As a woman entrepreneur, what were the biggest challenges you faced in building your business, and how did you overcome them?
Building my business as a woman entrepreneur—and as an African American woman—came with its unique challenges. One of the most significant obstacles was navigating a landscape where representation, particularly in the fields of functional and integrative medicine, was limited. Early in my career, I often found myself in spaces where I had to work twice as hard to be seen and heard. Additionally, balancing the demands of being a physician, an entrepreneur, and a leader in my community while prioritizing my personal health and family was no small feat.
Financial sustainability was another hurdle, particularly when transitioning from traditional Western medicine into the more personalized, functional medicine space. I had to learn the business side of medicine—something that isn’t taught in medical school—and that meant embracing discomfort and growth in areas like marketing, operations, and networking.
I am overcoming these challenges through perseverance, faith, and intentional learning. I lean on mentors who inspire and guide me, seek professional development opportunities to expand my skill set, and building a community of like-minded individuals who share my vision of holistic health optimization. Most importantly, I anchor myself in my purpose: to empower others to become the CEOs of their health. This purpose has been my North Star, guiding every decision and helping me persist through obstacles.
Finally, I’ve learned the power of adapting and evolving. Whether it’s integrating new tools, like social media, or embracing new business models, I remain open to change, which has been instrumental in my growth as an entrepreneur and leader.
How do you balance the demands of running a successful business with your personal life?
Balancing the demands of running a successful business with my personal life requires intention, discipline, and a lot of grace. As someone who wears many hats—entrepreneur, physician, educator, and family member—I’ve come to embrace the reality that balance isn’t about perfection; it’s about prioritization and alignment.
I’ve learned to set clear boundaries and structure my day around my top priorities, whether it’s focusing on patient care, business growth, or spending quality time with loved ones. I also understand the importance of saying "no" to things that don’t serve my purpose or values.
That said, I’m not perfect, and there are times when I feel down in the dumps, so to speak. In those moments, I allow myself the space to feel what I need to, and then I intentionally seek out my happy places—whether it’s spending time with family, cooking a comforting meal, or simply finding quiet time for reflection. These moments help me regroup, recharge, and realign with my purpose.
Self-care is also non-negotiable for me. I practice what I preach to my patients by prioritizing my health—mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I’ve learned that it’s okay if the scales tip more heavily toward business one day and personal life the next. Giving myself grace and staying anchored in my purpose allow me to show up fully for the people and projects that matter most to me.
Share how your faith has helped you navigate challenges and operate in your purpose.
My faith is the foundation of everything I do. It is my guiding compass, helping me navigate challenges and align with my purpose. Without God, I would not be. One of my favorite scriptures, Romans 8:28, reminds me that “all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” This verse has been a source of strength and encouragement during the toughest times in my journey.
I draw heavily on the example set by my family. My father, a minister, and my mother, a missionary, instilled in me a deep understanding of faith, service, and resilience. Their devotion to God and the roles they play in their community have profoundly shaped who I am today. They taught me the importance of trusting God’s plan, even when the path seems uncertain, and to approach every situation with faith and determination.
When I face challenges, I turn to prayer, scripture, and reflection. These practices remind me to lean not on my own understanding but to trust in God’s wisdom and timing. My faith fuels my passion for helping others, and it keeps me grounded as I pursue my calling to empower others to achieve wellness and wholeness.
Operating in my purpose is not just a career for me—it’s a calling. I know that every step of my journey has been guided by God’s hand, and I am committed to using my talents and experiences to serve others in a way that glorifies Him.
Any advice you can share with other women entrepreneurs who had a tough business year in 2024?
To every woman entrepreneur who found 2024 to be a challenging year, I want to remind you that tough seasons are not the end of your story—they are a chapter that builds your resilience, strength, and wisdom. I am reminded of a verse in Isaiah: “But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31). This verse reassures us that resilience comes from trusting in God, who renews our strength and empowers us to keep moving forward.
My advice is to take a step back, breathe, and reflect on what this season has taught you. Sometimes, our greatest growth comes from adversity. Identify the lessons, embrace the opportunities to pivot, and focus on what you can control. Remember, every setback is a setup for a comeback.
Lean on your support system, whether that’s family, friends, mentors, or a community of like-minded entrepreneurs. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, inspire you, and remind you of your “why” when the road gets tough.
Lastly, be kind to yourself. It’s okay to acknowledge when things are hard, and it’s okay to regroup and reimagine your goals. Find your happy places—those moments, activities, or environments that recharge your spirit. Use them to reset and refocus, and then step forward with renewed determination.
You are stronger than you think, and your vision is worth fighting for. Tough years don’t last, but the lessons and the grit they give us do. Keep the faith, trust the process, and never lose sight of your purpose.
What are your 2025 plans, and how can readers connect with you online?
In 2025, I aim to continue being a conduit for change, focusing on mitigating maternal mortality and morbidity. I am passionate about supporting women during pregnancies to optimize fetal, neonatal, and children's health—both mentally and physically—and helping couples on their fertility journeys.
My business, The Women's Health Solution, was founded in 2003 and is a reflection of the vision God gave me to provide proactive solutions for women’s health. My office, The Health Spot, is more than a practice; it’s a beacon of light in the community. It’s a place where we teach how to use food as medicine and empower people to take charge of their health. I am committed to using the gifts God has given me to help individuals become the CEOs of their health, optimizing both their longevity and the quality of their lives.
Above all, I strive to serve God in whatever capacity He blesses me to do so and continue honoring my parents and family, whose faith and devotion have shaped me into who I am today.
Readers can connect with me on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as @DrHiggie. My website, which is a work in progress, is www.chasinghealthnow.org. My office is located at 2316 Arbor Street, Houston, TX, 77004. Feel free to call us at 713-571-2273 or email us at TWHS380@sbcglobal.net.
To your health,
Dr. Higgie :)