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

Latoya , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s jump right into how you came up with the idea?

I appreciate the opportunity to share my journey with you. Witnessing the transformation of Butterfly Chats from a personal auto journal into a vibrant podcast and media platform, bringing hope and encouragement to the chronic pain community, is truly heartening. As a social wellness creator, my mission is to empower women with chronic illnesses to assert their unapologetic authority through the power of social media.

Resilience has defined my journey in the face of chronic illness and family challenges, leading to the creation of Butterfly Chats as a supportive beacon for those sharing similar struggles. The dream of being a pastry chef was cut short in my late 20s and early 30s when what seemed like a bad cold turned out to be pneumonia, caused by massive tumors in my abdomen pressing on my bottom two ribs.

The growth of Butterfly Chats, reaching listeners in 17 countries with close to 2,000 plays, highlights the profound need for the understanding and encouragement we provide within the chronic pain community. It’s a testament to the shared experiences and the hunger for a platform that addresses the unique challenges faced by those living with chronic pain.

When considering why I believed this endeavor was worthwhile, the logic is grounded in the tangible impact on the community. The messages, emails, and social media interactions have all illuminated the pressing need for a platform like Butterfly Chats Media. The prevalent narrative of “You don’t look sick” highlights the misconceptions surrounding chronic pain conditions, and our platform is here to challenge and change that narrative.

The pivotal moment came when a doctor casually mentioned the lifelong nature of fibromyalgia, offering little support or guidance. This stark reality highlighted the gap in understanding and support for those living with chronic pain. Butterfly Chats Media emerged as a response, not just acknowledging the pain but lovingly supporting the spoonie community and empowering them to find their voice and strength.

The outpouring of support, personal stories shared, and the evident need for constant encouragement have all reinforced the validity and impact of Butterfly Chats. It’s not just about acknowledging the pain; it’s about guiding individuals to pivot, take control, and shape their own narratives, even in the face of chronic pain.

As Butterfly Chats Media continues to grow, our mission remains clear: to encourage, bring awareness, and share hope within the chronic pain community. This is a journey we’re on together, building a supportive and compassionate space for spoonies to navigate their unique paths toward a life filled with purpose and resilience.

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

I’m Latoya Clark, someone who never imagined being in the spotlight, but as they say, “If you want to make GOD laugh, tell him your plans.” I started off studying social work at the University of Montevallo, but in my last semester, I had a change of heart and pursued my passion for baking at Culinary School in Birmingham Alabama, earning a BA in Baking Arts and Confectionary Science. This kicked off a 15-year journey in the restaurant and managerial field, leading me to become a pastry chef at Pappadeaux Seafood. However, chronic illness knocked on my door during this time, prompting a shift in my life’s direction. Now, I’m using my desire to help others, combined with my management and social work skills, to found Butterfly Chats Media.

Butterfly Chats Media, under my guidance, aims to solve critical issues for our clients. We’re tackling the isolation and lack of understanding prevalent in those dealing with chronic illness. Our platform provides the much-needed emotional support and encouragement to navigate the challenges of chronic pain. Additionally, we bridge the gap left by traditional healthcare, offering guidance beyond medical treatment for holistic well-being. What sets us apart is our holistic approach, a global reach with podcast streaming in 17 countries, a unique personal journey rooted in authenticity, and our commitment to innovative use of social media. Butterfly Chats is more than a platform; it’s a reflection of my transformative journey and a beacon of support for the chronic pain community.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Navigating the art of the pivot has been the defining theme of my journey, particularly as someone dealing with a chronic illness. It’s a journey many in the chronic pain community can relate to—90% of the people I’ve connected with have had to redefine their paths entirely just to survive. Living with chronic illness is an uncharted territory; there’s no script or playbook for it. Unlike the childhood games of playing doctor, where getting a pill or having surgery meant a brief period of recovery, the reality is far more complex.

The challenges of constant pain, overwhelming fatigue, brain fog, mood swings, and muscle weakness are aspects of life that no one prepares you for. There’s the added struggle of navigating family expectations, with loved ones sometimes finding it hard to grasp the profound changes in one’s capabilities. Explaining repeatedly why getting out of bed might be an insurmountable challenge becomes a skill learned through necessity.

For me, the realization that my life was forever changed didn’t diminish my desire to live a life of purpose. It marked the beginning of a profound shift. As I grappled with this new reality, I turned to prayer, learning to wait and listen for the voice of the LORD in a new and spectacular way. This journey led me to publish “Lord Teach My Soul to Sing,” a project that emerged from the depths of my soul.

The process was not without its confusion. I, who once enjoyed being in the background, found myself increasingly pulled to the front. Embracing discomfort became a necessity, a prerequisite for stepping into a new chapter of purpose and impact. The pivot wasn’t just a change in direction; it was a profound transformation that required a willingness to be uncomfortable and a deep reliance on faith. In every step of the way, I discovered strength in vulnerability and purpose in discomfort, reminding me that the journey is often as valuable as the destination.

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

Building a reputation, particularly in the challenging arena of business, can indeed be a formidable task. In my experience, I’ve come to believe that authenticity is the cornerstone of establishing a solid reputation. It demands a commitment to staying true to who you are, even in the face of adversity. This journey requires thick skin; there will be moments when doubt creeps in, and you might question every life choice you’ve made.

Staying true to oneself is not always the easy path. It’s a journey that tests your resilience and commitment to your values. However, I firmly believe that the true measure of success lies not just in reaching your goals but in maintaining the integrity of your character throughout the process.

While it may be tempting to compromise or conform to fit certain expectations, adhering to your authentic self ensures that the foundation you’re building is not only strong but also genuine. This authenticity becomes the bedrock upon which a solid reputation is constructed—a reputation that stands the test of time and earns the trust of others.

In the world of business, where perceptions and trust are invaluable currencies, being authentic may sometimes seem like a risky venture. However, it’s this very authenticity that resonates with people, fostering genuine connections and building a reputation founded on trust and credibility. Ultimately, the journey of staying true to oneself and doing things right is not just a business strategy; it’s a philosophy that can guide every aspect of life, creating a foundation that is not easily shaken. In the end, the pursuit of authenticity is an investment that pays off in the form of a resilient and respected reputation.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://butterflychats.wordpress.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/butterfly-chats-media-21446a164
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/@Butterflychats
• Youtube: @https://www.youtube.com/@Morethanapodcast