Ep. 16: How the Dream Accelerator Helped Sabrina the Vegan Take Her Big Leap

And it just got to the point where it's like I had to make the leap. I had to move on and to fully invest all of me into this passion.

Welcome to the Prosperous Woman Podcast. I'm Claire Sellers, a business mentor and coach who is absolutely obsessed with helping you create the business of your dreams and your most prosperous life. Tune in for inspiring conversations with extraordinary women that will propel you towards becoming The Prosperous Woman. Hello and welcome. I'm so excited to have my amazing client Sabrina the Vegan in the house. It's so perfect that we're meeting today because this is your first Tuesday as a self-employed businesswoman.

You know, I'm so excited. This is truly a dream. Oh my gosh. Wow.

Well, I am so excited to just tell everybody about you and about your incredible journey, really starting with the Dream Accelerator, which you are a proud graduate of, and to just share your story because I think it's so relatable. You've had this passion and this dream, which we're gonna be talking about, of creating, you know, this vegan photography business and it's been on your heart for so long. And the Dream Accelerator was really the place where it became a reality. And so I'm just so excited for you to share a little bit more about your story. And I think the thing that is really helpful and so appropriate that we're talking about right now while you're just like in the, the raw thick of it is that period of taking the leap. You've left the job. I mean, this is fresh. Like she just left her job last week. She had her last Friday, like, You know, today's Tuesday, so this is all very fresh. So Sabrina, welcome to the show. Thank you so much for being here. You know, I just adore you and I'm just so excited to share your story and share Sabrina the Vegan, the best vegan photographer in the world, with everybody in the audience. So I'd love for you to just kind of like introduce yourself because you'll do it much better than me and kind of take us back to like your journey with veganism, because I think that that's really interesting and how photography became a passion. And yeah, and then we'll go from there.

Of course. So I'm Sabrina, Sabrina the Vegan. I'm a vegan photographer and social media expert, LLC. Now I have my own business, which is so, so exciting. Taking you all back to how it all began with my vegan journey, this started a long, long time ago. This has been a core value of mine for basically my entire life. Veganism since like second grade. I learned that when I was eating chicken, I learned that chicken was chicken. And that's something that really, like, I couldn't get that image out of my head. I was like, I can't do this. So from a very young age, I was very much connected to what I was eating and to the animals. And it was something that was a core value of mine. I ended up becoming vegan roughly 10 years ago. So literally this year is my 10-year vegan anniversary. Which is so, so exciting. So veganism has truly been a passion of mine forever, a core part of my identity. What now, how does the photography tie into it? I would say during COVID you know, we all had our different activities we were doing. Some people were doing yoga, people were doing different things. I got really into capturing like pictures just on my phone of like the vegan meals I was eating. And so I bought a whole light box. I bought all this stuff, and that was just the thing I was like consumed doing during COVID when I was at home. I would just like make a meal and spend like hours taking pictures of it, and I just thought it was like kind of a cute thing I was doing to pass time. Little did I know it would become a full-on business. But yeah, so I was— during all this whole time I had a whole job that I was doing. I moved to New York to be a creative art therapist. I wasn't here to do photography. So I was doing my creative art therapy. Love that job. That was a huge passion of mine for a long time. But, you know, it's— I started feeling burned out from it. It started not becoming that same passion I once had. And then this photography just kept coming up and it kept just like there and being something that on my free time I would just spend so much time doing it. On my weekends, I was consumed just doing it. Like all my free time was after work doing photography. And so for a while I was juggling both at the same time and I was like, I can, I can make both work, I can do my job and then also this. And it just got to the point where it's like I had to make the leap, I had to move on and to fully invest all of me into this passion.

Oh my gosh. Okay, this is just, I'm so excited. There's so much in here. So the first thing I wanna say is you just heard, I mean, I talk about this all the time on the show, I've said it a million times and I'll say it a million times again. Your core values are your direction.

Mm-hmm.

And your dreams are your directions. And I always say, like, the thing that you're just, like, oddly obsessed with, the thing that you just can't not stop thinking about, that you can't not do, that you would do for free, which you were doing for a long time until we met. Like the thing that you would literally do for free, that is usually related to your purpose, if not your purpose, you know, like I would be doing what I do for free because I just love it. It's like the num— it's the thing that I'm, I mean, when I go to, thank God for my friends that they love this about me, but like when I go to dinner with my friends, like I'm talking about their businesses, you know, I'm like, they tell me they've just started a jewelry passion and I'm like, oh my God, we could turn that into a business. You know, that it's just, it naturally comes to me. And that I think is what you found also is it was, you know, we, we think about the Ikigai model where we talk about like the thing that you're so passionate about overlapping with what the world needs.

Yeah.

And that is really like the convergence of your purpose. And so I love the way that you were like, I love veganism. Like, this is a massive part of not only my identity, but my core value and core values. And I am so crazy passionate about photography. Like, you were doing that for free and for fun, right?

Yeah, all my free time. I was just like kind of doing it and it got me really connected with the community, which was a huge plus, which has been amazing. But it was a lot of it was free for a long, long time.

Yeah. So one thing I think would be helpful for people to hear, so you were at your day job, we'll call it, for what, almost 10 years?

I would say maybe like 7 or 8 years I was doing it.

So a long time. Talk to us about the shift from like when you— because that was once, you know, Sabrina also has a theater background. So that was once like the thing that you were like, this is it.

Right. Yeah. So something I love about myself, and I'm gonna continue to love this about myself, is I've noticed that I tend to follow where my passions are. Um, so the reason why I'm in New York is because I had a passion for theater and psychology and people. And so I literally Googled theater and psychology, and drama therapy came up, and I was like, okay, this seems like the direction I want to go in. And so I moved to New York because of that passion. And so I followed this dream of being a creative art therapist, and it really served me for a long time. I'm not going to lie. It was a really, like, wonderful— for a moment, there was a time where I was like, this, this is the dream. I'm moving to New York. This is it. Yeah, this is it. And then as I got into it, like, I loved it, but it kind of felt like I was, like, trying to hold on to that dream that wasn't serving me anymore. And it just, it felt like I was, I was just trying to make it work.

Mm-hmm.

And like, I wanted to do this. I got a degree in this. This is what I'm supposed to be doing. But it just, it was, it didn't have that same fire that it once had. And so what I'm really proud of myself, I'm really, really proud that I've done this, is that I've allowed myself to let go of that and to fully just listen to what am I happy about right now? What is drawing me right now? What has been drawing me? And it's truly been photography, and it's something that I, I just need to do. I— it's consuming my thoughts. It's like, it's something so passionate about. And the, the fear though behind that of, you know, I, I got my master's in this thing. I, I've been practicing for 7 years in creative art therapy. I've been doing it. It's safe to just taking this leap in a totally different direction. It was definitely very scary, but I'm— Yeah. Very proud of myself for doing that because it's just truly where my heart is, you know.

Yeah, I'm so proud of you for that too. And I know personally how hard it is to leave something that once made so much sense, you know. Like when I was in my career in education, I get chills when I say that. I really did love it, you know, and, and it makes all the sense in the world at the time. And so I'm curious for you, why do you think you know, your heart kind of started moving away from that career path? Like, what created that shift?

What created that shift? I think, I think as I was having more opportunities within my photography, I started getting more and more involved in the community. I had a lot of travel opportunities that came up too with a client of mine, uh, Anna.

Anna Thing But Animals, my client who referred Sabrina to me.

Plug for her. We love her.

We love Anna.

But these opportunities where I was like presented, I was like given like a glimpse of what that world could be like. I was like, okay, this is what it could be like working as a photographer for these restaurants. This is what it could look like traveling, doing this photography. And then I would go back to my work and be like, Okay, and now this is me doing my 9 to 5. That was fun time, and now I'm back to this 9 to 5, and it just felt wrong.

Yeah, and I think that's, that's really it, actually. Like, I wonder, had you not explored photography during the pandemic, if you hadn't, you know, been on those trips with Anna, if you hadn't had exposure to the vegan community, like, you wouldn't have had that stark contrast.

Yeah, fully.

And I think eventually the end result would have been the same, but I don't think it would have been as fast because once you see it, you can't unsee it. Is that how you felt?

Oh, fully. I feel like once I saw that this could be a life that I can be fully living, that's all I could think about. I was like, every single day working in the hospital at the time, it just felt like wasn't right anymore. And as soon as I had that vision of what life could be like and what it has been like, I just, you know, I needed to make the shift. It was like, I can't do this anymore, it's not serving me. Yeah.

So you kind of have this like awakening moment where it's like, okay, something's got to change, but I don't know what. And I think that was around the point— and I remember you and Anna were actually in Mexico And I think Anna just happened to be on a call with me while you were there. And you were like, who's she? Who's Claire? What's going— like, you were like, so take me back to the moment because this, I remember this so clearly. And I just remember talking to you and just feeling the terror inside of you.

I was terrified. I remember that so well. And I was listening to one of your, um, voice audio, voice notes that you were doing for a group, and I was just listening into it and I was like, I feel like Claire Sellers is talking to me. I'm like sitting on the couch, like being like, mm, I was talking to Anna earlier, just being like, ah, I just like, I want to like follow this dream, but also like, I'm just like, I need financial security, I need stability. And like, this is just like, I need this job and then maybe I could do it on the side. I don't know, like really doubting myself a lot. And then you were just on the call, just like being like, follow your dreams, all saying all the right things. And I was hearing it. I was like, oh my gosh, I need to talk to this person. I need to speak with her. It's like you were speaking directly to me. I was terrified at that time because like I just said, I was so fixated on the fact I needed financial stability. I needed that 9 to 5. I knew that this could give me that. It wasn't like the dream or anything, but it was stable.

Mm-hmm.

And it was that leap of knowing that like, okay, do I follow this thing that I've been like thinking about for a long time now that I want to commit to, but I'm afraid to admit to myself that I want to do this? Or do I stay in this safe job and just like live in that way? In the Dream Accelerator, there's a specific, um, assignment that you had that really, really spoke to me that I wanted to share about. It was that one visualization exercise. You had a visualization exercise where you just asked that you envision 10 years from now following your dream and what your life looks like, and then doing the same thing 10 years from now if you just stay the same. And that exercise, I think, was also a catalyst for me because it— I was sobbing. I was crying hysterically after doing that visualization. I was thinking like, okay, 10 years from now following my dream, that's so magical. I don't know what it fully looks like, but it's exciting and I'm fired by it. And then if visualizing 10 years from now in the same place, not moving, in the same field, making no changes, that truly, that was so depressing to think about. And that was a, a huge fire for me as well, that, that specific moment.

Thank you so much for sharing that. You know, I, I think that place that you're talking about, and I want to kind of just park on this for a second. It's literally like you're living between two worlds, you know, and I think this is just going to speak to like the hearts of so many people. And I mean, I've seen them commenting on your Instagram post. Like, there's so many girls in your audience, so many women out there who are like, wow, like I want to do this one day. Like, you know, my dream. Like, God, I'm so inspired by you. And the spot that they're in is exactly where you were, which is where you're like, I know what I'm doing right now isn't the thing. And I know that like 10 years from now, if I don't make a radical, radical change, I am going to be—

Yeah.

I'm not happy, not fulfilled, and I'm not going anywhere fast. And then they go to the land of like, okay, what if I do take the leap? Like, what if I do start the business? What if I do pursue the dream? And what if it works? And, you know, and then they can see this almost like incredible life that's awaiting them. But then what happens is exactly what you said. What about the stability? What about the money?

Mm-hmm.

How am I gonna support myself? And then we go back to, I'm just gonna stay another year, you know? And I think for you, didn't you have like some type of pension or something? Like, wasn't there something if you stayed a certain amount of time?

Yeah, there is a pension. It's like if I was there a certain amount of years, I'd get a pension.

Um, because I remember you saying, I'm just gonna wait until that time.

I didn't make it.

Yeah, I hear so many people tell me, I can't, I'm not gonna leave my job because, and you know, I'm not a financial advisor, that's not my wheelhouse. But when we had our first conversation, you were just like, I can't leave my job until X because of this pension. So I'm just kind of looking to like, you know, start something on the side.

Yeah.

And that I think was actually a really beautiful way for you to convince yourself that this was the right next step, you know? And this is why inside the Dream Accelerator, like, I love— most of the girls have a job when they come in. You remember of our group of like 16, I think I would say 75% had day jobs.

Yeah.

You know, probably over half of them have left their day jobs since your cohort. But, you know, that is what we call the investor in the dream. And there's no shame in having that investor in the dream so that your nervous system feels safe enough to build the business. Right? Like, that is a blessing. And I had that for the first several years of my business. I'm so grateful for that. And I just think it's that moment. And this is why I'm so passionate about the Dream Accelerator. And I'm so glad you had Anna, like, in the room with you, because in our call, you were like, okay, I'm in, I can do this. You would, you had convinced yourself, you know, I can do this, like, I can do this. And then this happens all the time. We hung up and then you convinced yourself, I can't do this. This is crazy. What am I thinking? So talk to me about that back and forth pull, because so many girls are listening to this right now who are in their day jobs. And like, it is a torturous feeling to know that you're not doing anything. And literally someone is like handing you the golden roadmap. And you're like, gonna tell her— me— no, because you're just so afraid. And I have so much empathy. But like, talk to us about how you rationed with yourself in that moment?

Yeah, so I feel like fear is super strong and the desire to be stable is so powerful.

Yes.

We all want to know that our rent's gonna be paid. We all want to know that things are gonna be taken care of. So I think it was like the push and pull of me being like, oh my gosh, every time I talk to Claire, I'm like so fired up and I want to follow this dream and my heart's like singing right now. It's like amazing, such a beautiful experience. And then I'd leave the call and I'd be like, the like saboteur comes in and is like, okay, but like, how are you gonna pay rent? How are you gonna, like, you have a stable job, you can take care of yourself doing this. Like, you don't need to follow that dream fully because you need to have pay rent.

Mm-hmm.

And so it's kind of like the push and pull of like, I would talk to people who inspired me, you, Anna, so many people in my like sphere, just like that would fire me up and I'd be so excited and then I'd get pulled back again. So it's truly like a tug of war within myself. Um, I think the thing that really ruptured that cycle, because it truly is a cycle, it's awful, this like pattern that we get into of like having hope in ourselves and then doubting ourselves and hope and doubt, and it's just like an awful pattern. But the thing that I feel like that broke it was sitting myself down having done all that exercise activities in the Dream Accelerator, talking with Anna, doing all of this self-work, and then just kind of thinking like, I, I keep telling myself that I'm waiting for the right moment and I'm waiting for the right time. When are the stars gonna fully align in a way that this is gonna make this like the perfect time to jump? And it's never gonna be that way. It's never gonna be a time where it's just everything's perfectly aligned for you to like leave and make a huge life transition. It just isn't. And so it was me sitting with myself being like, I, I, if I want this that bad, I have to just do it. And so I, like, without fully like sitting and like thinking too much, I've like, I told Anna, I talked to you, we set a deadline. We were like, okay, what was it, March 1st? Mm-hmm.

You're ahead of schedule. What? Yeah, it's on my calendar still. I think it's March 1st. Yeah.

March 1st, I'm gonna, I'm gonna do it. And so I set, we set myself a deadline for like, I'm just gonna, it has to be then whether I'm ready or not, whatever it is, that's the day. And I'm here now. I like couldn't wait till March 1st to do it. I had to do it before cuz that just was the fire to be like, I set myself a day to, the change needs to happen.

Yeah. And that's the, you know, that's the thing I have everyone do inside the Dream Accelerator if they are in a day job, like to— and I have— my calendar is full of like, you know, Sabrina leaves job, like full of those invites because I make you invite me because I want you to be held accountable. And a lot of people do end up leaving before that deadline. But, you know, I think that there was the moment you said yes to the Dream Accelerator and there was fear. You know, we, you know, you were like, oh, it's a lot of money. I'm scared to invest. I I always say it's never about the money, you know, like, and the Dream Accelerator, it's a meaningful investment, but it's not, you know, crazy actually at all. And it was, that was the thing, the money was the thing that your mind had convinced you like you had to hold on to, right?

Yeah.

Because the money is the tangible resource, right? And it's not that you're afraid of the investment, you're afraid of betting on you. And I think that was the fear on your end is you were like, if I do this, I know what it means. There's no going back because if I put my money where my mouth is and I actually like get in a program that's gonna help me build a business, like there's no turning back. Hey sister, pardon the interruption, but I wanted to drop in with you for a moment. Do any of these sound familiar? You've had a business idea forever, but life keeps getting in the way. Work's crazier than ever. The kids are nonstop and/or maybe dating feels like a second job. How does starting a new business fit into all of that? You're overwhelmed by all the moving pieces, social media, funnels, ads, websites, sales. Ah, where do you even start? Maybe you're scrolling Instagram and seeing others build their dream businesses, making your salary in a month and living their best lives and you're like, Oh my God. Wait, how do they make this so easy? Is this even real? Listen, it's not just possible for them. It is possible for you. How do I know? Because I have helped hundreds of women just like you go from idea to dream business. And I'm so excited to personally invite you into the Build Your Dream Business Challenge. And this 14-day challenge, I'll take you from dreaming about your business, or maybe it's just a tiny little idea that's fluttering in your heart to knowing the exact next steps to take to start building your future empire. Yes, I said empire, and no, I'm not exaggerating. We start mid-February, and the best part, it's only $22 to join us. So click the link in the show notes or just DM me dream over on Instagram at it's Claire Sellers, and I will shoot you the link. I can't wait to have you on this journey.

I was really worried about the money, and it's funny to look back at it now because I've already made back the money that I invested.

Yeah, and you upgraded to Platinum too, so you really, you made back, you know, you made back an even higher investment than just the group program. You know, like the, the money never ends up being an issue. It's just that's the one thing that people can tangibly articulate.

Yeah.

It's the one thing that they can get out of it for. And that, that's really what you're looking for. Your mind is looking for a reason that you just can't do this. This is too risky. And you mentioned the saboteur, and you know, we do a lot of work in all my programs with the saboteur, and it's almost like I say, you know, your, your saboteur can't identify the danger of investing in the Dream Accelerator or putting your notice in, in your job and being chased by a tiger.

Yep.

Like, it just all feels the same to your nervous system. And that's really, I think, one of the things, you know, I'm— I don't know, I'm curious if this helped you, like, being in the room with other women who were all doing the same thing. I think that also normalized the, the possibility of leaving for you that, you know, you might not have been able to do outside of the group. Because Anna is an amazing example, and she's been working with me for years, but You know, a lot of your friends, and I think in New York City, the cost of living is super high. Like, these are legit concerns. And I'm not saying— I would never advise someone like, money doesn't matter, you'll figure it out. I mean, that's just stupid. Like, you know, but I think being in a room with women who are all like, we've got our out dates set on our calendars for when we're gonna leave. I think that also created a momentum for you.

Surely did. I feel like a huge part of this life transition for me is truly inspired by the community and the women that I've surrounded myself with. And so even the women in the Dream Accelerator, Anna, all my friends, people in the vegan community, all these people, I feel like I'm so blessed in a sense that I'm surrounded by entrepreneurs and people who follow their dreams and follow their passions. And so being part of the Dream Accelerator was so beautiful in a sense that I was surrounded by women who had something that was calling them. And that was, that was something really, really meaningful and beautiful to, to know that, you know, I'm— this is like a thing that we're all craving. We were there to support each other and that we weren't alone, that this is a desire that so many women around the world have and that we're doing something about it.

Yeah. And I think, I think one thing that you have that I think has propelled you forward, you know, faster than a lot of people is that you did have that entrepreneurial community. You know, I, when I left my job, like everyone thought I was insane. I don't think I had really any friends who had their own businesses. And, you know, my mom is an entrepreneur and, you know, had a, had a company and she even told me I was insane.

My mom actually did the same thing. My mom was like, I— as soon as I told her I quit my job, she was like, oh no. And she knew that was called a dream, and she was just like scared. She's like worried about my financial stability to go back to that.

Yeah, that's what my mom was worried about too, you know, like, you better keep that job, you better keep your insurance. That's why I always tell people, be very selective with who you share your dreams with.

Yes.

You know, and honestly, like, less is more on that front because this comes up and I say the same thing in dating too. Like, there's so many parallels. We go opinion shopping. I know my clients before they join my programs, some of them are asking 10 people, there's this program and, you know, it costs $3,000 and, you know, da da da da. And one person they ask will tell them, oh my God, that's amazing. And then the other person they ask will tell them, that's the most insane thing I've ever heard. You know, and, and your mind will choose whichever one feels safest. So be very selective with who you share your dreams with. And, you know, I think one of the things that has propelled you forward so quickly is because you— your friends are entrepreneurs. You're—

Yeah.

That is the norm. Like, you were— I don't want to say the outlier, but, you know, you, you weren't— a lot of your friends had their own businesses. They were, they were evidence and expanders for you that, like, if they can do it, why can't eye.

Yeah, yeah. I think you're very right about the fact that you need to be very specific about who you share your dreams with, because yeah, I am a wonderful example of how, uh, you know, surrounding yourself with entrepreneurs and the people in your community can really push you in the right direction. But you know, you never know. You tell— like, for my mom, for example, having told her about this, her instinct was to respond with fear. And you know, if you're surrounded by people who are responding in that way, that could really pull you back. You know?

Yes. And, you know, God bless our moms. They just want to protect us. They want the best for us, you know? And, and now my mom, I mean, my mom literally sent me a text message. She listened to my podcast and she's like, you're the— you have the best podcast on the internet. And I'm like, you know, when it works, when it works, they're thrilled. It's just, it's scary for them. So, you know, God bless the moms in the world that are supporting their entrepreneurial daughters. We thank you. And You know, we apologize for the stress that we've caused, but it'll all work out. And I think, you know, another thing I'm curious, what was the moment that you were like, I'm done with your job? Like when, because it, I, I wasn't working with you at the time, but you know, you went through the Dream Accelerator process, you launched your, your new, you launched your website, you got your first clients.

Yeah.

And that all was actually like, well, to me it seemed pretty easy. Like it didn't— just because you were so clear.

Yeah. Yeah. I think the thing that really had me, it was a couple different things that really got me to make my decision to be like, this is the time, right now is the time to do this. First was Anna randomly surprised me by saying that she needed a photographer last minute in Greece. And that she was, you know, gonna take care of me. Everything was gonna be paid for, all of that. All I needed to do was to show up. And the only thing that was holding me back was my job. And I was like, I was put in a position where I was like, follow this dream, go to Greece, or like be at this job and just do the job. I was fortunate enough that my work was super understanding and they were so excited for me. And they're like, yeah, go to Greece. Don't worry. Like, we'll figure it out. And so I really, really, really appreciate the people I've worked with for giving me that opportunity. Um, but then when I was in Greece, and then we also went to Jordan, I was doing the work. I was being a photographer full-time over there, and that was like just a glimmer. I know it was a special situation because I was international travel, and it was like a little bit of a dream situation, but I was— had a moment where I'm like, this could be more normal than— Well, I, I don't have to go back to a routine that I'm not happy with. Um, and so I came back and then it just— coming back and then having had that realization just made me feel kind of icky that I was just like at work doing this and just kind of not serving me anymore. Like I was just kind of doing this for the sake of doing this job and not because I was like in love with it anymore. Like my heart was somewhere else. Um, and so I additionally, another layer to this was that I had a 4-day work week for a little bit. They, they took that away cuz there was low like staffing. So I had to go back to a 5-day work week. So that means I had less time for my photography and it was just a buildup of little moments like that where I was just like, this job is just interfering too much with my passion.

Yeah.

And I really wanted to grow. I was in a position where I was at a standstill, kind of in like a little bit of an ultimatum for myself where I'm like, I either like continue where I am and just have no growth in my business and it just is this way forever. Or, you know, I, I lose— I say goodbye to my career as a creative art therapist to just go in this new direction that's really speaking to me that I'm so passionate about. And it was truly like a combination of those things that just all happened at the same time that just is just the perfect like storm for me to just realize it was time to go.

Yeah, I, I love that. And I'm so grateful that you had those tangible, you know, we talk in the Dream Accelerator about tangible evidence. Like, you had tangible evidence that what you wanted was possible, and you had tangible experience of what it felt like, like all 5 senses in the 3D, what it felt like to live your dream.

Yeah.

And that is, you know, in the beginning of the program, for the girls that aren't quite clear yet, or even the ones that are clear, like, I have them go out into the world and try to create what you experience. Like if they, you know, want to start a TV show, I have them, you know, get on the set of a TV show and shadow someone. You know, if they want to be a travel writer, I have them talk to 5 travel writers. You know, I have them create tangible experiences and evidence because once your body experiences the dream, the misalignment just becomes so glaring.

Oh yeah, I saw it all. I was like, okay, this— for some reason I was going years not seeing it, but all of a sudden I was— it was all right in front of my face.

And again, I say this all the time, but once you see it, you really can't unsee it. Not for long. Not for long. Like, you just, you just can't. And so talk to us about like when you, you know, You, you had— how many clients did you have working? You had, you had, you know, quite a few in the works at the point that you left your day job.

I had a couple different clients. There were different— I offered different packages, so people were within different packages and timeframes. But I had a handful of clients, like, right from the get— again, I was very lucky because I I'm just well connected with the vegan community. I've been in for quite some time now. And so when I made my announcement that I was doing this, I really didn't have to do much outreach beyond just like announcing that I was doing it. And I had people asking to work with me. So I was very fortunate right from the get-go from like past work that I'd done building this community.

That's an advantage of people really overthink and overcomplicate. Like what type of business do I wanna start? Well, where are you spending your time? Who are you spending your time with? Like who do you love being with?

Mm-hmm.

You already had a built-in client pipeline because those were the people you were hanging out with.

Yeah.

Already liked, know, and trusted you.

Yeah.

Like the, the marketing legwork had already been done just by you being you. And that was, that just made everything so easy. And one of the things I talk about is dare to be obvious. What's the obvious dream? You know, like, cuz usually you already have people invested in you when you're obvious.

Yeah, that's exactly what happened. It was just like me. I had been putting myself out there, really passionate about veganism for such a long time, well connected with the vegan restaurant industry in New York. I had a lot of friends. I'd go to these events and things, and it was all like fun until it became like a career. And then it— now it's like they all, they all know me and they all know my work. And it's— social media is amazing because it's like a living portfolio. You share things and people can actively see like the work you're doing. Um, and so it's like I'm constantly like sharing about the work I'm doing and people are seeing it. So it's super easy from a social media standpoint, having built this community, to like get clients on board.

Yeah.

Because they are, they've seen me, they know who I am. And so that community, and like what you said, you're just speak to the people that, you know, you're, you're already speaking with. The people that you are in your circle that you're spending your time communicating with already, like that's your audience.

Totally. And what would you say to people? Because I just can already hear it. People are listening. Oh, well, she already had, you know, X number of followers, or she already, you know, knew how to make pretty reels and post pretty pictures. Like, what would you say to people that maybe don't have that piece figured out?

I mean, that was me during COVID That was truly during COVID I literally just started from, uh, I had a light box and started taking pictures of food, and that was just something I was really, really passionate about. And like, through just following that passion, you gain that community and you build yourself up. So of course you don't magically have a following and you don't magically have a community. It comes from somewhere. So if you're just exposing yourself and putting yourself out there, and you're consistent. You have to be consistent and constantly putting yourself out there, showing your face. Like, that's the key. And so it's not magic. It's not like you magically have a community, you magically have people following you. It is work, um, but it truly comes from just like being committed to yourself, believing in yourself, and just being consistent.

Amen. Oh my gosh, I just like love everything you said, and I think that's such an important thing. Like, people will, will hear this and they'll say, you know, oh, she's so lucky she has a— so she had a social media following, or she was really good at social media before. And you aren't lucky, you did the work.

Yeah, it's not luck, very hard work.

And you did it for free for years, you know. And I think that's, that's the other thing that I think is important, is that You know, if you do what you love, you'll never feel like you're working.

Mm-hmm.

And you did what you loved and you never felt like it was work. You did it for free. And I mean, like, you've turned it into a business and that's like the dream scenario because you would, you would do this for free anyway. You were.

Yeah, I was. That's, and that's so, that's such an amazing thing to look back on and just think that like, this is something, something that I was just kind of doing for fun. And that, like, it was really exciting for me, but I didn't think it could be anything beyond just a fun hobby, is now transformed into something way bigger than that. That's, like, truly my career. Like, that's just something so wild to think about that— I mean, that was, like, years of work thinking about it, but I didn't realize that this was— that at that time that this is what was gonna happen. You know, I was just kind of following that dream and just following my passion and just, like, thinking that it was just something fun I was doing. And it just kept escalating and like, yeah, at this point and it's, it's really amazing.

How did you like— I think that's another great point that a lot of people will say, oh, making jewelry is just my hobby. Like, how did you make the shift from this is just my hobby to this is something I want to be my career and business?

You know, I think I was just doing it enough and I was just— I think a lot of it also was you and Anna. I'm not going to lie. I think it was the people I was surrounding myself with with, um, telling me and being like, to my face, being like, you love doing this, why aren't you taking the next step? And then I kept going back and being the saboteur, being like, no, it's just a hobby, I don't need to, like, what, it, you know, I'm not stable doing that. And so it really was, I think, you, and I really think it was like the, my friends and everything that really like kind of pulled it out of me a little bit, kind of being like, 'You're so talented at this.' And I would like kind of doubt myself a little bit and be like, 'I don't know, I don't know.' But then like I got enough feedback and I'm like, 'Why am I not doing this?' And so it kind of— it was interesting that kind of started out external from people telling me like, 'Girl, you've been doing this for a minute. You should kind of explore doing this full-time.' So then it became internal where I'm like, 'Yeah, yeah, I need to be doing this.' Totally.

And I think that is That's something I would love for you to just kind of tell people, like, how did the Dream Accelerator help you move along in your journey?

It was— oh my gosh, I loved the Dream Accelerator.

It's—

first of all, it set a great morning routine for me. I would wake up every morning, and I'd do, like, each module. I'd do it each chapter a morning. It was such a beautiful routine to, like, start my day off, because You're starting your day immediately doing some activity that's like all focused on you and developing your future and your passions and your dreams. So I like woke up just like starting the day off doing that. And then, you know, we'd meet as the group and like hear everyone's stories altogether. And so that was just another moment. It was just so beautiful to wake up every day knowing that I was gonna work on myself and like this every day was gonna be progress towards my dream.

Mm-hmm.

And so that's something I really, really loved about being part of the Dream Accelerator was I knew like every single day there was gonna be growth.

Yes, totally. And, and I think, you know, momentum creates momentum. And I think for so long you just like had this dream, but it was truly just like a hobby. And I think once you got in a program that was like, okay, you're gonna go from idea to first sale by the end of this thing. I think you wrapped your head around it and you started actually taking yourself and the business seriously in a way that you hadn't before.

Yeah. Yeah. I think you're exactly right on about that. And I loved it. It, like, I really, really recommend doing it. I have you to truly thank, you and Anna, like I've said over and over again for, and myself, obviously me.

You did it.

I'm the one who did it, but I had like a team behind me. And I think that's necessary.

Totally. What I feel called to ask you this, because I think, you know, I'm always trying to think of what are people thinking when they're listening to this. And, you know, your passions were so clear, like veganism and photography. Like, what would you say to people? Because there are people who are just like in their jobs going through the motions. Like, what would you say to people who feel like they don't have a passion or don't have a hobby or don't have interests? What would you say to them?

I don't know. What I would say is to just take a look at your life for a second. Just take a step back. Maybe like just take a look at where you're spending most of your time. 'Cause we all have 24 hours in a day. We're all doing things throughout the day. So what are, what are you doing? Mapping out your day. What are your, what are the days or the parts of your day that are most exciting to you? And just like lean into, okay, my most exciting part of my day is when I go for a run in the morning. Okay, what is it about this run that's so exciting for you? Because it energizes me. Like, I have a team that I run with. Just like lean into like wherever you're most excited about. I would say that's a great start and just kind of feed into the excitement. So if you don't fully know like, oh, this is like a dream I want to pursue, I don't have like a photography to pursue, just think about whatever you're just drawn to. Start there and then just like focus on that and allow it to change. That's another thing, like don't be stuck on something and be like, oh, today I really liked running, but like it's not serving me anymore, but I told myself a month ago that running was going to be my thing. You know, allow yourself to grow, but like constantly just think about the things that are exciting for you. Um, into it. That's the thing, just fully lean into the things that bring joy in your life.

I always say, like, notice what brings your energy up and feels like a pull forward, which, you know, we connect to, like, the higher self, which is, you know, pulling us towards our purpose. And then notice what are the things that drain you, that bring you down.

Yeah.

And, you know, like you're saying, how can you do more of what's, you know, exciting you, pulling you forward, lifting you up, and less of the things that are pulling you down? And draining your energy. And if you focus on that for like a month, you will start seeing more clarity than you have now.

Yeah, 100%.

So tell us, first of all, what is the next dream, the next iteration of Sabrina the Vegan? Like, what is your vision for the business?

Tell us. My vision right now, I'm like very good with vegan restaurant food photography. I've exposed myself to travel photography. Now I am— I would— I'm confidently gonna say that I think I am one of the only vegan photographers in all of New York City, if not more. Um, so that's a very niche thing that I'm already in. What I want to do is I want to expand myself. So right now it's mainly in the restaurant industry. I want to expand to all forms of veganism. I want to be the primary vegan photographer for literally every single realm. When you think of the word vegan, you think of food, you think of, you know, vegan travel. You can think of vegan beauty and fashion. You think of like activism. So I want to be the photographer that touches on each of these things. And that's the dream. That's where I'm headed.

I love that. And it just— the way that you say it, it's just like it's already done. She's the leading vegan photographer, the go-to vegan photographer.

Hi, y'all.

I love it. I love it. And I mean, it also just speaks to the power of specificity. It, it, it helps anchor into something. And I just think that there's so much room for expansion. And I mean, I'm so excited to see where you go and what you create. And we are all cheering you on. Everybody go hire Sabrina. We'll link all of her stuff in the show notes and I'll be sharing. I'm always sharing about you on social media because your content is so good. Sabrina the Vegan is her handle. I always like to ask my guests before we close out, what does— this is the Prosperous Woman Show. And, you know, prosperity to me is not money. Prosperity is purpose. I always say that, you know, prosperity is a natural byproduct of purpose. But I'm curious, what does What does prosperity mean to you?

I feel like along the lines of what you just said, prosperity to me means living a life that fully energizes you, that you're constantly growing, and that you're constantly learning, and that you're constantly in a state of fire, like you're passionate. So that's truly what prosperity to me is, like having a fire in your heart.

I love that. It's like being in the center of aliveness, as I always say. To say. And where's the best place for people to find you? Is it on Instagram?

Yeah, so you can find me on Instagram at Sabrina the Vegan. I also have a website if you want to know more about my packages, all of that, at www.sabrinathevegan.com. Um, so those are the primary ways that you can connect with me.

And one thing I just want people to know, for everyone listening, is that you do full-service social media management also. So she's like a total social media whiz. So literally everything from taking your photos to like managing, you know, the ins and outs of your day-to-day social media. She is your go-to girl.

Yeah.

Well, it has been so amazing to have you on the show. I'm just like, so incredibly proud of you. And watching your journey unfold has been just like one of the greatest gifts. And I just literally I see your name in lights. I see you on stages. Like, I see you, you know, in top publications. Like, you are so unstoppable, and I just can't wait to be with you on the journey. And I'm so proud of you, and thank you for coming and sharing your story. I know it's going to be so inspiring to so many people.

Thank you so, so much, and I really, really appreciate you. You've been a huge part of this process for me, so I really thank you.

Thank you for tuning in to the Prosperous Woman Podcast. I am so grateful for your presence and for being a part of this community. Feel free to DM me @itsclairesellers on Instagram. I would love to connect with you and hear what resonated with you in this episode. Don't forget to subscribe to the show, and if you enjoyed what you heard today, leave a 5-star review. Your feedback means the world to me and helps me reach more incredible women just like you. And because I love to spoil you, just DM me a screenshot of your review on Instagram and I'll send you my free Prosperity Activation Course as a thank you. It's my way of investing in you and your dreams.

Thank you.