We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Dominique E. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Dominique below.

Hi Dominique, thanks for joining us today. Was there an experience or lesson you learned at a previous job that’s benefited your career afterwards?

The most important and defining lesson I learned at my previous job within my professional career was to be my own advocate. Throughout my adolescence and early adulthood, I often took a backseat and a more supportive role, not wishing to be acknowledged for my contributions and surely not speaking up for myself. As a deep humanitarian, I have almost always put the needs of society before myself. At times even pouring from an empty cup. I worked for my previous employer for over 6 years. I remained dedicated to my job because my career has been built around serving others before myself. I often did longer hours than the other healthcare providers and saw more patients than them as well, many times without a lunch break let alone a time to rehydrate. It was not until the pandemic happened and my then boss called me and explained I had 24 hours to decide if I was returning to work or, being a single mother of 2, stay home with my children as I had no other childcare arrangements. I felt that my morals and values were on the line. What was more important to me? Financial security and continuing to serve a community that did not value my emotional, mental, and physical health or my family and advocating for my overall wellbeing? I chose values that were instilled in me throughout childhood. I chose to honor my ancestors. My great-grandmothers worked without ceasing until their own health failed, and I chose to put my own health, in all aspects, as priority over stable employment. I chose to uphold my self-care. I chose me. This decision has forever changed my path but has not diminished my passion. Recognizing that I must care for myself, my family and then the world, in that order, has allowed me to branch into a different avenue of wellness, integrative wellness.

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 have always had a love and passion for helping others since early childhood. Growing up I was an introvert who liked all things science and health related. I took a liking to medicine once my great-grandmother got sick. Too young to fully understand what was happening and why her health was deteriorating quickly, I picked up books and read about terms I heard family members use during “family meetings” that I eavesdropped on. I graduated with honors from an esteemed HBCU (Historically Black College & University) with a Bachelor of Science and concentration in Physician Assistant studies. By the age of 22 I had passed my boards and was examining, diagnosing, and treating patients within the field of Urology. After a decade of working in allopathic medicine, I became curious about Spiritual, mental, and emotional wellbeing and as introduced to Holistic Wellness. It was then I was introduced to Integrative Medicine, using the ancestral wisdom of herbalism and evidence-based theories of science, the foundation of Teas and Steams was born. Our products and services provide holistic support to individuals and communities enabling them to live fulfilling and healthier lives by taking ownership of their health. By taking a fully holistic approach, our products and services can transform lifestyles and implement sustainable wellbeing changes that can transcend through generations and redefine the way a person views their wellness journey. With an emphasis on Women’s Wellness, we offer an array of herbal based products and natural health consultations/services to assist those wanting to optimize wellness, encourage relaxation and enhance self-care.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

I have found putting your ego aside is most helpful in succeeding in the field of health/wellness. I have been in classrooms, operating rooms, and conferences with members of the medical community who have been beyond arrogant and egotistical. While it may not come across at first glance, it became apparent behind the scenes, or rather upon the discharge of a patient or once the practice doors closed at the end of the business day. I have sat in conferences where professionals would complain about the lack of reimbursement and discuss appropriate out-of-pocket fees from communities that were already underserved, yet these fees went straight into the pockets of the professionals. I have seen arrogance and ego humbly destroy relationships, partnerships, and careers. I believe those who truly advocate for and support the progressive health and wellbeing of society do not have this trait of arrogance. Understanding and accepting that your work has never been about you as an individual, but about and for the community you serve, translates into success.

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

Despite the challenges I have faced, the trials I have endured, the scrutiny I have faced from society, I would choose my profession again, and again, and again. I have accepted my journey and the different twists and turns I have taken to get to where I currently am at. I have worked in other fields professionally and as additional income sources, yet none have given me the fulfillment, joy, and motivation to better myself other than my profession in the health & wellness industry.

Contact Info:

• Website: teasandsteams.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/teasandsteams