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

Hi Denise, thanks for joining us today. Was there a moment in your career that meaningfully altered your trajectory? If so, we’d love to hear the backstory.

In 2012, I experienced a defining moment in my professional and personal life that changed the course of my career. I was overwhelmed by the challenges of settling into a new city, balancing a demanding job as a high school educator, managing my graduate studies, and trying to be a fully present wife. The stress reached a tipping point when I passed out on a flight from DC to Los Angeles, a moment that left me shaken and searching for answers. My doctor couldn’t provide a clear explanation, but I later realized that my body was trying to tell me something: I needed to slow down and take better care of myself.

In my quest for balance, I discovered yoga. Initially drawn to it as a way to relieve stress without the intensity of other physical practices, I found a class in Southeast DC that was led by a Black woman, and that first vinyasa flow class ignited something deep inside, and I quickly became immersed in yoga’s holistic benefits.

While practicing yoga, I began to confront a deeper dissatisfaction in my life. I realized that I had been living for others, making the “right” choices without ever asking myself what I truly desired. This self-discovery, combined with my experience in a 200-hour yoga teacher training program and participation in several life coaching processes, led me to an intense period of personal transformation. I made the bold decision to end my marriage, leave my teaching career, and embark on a journey of self-exploration in Puerto Rico—a sort of “Eat, Pray, Love” year.

During that time, I uncovered my true calling: to support others in their own journeys of self-discovery and transformation. My experience as a high school math teacher, where I found fulfillment in helping students solve problems and navigate challenges, gave me insight into my passion for guiding others. This led me to found Akoma Wellness, where I serve as a personal and spiritual development coach, rites of passage facilitator, and wellness guide.

My work today is deeply rooted in the lessons I learned during that transformative period. In September 2019, I was initiated as a Priestess of Yemaya in the Lucumi (Orisha) tradition in Havana, Cuba. This spiritual awakening further deepened my understanding of my purpose: to create sacred spaces that support individuals in re-membering who they are and embodying their true power.

Looking back, the moment when my body forced me to slow down was the defining moment that catalyzed my personal and professional rebirth. It pushed me to reevaluate my life, pursue my passions, and embrace a path that aligns with my truest self. Now, my mission is clear: to guide others on their own journeys of transformation, so they, too, can be whole. be love. be free.

Denise, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am educator and wellness consultant, specializing in personal and spiritual development. I have received certifications and training in Yoga (RYT 200), Life Coaching, Reiki, Tarot Advising, Human Design, Meditation and Mindfulness, Sound Healing, Trauma-Conscious Care, EFT (Tapping), Herbalism, and the AromaTouch Technique. I received a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education and Minor in Africana Studies from North Carolina State University and a Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction (Minority & Urban Education specialization) from The University of Maryland.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

One of the most significant lessons I had to unlearn was the idea that success and self-worth are tied to constant achievement and external validation. Growing up and throughout my career as an educator, I was conditioned to believe that I needed to be constantly productive, always putting others first, and sacrificing my own needs in the name of duty. I thought that if I worked hard enough and checked all the boxes—being a good wife, a dedicated teacher, a committed student—that success and fulfillment would naturally follow.

But after an intense period of burnout, I had a wake-up call when I passed out on that flight. This moment forced me to face the reality that I couldn’t keep going on this path without making space for my own well-being. The experience revealed to me that constantly striving and sacrificing my health, relationships, and personal desires wasn’t sustainable. I had to unlearn the belief that my value was directly tied to what I could give to others, and instead, embrace the idea that my worth is inherent and doesn’t need to be earned through constant doing.

This shift in thinking was difficult, but through yoga, life coaching, and deep self-reflection, I began to recognize that taking care of myself—mentally, physically, and spiritually—was the foundation for being able to show up fully for others. Learning to say no, prioritize self-care, and trust that I am enough as I am has been one of the most liberating and life-changing lessons I’ve ever unlearned.

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

In addition to training and knowledge, I believe the most important factor for success in my field is empathy. As a personal and spiritual development coach, wellness guide, and rites of passage facilitator, I’m not just helping clients solve problems—I’m walking alongside them in deeply transformative and sometimes vulnerable processes. To be effective in this work, it’s crucial to be able to meet people where they are, understand their unique struggles, and hold space for their growth with compassion and non-judgment.

Another key quality is authenticity. My clients come to me seeking support in reclaiming parts of themselves they’ve lost or overlooked. If I’m not authentic in my approach—if I don’t embody the values of self-discovery, transformation, and wholeness that I teach—then my work loses its power. Authenticity builds trust, and trust is foundational in any coaching or wellness relationship.

Lastly, resilience is essential. The journey to transformation is rarely linear. There are setbacks, moments of doubt, and external challenges. But being resilient—maintaining faith in the process and in my clients’ ability to grow—has allowed me to remain committed to my mission, even when things get tough. It’s not just about giving the right advice or techniques; it’s about holding onto the belief that change is possible, no matter how difficult the path may seem.

In short, success in my field comes down to a blend of empathy, authenticity, and resilience—qualities that allow me to support others while staying grounded in my own truth and purpose.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.akomawellness.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akomawellness/ and https://www.instagram.com/lovebydenise/

Image Credits

Katherine Costello Photography
Rana Hall
Cristian Zuniga Damann
Matt Talley