We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Schakara Arrazola-tiscareno a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Schakara , thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
Being the only one in the room who looks like “me” can be both challenging and empowering.
I say, Embrace Your Uniqueness! Recognize that your unique background and perspective can be an asset. Bring your full self to the table, knowing that your individuality is a source of strength.
Personally, confidence is essential to project your abilities. Even when you may feel like an outsider, trust in your expertise and experience to command respect.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
My name is Schakara, and I’m a dedicated entrepreneur running three unique businesses that blend creativity, community, and holistic wellness.
I own Shears with Shakara, where I specialize in hairstyling and extensions, offering personalized beauty services in a competitive market.
I also lead Southern Colorado Fashion, which focuses on community engagement through quarterly fashion shows and events that spotlight local talent and create opportunities for collaboration.
Lastly, I operate Love and Withstand, an alternative medicine practice focused on soul care and spiritual healing, where I help individuals find balance through holistic therapies.
As a small business owner in Pueblo, Colorado, I am passionate about uplifting others—whether that’s through the confidence a new hairstyle can bring, the connections fostered through fashion, or the healing power of alternative medicine. My goal is to create spaces where people feel seen, valued, and empowered!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
1. Creative Vision: I have the ability to conceptualize and execute innovative ideas across different industries, from fashion and hairstyling to alternative medicine.
This creativity allows me to not only stand out in each field but also to bring fresh, unique experiences to my clients and community.
2. Resilience and Adaptability: Managing three businesses in competitive markets requires a high level of resilience. I feel, I have mastered the ability to navigate challenges, adapt to changing demands, and continuously evolve your businesses to stay relevant and successful.
3. Community-Centric Leadership: My businesses are deeply rooted in connecting with and uplifting others. Whether through fashion shows that foster local talent or healing practices that support holistic well-being, I focus on creating meaningful connections which has been a key driver in my success.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The blessing in disguise my father provided during his Hospice.
As I supported him as a death doula which propelling deeply transformative experience.
It was an honor to accompany him through that sacred journey, I was given the opportunity to connect more deeply with the concept of life, death, and spiritual care—something that ultimately shaped my path as an entrepreneur and healer.
In that space, I realized the importance of creating a holistic and healing environment, not only for myself but for others. The lessons learned during that intimate time of supporting my Papa gave me clarity and purpose, strengthening my calling to provide soul care and healing for others, as seen in your work with Love and Withstand.
The move to Pueblo became the “big gift” my father gave me, symbolizing a new chapter. It was as if in his passing, he helped me transition into a place where my potential could fully flourish.
Pueblo, with its challenges and opportunities, became a canvas for my growth and entrepreneurial success. It offered a chance to establish my businesses in a community that could benefit from the unique combination of creativity, spirituality, and care that I provide.
My father’s passing wasn’t just an end, but a beginning—a moment of profound loss that opened the door to new opportunities, deeper connections, and a stronger sense of purpose.
This journey has become a cornerstone in my story as a business owner, grounding you in the values of empathy, resilience, and community building.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lovenwithstand.com
- Instagram: Https://www.instagram.com/Karheart34
- Facebook: Schakara Arrazola-Tiscareno
- Youtube: Love.n.withstand
Image Credits
Kelsie Heckman Photography
Cos Lindstrom-Photo
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
