Julia Panchkowry is a powerhouse in the vegan health food industry and the visionary founder and CEO of The Banana Warrior. What began five years ago in Bangkok as a small venture specialising in healthy, plant-based desserts has blossomed into a thriving brand. Julia and her team recently opened The Banana Warrior Cafe, which has quickly gained recognition as one of the most successful vegan restaurants in Thailand.

Beyond her culinary success, Julia has also tapped into her passion for coaching. She now offers business and life coaching, guiding aspiring entrepreneurs and start-ups on their journeys. Here, Julia shares her insights on starting a business from the ground up and the key lessons she has learned along the way.

1. How to Be Confident and Show Up Every Day

Building a business requires resilience and a strong belief in yourself. Julia emphasises the importance of maintaining confidence. “Each day is a new opportunity to learn and grow. Surround yourself with positive influences and remind yourself of your purpose,” she advises. By setting daily intentions, you can cultivate a mindset that embraces challenges as opportunities.

2. How to Start Your Business from the Beginning

Starting a business begins with a clear vision. Julia recommends conducting thorough market research to understand your target audience and identify gaps in the market. “Create a business plan that outlines your goals, budget, and strategies,” she suggests. This roadmap will guide your decisions and keep you focused as you launch your venture.

3. How to Leverage Your Business on Social Media

In today’s digital age, social media is a powerful tool for business growth. Julia encourages entrepreneurs to build an authentic online presence. “Share your journey, connect with your audience, and showcase your products or services,” she advises. Engaging content, such as behind-the-scenes glimpses and customer testimonials, can help build a loyal community around your brand.

4. How to Differentiate Yourself Online

With countless businesses vying for attention, standing out is crucial. Julia suggests identifying your unique selling proposition (USP). “What makes your brand special? Whether it’s your product quality, your story, or your values, communicate that clearly,” she explains. Consistency in branding and messaging helps create a memorable identity.

5. How to Trust Yourself When Starting Out

Self-doubt is a common hurdle for many entrepreneurs. Julia believes that trusting your instincts is essential. “Listen to your intuition and don’t be afraid to make decisions that feel right for you,” she emphasises. Surround yourself with a support network that encourages you to trust your abilities and pursue your vision.

6. How to Train Your Staff to Take Long Breaks from the Business

Delegation is key to sustaining your business. Julia advises investing time in training your staff. “Empower them to take ownership of their roles,” she says. By establishing clear processes and encouraging team autonomy, you can create a business that runs smoothly, allowing you to take breaks without worry.

7. When to Make the Leap from Your 9-5

Deciding to leave a stable job for entrepreneurship is a significant step. Julia recommends evaluating your financial situation and business readiness. “Ensure you have a solid plan and savings in place. Trust your gut feeling; when it’s time to leap, you’ll know,” she states.

8. How to Juggle Your 9-5 and Your Side Hustle

Balancing a full-time job with a side hustle can be challenging but rewarding. Julia suggests creating a schedule that allocates specific time for your business. “Stay organised and prioritise tasks to make the most of your available time,” she advises. This balance allows you to build your business gradually while maintaining financial security.

9. The Pros and Cons of Physical vs Digital Businesses

Finally, Julia highlights the considerations between physical and digital business models. Physical businesses can build community and customer loyalty, but they come with overhead costs. In contrast, digital businesses often have lower startup costs and can reach a global audience, but may lack personal interaction. “Evaluate your strengths and preferences to determine the best fit for you,” she concludes.

Starting a business is a journey filled with challenges and triumphs. With Julia Panchkowry’s insights and strategies, aspiring entrepreneurs can navigate the complexities of launching and growing their ventures with confidence. Whether you’re starting a new business or scaling an existing one, remember that every step taken is part of a larger adventure.

Want to dive deeper? Listen to the full conversation on the Consciously Alive podcast Spotify and Apple Podcast

About Consciously Alive

Welcome to Consciously Alive, a podcast designed to help you live more freely, authentically, and in alignment with your core values. Join me as I sit down with thought leaders, healers, and entrepreneurs who share their personal journeys and insights on creating a life of joy and purpose. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, practical tools, or just a reminder that you’re not alone, this podcast is your space to explore what it means to live consciously and fully alive.

Be sure to subscribe to Consciously Alive on your favourite podcast platform and never miss an episode!