Juanita Ikuta, PhD shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Juanita, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, what’s bringing me joy is learning about stewardship of land through the lens of Indigenous individuals, particularly those focused on the care of water and the protection of the boreal forest. Their deep, reciprocal relationship with the land and water is both inspiring and humbling, and it’s been meaningful to explore how these perspectives can inform a more respectful and sustainable approach to environmental care.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Juanita Ikuta, PhD, and I’ve embarked on a meaningful transformation—from an international career in the corporate world of virtual learning, to forging a path in the wellness space alongside my husband, Geoff.
What may come as a surprise to some is that my journey into wellness emerged from a background rooted in structured, for-profit learning environments—and a growing desire to realign with purpose, passion, and impact.
When I recognized that the online learning field was losing its pioneering spark, it felt like the right moment to leap. Geoff and I decided to partner not just in life, but in business—and that partnership has been the perfect match of complementary strengths.
Together, we’re building River Moon, a wellness brand that channels sacred feminine energy—mind, body, and soul—through artisan hemp-infused products. At the heart of our mission is alignment, intention, and clean, transparent wellness. We thoughtfully craft our offerings—from infused coffee and balms to tinctures—to integrate healing, balance, and sustainability in your daily rituals.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
Over the years, the part of me that strove relentlessly for perfection—driven by the pressure to outperform, to compete, to always be “just one step ahead”—has served a purpose. It propelled me forward, sharpened my focus, and shaped my early path in the corporate and virtual learning world. But that same drive, when left unchecked, becomes a cage, whispering that nothing we create—nothing we are—is ever quite enough.
Now, I’m learning to release that version of myself. I’m letting go of the need to prove my worth through competing or being flawless. That voice no longer aligns with the purpose guiding me forward—one rooted in presence, authenticity, and healing, not in comparison or striving.
Releasing that perfectionism isn’t about lowering standards—it’s about lifting my spirit. It opens space for connection, curiosity, and true alignment. By shedding the burden of “perfect,” I’m embracing the freedom to show up fully, imperfectly human—and infinitely more alive.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me to see beyond my own story. As a single working mother of young children, pursuing a PhD, I carried the weight of multiple worlds at once—motherhood, academia, professional responsibilities. While I was fortunate to have a financial safety net and a supportive circle of family and friends, the internal load—the emotional, mental, and physical strain—was still immense.
What that season of life gave me, more than any success ever has, was a deepened sense of empathy. It taught me how to feel into the experiences of others—especially those who move through complex, demanding life dynamics without the privileges of support. I found myself imagining the strength it takes to keep going, not for accolades, but simply for survival and the hope of a better future.
Suffering stripped away the illusion that success is solely about achievement. It revealed a quieter kind of triumph: the resilience of the human spirit, the courage of those who rise each day in service to others, and the grace of simply continuing on. That understanding now informs everything I do—with more softness, more awareness, and far more heart.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies the wellness industry tells itself—and its customers—is that certain products are the answer. That this tincture, that supplement, or the latest “miracle” formula will fix everything, align your life, and unlock perfect health or peace.
But the truth is: wellness is not a product. It’s a practice. It’s not about finding a single cure-all—it’s about showing up for yourself, consistently, with curiosity, care, and honesty. No balm, blend, or bottle can replace the deeper work of self-awareness, healing, and intentional living.
At River Moon, we offer products as tools, not promises. They’re crafted with care, designed to support—not solve. Because we believe true wellness is a journey of continual learning, unlearning, and evolving. The real magic isn’t in what you buy—it’s in how you live, how you listen to your body, and how you choose to care for your whole self, one day at a time.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
In essence, I hope to be remembered as a transformative, disciplined builder and protector—someone who dedicated herself to creating strong, secure foundations not just for her own life, but for others as well. I want my story to reflect the care and intention I brought to everything I touched—how I led with a nurturing, even-handed approach, and how I held space for growth, healing, and possibility.
I hope people say that my presence meant something—that it inspired, grounded, and uplifted those around me. That I didn’t just build things that lasted, but that I poured something lasting into people—the kind of impact that ripples far beyond my time here.
My legacy, I believe, will live in the balance I brought: fierce commitment paired with deep compassion. Enduring contributions shaped by purpose. A life lived not just to succeed, but to serve.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rivermoonwellness.com/
- Instagram: @rivermoonwellness
- Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/juanita-ikuta-361559351
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/rivermoonwellness/
Image Credits
Caitlin Simmons
Jenn Cress
Brittany Gainsley
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