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

Julie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you share an important lesson you learned in a prior job that’s helped you in your career afterwards?

In my previous role, I learned an invaluable lesson about the importance of workplace culture and the impact of flexibility and trust. My first day on the job as a Well-being Specialist in Duluth was memorable—snow had slowed down everyone’s commute, and my supervisor texted to let me know we’d be starting two hours later. This small gesture set the tone. It showed flexibility and empathy, acknowledging that life sometimes requires adjustments.

However, for months, I doubted the sincerity of this supportive culture, carrying a “when will the rug be pulled out?” mentality from a previous role that had left me feeling drained and, frankly, a bit traumatized. I’d worked for years in a setting that was intense and rigid, where a colleague had even warned me, “This place will suck the life out of you if you let it.” That prediction came true as I eventually felt betrayed by an organization that I had once loved.

In contrast, my new role reinforced the idea that culture matters. A good culture means a shared commitment to values and open communication. I now understand how essential it is to trust in the culture I’m a part of and to look for workplaces that support, rather than challenge, one’s well-being. This experience taught me that finding a supportive environment isn’t a bonus—it’s essential for both personal satisfaction and professional success.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m Julie Zaruba Fountaine, founder of Empower Possible, a wellness and change management organization I started to help individuals and organizations transform the way they approach health, well-being, and personal growth. The concept of Empower Possible was born out of my own journey through professional challenges and personal burnout. After experiencing a high-stress work environment and eventually finding my way to a healthier, more supportive workplace, I realized how vital it is to align our work with both well-being and personal values. This journey taught me the significance of going from “hectic to harmony,” a phrase that encapsulates my approach to wellness and balance.

Empower Possible offers a range of services: workshops, keynote presentations, consulting, and resources like reflection workbooks and online courses. I work closely with individuals and teams to support transitions, whether they’re navigating career changes, enhancing their workplace well-being, or developing sustainable daily habits. My mission is to support those who feel overwhelmed by helping them find meaningful ways to integrate health, purpose, and resilience into their lives. One of my signature programs, the Mountain 10 workshop, guides participants through personal growth, while other offerings like Career Crossroads help people explore and transition into roles that align with their goals and strengths.

What sets Empower Possible apart is my belief in blending real-world experience with supportive, tangible tools for change. My services aren’t just about “checking a wellness box” but are designed to create lasting, impactful change. Through personalized coaching and workshops, I help clients connect their work to their purpose, prioritize what truly matters, and set clear boundaries to enhance productivity and well-being. I also bring a unique perspective as someone who actively works in change management, currently serving as the Change Management Coordinator and Project Director for the State of Minnesota. This dual role strengthens my understanding of organizational dynamics and keeps my approach fresh and relevant.

I’m most proud of building Empower Possible into a community that values persistence, progress, and practical wellness. Whether it’s through the Regenerate Your World community or newsletters on topics like sustainable daily habits and AI in wellness, I aim to create resources that make wellness accessible and transformative. I want clients and followers to know that Empower Possible is a space for people ready to reclaim their well-being, find meaning in their work, and approach life with resilience.

Finally, my mantra—“May I serve the highest good; may my actions be meaningful; may those I encounter feel cared for”—reflects the heart of Empower Possible. It’s not only a business but also a community-driven mission to support well-being, inspire growth, and empower each person I work with to find harmony in a busy world.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

One of the biggest lessons I had to unlearn was the idea that my worth was tied to my profession. For so long, I believed that my success, my value, and even my identity were all wrapped up in what I did for a living. When I was deep into my career, especially during high-stress periods, I felt that the only way to prove myself—to others and even to myself—was through my work accomplishments. It took experiencing burnout to realize that this mindset wasn’t sustainable and wasn’t truly fulfilling.

I had to unlearn the belief that my job was my whole identity and instead embrace the reality that I am so much more than my professional title. My journey taught me that while my career is an important part of my life, it doesn’t define who I am or determine my self-worth. Now, I’m more focused on finding balance and creating a life that allows space for my passions, relationships, and well-being. This shift has not only made me more resilient, but it’s also allowed me to connect with others more authentically. It’s a lesson I carry into my work at Empower Possible, where I encourage others to see themselves as whole, multifaceted people beyond their jobs.

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

Beyond training and knowledge, I believe resilience and adaptability are the most valuable assets for succeeding in my field. Working in wellness and change management requires a deep commitment to growth—not only in others but in oneself. When helping clients create sustainable well-being and navigate change, I’m constantly reminded that setbacks, challenges, and unexpected shifts are part of the journey. Being able to bounce back from those and find creative ways to adapt makes a huge difference.

Additionally, empathy and listening are crucial. Every client and organization is unique, and success often comes from genuinely understanding their needs, goals, and values. This approach allows me to create tailored solutions that resonate on a deeper level. When I prioritize listening and connecting, it builds trust and opens the door to real, lasting change. That connection is what empowers people, making them feel seen, supported, and motivated to embrace change.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://empowerpossible.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowerpossible/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086568280125
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-zaruba-fountaine-6b527636/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@empowerpossible