Wanda La Russa shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Wanda, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, I’ve found a lot of joy in hiking. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about being out in nature, whether it’s the challenge of a steep trail, the peaceful sound of a stream, or the reward of a stunning view from a mountain peak. It’s a perfect way to clear my head, get some exercise, and reconnect with the natural world.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a passionate advocate for personal growth and well-being. With a diverse background and a Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies with a minor in Human Development, I possess a deep understanding of human dynamics, mental health, and the pursuit of inner peace. As a Yoga Alliance ® 200-Hr Registered Yoga Teacher and Certified Yoga Life Coach, I guide clients through therapeutic yoga sessions and coaching to cultivate strength, holistic well-being, and the profound connection between mind and body. As a sought-after Positivity Speaker, I dynamically inspire audiences to cultivate a positive mindset, empowering them to navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that most shaped how I see myself was the one I had with my great-grandmother, Geneva. She was the most positive, optimistic, and wise person I’ve ever known, and her lessons helped me find my purpose in life.
Mark Twain famously said, “The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” My love for teaching and connecting with people started with my great-grandmother. When I was young and problems felt huge, she taught me to look for the “silver lining” and to not let mistakes define me. Her words were like seeds that grew inside me, helping me face life’s challenges with hope and confidence.
Sharing her wisdom is how I became a positivity speaker and found my “why.” I’m not just sharing my own words; I’m sharing my great-grandmother Geneva’s wisdom.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There was a time I almost gave up, yes. After a successful career as an elementary school teacher, I decided to follow my entrepreneurial spirit and go into direct sales. At first, I struggled—I couldn’t build a team or sell many products. It was a long, hard process, but I stuck with the advice of my leaders. Eventually, my perseverance paid off, and I became a successful leader and trainer, even receiving awards for my team-building skills.
My experience in direct sales led me to a new path. I was asked to train at meetings and conferences, and soon after, event directors began asking me to speak to groups of women and girls. This is when I realized I could use my education, training skills, and positive outlook to empower others through speaking. This journey from struggling in sales to becoming a successful positivity speaker and coach has shown me the value of not giving up, even when things are difficult.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
A significant lie in the yoga industry is that instructors must be skinny and flexible. This focuses only on the physical aspect, or asana, ignoring that a great teacher’s true value comes from their knowledge and ability to create an inclusive environment for all body types.
Another lie is the oversimplification of yoga as just a form of exercise. While it’s great for physical health, it’s also a holistic practice that includes mindfulness, breathwork, and meditation. Reducing it to just a workout strips away its true purpose of connecting the mind and body.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m grounding, or earthing, out in nature. It’s incredibly beneficial because it allows me to disconnect from the constant noise of daily life and reconnect with the natural world. By walking barefoot on the earth or simply being present in a natural setting, I feel a sense of calm that helps to reduce stress and center my mind.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://wandalarussa.com/
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