We had the good fortune of connecting with Denise Vannooten and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Denise, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
Don’t be afraid to fail. Failure is not a loss, it’s a lesson. It is important to know there will be setbacks and there will be great days and not-so-great days. When that happens stay grounded in your faith and know that someone out there needs what you have to offer and they are waiting on you to deliver. Lastly, remember you can do hard things.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have worked in the corporate arena for over 20 years with a background in Asset Protection and Retail Operations. I became a Personal Trainer in 2010 and later in 2015 a Bodybuilder. I have always been in fitness since I was 13. I ran track and field and just loved athletics. It was no stranger to me or my family when I pursued a career as a health coach and then further explored other areas of wellness, including starting my line of herbal teas.

Being an entrepreneur is not easy and it is not the path for everyone. You have to be passionate about your purpose. You also have to follow your path and not someone else’s. That is a lesson I have learned along the way. You can not compare yourself to others and their successes.

Every day is a challenge to continue knowing that what you do adds value to someone’s life and makes a difference. If you can remind yourself that daily, it will renew your strength and bring you joy.

My brand is all about paying homage to my heritage and upbringing in South America. I’m reminded daily that the decisions I make are rooted in simplicity and nature and not to overcomplicate things.

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.
I would take them to the Dekalb Farmers Market for fresh veggies and fruit so I can make them traditional Guyanese dishes. I don’t eat out frequently but when I do there are a few favorites. The International Roti house for some dhal puri to go with the curry I would make. Since I love ice cream I would take them to Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams on Howell Mill Road.

Now when it comes to shopping I love a good deal and have to take them to my favorite consignment spot, Labels..too many locations to name, but they have the best high-end labels at affordable prices.

I love being outside, even with my allergies, so Piedmont Park is a must and Stone Mountain.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Atiya Sewell atiya.sewell@gmail.com
@atiyads
@adsclayart

Website: denisevannooten.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denisevannootenhealthyliving/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@denisevannootenhealthyliving

Other: Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@dvnhealthyliving Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/denisevannooten/

Image Credits
@crystalonbrand

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