By Milda Urban, Summersalt Yoga Founder

Kristina is one of those women entrepreneurs you’re immediately drawn to—the way she talks, the energy she gives, and the effortless style she exudes (I want to steal her entire wardrobe!).

Kristina Hellhake is also one of the inspiring women entrepreneurs making her mark in Berlin. She runs a PR company together with her long-time friend and business partner. When we met Kristina at our Balance yoga retreat last fall, her story immediately captivated me—she had taken the leap from an unfulfilling job to becoming her own boss.

I’m thrilled to share this interview with Kristina, and I hope her words inspire fellow women entrepreneurs to follow their hearts.

From Passion to Profession: Starting a PR Business

You are a businesswoman who runs her own PR company! What exactly do you do?

I`ve been working in PR for almost five years, and I founded my own business two years ago. I help young brands and startups gain public attention through media coverage and give their visions a strong voice. My passion for storytelling is what drives me—I get excited about great ideas and love to help share them.

For my clients, I strive to be more than a manager. I aim to be a sparring partner and someone they trust and grow with. That’s what I think more women entrepreneurs should aim for: real connection.

What Sparked Your Leap into Entrepreneurship?

What motivated you to start your business? When did you feel settled in your new role?

As a self-employed woman, I’ve learned that change is inevitable—and necessary. The founders and creators I work with constantly challenge me, and that’s where growth happens. In the past year, I’ve really settled into who I am as a working individual. I love what I do, and that passion was the biggest push to start.

I wanted to build a work environment where I could grow as a person and have fun working on meaningful projects. Like many women entrepreneurs, I craved freedom and impact.

Outgrowing the Old, Embracing the New

Was your previous job part of the reason you went out on your own?

Absolutely. My first full-time job taught me a lot—about PR and professional life in general. I helped build a brand from scratch, and while it was a valuable experience, it also became limiting.

Eventually, I realized I couldn’t grow any further in that structure. I felt stuck under high expectations and knew I had to change. A short yoga trip gave me the clarity I needed. I couldn’t wait for the situation to change—I had to change. That’s something women entrepreneurs understand well: transformation begins with us.

Navigating Doubts and Critics

What obstacles did you face when starting your business?

Oh, the usual chorus of doubts: “There are already so many PR agencies,” “Being self-employed is risky,” “What if you’re sick?” But I learned to focus on the upsides and trust my ability.

This business is all about relationships. Clients work with us because of who we are—not just our portfolio. A fellow founder once told me to differentiate between constructive criticism and background noise. I remind myself of that often—especially useful advice for rising women entrepreneurs.

Finding Confidence in the Unknown

What scared you the most about launching your business?

The fear of doing it is often worse than the reality. I launched the company with my partner Sandra, and sharing the journey made all the difference.

There’s always uncertainty, but I trust that it will work out. Quitting is not an option. Many women entrepreneurs feel fear in the beginning—but trust can turn fear into fuel.

Women Supporting Women

Have you encountered support or competition from other women in PR?

Thankfully, I’ve mostly experienced support. If there’s negative energy, I just move on. There is enough work for everyone, and I believe in focusing on what I want—and working for it!

A 60-hour work week is normal, but when you love it, it feels like flow. I meet many powerful women entrepreneurs across industries who uplift each other. That solidarity is key.

Facing Sexism and Overcoming Stereotypes

Have you encountered sexism while building your business?

Yes—but I choose not to internalize it. Some people still think PR is all smiles and no hard work, especially when you’re a woman. I focus on proving them wrong with results.

Instead of dwelling on obstacles, I focus on surrounding myself with strong women, inspiring peers, and networks where we lift each other up. This mindset is what keeps women entrepreneurs strong.

The State of Gender Equality in Germany

What’s your take on gender equality and sexism in Germany?

Germany has come a long way, but challenges remain. Sometimes people underestimate you—especially early in your career—but proving them wrong is satisfying.

German women and men are quick to speak out and show up for equality. There are strong communities here supporting women entrepreneurs, and it’s incredible to be part of that wave.

Staying Motivated and Finding Balance

What motivates you now compared to when you started?

In the beginning, it was about variety—working with many brands instead of just one. Now, it’s also about seeing the impact of my work. One client once told me, “You believed in us before we did.” That’s the kind of feedback that keeps me going.

Qualities of a Thriving Entrepreneur

What qualities do women need to start their own businesses?

You have to know yourself deeply. Be honest about your strengths and limits. Love what you do, and it will show. Learn, grow, and take breaks when needed. Balance is key—something women entrepreneurs should practice fiercely.

Lessons That Led to Today

What life experiences brought you to this point?

It’s all a sum of experiences—but a turning point was a yoga trip in 2014. I was full of fear and frustration. That retreat helped me rebuild self-esteem and realize I had to start something on my own. It was my breakthrough moment.

The Tough Side of Being Your Own Boss

What’s the hardest part about running your business?

You’re on the clock 24/7. It’s your baby, and it’s hard to switch off. A yoga class or digital detox helps me unwind. That balance between work and rest is vital for all women entrepreneurs.

Final Advice for Women Entrepreneurs

Right now, things are aligning with new projects and clients. I don’t plan too far ahead—but I know this is just the beginning of something truly exciting. Like many women entrepreneurs, I trust the process.

Trust yourself. Discover your unique strength and pursue what brings you joy. When you’re passionate, you’ll be resilient. Stay persistent, stay kind, and support others along the way.

Business success is built on community, courage, and clarity. And for women entrepreneurs, it starts with believing that we belong in every room we enter.

This interview was first published in 2017.