Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Denita Austin. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Denita , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.

As the founder of Collective Resiliency, my vision is to establish a sanctuary—a safe space dedicated to the empowerment and mutual support of women. From the outset, the core of this endeavor is to elevate self-care from a personal practice to a collective experience. It’s about fostering an environment imbued with understanding, patience, and kindness, where every woman feels cherished and supported both mentally and emotionally.

For me personally, self-care has always been a priority. However, I recognize that its definition varies for each individual. This realization sparked a question: What if there was a place where we could collectively explore ways to enhance our well-being, address mental and emotional health issues, and share effective tools and practices for personal growth?

Over the last 20 years, yoga and meditation have been integral to my journey of self-discovery, complemented by other nurturing activities like long walks, hikes, baths, and journaling. These personal rituals have profoundly impacted my well-being, and I felt compelled to share what I’ve learned with others.

The aim of Collective Resiliency is not just to offer products but to encourage each woman to develop her own rituals around them. This concept is at the heart of our brand—to create a community where empowerment and self-care are not just encouraged but are a shared journey.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I want to emphasize the importance of understanding a person’s values—it’s fundamental. Recognizing someone’s value system is not just about grasping their life’s focus; it’s about appreciating their passions, what they stand for, and what truly matters to them. Clear understanding of these values can profoundly transform our relational dynamics.

Throughout my diverse journey across various sectors—from private enterprise to the federal government and entrepreneurship—I have garnered invaluable lessons. However, the enduring lesson has been the critical importance of community. It’s about empowering women not just to thrive individually but also to support one another robustly.

Driven by this vision, I have strived to create a space that not only empowers women but also fosters a shared sense of strength and purpose. This initiative is not just a mission; it’s a movement towards collective empowerment and resilience. My most proud moments

One of my proudest achievements is observing women come together during the events and experiences we organize. It is incredibly fulfilling to see them share a space where genuine connections, networking, and mutual support flourish. Witnessing the positive impact of my work, seeing these meaningful interactions unfold, is deeply rewarding.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

Managing a team involves more than just overseeing tasks; it requires the strategic integration of the right personalities to foster a truly effective team dynamic. Over the years, we have prioritized not only the qualifications of individuals but also their ability to collaborate and contribute to a team. Teamwork is essential—it consistently proves to be the winning strategy, though it is easier said than done.

A team that is passionately aligned with the vision and mission is half the battle. However, it is equally important to cultivate an environment where clarity prevails—each member should understand their unique contributions based on their skill set. When individuals take full ownership of their roles and focus on their specific tasks, the collective strength of the team is significantly enhanced.

Understanding the needs of your team in relation to both the mission and the overall work environment is crucial. Encouraging your team to offer insights and engage in projects that require collaborative effort not only enhances productivity but also boosts morale and innovation.

I take great pride in this approach and continuously seek ways to refine and perfect our team dynamics, ensuring that everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute their best.

Have you ever had to pivot?

Understanding when to pivot is crucial, both in business and in life. There was a time when I lost everything, a moment that truly tested my resilience and forced me to start from scratch. It’s in these moments that you discover your true strength. With nothing left to lose—having already lost it all—you must dig deep and find the courage to believe in yourself and push forward.

During this challenging period, I harnessed my focus and discipline, which surged to their peak. It was then that I released my first book, choosing to share my experiences in a light, comedic tone to ease the gravity of the situation. Despite my fears, this step changed my life, unveiling a path I had never anticipated.

Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes events beyond our control turn out to be for the best. It’s vital to trust the process and be prepared to pivot at any moment, embracing the opportunities that come with change. This mindset isn’t just about survival—it’s about thriving in the face of adversity.

Contact Info:

• Website: CollectiveResiliency.com
• Instagram: CollectiveResiliency

Image Credits
Photo Credit : Karina Dobra