We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Cocchi-Miller and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
What sets Intentional Minds apart is that we equip participants with the skillset needed to act or react purposely and mindfully through several programs of learning. Our goal is to give kids (and adults) tools they can apply in their lives. Our wellness classes allow access to a broad array of tools to regulate emotions, including meditation techniques and breathing exercises. Our enrichment classes will develop students’ critical thinking skills by challenging them academically and give them a deeper sense of self awareness. Our newest program, Girls Camp, teaches girls of all ages camping and hiking basics while empowering them with confidence of their newly acquired techniques. Each of our programs offers techniques that participants can take with them and utilize throughout life.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Intentional Minds was founded in 2022 with a goal to teach children (and adults) strategies to manage their mental health and enhance their cognitive abilities. We are most excited about our newest offering, Girls Camp! It’s a great series for anyone identifying as female to learn how to camp in a safe and welcoming atmosphere.

I left my full-time teaching job of 11 years and decided to take a leap into the unknown. I felt like I needed to step out of my career to find some “head space” to determine how I could continue to do what I love and impact the community in a positive way without the limitations of the school system. It was this time and space I needed to pave the way for Intentional Minds.

There were many challenges in starting a business. With no previous business or financial experience, I had to learn how to start a business. I took several business and financial classes through SBDC (Georgia Small Business Development Center). I obtained my 26 and 95 hour children’s yoga certifications. I also had to learn how to create my own website, embed scheduling software, and bookkeeping processes. Starting this business was overwhelming, but by scheduling out my time and priorities I was able to persevere one day at a time.

Intentional Minds is still a growing business. We have much more to offer, so stay tuned for more unique offerings in the future.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Let me introduce you to my hometown Atlanta, Georgia! The best way to learn a city is to eat your way through. I’d recommend first and foremost Krog Street Market. It’s a public food hall so everyone can find something. Don’t miss the Philly cheesesteak from Fred’s Meat and Bread or Jen’s Splendid Ice Creams. Other must visit restaurants include, Lee’s Bakery on Buford Highway for the Pork Bahn Mi, Community BBQ in Decatur, Matthew’s Cafeteria for Southern classics, and any La Fonda location for Latin favorites. Grab a famous frozen Basil Lemonade at My Coffee Shop in East Lake or visit Victory Sandwich bar in Inman Park for some one-of-a-kind cocktails or their slushy Jack-n-Cokes. If you go to Victory, take a stroll along the belt line towards Ponce City Market for more food options and a lovely time playing games on their roof while overlooking our beautiful city.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d love to give a big shoutout to my friend and colleague LaKendra Mathews! She is an amazing and innovative educator that has always cheered me on and supports everything I do. She recently won Teach of the Year for DeKalb County Region 7 because she is unstoppable. LaKendra is one of the best educators I know and continues to share her love of learning with all the students she serves. Having her love and support is one of the reasons I’m successful in business and in life.

Website: https://intentional-minds.com

Instagram: @intentionalmindsatl

Facebook: @intentionalmindsatl

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