned with the success of your business?
A: I’ve learned that if it’s not a “F*! Yes” then it’s a no, despite my mental gymnastics. Sometimes I’m torn between the expectations of others and my passion. Even when it’s quiet, I find space to tune in to that “gut feel”.
Q: What have you failed at recently and how did you overcome it?
A: I had to reevaluate my consulting services with one of my natural food clients. When something is not working, I recognize the need to talk through it early and transparently. I’ve learned to critically evaluate new opportunities and walk away if they’re not a fit.
Q: What advice would you give your 17-year old self?
A: Do not pursue something for someone else. Quiet the external influences and reduce the need for validation from the outside. It is a constant practice, and there are many turns ahead. This is your beautiful life. Enjoy the journey!
Q: What are your favorite online resources for your business?
A: Squarespace for my website, Canva for content and Google Drive for remote, searchable, and collaborative creation and storage.
Q: What keeps you going and growing in your in your business?
A: I know in my bones that this venture is my life’s work. I am also doing this to show my kids it is possible to combine your passions and talents into a business that fits into your lifestyle.
Q: Share what you do daily/weekly to include personal development in your life for growth?
A: I exercise, read, journal and listen to podcasts for personal growth. I go to the library weekly for space from the home office. Every few weeks, I meet with two different female coaches. Last but not least, volunteer work refuels me!
Q: What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, build and grow a brand or a business today?
A: Identify your core values and key outcomes. This clarity will enable easier decision making. Write a business plan and share it. You do not need a formal Advisory Board, but surrounding yourself with support and critical thinking is crucial.
Q: What do you do to unwind and take time away from your business?
A: Hiking is #1! I turn to yoga, books, and meditation to unwind. My favorite getaway is camping with my boys.
Q: What is your motto or mantra that you live by?
A: "There is no such thing as failure. Failure is just life trying to move us in another direction" - Oprah 2020 Vision Tour, Denver
Q: What vision do you have for yourself in the near future, personally or professionally?
A: I’ve been focused on the space where personal and professional blend together. I’m inspired to live my life helping others connect with nature and mindfulness. It includes workshops, retreats, and one-on-one coaching. My dream is to create a retreat space in the mountains with tiny homes or Airstreams.
Q: How do you support other women-owned businesses?
A: I truly enjoy making connections and introductions, a gift from both my Mom and Dad. I partner with remarkable female entrepreneurs, co-creating new offerings, and I love mentoring women.
Women-Owned VIBES
My guilty pleasure is: Dark chocolate
Best time management tip: No technology until after the morning routine.
The best book I've read in the past year: Gene Keys by Richard Rudd
My most listen-to podcast, song or artist is: Don’t Stop Me Now by Queen
Greatest gift I have ever received: Unconditional love from my husband and two boys.
Three things that I cannot live without: Sleep, smoothies and snuggles.
Most useful advice my mother has given me: Take care of your community.
The coolest person I've ever met is: Brandi Carlile
Lake, Mountains, Beach? Mountains all the way!
Quality I cherish most in a friend is: Compassion
The title of my autobiography would be: Guided by Nature