We had the good fortune of connecting with Atinuke Solanke and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Atinuke, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The thought process behind starting my own business was deeply rooted in my personal journey of loss, struggle, and ultimately, healing and transformation.
I experienced one of the greatest pains imaginable—the loss of my son. This profound grief left a void in my heart and soul that seemed insurmountable. I was also in a long, unhappy marriage, feeling miserable and trapped. The constant emotional turmoil affected every aspect of my life, from my self-esteem to my ability to raise my children in a loving and supportive environment.
For years, I grappled with feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth. I was stuck in a cycle of self-doubt and fear, wanting more out of life but not knowing how to break free from the chains holding me back. I knew deep down that I had the potential to create a better life for myself and my children, but the path forward seemed obscured by my pain and confusion.
In the midst of this darkness, I embarked on a healing journey. This journey was not just about addressing the surface-level issues but about delving deep into the core of my being to heal the wounds that had been festering for so long. Through this process, I found answers and clarity. I learned how to forgive myself, rebuild my self-esteem, and reclaim my power. Most importantly, I discovered how to channel my experiences into something positive and transformative.
My healing journey opened my eyes to the possibility of a life filled with purpose and fulfillment. It inspired me to help others who are going through similar struggles. I realized that my pain had given me a unique perspective and a deep empathy that could be a source of strength and support for others.
Starting my own business was a way to extend a hand to those who feel lost, broken, and stuck, just as I once did. It was a way to provide a beacon of hope and a roadmap to healing and personal growth. Through coaching, workshops, and online resources, I aim to guide others on their journey to rediscovery, helping them find their purpose and reclaim their power to create the life they desire.
This business is not just a profession for me; it’s a mission born out of my deepest pain and greatest triumph. It’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of healing. My journey has taught me that even in our darkest moments, there is a way forward, and it’s this message that I strive to share with my clients every day.
Thank you for allowing me to share my story and my passion. I hope it inspires others to take the first step on their own path to healing and fulfillment.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business, Neil Coaching,(which is named after my Son) specializes in Emotional Healing and Personal Growth. As a Certified EQ Coach and Certified Life Coach, I am passionate about helping individuals transform trauma into triumph, Pain into Purpose. My mission is to guide clients on a journey of rediscovery, helping them find purpose and reclaim their power to create the life they desire.
What Sets Us Apart
What sets my business apart is the deeply personal and empathetic approach I bring to coaching. Having walked through profound loss and emotional pain myself, I understand firsthand the challenges my clients face. This personal experience, combined with professional expertise, allows me to connect with clients on a deep level, providing compassionate and effective support.
What I’m Most Proud Of
I am most proud of the tangible impact my work has had on my clients’ lives. Seeing individuals overcome their limiting beliefs, rediscover their self-worth, and build fulfilling lives is incredibly rewarding. I’m most proud of creating a safe and supportive space where individuals can embark on their healing journey with compassion and empowerment. Through one-on-one coaching, workshops, and online resources, I empower clients to overcome trauma, rediscover their inner strength, and create meaningful transformations in their lives.
The Journey
The journey to where I am today has not been easy. It has been filled with personal and professional challenges. Losing my son and navigating a tumultuous marriage left me feeling stuck and unsure of my path. However, my healing journey gave me the clarity and strength to transform my pain into purpose. Building my business required overcoming self-doubt, learning to trust my abilities, and finding the courage to share my story.
Overcoming Challenges
The biggest challenge was overcoming my own limiting beliefs. I had to learn to value my experiences and trust that they could help others. I sought mentorship, engaged in continuous learning, and surrounded myself with a supportive community. Each step forward, no matter how small, was a victory that built my confidence and resilience.
Lessons Learned
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of vulnerability. Sharing my story authentically has not only helped me heal but has also resonated deeply with my clients. I’ve learned that being open about my struggles and triumphs creates a safe space for others to do the same. Another key lesson is the importance of persistence and patience. Growth takes time, and every setback is an opportunity to learn and improve.
My Message to the World
I want the world to know that no matter how deep your pain or how lost you feel, there is always a path to healing and fulfillment. My brand Neil Coaching is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of self-discovery and personal growth. For me, it’s more than a business-its a mission to inspire and empower individuals to reclaim their power and create fulfilling lives. I am committed to walking this path with my clients, offering them the tools and support they need to reclaim their lives.
Through my story and brand, I hope to inspire hope, resilience, and transformation in everyone who crosses paths with Neil Coaching.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about my business and my journey. I hope my story inspires others to believe in their ability to overcome challenges and create a life of purpose and joy.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation
We would go for a cozy brunch at Tiny woods, known for its charming atmosphere and delicious food.
Spend the afternoon exploring the Museum District. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts Houston and take a leisurely stroll through Hermann Park.
Dinner at The Grove, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of Discovery Green Park.
Day 2: Shopping and Spa Day
Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Common Bond Café & Bakery.
Spend the morning shopping at The Galleria.
Afternoon pampering at Milk + Honey Spa, where we enjoy luxurious massages and facials.
Dinner at Toulouse Café and Bar, a chic French bistro with a cozy ambiance.
Day 3: Cultural Exploration
Brunch at Pondicheri, offering a unique blend of Indian and American cuisine.
Explore the vibrant street art scene in the Houston Heights neighborhood.
Visit the Rothko Chapel for a peaceful and introspective experience.
Dinner at Xochi, renowned for its innovative Oaxacan cuisine.
Day 4: Outdoor Adventure
Breakfast at Empire Cafe, a cozy spot with delicious breakfast options.
Spend the day kayaking on Buffalo Bayou, exploring the city’s scenic waterways.
Relax with a picnic lunch in Memorial Park.
Dinner at Ninfa’s on Navigation, a Houston institution known for its mouthwatering Tex-Mex cuisine.
Day 5: Wine Tasting and Gallery Hopping
Brunch at Brasserie 19, a stylish French-inspired eatery.
Spend the morning wine tasting at the nearby Corkscrew Wine Bar.
Explore the eclectic art galleries in the Montrose neighborhood.
Dinner at B&B Butchers & Restaurant, a swanky steakhouse with a rooftop patio.
Day 6: Nature and Nightlife
Breakfast at Baby Barnaby’s Café, serving up hearty breakfast classics.
Explore the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.
Relax with cocktails and skyline views at The Rooftop Bar at The Marriott Marquis.
Dinner and dancing at The Rustic, a lively venue with live music
Day 7:
Take a leisurely stroll along the Kemah Boardwalk, enjoying the waterfront views and carnival games.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I want to give a special shoutout to my amazing siblings and parents. Their unwavering support, love, and encouragement have been my foundation through the darkest times and the brightest moments. They have stood by me with strength and compassion, lifting me up when I was down and celebrating every milestone with me. Without their constant belief in me, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
My parents instilled in me the values of resilience and determination, teaching me to never give up, no matter how tough the journey gets. My siblings have been my rock, offering a shoulder to lean on and words of wisdom when I needed them most. Their love and support have been instrumental in helping me build my business and find my purpose.
To my husband, your unwavering love and support have been my anchor. Your belief in me has been a constant source of strength, and I am eternally grateful for your presence in my life.
To my mentors and coaches, thank you for your guidance and wisdom throughout my transformation. Your patience and unwavering belief in my potential have been instrumental in helping me navigate my healing journey. Your guidance not only helped me rebuild my self-esteem but also inspired me to start my own coaching practice to help others.
I also want to recognize my close friends who have stood by me during the most challenging times of my life. Their love and support have been my anchor, giving me the strength to keep moving forward even when it seemed impossible. They have celebrated my victories, big and small, and provided a shoulder to lean on when the weight of my struggles felt too heavy to bear.
Additionally, I owe a great deal of my growth and success to the many certification programs I enrolled in. The tools, knowledge, and community I found there were pivotal in my personal and professional development. The program’s emphasis on emotional healing and personal growth resonated deeply with me, providing me with the clarity and confidence to pursue my passion for coaching.
Lastly, I want to recognize the transformative power of literature in my life. Books like “The Body Keeps the Score” by Bessel van der Kolk M.D. This book has been a pivotal resource in my understanding of trauma and healing. It has provided me with deeper insights into the complexities of emotional pain and has equipped me with the knowledge to better support my clients on their healing journeys.
To everyone who has been a part of my journey, thank you for your unwavering support and belief in me. Your contributions have been instrumental in shaping who I am today, and I am deeply grateful for each and every one of you.
Website: https://www.neilcoaching.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tinuke2.0?igsh=MWtnYnljYXNzaDI2NA==
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinu-solanke/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neilfb?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@NEILCoaching
Image Credits
Sweenshots Photography