Today we’d like to introduce you to Charlotte Diefenbach
Hi Charlotte, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I have always found solace in nature. When I was young, you could often find me making potions with mud and grass, and as an angsty teen I would run off to explore the woods and read Edgar Allan Poe.
Starting at an early age, I dealt with anxiety, low self-esteem, digestion issues, depression, and a poor relationship with food. Throughout these struggles I remember feeling very unheard in my own healthcare plan. It seemed like everything suggested was a band-aid solution that left me feeling helpless and at the mercy of doctors, psychiatrists, and therapists who hardly knew me.
Fast forward to my 20’s- I became a mom and naturally that led to me being very careful about what was used on or around my kids, and myself too. I started reading ingredients and using more natural household options, eventually making my own. At that point I knew I wanted to become an herbalist and work with plants! I found a program called the Holistic Wellness Pathway which combined herbalism, nutrition, and wellness coaching. I completed the program alongside my biology degree, and in 2020 The Helpful Hermit was born.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t been an entirely smooth road! I started this business with very little capital, which required resourcefulness and careful decision-making. I haven’t always made the right decision either, but you often learn more from what went wrong versus what went right.
Soon after I created The Helpful Hermit, I found myself moving and starting over after a divorce from an abusive man. My dreams were put on hold, but I refused to give up completely. My vision for this career was extremely visceral, and in 2022 I jumped in completely. Someone said to me that not having a steady paycheck is the best motivation for making your own. That is probably the scariest AND the most empowering thing about running a small business.
Time-management is currently my biggest challenge. Imposter syndrome has definitely been a struggle as well, and that’s when I apply the mindfulness techniques I talk about with my own clients. Growth often feels uncomfortable. I’ve found that self-care and listening to my intuition have been extremely important along the way. A strong support system helps tremendously too- we call my husband “The Hermit’s Helper” and I feel grateful to call him my biggest fan.
As you know, we’re big fans of The Helpful Hermit. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I am a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC) and Clinical Herbalist. I specialize in functional nutrition, and I offer an extensive line of organic handmade herbal products as well as 1-1 remote coaching sessions. My coaching sessions are HIPAA compliant, and I never push my herbal products on clients. In 2025 you’ll be able to find me regularly at the Farmer’s Market of O’Fallon and the Lake St. Louis Farmer’s Market!
My mindset is very holistic. I help people take manageable and meaningful steps toward the person they want to be. That looks different based on the individual because health is not cookie-cutter! Sometimes it looks like making an herbal tea that actually helps someone sleep better. Sometimes it’s supporting nutrient deficiencies or digestion. At times, it’s asking the questions that nobody else does with a listening ear.
Helping others has always been important to me, perhaps because there have been so many times that I’ve needed help in my life. We’re all here on the same big rock floating through space at this exact moment in time, and that in itself is a miracle. I believe the bravest thing we can do in this human experience is give ourselves healing instead of destruction. If collective trauma is a thing, then I believe that collective healing is too. And it starts with doing the personal work. Let’s regulate the nervous system. Let’s learn about the gut-brain connection and how it affects mental health. Realize that small changes can lead to significant and sustainable results.
When I began to cultivate self-compassion and work on my mindset, there were ripples of healing that created a huge wave of hope in my life. That’s the hope, and help, I want to offer others. I’ve found that when you practice vulnerability and show up authentically as yourself, you’ll find the people you’re meant to be around. I’m proud to say I’m doing that with my small business, and I’m so grateful for everyone I’ve met on this path.
What makes you happy?
My family, walking in nature, traveling, music, string lights, books, thunderstorms, fireflies, and star gazing. These things ground me and help me romanticize my life.
Pricing:
- $5 Lip Balms
- $10 Herbal Teas & Magnesium Sprays
- $15 Adaptogen Drink Powders (Turmeric, Mushroom Coffee, Pumpkin Hot Chocolate)
- $15-25 Face/Hair oils, Tinctures
Contact Info:
- Website: https://helpfulhermitholistic.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helpfulhermitholistic/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehelpfulhermit
