Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Koni and Jeid LJ Hunter. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Koni and Jeid , thanks for joining us today. Setting up an independent practice is a daunting endeavor. Can you talk to us about what it was like for you – what were some of the main steps, challenges, etc.

Our story is quite unique. Expanding quickly after graduating Cortiva August 2019 we decided to launch our holistic practice Sound Mind and Body Wellness March 13, 2020. What we didn’t expect was the announcement of quarantine due to Covid 3 days later. The most challenging component about our entrepreneurial experience was starting our practice at the start of a national pandemic. Without start up capital from external sources, funding was incredibly difficult. However with the time off we were able to create a strong, structured foundation for our company’s growth and impact. If we could’ve done anything differently it would’ve been to hire our mentor who is proficient in the field of massage. We suggest seeking mentorship from those already successful in the field you desire to grow in.

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?

Jeid and I are partners in business and in love! We met each other intellectually at school, both graduating at the top of our class. Our passion for servant leadership is how we were able to collaborate on this project of a holistic wellness space. We offer therapeutic massage for spiritual healing. We believe being of service from the most sustainable aspects of self does the world justice. When you put yourself in the forefront of nourishment you can be of service from the overflow. Make your life a priority. We offer support to people with chronic physical and emotional pain (anxiety & depression). What sets us aside from most is our ability to connect with each individual. We’ve designed a client intake that allows us to gain focus, set intentions and provide awareness. We are most proud of the history we’ve made being a black owned and women led establishment in the Tampa Bay Area. Our brand was created to teach people self care in ways that are easily identifiable and accessible. We absolutely love sharing our real life experiences and how we have moved through major life events on our podcast “Bits of Tea”. Be sure to tune in and show us some love!

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

I was granted the opportunity to pitch our company to Black Girl Ventures to raise capital. Being as though this was my first time pitching in a competition amongst other business owners I was nervous to say the least. However I was prepared to show up and give my best foot forward. What happened the day of was simply chaotic. Everything that could’ve went wrong did! All equipment on both ends mine and theirs went down and there I was in the midst of it all keeping a smile on my face in the heat of adversity. I was able to finish the interview which led into a puddle of tears feeling defeated. I felt so disappointed at the entire experience without realizing the impact it had on me. Because I was able to show up in such a vulnerable way in the midst of chaos gave me strength. I didn’t win the competition, but from that moment I’ve not ever been afraid to use my voice in expansive spaces. That moment in time gave me the courage I know have to share my words of wisdom with my community. -Koni

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

Other than training/knowledge we believe the most helpful for succeeding in our field is how we nourish ourselves outside of work. How we treat ourselves sets the tone for how we treat others. Because we practice what we preach we are able to consistently show up as the example of a well-balanced mind + body + spirit.

Contact Info:

• Website: Smbw2.com
• Instagram: Soundmindandbodywellness
• Facebook: Sound Mind and Body Wellness

Image Credits
Jeid LJ Hunter Josh Jones