Business With Chronic Illness - podcast cover

Business With Chronic Illness

Nikita Williamswww.craftedtothrive.com
Making a living with chronic illness is not easy, and conflicting business advice fails to acknowledge the realities of growing a business with them. It’s time to say goodbye to one-size-fits-all strategies and unlock the missing links to starting and growing a thriving business without compromising your health. As a globally-ranked host and award-winning business coach, Nikita Williams, who is living with chronic illness, is here to equip you with proven techniques and personal insights to conquer the unique challenges of starting and growing a business while managing chronic illness. Get inspired by the stories of successful women who decided they wanted more freedom to have the option to quit their jobs, fund their Heal Me fund, pay off their medical debt, and live more, all by starting a business! Discover sustainable ways to make money with ease living with chronic illness, and join hundreds of women who have said “YES” to creating a profitable business that gives you what you need to live and earn well.
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Episodes

3 Ways to Make a Livable Income with Chronic Illness Without Burning Out

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...

Jul 25, 202527 minEp. 204

When Loss Reshapes Everything What Healing Can Look Like Without a Blueprint | Amanda Guin

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 thr...

Jul 18, 202554 minEp. 203

How She Built a Haircare Brand with Zero Investors & Big Life Interruptions | Lynn Power

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...

Jul 11, 202555 minEp. 202

Is Denial About Your Health Keeping Your Business Stuck | Diane Hinds

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 impac...

Jul 04, 202554 minEp. 201

Thriving Through the Pain: Celebrating 200 Episodes of Resilience

Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or Thoughts Join The Free 5 Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Loved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/ Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We’ve created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here ! Subscrib...

Jun 27, 202520 minEp. 200

Selling Without Sacrifice: Sustainable Business Growth for Entrepreneurs

Drawing from personal experiences and the latest research, we delve into the profound impact of working with chronic illness in entrepreneurship. This episode is all about shifting the narrative around how we approach business as women living with chronic conditions. We discuss the importance of recognizing that our health should dictate our work style, not the other way around. By challenging the status quo of 'always being on,' we encourage listeners to embrace their unique rhythms and to crea...

Jun 13, 202523 minEp. 199

Tired but Ready to Grow? Why Podcasting Is the Slow & Profitable Way Forward | Isabella Sanchez Castañeda

If you’re navigating chronic illness, burnout, or just done with hustle culture—but still want to grow a profitable, purpose-driven business—this conversation is for you. In this episode, I’m joined by podcast strategist Isabella Sanchez Castañeda for a deep dive into how long-form content like podcasting is becoming essential for business growth in 2025. We explore how podcasting supports sustainable marketing , deeper visibility, and better client attraction, especially for coaches, creatives,...

May 30, 202549 minEp. 198

What Most People Get Wrong About Collaboration (Especially When You’re Building a Business with Chronic Illness)

If you’ve been told that lead generation means pitching constantly, being visible everywhere, or following a one-size-fits-all funnel strategy… this episode is going to feel like a deep breath. In this solo episode, I share the most powerful (and overlooked) way to grow your audience, build trust, and attract aligned clients — through the sustainable and soul-led path of community and collaboration. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your approach as a coach, creative, or serv...

May 16, 202517 minEp. 197

Why Leaving Corporate with Chronic Illness Feels So Scary (and What Helps) | Liz Carmines

Thinking about leaving your 9–5, but chronic illness makes it feel impossible? In this honest and empowering episode, I sit down with Liz Carmines —business owner and social media strategist—who shares her personal journey of navigating pain, brain fog, and burnout while working in corporate…and how she knew it was time to leap into full-time entrepreneurship. We talk about the guilt of “not doing enough,” the emotional cost of looking fine when you're not, and the surprising things that made th...

May 02, 20251 hrEp. 196

Why You’re Tired Before You Even Start

In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness , I’m unpacking the unseen, unspoken emotional workload that so many of us carry before we ever open our laptops or talk to a client. From managing symptoms in silence, to performing “fine” for others, to overthinking how we’re perceived — this episode is about the labor that never makes it on our to-do list, but deeply impacts every part of how we run our businesses. I’ll share personal stories, client moments, and the powerful mindset shifts tha...

Apr 18, 202527 minEp. 195

What Your Voice Might Be Telling You About Burnout | Brienne Hennessy

Your voice might be trying to tell you something—and it’s not just about being hoarse or tired after a long day. In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness , Nikita reconnects with vocal vitality coach Brienne Hennessy to explore the surprising signs your voice could be sending you about your energy, alignment, and burnout levels. If you’ve ever lost your voice before a big launch, felt drained after a short client call, or brushed off vocal changes as “just allergies” or a “normal side ef...

Apr 04, 202551 minEp. 194

How to Market Your Business Without Always Being “On”

What if you didn’t have to show up every single day to grow your business? In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness , we’re challenging the idea that visibility requires constant online presence—especially when you’re living with chronic illness. You’ll learn how to build a marketing system that works with your energy, not against it. I’m sharing a simple, sustainable approach to content that gives you room to rest while still attracting clients and growing your brand. Whether you’re jus...

Mar 21, 202534 minEp. 193

You’re Not Broken—You’re Building Your Business the Hard Way

If you feel stuck, burnt out, or like success is harder for you than it is for everyone else—you’re not broken. But you might be building your business the hard way. Too many entrepreneurs try to grow their businesses like they don’t have real-life challenges—whether it’s chronic illness, past trauma, or just a different way of thinking and working. We’ve been conditioned to believe success only comes from pushing harder, doing more, and following someone else’s formula. But what if that’s exact...

Mar 07, 202522 minEp. 192

How You Can Create a Flexible Business Model That Honors Your Health | Nitika Chopra

What If Your Business Actually Worked With Your Health Instead of Against It? Traditional business advice wasn’t made for those of us managing chronic illness. The hustle, the long hours, the pressure—it’s exhausting and unsustainable. But what if your business could be built around your energy, your health, and your actual life? In this episode, I sit down with Nitika Chopra , founder of Chronicon , to discuss how she built a thriving business while navigating unpredictable health challenges—an...

Feb 21, 202555 minEp. 191

Evolving Identities: Chronic Illness and Self-Perception {Updated}

After an unintentional break, Nikita returns with a fresh perspective—not just on her podcast, but on her own evolving identity with chronic illness. In this candid and thought-provoking episode, she shares the shifts she’s experienced, including why the term chronic illness warrior no longer resonates with her and how that realization is influencing her work, business, and even the future of the podcast itself. Could the show be getting a new name? Is hustle culture quietly sabotaging our well-...

Feb 07, 202519 minEp. 190

How Eldest Daughters with Chronic Illness Can Balance Life, Business, and Boundaries | Nikkei Lamodi

In this empowering episode of Business with Chronic Illness , I’m joined by certified coach Nikkei Lamodi, who helps eldest daughters create healthier relationships with family, work, and themselves—without sacrificing their time, money, or desires. Together, we dive into the unique challenges eldest daughters face when balancing life, chronic illness, and running a business. Nikkei shares her personal journey of caregiving, managing chronic illness, and building boundaries that support her well...

Dec 13, 202449 minEp. 189

2024 Reflections and 2025 Anticipations: A Year-End Review

It’s the last month of the year, and I’m coming to you with reflections, lessons learned, and insights for what’s ahead in 2025. This year has been a journey—embracing slow growth, navigating life with chronic illness, and unlearning. In this episode, I’m sharing the importance of taking time to reflect on your wins and challenges from 2024, how that shapes the goals we set for the new year, and my personal lessons about mindset, business, and relationships. I’ll also dive into what I think will...

Dec 06, 202419 minEp. 188

How Can Embracing Your Chronic Illness Story Strengthen Your Business? | Lauren Perna

In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness , I’m joined by Lauren Perna, the owner of Lauren Perna Communications and a passionate mental health advocate, to discuss how embracing your chronic illness story can shift your mindset, your confidence, and your business. Lauren shares her powerful journey of navigating anxiety, depression, and chronic illness while building a thriving content and copywriting business in the life sciences industry. We dive into her life-changing decision to stop...

Nov 22, 202444 minEp. 187

What You Don’t Need to Start a Podcast: The Myths Holding You Back

Starting a podcast doesn’t have to mean a fancy studio, expensive gear, or a perfectly curated setup. In this episode, we’re diving into how you can start and grow a podcast your way —even if that means recording in your pajamas from bed. If you’ve been overthinking every step, comparing yourself to others with professional setups, or feeling stuck because you don’t have the “perfect” equipment, this episode is here to set you free. Here’s what you’ll walk away with: Why podcasting in your pajam...

Nov 15, 202419 minEp. 186

Breaking Free from Money Trauma to Earn & Save with Chronic Illness | Aqura Nicholson

Money stress hits differently when you’re also managing chronic illness. In this episode, Nikita sits down with money coach Aqura Nicholson to unpack money trauma and explore practical steps for creating financial stability. From breaking the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle to building a cushion without compromising health, Aqura and Nikita dive into shifting mindsets and tangible ways to start saving and earning, even when finances feel tight. Join us to learn how to move from stress and survival mo...

Nov 08, 20241 hr 5 minEp. 185

Rest or Hustle? How to Finish the Year Strong with Chronic Illness

In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness , we’re diving into how you can finish the year with purpose and momentum—without compromising your health. With the year-end rush, holiday season, and constant pressure to hit goals, it can feel overwhelming to balance your business with your well-being. But what if you could wrap up the year feeling accomplished and rested? I’m sharing practical tips for setting up a sustainable rhythm in your business that allows for growth while honoring your ...

Nov 01, 202421 minEp. 184

Confidence and Chronic Illness: How to Take Action Without Compromising Your Health | Janina Hamilton

In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness , we’re diving into one of the biggest struggles for entrepreneurs living with chronic illness: building confidence while navigating the unique challenges of health flare-ups, brain fog, and energy limits. Join me and special guest, Janina Hamilton, as we uncover actionable steps to strengthen your confidence through imperfect, manageable actions—without pushing yourself to the point of burnout. We'll discuss why taking action is the key to buildi...

Oct 25, 202454 minEp. 183

Can You Really Grow a Business—Effortlessly?

In this episode, we dive into a question that's on the minds of many aspiring entrepreneurs: Can you really grow a business effortlessly? We’re surrounded by messages that make success look easy and instant, but what’s the real story behind those polished reels and highlight reels? I’ll be sharing some hard truths about the intersection of hard work, ease, and what it really takes to build something sustainable—especially when life throws challenges your way. Whether you're questioning your own ...

Oct 18, 202428 minEp. 182

Can You Overcome the Fear & Uncertainty of AI While Maintaining Your Voice In Business? | Kinsey Soderberg

In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness , I’m joined by Kinsey from Feel Good Social and Authentic AI to talk about the big question on everyone's mind: How do you use AI without losing your authenticity? AI has quickly become a game-changer, but for many of us—especially those navigating chronic illness—it can feel overwhelming and even a little scary. Kinsey and I break down the practical ways you can use AI to save time, reduce brain fog, and streamline your business without compromi...

Oct 11, 20241 hr 2 minEp. 181

How to Overcome Feeling Numb, Stuck, and Overwhelmed in Your Business and Life with Chronic Illness

In this episode, I’m sharing my favorite way to overcome the scary yet familiar feelings of numbness, stuckness, and overwhelm in both your business and life, especially when living with chronic illness. Drawing from my personal journey and the reset framework I’ve developed, this episode is packed with practical advice on how to pause, reassess, and realign with your true values and goals. Whether you're navigating chronic illness or facing other challenges, this episode will guide you through ...

Aug 23, 202427 minSeason 7Ep. 180

4 Systems Every Woman with Chronic Illness Needs for a Thriving Business

In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness, we're getting real about the four systems you *must* have in place to build a successful, sustainable business while living with chronic illness. Whether you're just starting out or you're feeling overwhelmed and burnt out, these foundational systems will help you create a business that supports your health and lifestyle—not the other way around. I'll walk you through how to create a flexible business model that adapts to your unique needs, strea...

Aug 09, 202434 minSeason 7Ep. 179

How Do You View Yourself with Chronic Illness?

As a business owner living with chronic illness, you might struggle with how you see yourself, which can negatively impact your business decisions, growth, and success. Self-doubt, negative self-talk, and unrealistic expectations can lead to burnout, stress, and a lack of sustainable growth. This episode offers insights and practical advice on how to balance self-compassion and determination. By understanding and accepting your self-view, you can make better business decisions, create more effec...

Jul 26, 202415 minSeason 7Ep. 178

3 Ways to Get Out of Your Own Way

Are you unknowingly sabotaging your own success? Join me, Nikita Williams, as I reveal three common self-sabotage traps that hinder entrepreneurs, especially those managing chronic illness. Discover how "dream downsizing" limits your potential, the pitfalls of focusing on non-essential tasks, and the crucial role of mindset in achieving your goals. Through personal stories and practical advice, learn how to break these patterns and thrive in your business. Tune in to redefine what's possible for...

Jul 12, 202433 minSeason 7Ep. 177

How to Feel Safe With What Success Looks Like For You

What does success look like when you're living with a chronic illness? In this episode, we discuss the concept of success, especially for individuals living with chronic illness. Success is not a one-size-fits-all metric, and it can vary greatly based on personal circumstances and goals. I share various perspectives on what success can look like, from financial goals to achieving personal health and wellness objectives. I also offer encouraging advice on how to define and advocate for your uniqu...

Jun 28, 202413 minSeason 7Ep. 176

How to Get Paid Using Your Existing Skills With a Coaching Business

In this episode, I share how you can get paid based on what you already know and love by starting a coaching business. Drawing from personal experiences and client interactions, I dispel the myth that you need formal certifications to start a profitable coaching business. Whether you have a professional career, a hobby, or an innate skill, the episode provides examples and insights on how to transform your expertise into a business. By the end, listeners are encouraged to explore coaching or con...

Jun 14, 202429 minSeason 7Ep. 175
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