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

Lucia , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. 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?

The Woman Who Dared: How Risk-Taking Transformed My Life and Career

Taking a risk is often seen as a leap into the unknown, a daring step that could lead to either success or failure. But what if I told you that the real failure lies in taking no risks at all? This is a lesson I’ve learned throughout my career, and it’s one I’m passionate about sharing.

When I started my journey in wellness marketing, I knew I was stepping into a niche field. The path wasn’t laid out for me; in fact, it was full of obstacles, especially as a minority woman. But I was driven by a deep passion for wellness and a desire to make a difference in my community. The challenges were many—breaking into an industry that often seemed inaccessible, proving myself time and again, and navigating the complexities of being a woman in a predominantly male space.

Yet, despite these challenges, I took the leap. I began as an intern, eager to learn and grow, and through perseverance, I worked my way up to Vice President of Marketing at the YMCA of South Florida. This role allowed me to marry my love for wellness with a mission to uplift my community through nonprofit work. It was a risk that paid off in more ways than I could have imagined.

But my journey didn’t stop there. Outside of my full-time role, I pursued another passion: helping women achieve their full potential through nutrition. As a certified wellness practitioner, I developed programs to support women in reclaiming their health and happiness. This, too, was a risk—branching out into a new endeavor, juggling responsibilities, and stepping into the unknown once again. But the rewards, the fulfillment, and the impact on others made every risk worthwhile.

The Fear That Holds Us Back

Fear of rejection and failure is a powerful force. It’s what paralyzes us, keeps us from chasing our dreams, and convinces us to stay within the confines of our comfort zones. But here’s the truth: staying safe, staying comfortable, and avoiding risks is the greatest failure of all. When we let fear dictate our choices, we deny ourselves the opportunity to grow, to learn, and to achieve greatness.

I’ve faced this fear countless times. The fear of not being good enough, the fear of being overlooked, the fear of failing in front of others. But every time I took a risk, I learned something invaluable about myself. I learned that resilience is built through challenges, that success is born from persistence, and that every step forward—no matter how small—brings you closer to your dreams.

Three Steps to Overcoming Fear and Taking That Risk

If you’re standing at the edge, unsure of whether to take that leap, here are three key ways to overcome your fear and start living your dream:

Identify What You Love to Do: What brings a smile to your face? What sets your heart on fire? These are the passions that will fuel your journey. For me, it was wellness and the desire to help others live healthier, happier lives. Find your passion, and let it guide you.

Take a Very Small Step: The first step is always the hardest, but it doesn’t have to be big. Start small—build a website, write a blog post, or connect with a mentor who can guide you. The key is to start. Each small action brings you closer to your goal.
Stay Consistent and Repeat: Consistency is the bridge between dreams and reality. Commit to taking action towards your goal every day, no matter how small. Before you know it, you’ll be amazed at how far you’ve come. Remember, it’s not about the end goal; it’s about how you get there.

Taking risks is about following your dreams and passions. It’s about stepping out of your comfort zone and into a space where growth happens. It’s about believing in yourself, even when the path is unclear. So, take that leap. You might just find that the rewards far outweigh the risks.

Lucia , 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?

I’m Lucia S. Sastre, a seasoned marketing professional with over 12 years of experience in the fitness and wellness industry. Originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina, I’ve had the privilege of living all around the world, immersing myself in diverse cultures and learning from each unique experience. This global perspective has enriched my approach to wellness and marketing, allowing me to connect with people from various backgrounds.

My journey in wellness marketing began with a deep passion for health and well-being. I started as an intern, seizing every opportunity to grow and learn. Over time, I ascended to the role of Vice President of Marketing at the YMCA of South Florida. Here, I lead a dynamic team to develop impactful marketing strategies that promote our programs and make a real difference in the community. I’m proud of the role I’ve played in enhancing our community’s wellness through both large-scale campaigns and hands-on initiatives.

Outside of my full-time role, I’m also a certified wellness practitioner and the founder of Aura Health Coaching. Through Aura, I offer personalized coaching services designed to help women—especially those with chronic illnesses—regain their health and achieve their full potential. My holistic approach focuses on nutrition, mindset, and sustainable lifestyle changes. I bring a deep sense of empathy and understanding to my clients, drawing from my own experiences in overcoming wellness challenges.

In my free time, I love experimenting with new health recipes and sharing them on my Instagram page @aurahealthcoaching. It’s a space where I connect with others who are passionate about wellness and enjoy exploring new ways to live a healthier life.

I’m also fortunate to share my life with my supportive husband and our two dogs, who bring joy and balance to my life.

One of my proudest achievements is bridging the gap between wellness and community impact, whether through my work at the YMCA or my coaching practice. My commitment to authenticity, empathy, and excellence drives everything I do. For those considering working with me or following my journey, know that my work is deeply rooted in a genuine passion for helping others. I’m dedicated to empowering you to reach new heights and achieve your health and wellness goals.

In summary, my work is about more than just marketing or coaching—it’s about making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. I’m passionate about what I do, and I’m here to help you realize your full potential.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

Building Your Clientele: Trust, Problem-Solving, and Genuine Connections

Building a strong client base isn’t just about pitching your services or products—it’s about creating meaningful connections, earning trust, and truly solving problems. Here’s how you can do it effectively:

Create Trust by Solving Real Problems: For me, the heart of building a client base lies in solving real problems. When you genuinely understand what your clients need and offer solutions that make a difference, trust naturally follows. It’s about listening carefully, empathizing with their challenges, and showing them how you can help. This approach not only builds credibility but also fosters lasting relationships.

Engage with the Right Communities: Connecting with the right groups can be a game-changer. I’ve found immense value in being part of networks like Women Know Y. This group isn’t just about networking; it’s a vibrant community where we collaborate on initiatives like water safety and more. It’s also a hub of individuals who might be potential clients or know someone who could benefit from my services. Engaging with communities where your audience is active helps you build relationships and discover opportunities organically.

Make the Most of Every Networking Opportunity: Every chance to connect with others is a chance to share what you do and how you can help. Whether it’s a casual chat at an event or an online discussion, these moments are opportunities to showcase your expertise and build rapport. Approach each interaction with genuine interest and a willingness to listen. It’s not just about selling; it’s about making real connections and understanding how you can be of service.

Understand and Relate to Your Audience: Knowing your audience isn’t just about demographics; it’s about truly understanding their experiences and needs. Ask yourself: What are their biggest challenges? How can you make their lives better? By answering these questions, you’ll find yourself better equipped to connect with them in a meaningful way. When you align your efforts with their needs, you’ll know exactly where to find and engage with them.

In essence, building your clientele is about more than just business—it’s about trust, connection, and empathy. By focusing on solving real problems, engaging with the right communities, and understanding your audience, you’ll create genuine relationships and a loyal client base.

Any advice for managing a team?

The Best Advice on Managing a Team and Keeping Morale High

It’s often said that customers are the most important part of a business, but I believe that’s only part of the picture. In reality, your team is the true heart of your organization. Without a strong, motivated team, it’s nearly impossible to deliver the kind of service that keeps customers coming back.

Here’s what I’ve learned about managing a team and keeping morale high:

Put Your Team First: Think of your team as the backbone of your business. When your team feels valued and supported, they bring their best selves to work. It’s essential to create an environment where everyone feels they’re part of something important and where their contributions matter. Happy, engaged team members are more likely to deliver excellent service to your customers.

Keep Communication Clear and Open: Effective communication is the glue that holds a team together. Make sure that conversations are honest, direct, and easy to understand. It’s not just about sharing information but also about being approachable and available for your team. Regular check-ins and open dialogue can prevent misunderstandings and build trust.

Lead with Empathy: Empathy is a game-changer in leadership. Take the time to understand what your team members are going through, both professionally and personally. When people feel heard and cared for, they’re more likely to stay motivated and engaged. It’s about creating a space where everyone feels supported and valued.

Encourage Growth and Teamwork: Foster an environment where learning and collaboration are encouraged. Provide opportunities for professional development and create a culture where everyone’s ideas are welcomed. When people feel they’re growing and contributing, they’re more invested in their work and the success of the team.

In short, managing a team and keeping morale high isn’t just about policies and procedures. It’s about building relationships, communicating openly, and showing genuine care for the people who make your business run. When you focus on these human elements, your team will be more motivated, and that positive energy will shine through in everything they do.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.aurahealthcoaching.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aurahealthcoaching/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sastrelucia/

Image Credits

I took the photos.