Q: What type of business do you operate–what do you sell, or what service do you provide?

A: I’m a life coach with a health twist. I work with busy people who want to reclaim balance between their work and their personal health and wellbeing. I help them to identify and successfully achieve progressive goals leading to long-term change through an intensive, personalized coaching program.

In addition to personal telephone coaching, my coaching program includes a virtual coaching office (www.HealthCoachingU.com) that offers a multitude of resources including journals, trackers, exercise and nutrition guidance, and where I can also place specific articles relating to their particular issues or areas of interest.

My newest project is a partnership with KSMT radio as host of a new live weekly talk show. It’s called Wellness In Action on KSMT. (Wednesdays at 7 p.m. on FM 102.1/102.7.) Its mission: Creating a positive space where people can take a break from “busy-ness” and reconnect with themselves. We want to help our listeners take a proactive approach to their own health and wellbeing, and will be showcasing the wide variety of resources that are available in our community to support them in their efforts. The show format includes taking calls from our listeners so they can ask questions and share in the topic of the week.

Every week we will also have a wellness give-away with some really great prizes. You do not have to be listening to win (although we hope you will tune in!) but you do have to get registered for the drawing. The entry form is at www.HealthySummit.com.

Q: Where are you from, and why did you decide to open your business in Summit County?

A: I’ve been in Summit County since 1982. My husband has been here since 1978. This is home.

Biz facts Name of business: Coaching By Karen Radio Show: Wellness in Action on KSMT Owner: Karen Shackles Website: www.HealthySummit.com; www.CoachingByKaren.com Phone: (866) 991-9292 Email: Karen@HealthySummit.com Date business opened: May 1, 2008

Q: What experience do you have in this field?

A: My husband and I have owned a small service business for 15 years. I did what I see many others doing: While working to make our business a success and earn a living, I ended up sacrificing my own health and wellbeing. As I made the journey back to a more balanced lifestyle, my passion to help others in the same situation emerged. So I enrolled in a training course and began my coaching practice. My personal experience gives me a unique perspective and the ability to help others reclaim their life balance.

Q: What sets your business apart from other similar businesses?

A: Rather than fitting the image of an “in-your-face” coach who tells you what to do, I use a co-active coaching model. This begins with the assumption that each client is already creative, resourceful and whole. My purpose is not to tell them what I think they should do. The role I fulfill is that of a guide, confidante, cheerleader and to provide a framework of support and accountability for them to work within.Since coaching is such a personal interaction, I provide a free introductory session so that a person can see how my coaching works, and decide if they are comfortable with me, before they commit to a program.

Q: What types of customers do you hope to reach in Summit County?

A: Busy locals who need support to find that balance between work and personal time, manage stress, regain their sense of control, address specific health challenges, or reach a wellness goal.

Businesses that are interested in saving money on their health costs while encouraging a company culture of wellness. Studies have shown a 3-to-1 return on investment for businesses that implement a coaching plan.

Q: What are your plans for your company’s future?

A: Studies have shown that when the economy goes down, so do people’s overall health. In the current economic climate, I will be able to help people stay on track with their goals, regain a sense of control in their lives, and maintain their health so that they can focus in the most positive and productive way on their business and maintain a haven of peace in their family life.

I’m also putting the final touches on a 90-minute workshop entitled “The Power of One Percent — How To Get From Where You Are To Where You Want To Be.” I will be presenting this program at the annual symposium of the Snow & Ice Management Association next June in Louisville, KY. Any business or group that would like to book this workshop for their members or employees can contact me for details. I will be developing additional workshop curriculums over time.

The other project that I’m just getting off the ground is “The Extraordinary Woman Next Door.” It is a book exploring the lives of ordinary women and the extraordinary things they are doing. I’m collecting material right now; you can get more information and submit stories at www.NextDoorWoman.com.