8 Things I’ve Learned As A New Business Owner

This post is for anyone that currently owns a business, thinking about starting a business, or just simply curious. To anyone that has been asking me about it all, I hope this post helps answer some of your questions!

Let’s jump right in.

Starting a business has been the toughest yet easiest journey. I say easiest lightly, and I really just mean that it isn’t nearly as scary as I thought it would be. When I say hardest, it’s because everything is NEW. I started as a one-woman show; from account management, to invoicing, to legal stuff… I had to know it all.

To say that I’ve learned a lot throughout the last 7 months is an understatement. I mean, no experience like jumping right into it can show you all of this. As some of you may know, I had a nutrition consulting business for 4 years prior to working in the entertainment industry (I guess that’s what we can label it). Starting that was much, much different because it was just me and just 2 sessions with clients a day. With Parker Management, I knew I was building a company. Much of what I knew about business before definitely helped propel this new venture, but building this brand has been a completely different story. So, I’m here to share some of the biggest takeaways thus far in the journey. As most of you know, I’m a shoot-for-the-stars type of person. I truly believe that it’s up to us to create what our lives look like, and if you have dreams and desires that you aren’t pursuing, start making a plan!

1) Just start. Not next month, not “maybe next year,” not when you have enough money saved up. I know this may not sound practical, but just get started somehow.

2) Get tough: This is a lengthy one guys, but bear with me. If you don’t develop thick skin quickly in business, it’s not going to last. Maybe it’s someone saying something bad about your product, or you just watching other brands do something better. For me, it has been contending against the business I used to work for. Here’s where I’ll be real- I struggled for a long time with wanting to start my own talent agency. I didn’t want to compete with the agency I used to work at because I truly felt bad about it (the sensitive/people-pleaser side of me). At the same time, I also saw things that could be improved upon. When you aren’t in a position to improve those things, you are left with thinking… I can do this and I can do this better. Isn’t that what a lot of people do? Here’s the thing… never feel bad for wanting to do your own thing. I felt guilt up until about a month ago. The main thing is to do things with integrity. If you can be honest in business, then you are doing the right thing. And if you offend your old coworkers or bosses by starting something on your own, then so be it. This is your journey! I remember when a friend reminded me of all the great businesses that were started because someone branched away to do something similar, but different and better. No one should ever be upset with you for having that desire to pursue your own dreams. So, brush it off and get tough! Don’t get discouraged by negative noise.

3) Start small: I remember when I first started, all I wanted was to rush to Northwest Portland to go office shopping. My visual of fresh flowers, great music, sleek computers and rad art took over. Then, when business picked up out of the gate, I went straight to thinking I needed to hire someone. Here’s the thing… I started my business with expenses at $79/month. I ended up forgoing the office and then decided to put my husband in charge of accounting and carried the workload on my own, for as long as I could. Being patient with certain things that weren’t completely necessary helped me grow my profits and set them aside for future expenses. Moral of the story, and I’m still reminding myself of this, but… one thing at a time.

4) Let go of money: Here’s the tough thing about point #3- when I realized it was time to expand and bring on an employee, I started freaking out. The thought of expenses after you haven’t had any is a bit frightening. But thanks to my friend (and serial successful entrepreneur), when I expressed to her my nerves, her advice to me was to not hold onto money like that. “Let it go… Focus more on paying the right people what they deserve, otherwise your business will never get better.” Powerful, huh? That was game changer for me. Find good people, pay them properly, give them ownership and freedom, and let the business blossom.

5) Be good to yourself: I’ve felt more stress lately than ever before. It’s a good problem when business is busy and going well, but that can also get extremely overwhelming. I was really bad about this at the beginning and I’m still not great at it, but I feel the most “in control” and calm about things when I’m taking care of myself. Although I hate spending $100 on facials, they relax the heck out of me, so I’ve been trying to get them more often. And while getting my nails done seems like such a waste of time, it makes me feel better about myself when I have them done. And when I feel overwhelm setting in, I immediately stop what I’m doing and go for a walk outside to clear my head.

6) Remember your why: I’ll be honest, I didn’t start my company because I’m passionate about social media and models. I totally get why people say “find your passion and make that your business,” but for me, I’m passionate about a lot of things in life. I also like a lot of things. I started this business because I saw a way that it could be done better. I also enjoyed the job and had a proven track record of success. I saw it as an opportunity to create my life to help me do whatever I want in the future. If I want to be a stay-at-home mom, if I want to blog, if I want to travel the world… by playing my cards right and working hard to grow this business, I will ultimately allow myself that flexibility. My why is freedom, but it stemmed from simply wanting more time with my family. Freedom to create my own schedule; freedom to ultimately put someone else in charge of the company to run it; freedom to take care of my employees and give them the things I wanted when I was an employee; and the freedom to be as creative as I want to be. Write down your “why’s” and look back at those each time you get discouraged.

7) Have a support system: There have been a few times where I just wanted to throw the towel in. Not even because business wasn’t going well, but just out of pure frustration and moments of feeling like running a business is too much to carry. My husband has been the biggest support and honestly, if it weren’t for him, I don’t know where I’d be. Have someone around you to keep you in check, whether it’s a spouse, friend or a business coach. And anytime to you feel like you are getting to “that place” go talk to them and let it out. I’m always amazed how quickly I turn my train around after talking to my husband about how I feel.

8) Stay in your own lane: This saying is a little overdone lately, but it is so dang true. The most helpful thing I’ve done is tune out what others are doing. It’s so easy to scroll through Instagram and feel like you should be doing this, or be doing that… but the key is to do things a little different. Also, stop comparing. The more I move through business with my blinders on and try to do our own thing, the better things have been getting. Browsing competitors sites and social channels can definitely be healthy, as I think we can learn a lot from what others are doing. But go easy on yourself. Don’t get too caught up in what others have going on.

I love learning from other business owners. I’m actually putting together a networking group in Portland soon, so stay tuned for more info on that. I also love to email and hop on calls with other business owners, so please send me an email if you are interested in connecting. You can never have enough support in all of this.

Happy weekend, friends!

xx
Lindsay

Blogging Like It’s Your Business

If it’s time to for you get serious about blogging, then you are in the right place. While my full-time job is to manage successful bloggers and influencers (shout out to Parker Management) while keeping up my little blog here too, I’m still no expert. Blogging world is a very young world, and what works for one person, doesn’t always work for another. However, there are always some basics to success, and that’s what we are going to dive into.

You all sent me some really great questions, so I’m rolling this into a series. From branding and working from home to all things social, I’ll be posting a lot of this stuff over the next few weeks. Get excited!! ; )

1. Treat it like a business. This may seem like a bit of a no-brainer, but honestly, if your goal is to turn blogging into a potential business, then you have to treat it that way. That means, if you are employed full-time, you are going to be spending some late nights after your day job, working on your “other business.” It might sound a bit daunting, but don’t let it discourage you. That setup isn’t forever!

2. Subscribe and learn. I recommend downloading podcasts to help educate you. While you drive to work, fold laundry, go for a walk… it’s easier to make time for these than say, read a book. My favorites are:

The Influencer Podcast
Being Boss
Him & Her
Girl Boss
How I Built This

3. Make it look like a business. This is probably one of the most important points. If you truly hope to make this is a profitable business, it has to look that way. From your website and branding to your social media feed… it needs to look like a brand! Your own, personal, awesome brand. For something like Instagram for instance, I completely understand that “real is in” and less contrived feeds are better to some extent. However, if your goal is to profit from your business, one of the big contributors to that will be partnering with other brands. A brand needs to be able to envision their company in a post that YOU create. So in my opinion, to get paid accordingly, your images need to be top notch! Learning how to take a good photo is so important. It is also SO easy to edit photos from your phone now. And hey, if you aren’t great at creating cohesive feeds with great images, then hire some help! It will be worth it.
For example, I love @bethanmenzel’s Instagram. As a brand, you can easily see your product or company fitting in nicely with her feed; you know she will do a great job. But her feed is also not “too perfect.” It’s just simply, well done.

Remeber, a cohesive, well-edited feed doesn’t need to look forced.
4. Use your free business tools. Track your blog traffic often and upgrade to a business account on Instagram and Facebook. They are free, important tools to help you succeed. They provide you with metrics that you can keep track of and analyze, show you what performs best, and who your readers are.

5. Find your passion and run with that. The thing I love the most about blogging and social media world is that it can be WHATEVER you want it to be. We all know by now that success in this industry will never come from you trying to forcefully blog and take images. What are you excited about? Who are you? What do you have to contribute? One of my favorite questions I like to ask people is this (and I seriously want you to think about this): For most of your life, what has everyone associated you with or known you as? When I asked myself this question a long time ago I remember thinking, well, my whole life I’ve heard that I’m a great negotiator and everyone has always said that I’m good at making things look pretty/have a good eye for aesthetic. LIGHT BULB. Both qualities that I have finally translated to my career. Point being, if you’ve always had great style and loved fashion, then I think you know what you could blog about. Think it would be awesome to blog about home design all day? Ding! Want to travel the world? Perfect. Start traveling and taking great photos. You’ve got to be excited about whatever it is you blog about.

6. Have a media kit. This really important, in my opinion, if you have a blog with a larger audience and at least 5,000 followers on Instagram. This is your selling point that really shows people who you are. It’s basically your personal brand brochure. It doesn’t need to be long. In fact, I prefer a one-page media kit to show brands who you are and what you are doing.

7. Figure out how you are going to make money. Do you want to sell a guide? Offer services? Or simply just make money from partnering with brands? Make a plan and get clear on how, exactly, you are going to make your blog profitable. If your goal is to make money from partnering with brands, make a list of your favorite ones and start emailing them!

8. Get to know the top social media channels. Each channel serves its own purpose. Referring traffic from sites like Instagram and Pinterest is imperative to the success of your blog! Learn how to use them. Melissa Griffin has some great, free tips on how to do this.

9. Be consistent. There are going to be so many times that you will find yourself wondering “wait, why am I doing this again!?” Just remember why you started and know that turning this into a business is 100% possible, as so many bloggers have proven it to be. With a little bit of time and a whole lot of effort, you will get there!

10. Get help if you need it! There is A LOT to this industry. When I was trying to blog full-time, I spent so much of my time searching the internet and reading endless articles that all told me the same things. I also thought I knew a LOT, and realized I actually didn’t know much at all until I entered into influencer management. If you feel stuck and need that assistance, work with someone! It will be worth it.

Happy blogging! Feel free to continue to email or DM me your questions so I can include them in my upcoming posts!

As of September 1st, Parker Management is opening up 10 spots to help coach people and their personal brands on how to make money from blogging (or just how to grow your blog and social media, period). Email thewellhaus@gmail.com for more info.

It’s Been a Little While

I guess it’s time I do a life update! So much has changed in the last two months and I’ve really been reminded over and over again that when you feel that nudge for a change, you’ve got to listen.

When I wrote this post in February, I was ready to dabble into a bunch of things. I was working part time (remotely) at the talent agency in San Diego, then working for my friend that is an Interior Designer, then taking freelance creative jobs on the side as well, all while watching Parker most days. I was excited because I finally had a chance to try a bunch of new things and see what I liked best, but fast forward to the end of February and I was feeling scatter brained and overwhelmed.

Here’s what I realized… I like a lot of things. I’ve always been that way! However, being extremely Type A, feeling pulled in too many directions drove me nuts. I’ve also learned that as a Type A person, you can’t really be doing a bunch of things while trying to figure out what you want to do next. So, I ended up leaving the job in San Diego, stopped taking on any new projects and I took two weeks to not do anything. Financially this maybe wasn’t the smartest idea, but truthfully, in the end it was well worth it. I realized that I really needed a second to slow down and stop worrying about what was next, so I did just that.

One thing that I just couldn’t get out of my head, was the fact that I’ve wanted to start my own business for a long time and the talent world was definitely where I felt like I would thrive the most in. For those two weeks, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. One day I would want to start my own agency, and then the next day I was remembering what a weird world digital media is and how sometimes, I really hate it. I kept going back and forth on the idea.

I have always loved the actual job. Managing talent, negotiating rates, helping brands find the right people- I love it. The problem I have, is with everything else around it. The superficial part, the competition and the overall industry at times. I knew that if I were going to stay doing the job I love to do, I had to change it up. For me, I didn’t want to only see someone posing in every single picture on their social media feed anymore. (And please let me just say, if that’s your thing, do it. I also get that if you are a style blogger, it’s part of the game!) I just personally feel like there needs to be more. More substance, more to offer, less self-concerned, and more honest and inspiring.

That’s how Parker Management was born.

Parker Management thrives in the wellness, travel and lifestyle realm. And honestly, it feels so dang good. I went from feeling frustrated with social media, to feeling so inspired by these people. To know that the talent I get to work with truly do what they love and have a platform for that where they can have an audience and make money from it, is incredible. It’s less about “look at me” and a need a for fame, but more about truly showing the world what they are passionate about, and that makes running this business more fulfilling than I could have ever imagined.

So, that’s what I’ve been up to : )

Oh, and now we are trying to find a new house to live in. We having been renting for a few years, but they are going to sell our place. We can’t decide whether to buy (although what I want is way out of our price range) or keep renting in a new place for another year. Blaaaah! So yep, that’s life, currently.

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend! I’ll be soaking up as much of this Portland sunshine as I possibly can and of course working a bit (insert smiling/sweat emoji).

Creating a Productive Home Office

Working from home is great, but if you aren’t set up properly, it can totally suck. Sitting on the couch, feet propped up while working from your laptop can actually get old, believe it or not. If your goal is to have working from home be productive, then I’ve got the perfect things to help you!

1. A simple space. My philosophy is that if you have a creative job, keep your surroundings simple and clean. If you have a job that doesn’t involve anything creative, I like the idea of keeping your area lively and fun. Think wallpaper, lots of flowers or plants, etc…

2. A large monitor. A larger monitor allows you to work more efficiently. You can work from multiple tabs at the same time and you aren’t straining your eyes as much. It feels more business-like in a way. I personally have a MacBook that I use on the go, but when it’s time to do work, I plug it into the larger monitor.

3. Plants. This is non-negotiable! Unless you are allergic, of course. I am a huge fan of house plants. Not only do they keep your air healthy and clean, but they add a ton of life to a room.

4. Productive music. I mean, if listening to rap while you work is your thing, don’t let me sway you! I personally find that the busier the music, the less productive I feel. I also want to fall asleep if the music is too slow, so something like a Tycho album or the Jazz Vibes station on Spotify are my absolute favorites.

5. A little aromatherapy. I love diffusing some oils while I work. If it’s rainy and I’m feeling a little “meh” I like to diffuse a little orange, lavender and bergamot. If I need to focus for a few hours, my go to is Rosemary oil. Aromatherapy over a candle is a much healthier choice if it is going to be sitting next to you for a few hours.

6. Supplies you love. Pens, notebooks, scissors, whatever- I’m a total sucker for getting all of my favorites. I will easily drop $25 on a notebook and you better believe I enjoy writing in it every time.

7. Pink salt lamp. I’m a big fan of adding as many natural elements as you can around your workplace. A salt lamp not only assists in better air quality, but it has great light and color benefits for your mood as well.

8. Healthy snacks. Leave it up to me to always throw food in a post somehow! Seriously though, I am a huge fan of keeping healthy snacks close by your desk. You can’t expect to keep working efficiently if you aren’t fueling your body. I know so many people that forget to eat lunch while working. Having healthy options (nuts, healthy bars, kale chips, etc) on hand will be your best friend. Oh and while I’m at it… WATER. Keep plenty of that around as well.

9. A comfy chair. This is going to be different for everyone, but I personally don’t care for task chairs. I’m more of a non-desk chair looking chair kind of gal, but it still has to be comfortable. Hence, why I chose more of living room chair as my desk chair (lol). Again, my personal preference is all about cute, cozy and comfy. Get a chair that feels best to you!

10. Fresh air. There is truly nothing better than a little fresh air. Call me crazy, but even in winter, I crack my window open and sit there in layers of clothes. I think we can all agree that sitting in a stuffy room can be a little depressing!

Shop the look:

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Breakfast with Lauren Collins

Haaaaaappy Friday everyone!

This morning I am kicking off a new series of interviews with inspirational, badass women. Wellness experts, entrepreneurs, artists, mothers, fitness gurus, and more; these women inspire me in so many ways and I couldn’t be more excited to bring this space to Wellhaus.

Starting this series is one beautiful woman, inside and out. Lauren gives us some of her top tips for keeping fit, talks about her new business venture with her sis, and gives a little insight into the modeling world. Enjoy a little motivation from athlete, model and business owner, Lauren Collins!

1) So, hi! Introduce yourself:

Hi! My name is Lauren Collins. I’m a wife, full time model and co-founder of @siss_fit! I was born and raised in Orange County, California and I am a lover of all things health and fitness.

2) What has your health philosophy always been?

My health philosophy is keeping things simple. There is such an overabundance of information surrounding health and fitness, so I try to stick to the basics and listen to my body. Whether that is eating clean and unprocessed, or working out in a way that my body craves; I really try to avoid letting it stress me out and just do what feels right.

3) You are traveling ALL the time- how do you stay on a workout routine while your gone?

Haha yes, travel has definitely become a part of my norm! A lot of people say “I’ll get back on track when I get home,” but unfortunately that would mean that I am never on track! What has worked really well for me has been creating workouts for myself that I know are both efficient and effective. When you travel a lot it is nearly impossible to avoid long days, unhealthy dining options, and jetlag. I quickly learned that in order to balance the demands of looking a certain way, and more importantly feeling healthy and energized, I would need to come up with a health and workout routine that I could count on to deliver these results…which leads me to your next question!

4) You just started a new company with your sister. Tell us about that!

I did! The brand that we started is called SISSFiT. SISS stands for sisters and is also an acronym for Stay Inspired Stay Strong. Our goal is to inspire and educate women to look and feel their best. My sister Kelly, also had a career that required a lot of travel, so we were constantly exchanging workouts and health tips that would keep us on top of our game. We began to realize that there are so many women out there facing the challenge of fitting efficient yet effective workouts into their everyday lives (who has time to spend hours in a gym, honestly?!). So, we teamed up and created workout and nutrition guides that provide women a very easy-to-follow workout plan requiring minimal time, space, and equipment, while still delivering results. We’ve personally used these workouts and nutritional guidelines for years, so it’s been really fun to share this information with other women and simplify the health and fitness aspect of our crazy, over-stimulated lifestyles!

5) What kind of pressures do you deal with in the modeling industry? How do you keep yourself mentally healthy?

I think that there will always be at least some pressure to look youthful and have a certain body type. Fortunately the industry seems to be shifting away from super thin, which is great, but it’s nearly impossible to avoid at least some criticism from time to time. Two things have helped me to stay mentally healthy: 1. A strong support system; I have the most amazing family and friends, which makes brushing off negative criticism a lot easier, and 2. I learned very early on that you will NEVER be the perfect fit for everyone. Sometimes you are too tall or too muscular or too thin, but then the next client will say you are too short or not strong enough or too thick. It’s pretty laughable honestly. But, confidence is key, and as soon as you accept and love who you are, others tend to see it as well.

6) Being a full time model is like running your own business. What are a few things that have helped you be so successful?

Well first off, thanks for considering me successful! I think that modeling is a lot like most jobs, the harder you work the more it will pay off. A lot of people think that you will succeed simply by result of the way you look, but there is a lot more that goes into this job than looks. It is very important to be on top of your day-to-day life so that you are available to go on auditions or travel for jobs at a moments notice. For me, it has been pertinent that I stay in good physical shape because I never know what type of activity a job might demand. It is also extremely important to work with an agent whom you trust and who trusts you. You’re constantly meeting new clients and creating new relationships, so working with an agent that you know has your back, but that also trusts you to perform (because they are constantly vouching and putting themselves on the line for you as well!) is crucial.

Quick Q’s:

Breakfast of choice? Avocado toast with an egg and side of fruit

Favorite workout song currently? Changes everyday! Typically something in the top 40 that is upbeat

Skincare must-have? Witchhazel, so simple!

Best snacks to bring traveling? Trail mix, healthy bars, and unsweetened dried fruit

Coffee or tea? Coffee…probably should be tea :-X

Best book you’ve read lately? Toss up between The girl on the Train and Luckiest Girl Alive

Wine or mixed drink? Wine. However, a summer cocktail by the pool can be pretty amazing too..

Favorite move for toned arms? So funny you ask this because I am a total sucker for legs and core…but arms I’d have to say bicep curl to overhead press + tricep extension. It’s a compound move, but is sure to cover all bases!

Must-try wellness tip? Pedialyte. Airplanes and hotel rooms suck the life out of my skin and totally dehydrate me, which often leads to muscle cramps. I’ve found that drinking pedialyte while traveling totally saves my skin and keeps me hydrated!

Current mantra? I love to plan, but nothing ever goes to plan so right now it is “go with the flow.” Faith is very important to me so if I can just let go of the reigns and trust the Man upstairs, life tends to work out pretty well.

Photo credits:

Medball w/white top: Les Guzman (@lesguzman)

Running w/blue sportsbra: James Macari (@jamesmacari)

All white in bed: Brandon Flint (@brandonflint_)

Sister yoga: Brandon Flint (@brandonflint_)

So You Want to be a Fitness Model

For those of you who may not know, my big girl job is as a booking agent for one of the top sports + lifestyle modeling agencies in the country.

I constantly get asked: What does a fitness model really do and how should one get started? So, I’ve given you my top tips to becoming a fitness model and actually be successful at it! Get your pen ready.

………………….

You type in ‘fitness modeling’ on google and you will most likely find a few agency websites mixed with a LOT of body building and physique competitors sites. That isn’t the type of fitness modeling I’m talking about. I’m talking about the striking Nike.com model or the strong, beautiful babe you see in an Athleta catalog. Believe it or not, generally those models aren’t just a pretty face. These companies have sought out models that have true skills behind their great look. This is because when they don’t have those skills, a real athletic person would easily be able to spot that. We’ve all seen those models with terrible running form or holding yoga poses incorrectly!

So, let me first say this: These are all general tips. There are unique situations where these tips might not apply. But, with that said, as the former model scout turned booking agent, there is very straightforward criteria to what we look for when it comes to new models. So, follow these tips below and stay optimistic and I just might be seeing YOU in the next New Balance campaign!

1. Lean + tone: There is really no better way to describe the type of shape to be in. Being lean, but having definition is what we hope to see. In other words- eating well, taking care of your body and being strong is SEXY. You will find our most successful models truly walk their talk.

2. Take some great digitals: Most modeling agencies will want to help guide you to get the right photos for your portfolio. The best way for you to get noticed at a modeling agency is for you to be as naturally yourself as possible. This means: light makeup and natural hair. Then, have a friend take some great images of you with a good camera or even an iPhone. Digitals should be full body images of you showing your front, side and back view in a bikini or sports bra and shorts. I highly suggest taking these just before dusk in your house with a plain wall as the backdrop or outside. Good lighting will be your best friend!

3. Flaunt your skills: Former college athletes are some of the most successful fitness models. Why? Because they have a lifetime of skills and these fitness brands LOVE that. Are you an advanced surfer? Or an advanced yogi? Make sure to mention that, or even better – send a video or image of you showing off your skill!

4. Gain some experience: This is not to say you should have a modeling background, but more so, practice! Ask your photographer friends (or heck- even your best friend) to take some photos of you. Getting comfortable in front of the camera takes time, so the more you can practice, the better!

5. Sign with a reputable agency: Doing your homework on an agency is always important. If you question the legitimacy of one, I would always refer to their social pages to do some more research. Working as a freelance model can be tough, and I see time and time again models having more success when they find the right agency to work with.

6. Let your personality shine: Looks mean a lot in this business, but personality means just as much. There are a lot of good looking people out there, but there are many great looking models who end up unsuccessful in this business because they have a poor attitude. Be someone an agency and your dream client would want to work with. Being professional, hardworking and having a humble, easy going personality will take you further than looks, even in the world of modeling!

Remember to be realistic about modeling. Due to the fit of sample sizes, generally agencies won’t accept women under 5’6 (or men under 5’10). Also, keep in mind the sweet spot for most fitness modeling agencies are men and women ages 18-25.

Photo credit: Zach Ancell
Model: Elsa Couvelier
Agency: SLU

Good luck!

Featured: Blogger Delighted Momma Interview

If you have yet to visit her blog to read about her family, try one of her DYI skin care tricks, or make one of her tasty, low glycemic recipes- it’s time for a visit! Lindsay Kujawa’s blog, Delighted Momma is one of my regular reads, so you can imagine how thrilled I am to have her featured on my blog today.

1. Tell everyone a little bit about you and your blog…

I blog about healthy recipes, “real” life stuff, my family, skin care (I am a licensed Esthetican) and fun do-able DIY’s. It’s a little bit of everything really 🙂

2. What is your overall philosophy on eating healthy?

Make it fun! Healthy eating does not need to be boring. If you want cookies- make them healthy. Use almond flour instead of wheat flour and honey instead of processed sugar.

3. What is your favorite go-to, quick recipe that you love making for you and your family? Lately, I have been loving the crock pot. I stick some chicken in there with onions, carrots and whatever other veggies I have on hand. I love serving this up with a side of cauliflower rice. So easy and delicious.

4. You just had another baby not too long ago (who is adorable by the way) and you look amazing. How did you bounce back so quickly?

Oh you are too kind. The secret is…there is no secret. After you have a baby you must make exercise and eating healthy a priority. I try to make it to the gym or do at least an hour of weights/cardio a minimum of 4 days out of the week. I also really watch what I eat and try to stay away from processed food.

5. Being a diabetic can’t be easy, but you seem to do a great job at getting your sweet tooth fix without spiking your blood sugar. What are the best eating tips you have for other diabetics trying to manage?

These are great questions! My best tip would be to stick with a low glycemic low carb diet. It is just not worth it to eat a bagel and have horrible blood sugars for the remainder of the day. It makes you feel like crap! BUT if you do have a a craving, get your running shoes out and take a little jog. This will help with the blood sugar spike.

6. What tips do you have for eating a low glycemic diet?

Get creative with your veggies and cooking! For example, if you want pasta, make it using shredded zucchini or baked spaghetti squash. Top it with your favorite “pasta” sauce and ta da! My other favorite camouflage veggie is cauliflower. You can make mashed “potatoes” with it “rice” and so much more! If you want pancakes make them with almond flour. You can still have all the things you love, you just need to find alternative ways to prepare them.

7. I’ve noticed more paleo recipes lately. How are you feeling eating that way?

I can not say enough good things about eating Paleo. I have completely cut dairy, wheat, and processed sugar out of my diet and I have never felt better! My skin is the clearest it has ever been and I have so much energy…and that’s saying a lot considering I am still getting up in the middle of the night to feed my five month old.

8. What does a typical day of eating look like for you?

I always start my day with a cup of coffee and a green smoothie. I carry around a little zip lock baggie of mixed nuts and snack on those up until lunch time. For lunch I typically eat some type of protein (usually chicken that I prepared in the beginning of the week) with a spinach salad. Dinner is my favorite meal to prepare since I feel like this is the only meal where we are all actually sitting down and eating together, so I try to make it fun. I tend to cook a lot of salmon, grilled shrimp, baked chicken, etc…. And I like to pair it with a big side of stir fried veggies. If I am feeling like making a quick and easy treat I will make coconut milk ice cream with gluten free chocolate chips. It is SO yummy and my two year old always thinks I’m pretty cool when I make it 🙂

How awesome is she? Thanks for the inspiration Lindsay!

Featured: Tristan Prettyman Interview

Singer-Songwriter, Tristan Prettyman kicks off the new interview series on WELLHAUS. Tristan is such a beautiful person inside and out. I love that as busy as she is, she prioritizes her health and still lives life to the fullest. Read below to learn how Tristan stays healthy and fit…

How would you describe the way you eat?

I eat pretty healthy. I generally lean towards a vegan/vegetarian diet, but I do eat animal protein from time to time. About a year ago, I underwent surgery for a polyp on my vocal chord. At the time, I went to see a Aryuvedic doctor, he ran a bunch of tests, and concluded that wheat and dairy were 2 heavily mucus forming foods for me, and suggested I avoid them as much as possible. So mainly I just try to avoid wheat and dairy, that has helped tremendously with my voice, as well as the way I look and feel. Once I cut out wheat and dairy, my skin cleared up and everything from my hair to my skin, went from dull-to shiny and bright. I still eat it from time to time, since I am not allergic, but I definitely feel much better when I cut it out. I have never liked eggs since I was a kid, so breakfast has always been a tough one for me. Generally my day starts out with fresh juice, a green smoothie, or avocado smeared on toast with tomato, sea salt, and nutritional yeast. Lunch is usually a salad, and dinner, is whatever I am craving. I always try to follow my cravings, they are usually pretty spot on with what my body is in need of.

What kind of exercise do you do to stay in such great shape?
I’ve been surfing since I was 11, so that is always in the mix. But over the past couple years I have picked up yoga and Pilates. When I am home, I train with my trainer twice a week and I also love going on walks with my mom or with friends. I have always been pretty active. I feel like a slacker if I don’t get out and do something everyday.

Out of all of the places you have traveled to, which country inspired you most to be healthy?
Australia is amazing. Bondi beach in particular. Everyone is beautiful, healthy and beaming. I really loved it there. Healthy food, healthy people. There is this amazing walking pathway right on the water. Every morning I would wake up and look out the window and people would be doing their routines. It inspired me to skip the hotel breakfast buffet and go put my running shoes on.

If you’re not in the studio recording, describe your typical day…
I love being at home. About a year ago, I got to move into the house that my parents raised me in until I was about 4. My dad has kept it as a rental since the 70’s and when the last tenant moved out, my dad and I remodeled the whole thing. So, I love being in my home. It’s where my mom was pregnant with me and it’s where I birthed a lot of the songs on my new album. It has a very nurturing, womb-esque feel to it. I love it. I love cooking as well, so I am always doing some sort of experiment with food in the kitchen. I also have a garden now, so I am usually out there playing in the dirt. Some days I don’t ever leave the house… I’ll just lay out on the deck in the sun and listen to music.

I’d imagine being on the road a lot can be stressful. What are a few things you do to combat stress?
Stress while touring is inevitable, it’s just part of the program. Schedules are hectic and constantly changing. And often we are in a new city each day, sometimes 2! I definitely try to rest as much as I can: napping while driving, not staying up late at night, etc. Diet and exercise are also key. If I’m not feeling good inside and out, I start to stress out about that, “Why aren’t my pants fitting!?” I also try to keep the caffeine and alcohol to a minimum and generally just try to stay in the moment, in the flow, and not worry too much about what is coming next.

What are a few of your favorite healthy places to eat in San Diego?
I love Solace in Encinitas. Everything is locally grown, organic, and yumorama. It is a little on the heavier side, but they have some really amazing dishes that are just to die for. I also love Evolution Foods downtown. They have these amazing raw tacos, and anyone that follows me, knows that I love tacos! They are made of walnuts and cauliflower, kale, avocado, carrots and wrapped in cabbage (ask for a side of the vegan chipotle and you are ready to rock!). Naked Cafe is Solana Beach is another staple for me. I love their whole menu and they are vegan/veg friendly. And I have to mention Zinc Cafe! Its’ right down the street from my house and they have amazing coffee, breakfast smoothies, etc. And their granola with berries is my favorite! They also have gluten free toast and muffins, which makes me very happy 🙂

Cocktail of choice?
I love wine, but that is not a cocktail is it!? I would say Greyhound. Those are yummy 🙂

You have great skin! What’s your secret?
I get facials regularly and I have been working with Mirabella Mansori in Solana Beach, for almost 6 years now. My mom was always big on facials. I always thought they were some kind of indulgence, or treat, but for the amount of time I spend in the sun, it’s really important for me to take as good a care of my skin as I can. As I have gotten older, I am starting to see the damage and effects of the sun. Exfoliating is huge! I highly recommend using a dry brush for the body and I also use a Clarisonic on my face. It’s hands down the best invention for your face ever.

Favorite meal for breakfast?
Fresh juiced oranges, with chia seeds and aloe vera…
Toast with avocado, cucumber, tomato, sea salt, lemon pepper…
Green Smoothie: A fresh hacked open coconut: The water and some of the meat, vitamineral green, maca, cacao beans, dates, frozen bananas,coconut oil hemp seeds and blend, top with bee pollen…

Any other healthy remedies you incorporate in your life?
I take silica almost everyday for strong nails, skin elasticity and hair (makes it grow fast and strong!)
I also drink a ton of Mate tea.
Whenever I am feeling sick, Oil of Oregano is my go-to. A couple drops in some orange juice and it will kill anything you have going on inside you.
For my throat, I love Osha root. I am always putting that in my tea or water bottle.
I regularly use liquid chlorophyll in my water too, to help oxygenize and promote healthy blood cells.