We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Virginia Solis, Raven Mills Kamerie Crenshaw a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Virginia Solis, Raven Mills, thanks for joining us today. What was your school or training experience like? Share an anecdote or two that you feel illustrate important aspects or the overall nature of your schooling/training experience.

At Cycle Sisters Academy, everything we do comes from a place of knowledge, experience, and passion. Our combined backgrounds in healthcare and our personal experiences as moms have shaped the way we approach our workshops. We’re not just educators, we’re women and mothers who understand how important it is for girls to feel informed and confident about their bodies.

Raven’s Story: From LVN to RN and PHN

Raven started her healthcare journey as an LVN and spent 10 years in that role before becoming an RN and, shortly after, a Public Health Nurse. Over the years, she’s gained extensive experience working in pediatrics, urgent care, and med/surg (medical-surgical nursing), where she provided well-rounded care for patients of all ages. Her work in these departments gave her the knowledge to navigate a variety of medical needs while also educating patients and families about their health.

As a mother of two daughters, Raven is passionate about ensuring girls feel confident and knowledgeable about their bodies. Her expertise in anatomy and reproductive health, combined with her experience in both acute care settings and public health, allows her to educate in a way that is clear, approachable, and impactful. She has seen firsthand how proper education can empower young girls and their families, making her a cornerstone of our academy.

Virginia’s Story: Certified Nursing Assistant

Virginia has worked in nearly every area of healthcare since becoming a CNA, including Labor and Delivery, Postpartum, Pediatrics, Telemetry, Med/Surg, Step-Down, ICU, ER, Oncology, Psych, and Comfort Care (end-of-life). These roles gave her a deep understanding of the human body and a personal connection to the challenges women face throughout different stages of life. From supporting women through childbirth to comforting families during critical moments, Virginia’s experience reflects her ability to handle sensitive topics with compassion and care.

Her hands-on experience in so many different areas of healthcare has prepared her to teach girls about their bodies in a way that’s informative and comforting. Virginia’s warm, approachable personality makes her an integral part of our workshops, where she ensures every girl feels supported, heard, and confident in learning about their menstrual health.

Kamerie’s Story: Medical Assisting and Peer Specialist for Youth

My journey into healthcare began as a medical assistant in pediatrics, where I not only cared for young patients but also educated them and their families about their health. I later became a peer specialist for youth, working with kids from diverse backgrounds and helping them navigate challenges while building confidence. I’ve always believed that creating safe, judgment-free spaces for learning is one of the most impactful ways to empower young people.

As a mom of two daughters, this work is incredibly personal to me. Every day, I see the importance of preparing girls for the changes their bodies will go through and teaching them to embrace these changes with confidence. At Cycle Sisters, I bring my healthcare background, my passion for education, and my dedication to helping girls understand and celebrate their bodies. My goal is to make every workshop an experience that inspires and equips girls to navigate their menstrual health with pride.

Why We’re the Experts

Between the three of us, we have decades of experience in healthcare, and as moms, Kamerie and Raven are raising daughters. That combination gives us a unique perspective. We’ve studied anatomy, worked directly with patients, and spent years explaining these topics to young people and their families. We’ve seen the impact that proper education can have, and we know how to deliver it in a way that’s relatable, approachable, and fun.

Our daughters inspire us to make Cycle Sisters Academy a place where girls can learn about their bodies without fear or embarrassment. We know what it feels like to want the best for your children, and we bring that same energy and commitment to every workshop. This isn’t just about teaching—it’s about giving girls the tools they need to feel confident and capable as they navigate this part of growing up.

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

Okay, let’s talk about something that’s way overdue for a major glow-up—learning about periods. If you think period education is just about awkward health class videos or handing a box of pads to your kid and hoping for the best, let me introduce you to Cycle Sisters Academy, where we’re changing the game for young girls and their families.

How It All Began
Cycle Sisters Academy was born from the idea that no one should feel confused, embarrassed, or alone when it comes to their period. After years of working with kids and families, I saw the need for a safe, fun, and supportive space to talk about the changes that come with growing up. I wanted to create something that didn’t just educate—it empowered. And so, Cycle Sisters was created to help girls and their families face this new chapter with confidence.

What We Do
We offer a 4-part workshop that covers everything a young girl—and her family—needs to know about periods. Here’s what you can expect:

• Your Body 101: We explain what’s happening during the menstrual cycle in a way that’s clear, relatable, and easy to understand. No confusing jargon here!
• Products Made Simple: We go over all the options—pads, tampons, menstrual cups, period panties, and more—so everyone knows how to use them and what works best for their needs.
• Symptom Survival Tips: We cover how to handle cramps, acne, and those rollercoaster emotions with ease.
• Let’s Chat: We start with what participants already know and encourage open, judgment-free conversations.

Not Just for Girls
Here’s what sets us apart: Cycle Sisters isn’t just for girls ages 8-16. We invite their parents and guardians to join the conversation too—including dads! Yes, you read that right. Dads are welcome, and we think it’s awesome when they show up ready to learn. We believe education is for the whole family because the more everyone understands, the better supported the young girl feels.

The Problems We Solve
• Breaking the Stigma: Let’s make periods a normal, comfortable topic instead of something to whisper about.
• Closing the Knowledge Gap: Schools often skim over menstrual health. We’re here to give families the full picture.
• Parent Readiness: If you’re thinking, “How do I even start this conversation?”—we’ve got you covered.
• Period Poverty: For families who can’t afford supplies, we provide free menstrual products.

What Makes Us Different?
• Whole-Family Focus: By including parents and guardians, we ensure the entire family is equipped to support their child.
• No Shame, No Awkwardness: We keep the workshops fun, engaging, and approachable for everyone.
• Judgment-Free Zone: Whether you’re brand-new to this or just looking to learn more, you’ll feel right at home.
• Community Vibes: Girls leave our workshops with new friends, and parents leave feeling informed and ready to help.

What We’re Most Proud Of
There’s nothing better than seeing the transformation from “I’m not sure about this” to “Wow, I’ve got this!” We’re proud to create a space where families can bond over what’s often seen as a “taboo” topic. Watching dads step up, parents feel empowered, and girls leave with confidence? That’s what we’re all about.

Why You’ll Love Us
If you’re a parent, you’ll love feeling prepared and supported—and knowing your child has a safe space to learn. If you’re a dad, you’ll love the opportunity to be part of your child’s journey in a way that strengthens your bond. And if you’re a young girl, you’ll love the friendships, the fun, and the confidence that comes with understanding your body.

Cycle Sisters Academy isn’t just about periods—it’s about building confidence, creating community, and giving families the tools they need to thrive together. Ready to join us? Let’s make period education a positive, empowering experience for everyone!

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

We’ve worked hard to build a reputation as a trusted, approachable, and empowering resource for families. Here’s how we’ve made it happen:
• A Judgment-Free Zone: We’ve created a safe, welcoming space where girls, parents, and even dads feel comfortable learning and asking questions—without any embarrassment or awkwardness.
• Solving Real Problems: From providing free menstrual products to tackling period stigma, we focus on real challenges families face and offer practical, thoughtful solutions.
• Whole-Family Focus: We’re not just here for the girls. Involving parents, guardians, and even dads helps families communicate openly and support each other better.
• Making It Fun: Learning about periods doesn’t have to be boring or awkward. We keep our workshops fun, engaging, and easy to relate to for everyone involved.
• Social Media’s Power: Instagram and Facebook have been key to our growth. Advertising on these platforms has helped us reach families across the U.S. and even beyond. Being part of mom groups, parent communities, and local city groups has allowed us to connect directly with the families we serve.
• Trusted Resource: Families know they can count on us for clear, reliable information and ongoing support.
• Word of Mouth: The best compliments we get are when parents and girls tell their friends, schools, or local groups about us. That kind of trust means everything.
• Breaking Barriers: We’re not just here to teach about periods—we’re here to change the conversation, making it normal, positive, and empowering.

What’s made us successful is simple: We genuinely care. We’re here to make a difference in the lives of girls and their families, and we’re so proud of the community we’re building—both online and in person.

Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?

What’s Most Helpful for Succeeding in Our Field

At Cycle Sisters Academy, success isn’t just about knowing the facts, it’s about connection, passion, and creating impact. Here’s what we’ve found most important:
• Empathy: Talking about periods can be sensitive, so understanding and listening without judgment is key.
• Strong Communication: Breaking things down in a relatable, engaging way helps girls and families feel comfortable.
• Building Trust: Families trust us because we show up, deliver, and genuinely care. Relationships are everything.
• Community Involvement: Being active in parent groups and local communities keeps us connected to real needs.
• Adaptability: Every family is different, so staying flexible and open makes a big difference.
• Passion: We love what we do, and that passion shines through, making our mission personal and meaningful.
• Providing Access: It’s not just about teaching—it’s about ensuring families have the tools and resources they need.
• Breaking Stigma: Success comes from changing the conversation, making periods normal, not taboo.

At the end of the day, it’s about creating a space where families feel seen, supported, and empowered. That’s what keeps us going.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.cyclesistersacademy.com/
• Instagram: @cyclesistersacademy
• Facebook: Cycle Sisters Academy
• Twitter: Cyclesisterss
• Youtube: Beyond the cycle

Image Credits

All photos were taken by: Terrell K. Porter with Opaque Motion Pictures.