Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dr. Tonya R. Portis. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Dr. Tonya R., really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
I’ve always been deeply curious about a wide array of subjects. When I graduated from high school, I found myself torn between numerous career paths, each holding its own appeal. However, my journey truly began to take shape around 2002 after I experienced personal success with a popular fad diet, which ignited a passion within me to dive deeper into understanding the intricacies of the human body. Through lots of coursework, extensive study, and the reading of countless books, I gradually realized that my true passion lay in exploring the relationship between food and health. As someone who has grappled with their own health issues, I felt compelled to focus my efforts on supporting other women in their wellness journeys. And thus, My Purpose was born.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
As a women’s plant-based lifestyle coach, I guide women on their journey to living their healthiest life on a raw or high raw whole food plant-based lifestyle. I do this with 1:1 consultations and by way of my exclusive online community where we share support for weight loss and vibrant wellness-centered living. Currently, I am focusing on recreating and growing my Women’s Weight Loss and Wellness Community. When I decided to create RAW naturalellie®—The brand and The Community—the desire stemmed from when I initially lost weight on a fad diet. I did not change everything I was dealing with health-wise with the initial weight loss. My health was drastically changed when I discovered the power of raw foods. All of the issues I was plagued with started to diminish. I began feeling happy, vibrant, and so energized. During this time, I was working on my health coaching business and learning more about coaching. After such a dramatic change in my health, I focused more on raw foods to help other women get the same results that I achieved. Fast forward to today, my passion and my business are one and the same. I enjoy learning more about food and our natural world as it relates to health in my spare time to share with other women who are at a dead-end when it comes to their health as I once was.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities have been pivotal: a relentless thirst for learning, unwavering positivity in the face of obstacles, and a deep-rooted passion for my work. These traits have propelled me forward, allowing me to adapt, overcome challenges, and remain steadfast in my pursuit of helping others. My advice for those starting out is simple: embrace learning with open arms, maintain a positive mindset even when faced with setbacks, and let your passion drive you towards your goals. With these qualities as your compass, your journey will be one of growth, resilience, and fulfillment.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was instilling a strong work ethic and fostering a belief that no goal was beyond reach, regardless of my gender. Their unwavering support and encouragement empowered me to pursue my ambitions with determination and resilience. They taught me the value of hard work and perseverance, laying the foundation for my success and shaping me into the person I am today. Their guidance continues to inspire me to strive for excellence and defy any limitations that may come my way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rawnaturalellie.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rawnaturalellie/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tonya.portis.5
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/dr-tonya-r-portis-49066342
- Other: https://rawnaturalellie.community
