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

Melba , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So, let’s start with a hypothetical – what would you change about the educational system?

My time as a high school teacher was a deeply rewarding experience, but it also highlighted the shortcomings of our current educational model. I saw countless bright, capable students stifled by a system that prioritized standardized tests over critical thinking and creativity. We need to shift our focus from rote memorization to developing well-rounded individuals equipped to tackle complex problems.

I believe that education should be a journey of discovery, where students are encouraged to explore their passions and potential. This means fostering a learning environment built on trust, where mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth. We need to empower students to become active participants in their education, rather than passive recipients of information. By cultivating curiosity, resilience, and a love of learning, we can prepare our young people to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

To achieve this, I believe, the system must prioritize equity and access. Every student deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of their background or circumstances. By providing personalized support and culturally relevant curriculum, we can create inclusive learning environments where all students thrive. Ultimately, I believe that education should be a transformative experience that equips students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to shape a better future for themselves and their communities.

It’s essential to create a system that reflects the diverse needs and experiences of our students. We must break down barriers and ensure that every young person has the resources and support they need to succeed. By centering equity in our educational efforts, we can create a more just and equitable society for all.

Melba , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

After dedicating nearly two decades to shaping young minds as a high school Spanish teacher, I found myself on a profound personal journey. Burnout ignited a spark that led me to explore my own purpose and well-being. This transformative experience culminated in the creation of Melba Amalie Yoga and Wellness in 2023.

My passion lies in creating a nurturing space where women can rediscover themselves, overcome life’s challenges, and unlock their full potential. Through a holistic approach encompassing yoga classes, private sessions, women’s circles, mentorship, workshops, and retreats, I offer tools for women to cultivate balance and harmony.

What sets Melba Amalie Yoga and Wellness apart is our unwavering commitment to creating a safe, inclusive environment where women can truly be themselves.

I am particularly proud of our 3-month 1:1 program, which goes beyond traditional yoga to empower women to unlock their full potential. Through a personalized journey, women deepen self-awareness, uncover core values, and foster a healthier relationship with themselves. By combining yoga, mindfulness, meditation, and self-care, the program provides a supportive space to release limiting beliefs, reduce stress and anxiety, and cultivate resilience, self-confidence, and fulfillment.

My vision is a world where women prioritize self-care and live authentically. Melba Amalie Yoga and Wellness is dedicated to inspiring and guiding women on their transformative journeys, helping them discover the strength, resilience, and joy that reside within.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Building this business has been a rollercoaster of emotions, a test that has forged my character in ways I never imagined. It’s a relentless teacher demanding constant adaptation and growth. Each new venture is a battle against self-doubt, fear, and the persistent grip of scarcity mindset.

I’ve learned to view these internal challenges as catalysts for growth, not obstacles. Through mindful observation and direct confrontation of limiting beliefs, I’ve cultivated resilience. It’s in these trials by fire that I’ve unearthed untapped potential and gained a profound understanding of my capabilities.

Every time I step into a new or expanded phase of my business, I’m often engulfed by a wave of self-doubt, fear, and the familiar voice of scarcity. However, I’ve developed a practice of stepping back to observe these thoughts without judgment. This perspective shift allows me to recognize the irrationality of many fears and to focus on what I can control. By breaking down overwhelming challenges into smaller, actionable steps and maintaining a positive outlook, I’ve consistently transformed adversity into opportunity. This ongoing process reinforces the undeniable power of resilience and adaptability in shaping success.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building a social media presence is an ongoing journey, and I’m still in the midst of that process myself. While I don’t have a definitive success story to share, I’ve learned some valuable lessons along the way.

For those just starting out, I’d recommend first identifying your target audience to ensure your content resonates with the right people. Consistency is key, both in your posting schedule and your messaging, as it helps keep your audience engaged and builds trust. Perhaps most importantly, be authentic – your unique personality and perspective are what will make you stand out in a crowded digital landscape. Focus on building genuine relationships by interacting with your followers and other creators in your niche. Engage actively with your audience by responding to comments, asking questions, and creating content that encourages interaction. Lastly, create a consistent brand identity across all platforms to make your presence easily recognizable.

From my experience, building a social media presence takes time and lots of patience. It’s normal to feel like you’re still figuring things out – that’s part of the process. Stay focused on providing value to your audience and being true to yourself, and you’ll likely see growth over time.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.melbaamalieyoga.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melbaamalieyoga/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melbaamalieyoga/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melba-payan-41070037