In this episode of "It's the Bottom Line That Matters," hosts Jennifer Glass, Patricia Reszetylo and Daniel McCraine dive deep into the often-overlooked but extremely important topic of running a business while managing illness. From the disruption of an unexpected cold or allergy season to more persistent, chronic health challenges, they explore what it really means to be a business owner who sometimes simply isn’t operating at 100%. The discussion is frank, relatable, and packed with empathy, as both hosts reflect on their own experiences—Daniel contending with severe hay fever, and Jennifer recounting the impacts of allergy treatments and bouts of exhaustion. Their conversation covers the different realities for business owners, whether you have the flexibility of working from home or run a brick-and-mortar business that depends on your physical presence.

The episode offers practical advice for all entrepreneurs trying to power through tough days. Jennifer and Daniel emphasize the value of setting up robust systems and procedures, and, when possible, having a reliable team in place so business doesn’t come to a halt when you need a break. Patricia also discussed lifestyle adjustments, like incorporating exercise to build stamina and energy, exploring nutritional choices such as cacao for a natural boost, and—most importantly—listening to your body’s signals before minor health hiccups become major roadblocks. Jennifer shares a cautionary tale about a business partner who ignored ongoing pain for too long, underscoring the critical lesson that your health must come first. The hosts encourage listeners to develop the self-awareness and self-permission needed to rest, seek medical support when necessary, and manage their workload realistically until they bounce back. With their signature warmth and humor, Jennifer and Patricia remind listeners that taking care of personal well-being is not a weakness, but the smartest investment any business owner can make for long-term success.

Keywords: managing business during illness, business operations with health issues, running a business when sick, business owner self-care, importance of systems and procedures, delegating business tasks, chronic illness and entrepreneurship, taking time off work, work-life balance, health impact on business, productivity during illness, brick and mortar business challenges, remote work flexibility, exercise for business owners, building stamina for entrepreneurs, boosting energy naturally, cacao benefits, magnesium and energy levels, alternative to coffee, mental health for business owners, team support in business, prioritizing health over business, seeking medical attention, burnout prevention, business continuity planning, coping with exhaustion, supporting family while sick, personal health management, permission to rest, impact of ignoring health