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

Eliza, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

As a teenager navigating my own challenges, I often felt really isolated and overwhelmed by the struggles I faced. I wished for a safe space where I could share my experiences without fear of judgment, embarrassment, or burdening any of my friends. So, as a way to process my emotions and put thought to paper, I decided to start a blog.

After I published my first post, teens began reaching out to me from all around, sharing similar feelings and explaining the lessons they learned through their experiences. After that, my mission became deeply personal. I wanted to transform this platform into a place where teens could share their stories openly and without reservation. I knew firsthand the power of feeling heard and understood, and I wanted to extend that same empathy to others who might be struggling in silence.

The blog thus became more than just a collection of stories; it really became a community – a resilient network of support where teens could uplift and encourage each other. I wanted every teenager who visited the blog to feel a sense of belonging and empowerment, knowing they weren’t alone in their journey.

Through this mission, I aimed to break down the barriers of shame and stigma surrounding topics like mental health, body image, and relationships. I wanted to show other teens that it’s okay to be vulnerable and that strength can be found in sharing our struggles.

Ultimately, my mission is about creating a world where every teenager feels valued, understood, and supported – where no one has to face their challenges alone.

Eliza, 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?

My blog is all about creating a space where teens can be themselves, share their stories, and find support.

It all started as a medium through which I could reflect on my own journey, inspired by the things I was going through and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. But it quickly became a space for not just me — but us.

That’s why I host “Let’s Talk” features every month. Based on conversations I’ve had with readers and friends, I address questions and topics that people have asked me. It’s my way of showing that no matter what you’re going through, you’re not alone. By sharing my own experiences and insights, I hope to offer comfort, guidance, and reassurance to anyone out there facing similar challenges.

positivU is about learning from each other, lifting each other up, and reminding ourselves that vulnerability is not weakness – it’s a strength.

And of course, positivity is at the heart of everything we do (positive YOU and positive VIEW). I believe that even in the darkest times, there is light to be found. That’s why the blog has a place where people from all over share pictures of things that have made them happy – whether it’s a beautiful sunset, a silly pet picture, or hugs from friends. It’s a simple reminder that no matter how tough life gets, there is always something to be grateful for and it’s important to look what’s around us.

I’m so proud of the sense of belonging my blog has created and how incredibly open everyone has been about sharing their stories and self-reflecting. So if you’re looking for a place to share your story, find support, or simply soak up some positivity, my blog is here for you. Come join our little corner of the internet, and let’s journey together toward healing, growth, and joy.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Starting an account on social media can feel daunting, but remember, it’s not about the numbers – it’s about the connections you make and the content you create. My main advice would be to focus on producing quality content that resonates with you and your audience and reflects your passion and values. Authenticity is key; people are drawn to genuine voices and stories.

Building an audience also takes time and patience. This was a big hurdle I had to overcome in the beginning. Don’t get discouraged by slow growth in the beginning. Instead, cherish the support of your first followers and engage with them. Take the time to learn about their accounts and their stories, and foster genuine connections. These early supporters can become your biggest advocates and help you grow your audience organically.

Most importantly, stay true to your message and your vision. Your passion and enthusiasm will shine through your content, and that authenticity will attract like-minded individuals who resonate with what you have to say. Don’t be afraid to share your journey, including your challenges and successes – vulnerability fosters connection.

And, don’t be afraid to ask for help either. Reach out to others for advice, collaboration opportunities, or simply moral support. Building a community of supportive peers can make all the difference in your social media journey. My account would not have been the same without the people I met in the beginning who really supported and helped my account flourish. Remember, we’re all in this together, and by lifting each other up, we can all succeed.

So, focus on creating meaningful content, nurturing connections with your audience, and staying true to yourself. With passion, persistence, and a little help from your friends, your social media journey will blossom in time.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The people.

It’s incredibly fulfilling to see others engage with my posts, whether it’s through sharing their own stories, reaching out for support, or simply expressing how my blog has resonated with them.

But it’s not just about the impact my work has on others; it’s also about the sense of community that forms around it. Seeing people come together to support each other, share their own lessons learned and missteps, and lift each other up is just beautiful. It’s a reminder that we’re all in this journey of being human together and it reminds us the power of unity and vulnerability.

It takes courage to open up and share our innermost thoughts and feelings, but when we do, we create space for genuine connection and understanding. As a blogger, seeing others embrace this courage in their own creative expression is so inspiring and motivates me to continue creating and writing.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://positivu.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positivublog