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

Hi LeAnne, what do you want people to remember about you?
As I reflect on the legacy I want to leave behind, it’s deeply rooted in my passion for servant leadership, particularly in uplifting Black women. My journey, from navigating corporate spaces to founding Wake Up Happy Sis! Network, has always been driven by a desire to see Black women live happy, healing, and fulfilling lives. I’ve witnessed firsthand how we often prioritize others over ourselves, juggling societal expectations, trauma-induced decisions, and our personal ambitions. My mission is to shift this narrative, to advocate for self-care and wellness as non-negotiable aspects of our lives.

I envision my legacy as a beacon of empowerment, guiding Black women to embrace self-care not as an afterthought but as a cornerstone of their lives. Through my work, I aim to dismantle the misconceptions around self-care, illustrating that it’s not just about spa days or indulgences, but a holistic journey encompassing all 8 aspects of wellbeing (mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, social, financial, occupational, and environmental). I’m all about creating safe spaces where we can heal from past traumas, grow in resilience, find support and community, and experience joy in every day.

Ultimately, I want to be remembered as someone who contributed to a transformative shift in how Black women perceive, value and care for themselves. My legacy should be a testament to the power of nurturing oneself, of prioritizing our own happiness and well-being. It’s about leaving a trail of stories where Black women see themselves not just surviving but thriving, breaking free from the ‘superwoman syndrome’ and living lives that are authentically and unapologetically theirs.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Wake Up Happy, Sis! and its product brand, Dolce & Lay, are the heart and soul of my mission to empower high-achieving Black women. Our uniqueness lies in our deep understanding of the specific challenges our sisters face, like the superwoman syndrome, societal pressures, and workplace microaggressions. We’re not just a business; we’re a movement, offering a blend of personal stories, expert advice, and transformative experiences through our online training, events, and retreats.

Building this network wasn’t easy. It required overcoming societal stereotypes and the challenges of establishing a brand that authentically represents Black women. Through resilience, authenticity, and a commitment to our vision, we’ve created a space where Black women can prioritize their wellness and happiness. The lessons learned along this journey are numerous, but the most significant is that true strength lies in nurturing ourselves and our community.

What I’m most proud of, and what I want the world to know, is the impact we’ve made. Every story of transformation and growth within our community fuels my passion and excitement for this work. It’s a testament to the power of a supportive community and holistic approach to wellness. Wake Up Happy, Sis! and Dolce & Lay are more than brands; they’re symbols of triumph, hope, and empowerment for Black women.

One of the most profound lessons learned in building Wake Up Happy, Sis! is the deep-seated belief many Black women hold, tying their worth to their service to others. This mindset often leads to a sense of guilt when seeking joy and fulfillment for themselves. It’s a crucial insight that underscores the importance of our mission to redefine self-care and self-worth among Black women, encouraging them to embrace happiness and fulfillment as deserving personal goals, not just as byproducts of serving others.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting Atlanta, we’d dive right into the city’s vibrant culture! We’d start with breakfast at The Flying Biscuit Cafe, known for its hearty Southern dishes. For a dose of art and history, the High Museum and Atlanta History Center are must-visits. Lunch would be a relaxed affair at Ponce City Market, offering a variety of cuisines.

Throughout the week, we’d explore local Black-owned businesses, like shopping at The Beehive and dining at Paschal’s, a historic spot with a rich civil rights history and getting a healthy raw vegan meal at Tassili’s Raw Reality!

Our nights would end with a taste of Atlanta’s lively nightlife, perhaps at a rooftop bar like SkyLounge, offering stunning city views. We’d head over to Sivas for some delectable Greek cuisine, enjoying the belly dancing and hookah vibes over the weekend. We would definitely visit Sudo Lounge in Ellenwood for their fun-filled Karaoke Thursdays – the dancing, the atmosphere, and oh, you have to try the Lamb chops.

And you can’t forget Brunch! Atlanta is the Queen of Brunching. For a truly unforgettable Saturday, we’d hit up Karaoke Brunch at Views Atlanta. It’s a fantastic spot that combines delicious brunch options with the fun of karaoke. This place is a must-visit for its vibrant atmosphere, where we can sing our hearts out and enjoy great food. It’s a perfect example of Atlanta’s dynamic spirit and its ability to offer unique, enjoyable experiences that blend good eats with entertainment.

On Sunday we are definitely having Brunch at Garden Parc, known for its fun atmosphere and delicious cuisine. Atlanta is a city of energy, history, and immense cultural wealth, perfect for creating unforgettable memories!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate this shout out to my tribe, my sisterhood, my crew. These ladies have been with me through thick and thin. We love on and support one another without judgement, but with accountability and honestly. We uplift and cheer each other on and I wouldn’t be the woman that I am without them. I am blessed to have so many amazing women in my life and they know who they are! I love you and thank you for loving me back!

Website: https://wakeuphappysis.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/wakeuphappysis1111

Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/leannedolce

Twitter: https://twitter.com/wakeuphappysis

Facebook: https://facebook.com/dolceandlay

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@wakeuphappysisshow

Image Credits
the primary image provided credit: Shot By Rakiya

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