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

Chrissy, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s talk legacy – what sort of legacy do you hope to build?

I hope to leave a legacy of connection, resilience, and empowerment. Whether as a teacher, college counselor, cancer survivor, or yoga instructor, my life’s work has been about helping others discover their inner strength and supporting them through life’s transitions. Through my 12 years of practicing yoga, I realized that the most lasting impact comes not just from what we accomplish individually, but from the communities we build and authetically nurture along the way. I hope people will remember me as someone who turned adversity into purpose, who uplifted others through education, wellness, and hope—and who always believed in the power of connection.

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 enjoyed a fulfilling 16-year career as an elementary school teacher in the public school system, where I thrived on building meaningful relationships with my students and inspired their love of learning. While teaching fourth grade, I earned my Master of Arts in Education to further strengthen my ability to make an impact in the classroom. However, as the demands of public education grew, I found it increasingly difficult to maintain the individualized connections with students that I valued most. After much reflection, I made the difficult decision to step away from the classroom and seek a new path that would allow me to continue serving students in a more personal and impactful way.

During this “next chapter” of my life, while staying home with my young daughters, I reflected deeply on my purpose and passion. Determined to remain connected to education and young people, I pursued a certificate in Independent Educational Consulting. For the past ten years, I have had the privilege of guiding hundreds of students through the college admissions process, helping them find institutions that align with their academic goals, values, and dreams. Touring over 90 college campuses and continually engaging in professional development have allowed me to provide informed, compassionate guidance to my clients. Watching my students thrive at colleges that are the right fit for them continues to be one of the most rewarding aspects of college counseling.

In addition to educational consulting, I’ve found fulfillment in promoting wellness through teaching barre fitness for over a decade and recently completing my yoga teacher training. I strive to connect with students and families with empathy, encouragement, and a deep belief in the power of personal growth. What sets me apart is my dedication to authentic relationships and my ability to support both the academic and emotional journey of college-bound students. I want people to know that my work is grounded in purpose, and that I’m as invested in my clients’ success as if they were one of my own daughters.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

In 2019, at the age of 43, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. The experience included a double mastectomy, three additional reconstructive surgeries, and months of recovery that challenged me physically, emotionally, and mentally. Just six weeks after my final breast surgery, I scheduled a colonoscopy, even though I had no symptoms or family history. That decision likely saved my life. At age 45, I was diagnosed with stage 2 colon cancer, completely unrelated to my breast cancer, no genetic predisposition, and I underwent a partial colectomy.

Through it all, I never stopped working with my students and families. Supporting my clients during college application season gave me a sense of focus and normalcy.

During this difficult time, I leaned heavily on movement, mindfulness, and the belief that I could still reclaim ownership over my body and well-being. A mastectomy tattoo became a symbol of healing—transforming the visible reminders of trauma into artwork that represented strength and survival. Hot yoga also became a powerful outlet for healing. So much so that I recently completed my 200-hour teacher training and now teach at the same studio that supported me through my recovery.

Resilience, to me, isn’t just about “bouncing back”—it’s about moving forward with new awareness, deeper compassion, and a greater sense of purpose. These experiences have only strengthened my commitment to helping others navigate life’s transitions with hope, courage, and intention.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

I feel my strong roots, relationships, and connection to my community has been the most powerful tool of “interactive, real-life social media” in my business. Between my involvement as a local teacher, teaching fitness classes, and my daughters’ local activities over the years, my business has grown tremendously through referrals.

Advice for effective uses of social media platforms, I find content marketing to be compelling. I utilize Instagram’s story feature to create highlights of all the universities that I have visited. It is very expensive for families to travel and visit all these college campuses. I try my best to bring the college visit to the clients, through social media. I incorporate nonstandard information to pique interest in the schools. When families view my business Instagram account, they can find a library of college tours “to visit”.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Planthenextchapter.com
• Instagram: @planthenextchapter
• Facebook: Next Chapter College Counseling
• Yelp: Next Chapter College Counseling

Image Credits

Jen Perez Photography (The B & W photos)
Sophia and Scarlet Rubio from Sweatstar
Pure Barre – Orange County