Step into the world of Eva-Noelle Fassbender, a visionary brand strategist and dynamic female entrepreneur who is redefining what it means to build a successful brand in today’s fast-paced market. Based in the stunning locale of Sardinia, Eva-Noelle combines her passion for travel and expat living with her expertise in brand development to inspire and guide businesses toward greatness. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or an established business looking for a fresh perspective, Eva-Noelle’s journey and insights offer a wealth of knowledge. Join her as she shares her unique blend of creativity, strategy, and real-world experience, and discover how you too can turn your vision into a thriving reality.
1: Eva Noelle, tell us about your career and life path so far. What inspired you to start your entrepreneurial journey?
After several intense years exploring the media world in the big agencies, I transitioned to a freelance career as a marketing consultant. My passion for creative conception and strategic consulting for new brands inspired me to offer comprehensive services to my clients independently. Four years ago, I embraced self-employment, co-founded two startups, and combined strategic marketing with business development. And I encourage anyone contemplating this leap to trust their passion and take the plunge.
2: You are currently living in Sardinia and working on a project! Tell us more about your digital nomadic life in Sardinia.
Sardinia is truly a paradise, blending impressive nature, cultural diversity, and high quality of life. The island’s hospitable and curious locals, coupled with its untapped potential, inspired me to launch ‘The Sardinian’. This corporate travel platform focuses on a direct-to-destination approach to showcase Sardinia’s many advantages to business clients while supporting local businesses and growing the destination professionally. I enjoy the flexibility of working from various scenic spots around the island and continually discovering new activities to add to our portfolio.
3: What drew you to Sardinia, and how has it influenced your work and lifestyle?
A series of serendipitous events led me to Sardinia. I reconnected with lost family from Naples who summered on the island, and shortly after met a Sardinian, in South America. Moving to Sardinia turned my life upside down but in the best possible way. Integrating into the local community and exploring new surroundings has been incredibly enriching and has positively influenced my work by immersing me in a new cultural context.
4: What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a digital nomad, and how have you overcome them?
The toughest part of a nomadic lifestyle isn’t the working from anywhere but continually adapting to new environments. Building and maintaining deep relationships is challenging but essential for support. I’ve focused on actively socialising to feel at home and maintaining strong connections with my family and friends. Regular visits to Germany and having loved ones visit me in Sardinia help maintain balance.
5: What advice do you have for aspiring female entrepreneurs looking to start their own business or embrace the digital nomad lifestyle?
Know yourself and your limits, be curious, and stay resilient. Having extensive work experience, being self-employed, and traveling widely helped me transition smoothly. Combining these aspects makes the leap to self-employment and a nomadic lifestyle more manageable.
6: How do you approach collaboration with other entrepreneurs and businesses?
Networking is crucial. I engage with almost every connection, whether through LinkedIn or industry events, as you never know what might develop. Helping others, whether through advice or connections, is equally important. Giving back often leads to receiving valuable support in return.
7: What habits or routines do you follow to ensure continuous personal and professional growth?
I’m not a fan of rigid routines but embrace continuous learning. I read extensively and am open to new topics, products, and people, which fosters growth and keeps me inspired.
8: How do you balance work and personal life while constantly traveling and managing your ventures?
Establishing a fixed point in Sardinia has provided stability. Maintaining regular contact with business partners and building new connections locally helps balance my professional and personal life. My online business allows me to work from anywhere, making travel and work integration seamless.
9: Can you share some of your favourite destinations and why they stand out?
I highly recommend South America for its unique experience of staying with locals. For digital nomads, Guatemala and Colombia are fantastic—vibrant, culturally rich, and less commercialised than popular destinations like Bali.
10: Lastly, what are your long-term goals for your entrepreneurial career and personal life?
I aim to establish permanent bases in Italy and Germany, combining work with longer travels. Expanding my business model to other locations would be a dream. My expat life has taught me resilience and self-discovery, fuelling my ambitions and courage for the future.