For Rev. Jessica Boyce, the launch of Whole Soul Consulting in March 2025 was the culmination of 15 years of ministry and a deep-seated desire to be a healing force in the community. As a charitable corporation focused on providing guidance for those who have experienced religious trauma, Whole Soul Consulting fills a unique and vital need in Wyoming.
Rev. Boyce earned her Masters in Divinity and specialized certifications, and has an extensive background as an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church. This experience has uniquely qualified her as a leader and resource for individuals and families seeking a healthier, happier future.
The journey into entrepreneurship, however, presented new challenges. “With this new venture, I had to look at my strengths and weaknesses in new ways,” Rev. Boyce explains. “The places where I didn’t have the natural gifts, like finances, had to be supplemented in ways I hadn’t needed to explore before. It’s ok to not be great at everything, you just have to be honest about those qualities, and find people who do have that strength to work alongside you.”
To navigate these challenges, Rev. Boyce turned to the Wyoming Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network where she found practical guidance and a sense of reassurance.
“I was so nervous,” Rev. Boyce explains, “and I left each meeting with Steen Stovall (Regional Director) with a to-do list, feeling empowered to accomplish them. This was especially true with regulations, business licenses, insurance, etc.”
Beyond the foundational elements, Rev. Boyce benefited from the SBDC’s expertise in online presence. “The (Market Research) group did the full website analysis for me, which was great but totally overwhelming,” she shares. “(They) went through it page by page with me, and that was fantastic. It helped me to understand how to communicate my message online. I had to change about everything, but it was good!” she shares. “Starting a business is hard and scary. Every empowering, positive, and informative resource available should be used.”
While Whole Soul Consulting is still in its early stages, Rev. Boyce is taking steps to build for the future and encourages others who are on the fence to take the chance. “In this process, I’ve learned that I am stronger and braver than I thought,” she says. “There is a great community of small business owners who are encouraging and want to welcome others into this little club.”
Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to remember patience and self-compassion. “Spend lots of time thinking and dreaming and exploring options. Take time to let it all fall into place. It’s a journey, and it has ups and downs, but give yourself grace to learn and ask questions.”
The entrepreneurial journey has also offered unexpected connections. “It has been wonderful meeting people that I otherwise would not have encountered.” Rev. Boyce explains. “Being fairly new to Casper, this journey has allowed me to get to know the community better, understand its needs, and discern how I can positively contribute to it.”
Looking ahead, Rev. Boyce is optimistic. “In five years, I hope my practice is thriving, and I’m still learning and connecting to the community in meaningful ways.”
To learn more about Whole Soul Consulting, visit: https://wholesoulconsulting.com/
To learn more about Wyoming SBDC, visit: https://wyomingsbdc.org/
