Meet Julia Areh | Organizational Strategist | Speaker | Coach

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

Hi Julia, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Risk-taking is an essential part of both life and business. Without taking risks, we limit our potential for growth and success. In my experience, what others often perceive as risks, I see as betting on myself and my talents. It’s about having faith in your abilities and taking that leap, even when the path ahead is uncertain.

One of the biggest risks I ever took was leaving my stable job to start Julia Areh Consulting. It was a decision that required me to fully accept that the journey ahead would be challenging, but it was a necessary move for my personal and professional growth. I needed to embrace the fear and push forward, trusting in myself and my vision. Looking back, I have no regrets about taking that risk.

This experience has taught me valuable lessons. It’s a reminder not to settle for less than what you deserve and not to allow others to dictate your path. It’s about understanding that the bigger the risk, the bigger the potential reward. Even during the toughest times, when I’m burning the midnight oil or rising at the crack of dawn, I know that betting on myself is a must.

To anyone facing a similar crossroads, my advice is to believe in your abilities, carefully plan, and take that leap of faith. Embrace the risks, for they are opportunities in disguise. Trust in yourself and your journey, even when the path is not clear. Remember, the greatest rewards often lie on the other side of fear. So feel the fear, and do it anyway. Bet on yourself, always.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Julia Areh Consulting is an organizational development firm that partners with individuals and organizations to drive transformative change by cultivating inclusive and equitable spaces. Our services include consulting, training, facilitation, coaching, and speaking engagements tailored to your event’s theme and audience. We have supported non-profit, government, education, and corporate clients.
What sets my business apart is the genuine care I have for the work I do. Having personally experienced the detrimental effects of toxic, exclusive, and psychologically unsafe organizational cultures, I am truly committed to disrupting them.

Establishing Julia Areh Consulting has been a journey of self-discovery and resilience. I’ve encountered my fair share of challenges, often receiving well-intentioned advice from others. However, their suggestions didn’t always align with my authentic self and the vision I have for my business. This led to moments of self-doubt, especially when considering the success of those offering the advice.
Despite these challenges, I am most proud of the fact that I have remained true to who I am and the work I believe in, even while valuing the input of others. My work is transformational, honest, and people-centered, aiming to create environments where individuals can truly thrive.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way have been invaluable. I’ve discovered the importance of trusting my instincts, staying true to my values, and not compromising my integrity to conform to others’ expectations. I want the world to know that Julia Areh Consulting is a brand built on authenticity, passion, and a genuine commitment to helping organizations create cultures where people can thrive.

My story is about resilience, determination, and a deep-seated belief in the power of inclusive and psychologically safe workplaces. I am excited about the future of Julia Areh Consulting and the impact we can make in transforming organizational cultures for the better. I invite organizations to join me on this
journey, to embrace the power of putting people first, and to create environments where everyone can reach their full potential.

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.
First things first, we’d dive right into the city’s deep-rooted history and culture by exploring the National Center for Civil and Human Rights – it’s a must-see! We would visit other historic places and neighborhoods. We’d indulge in some retail therapy at Ponce City Market, checking out the bold and beautiful ethically made fashion at the Bombchel store. They’ve got a second location in Lenox, too! Walking into their store is pure joy, and the brand and its founder have an incredible story to tell.

Of course, we couldn’t miss out on Atlanta’s amazing food scene. Apt 4B is our go-to spot for delicious eats, drinks, and an unbeatable vibe – the service is always on point, too. For a killer rooftop experience, we’d head to O-ku for tasty drinks and sushi with a view. When we need a break from the hustle and bustle, we’d take a little retreat to Serenbe, one of my favorite places to unwind and recharge in nature.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am incredibly grateful for the village of people who supported me throughout my building of Julia Areh Consulting. Their unwavering belief in me, even when this business was just a dream, has driven my success.

I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to my amazing husband. When I was contemplating taking the leap of faith to start my own business, he promised to hold my hand every step of the way and ensure that I had the support I needed. His commitment and dedication have been instrumental in turning my dream into a thriving reality.

I also want to recognize my family, friends, mentors, and sponsors. They have been the backbone of my success, offering invaluable advice, both in business and personal matters. They have gone above and beyond, recommending my business to others, speaking my name in rooms I haven’t even entered yet, and providing constant encouragement. I am truly humbled by their support and will never take it for granted.

My best friend gifted me Elaine Welteroth’s memoir, “More than Enough,” at a crossroads in my career. That book was a game-changer, providing the inspiration and guidance I needed to take the next step. These books and “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho have become my go-to sources of motivation and wisdom.

Building a business is not a solo journey; it takes a village. I am incredibly fortunate to have such an unmatched support system, helping me build Julia Areh Consulting brick by brick. Their belief in me has been the fuel that keeps me going, even in the face of challenges. I am forever grateful for their love, encouragement, and unwavering support.

Website: https://www.juliaareh.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-areh