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Q: Your transition into restaurant ownership is a unique pivot from your background in healthcare and fitness. What inspired you to enter the food industry, and how does it connect with your wellness expertise?A: In 2020, when COVID hit, my job security in healthcare disappeared. I started waitressing to make extra money and realized I loved the atmosphere, the customers, and the income. I left the hospital, became a manager, and eventually purchased the restaurant. With my background in nutrition, I%u2019ve enjoyed creating healthy yet appealing dishes. Q: How do you balance being a single mother of four while managing a thriving career across multiple industries? What%u2019s your secret to maintaining personal wellness through it all?A: I keep a tight schedule and use an organized calendar to stay on track. Time management is crucial. I turn off social media notifications to avoid distractions and plan vacations and fun activities well in advance. It%u2019s important to have a balance between work and play, especially as a parent. I don%u2019t want my kids to remember me as a mom who only worked. Q: Looking back, was there a pivotal moment that made you realize the importance of adapting and reinventing yourself in your personal and professional life?A: After my last failed relationship, which was very toxic and abusive, I found myself completely lost. I sought counseling and started a journey of healing. I focused on self-help, realizing that mental health is as important as physical health. This journey built confidence I never had before and taught me to depend on myself, shifting from feeling intimidated to feeling secure and confident in my actions and decisions. Q: What role has your entrepreneurial spirit played in your success, and how do you stay motivated when faced with new challenges?A: My favorite quote is, %u201cIf it doesn%u2019t challenge you, it doesn%u2019t change you.%u201d I repeat this to myself during tough workouts and in challenging situations. Growth comes from discomfort. I%u2019ve learned to take risks%u2014sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, but you%u2019ll never know unless you try. Q: With experience in both fitness and food, how do you approach wellness holistically, and what tips would you share for maintaining a balanced lifestyle?A: It%u2019s important to create a routine tailored specifically to you. What works for me might not work for someone else. I prefer working out in the evenings, while some of my friends work out in the mornings. If you%u2019re just starting out, find a support group, whether it%u2019s coworkers or friends, to help keep each other accountable. Q: What%u2019s next for you? Are there any new projects or ventures on the horizon that you%u2019re excited about?A: Yes! 2025 is going to be an exciting year. I have several plans in the works for my restaurant, including expansion. I%u2019m also dedicating more time to my fitness and modeling goals. Ultimately, I hope to mentor other women to help them achieve their goals.MOST MAGAZINE - ISSUE 62 71