We were lucky to catch up with Marlissa (Mars) Herring recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Marlissa (Mars) thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

The most significant risk I’ve ever taken was packing up and moving to sunny San Diego, which meant leaving behind my family and friends in Chicago. At the time, I was working part-time for the Chicago Bears, a role I deeply cherished. I had also recently completed my Masters degree at Northwestern University and my Bachelors at The University of Chicago. My original dream had been to join the Marine Corps, but fate had other plans in store. I tore my ACL and meniscus twice while preparing for Officer Candidate School (OCS). Instead of giving up, I decided to pivot. I pursued my passion for sports and fitness by enrolling in grad school at Northwestern. This move to San Diego was a true “Year of Yes” moment, a leap of faith. I didn’t have a clear plan or a network in place, but the journey brought me in touch with amazing people who supported me along the way. All I knew was that I wanted to make a difference, and it has been a time of transformation and growth that I’ll always look back on with gratitude.

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

Allow me to introduce myself. I’m a multi-faceted individual with a diverse background. I’m a certified personal trainer, nutritionist, and tactical conditioning specialist, as well as the co-founder of two amazing organizations. These credentials and experiences have shaped my unique journey.

I’m a firm believer in the power of a few profound quotes that have guided me along the way. One of them goes something like, “It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit.” This quote emphasizes the importance of collective efforts and the greater good over personal recognition. Another deeply influential source of wisdom in my life is my parents, who once told me, “You can have all the degrees, money, and accolades in the world, but if you aren’t using those things for the advancement of your people and community, does it really mean anything?” These words continue to drive my mission.

Lastly, I firmly believe in “Trust the process.” It reminds me to embrace the journey, even when it’s challenging or uncertain. It’s a mantra that’s seen me through many phases of my life and career.

Now, let me tell you about Fit, Black, and Educated, Inc. I founded this organization in honor of my parents and the values they instilled in me. It all started with a simple t-shirt, a statement that Black people do care about their health in all facets. But it’s evolved into something much bigger. Our vision at Fit, Black, and Educated is clear: we aim to provide communities of the African Diaspora with the necessary tools, guidance, and resources to combat obesity and other health issues, foster mental resilience, deepen knowledge about Black history, and achieve financial prosperity. We strive to create a supportive and empowering environment that enables individuals to thrive holistically and unlock their full potential.

In addition to Fit, Black, and Educated, I’m also a co-founder of Salute to Souldiers. This initiative was born out of a sense of responsibility after witnessing the mistreatment and lack of education about the contributions of veterans of color to American history. Our purpose is twofold: to honor and support veterans of color, and to educate the public about their significant contributions to America’s armed services. We believe that recognizing and sharing these untold stories enriches our collective understanding of our nation’s history.

What sets me apart in all of these endeavors is the genuine commitment to making a difference in the lives of individuals and communities. I’m not about personal achievements; I’m driven by a deep desire to use my knowledge and resources to uplift those around me. Whether it’s through fitness and health, historical education, or supporting our veterans, I’m here to make a lasting impact. I’m incredibly proud of the progress we’ve made so far, and I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that my work and my brand represent not only my journey but also a shared commitment to the betterment of our society.

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

Succeeding in any field requires a combination of skills, mindset, and personal attributes beyond just training and knowledge. Here are some key elements that can greatly contribute to success:

Never Lose Sight of Your “Why”: Understanding your underlying motivation and purpose in your chosen field is essential. It’s your “Why” that will drive you to overcome challenges and stay committed to your goals. When you have a clear sense of purpose, it becomes easier to stay focused, make important decisions, and persist in the face of setbacks.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: Recognize that no one succeeds entirely on their own. It’s important to ask for help and seek guidance when needed. Whether it’s from mentors, colleagues, or industry experts, learning from others’ experiences can save you time and effort, and it can provide valuable insights and different perspectives that can lead to personal and professional growth. Be willing to collaborate with other people and organizations.

Follow Through: Consistency and reliability are key components of success. Following through on your commitments, whether it’s meeting deadlines, completing projects, or delivering on promises, establishes a strong reputation in your field. It also builds trust with colleagues, clients, and collaborators, which is essential for long-term success.

Connect with Like-Minded People: Building a network of like-minded individuals can be a valuable resource. Connecting with peers who share your interests and goals can provide opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and emotional support. These connections can also open doors to new opportunities and perspectives.

Put Yourself Out There: Success often involves taking calculated risks and stepping out of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to put yourself and your work out into the world. Whether it’s showcasing your skills, sharing your ideas, or seeking out new opportunities, taking bold steps can lead to new experiences and growth.

Have a Clear Purpose: Having a well-defined purpose or mission in your field can serve as a guiding star for your decisions and actions. It helps you stay focused on what truly matters and aligns your efforts with your long-term objectives.

Expect Adjustments Along the Way: Adaptability is a crucial skill in any field. Be prepared to make adjustments to your plans and strategies as circumstances change. Success is not always a linear path, and being flexible in your approach can help you navigate unexpected challenges and opportunities.

Incorporating these principles into your career can be instrumental in achieving success beyond just accumulating knowledge and skills. By staying true to your purpose, seeking support when necessary, following through on your commitments, and actively engaging with others, you can create a fulfilling and successful career in your chosen field.

Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?

I would. I wouldn’t be where I am without the journey that led me to be able to incorporate all of my passions into my daily life. My chosen profession and specialty have allowed me to combine my interests and skills in a way that has been incredibly fulfilling and rewarding. While the path may have been challenging at times, it has ultimately led me to a place where I can fully embrace my passions and make a meaningful contribution to society.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/marlissaherring
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_marsfit/
• Other: www.fitblackandeducated.org www.salutetosouldiers.com