We recently connected with Marina Mancione and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Marina, thanks for joining us today. How’s you first get into your field – what was your first job in this field?
My experience with Pure Barre began when I was just 15 years old. Eager to be a part of this community, I practically dragged my mom to accompany me to our local studio so that I could sign up for classes. She had to be with me because I was technically too young to come alone! As soon as I could, I reached out to the manager, expressing my love for the studio and eagerness to be involved. I started out working at the front desk, lovingly referred to as a “barretender.” The desire to become an instructor burned within me, and I often talked to my coworkers about this aspiration, even though I was, again, too young to be one! Upon relocating to Los Angeles in 2020, I discovered Pure Barre Woodland Hills and wasted no time reaching out to the owner, Stacy Quinkert. Once the studio reopened after quarantine, Stacy graciously welcomed me on board, and I resumed my role at the front desk. In 2021, my long dream came true when Stacy decided to send me to teacher training. Balancing my college studies with teaching was challenging initially, as I strived to maintain my GPA and course load, but I came out on the other side! As I teach almost daily, my passion for Pure Barre continues to grow. Looking ahead, my ambitions extend beyond teaching; I aspire to break into the corporate realm and, ultimately, own a studio.
Reflecting on my path, I am genuinely grateful for the opportunities and support that have shaped my journey so far. My first job became my lifelong career, and I couldn’t be happier.
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 started my journey into health and wellness at the age of 15. After being a gymnast my whole life and ultimately leaving the sport due to injuries, I found Pure Barre. I initially began as a client, taking classes any chance I could get, and in 2021, I fulfilled a huge dream of mine when I became an instructor. Pure Barre has always been more than just a fitness studio for me; it’s a beautiful, vibrant community that values empowerment and growth. It offers a unique fitness experience, blending pilates, ballet, and yoga-inspired exercises to lift, tone, and burn the whole body. Nonetheless, it’s not just a workout; it’s a true celebration every time you finish a class and, ultimately, hit that next milestone! In addition to Pure Barre, my path has led me into the world of healing and energy work. I find immense joy in guiding others and have aligned deeply with helping them tune into their body, regulate their energy, and find answers within. I was introduced to breathwork a few years ago, and at my very first session, it clicked: I had to share this work with everybody. I’ve since dived into various modalities and found my calling in Reiki. My approach to Reiki and energy work is deeply rooted in the body, especially the feminine, as I emphasize embracing the innate power within us. I take great pride in keeping healing as accessible as possible, as these services can sometimes be monetarily prohibiting. It’s incredibly important to me that everyone can benefit from and experience this transformative work.
I am so grateful that I have been able to integrate the principles of Pure Barre into energy work and that I’m in the position to serve both of these beautiful modalities with all who wish to try them. Whether you join me for a high-energy, muscle-shaking barre class or dive into a soul-nourishing, chakra-aligning Reiki session, I invite you to embrace and truly enjoy your journey of self-improvement!
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
In the health and wellness field, aside from all the training you might receive or as many things you may learn, there are a few more things that could help you out. I believe that having the ability to communicate clearly and compassionately with your clients is crucial. You truly want to create a safe and supportive environment for both of you, whether that’s in an office, over email, or at a coffee shop. Really try to get to know them, and ask as many questions as you need to feel the most comfortable to guide them. With this, stay open-minded to feedback so you can best adapt your approach and keep learning to offer the most beneficial practices to your clients. I urge you not to forget about yourself during the process; be gentle, and keep striving to be the best version of yourself!
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
I am still unlearning my tendency to people-please; I began to realize that this constant worry was not serving me in any way and that I needed to address it. When you prioritize others’ needs over your own desires, it can truly take a toll on you. You don’t have to suppress your voice or neglect your own aspirations for the sake of others. It is an incredibly tough lesson to unlearn after it has been embedded in so many of us for so many years. Breaking free from that cycle means acknowledging what you genuinely need; it’s a slow process, but it is so worth it. I want to share with you something I recently learned: You cannot dim your light so that you won’t disturb others.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @marinamancione
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/marina-mancione-9566531bb
Image Credits
Eugenio R. @eu_ginoo