We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ivy Felicia a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Ivy , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

In the grand tapestry of life, taking a risk is akin to crafting a delicate recipe. It demands a blend of courage, faith, and trust in oneself, allowing the ingredients to meld and evolve into something extraordinary over time. For me, embarking on a risk journey meant stirring faith in the Divine, self-assurance, and a steadfast belief in the process.

Leaving behind a stable career spanning over 15 years was a daunting leap into the unknown. Yet, it was a leap fueled by an inner calling to forge my path and make a meaningful impact on the world. Growing up as a Black woman in a larger, chronically ill body, I grappled with years of societal pressures and self-doubt. The journey to self-acceptance was long and arduous, marked by bullying, abuse, and a tumultuous relationship with my body.

But in 2011, a transformative encounter with holistic wellness changed everything. Instead of viewing my body as something to control or punish, I learned to embrace it with compassion and care. Holistic wellness opened doors to a 360-degree approach to well-being, nourishing not just my physical health but also my mental and spiritual wellness.

Inspired by my own metamorphosis, I felt compelled to share this transformative power with others. Thus began my risk-taking adventure of building a brand centered on weight-neutral holistic wellness and radical self-care. Despite lacking entrepreneurial roots or business experience, I trusted in my vision and took the plunge.

Over a decade later, the fruits of that risk are abundantly clear. What began as a humble endeavor has blossomed into a thriving business, touching the lives of countless women worldwide. Along the way, I’ve had the honor of being featured in prestigious publications like Time, HuffPost, and The Washington Post and advising Fortune 500 companies on size inclusion.

Undeniably, the journey has been challenging and fraught with uncertainties and setbacks. But the fulfillment derived from empowering others and witnessing their transformations outweighs any risk or hardship encountered. Today, as I reflect on this journey, I’m reminded that sometimes the greatest rewards emerge from the boldest risks taken.

In the end, my story is a testament to the profound impact of embracing risk, trusting the process, and daring to pursue one’s passions. Through these courageous leaps of faith, we unlock the limitless potential within ourselves and pave the way for extraordinary possibilities.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I assist women who often experience negative emotions such as shame, frustration, and despair about their bodies to improve their overall well-being and transform their body image. My Body Relationship® tools are designed to teach individuals how to practice holistic wellness from a weight-neutral perspective, facilitating positive and sustainable changes in their connection with their bodies.

My approach differs from typical body image coaching because it blends body image support and holistic wellness coaching. Focusing solely on the body can keep an individual hypercritical of their appearance. By incorporating mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual (energetic) well-being, Body Relationship® Tools take a holistic approach.

I am proud of my clients, who have learned how to reconnect with their bodies and regain power over their lives. They have moved beyond feeling good about their reflection in the mirror and have learned how to listen to their bodies, trust their intuition, and prioritize their well-being.

Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?

As a body image coach and holistic wellness practitioner, I believe several vital qualities and practices contribute significantly to success in my field beyond training and knowledge. Firstly, authenticity is paramount. I prioritize being genuine and transparent with my clients, as I know that people are drawn to authenticity and can sense when someone is insincere. By staying true to myself and my values, I build trust and connection with my clients, essential in fostering a supportive environment for their growth. Additionally, empathy and compassion are fundamental in my work. I strive to understand my client’s struggles, fears, and challenges without judgment, creating a safe space where they feel understood and accepted.

Active listening is another crucial skill I employ. By listening attentively and without interruption, I respect my clients’ experiences and empower them to openly explore their emotions and thoughts. Moreover, I prioritize self-care and boundaries to maintain my well-being and show up fully for my clients. Setting clear boundaries around my time, energy, and emotional investment prevents burnout and ensures longevity in my career. Continual learning and growth are also essential to me. I remain curious and open-minded, seeking new research, perspectives, and techniques to enhance my practice.

Lastly, I value community and support networks. Surrounding myself with fellow practitioners, mentors, and like-minded individuals provides encouragement, accountability, and inspiration as I navigate the challenges and triumphs of my business. By embodying these qualities and practices, I not only succeed in my field but also make a meaningful impact on the lives of my clients as they journey toward self-acceptance, well-being, and empowerment.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

My lived experience has been essential to building my reputation in the market. Because my brand is built on my personal life story and professional education, it resonates with others. I believe that clients and colleagues can feel the sincerity in my words and work. That is something that you can’t fake, and money can’t buy.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://ivyfelicia.com
• Instagram: http://instagram.com/iamivyfelicia
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBodyRelationshipCoach
• Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/iamivyfelicia
• Twitter: http://twitter.com/iamivyfelicia