Meet Shelby Frederick

 

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Shelby Frederick. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Shelby below.

Hi Shelby, thank you so much for agreeing to open up about a sensitive and personal topic like being fired or laid-off. Unfortunately, there has been a rise in layoffs recently and so your insight and experience with overcoming being let go is relevant to so many in the community.

In the spring of 2006, I found myself sitting in my manager’s office, hearing the news that no one expects but many fear—my payroll coordinator position was being eliminated company-wide. After six months as a temp, I had been in the role for only five months. For most, this would be a moment of uncertainty and anxiety. I was in a new city, having lived there for less than a year, and I loved my work in human resources. Yet, this moment was a blessing in disguise, marking the start of my journey into health and wellness.

Just a month before this news, I was introduced to an opportunity with a wellness company, which sparked a deep interest in the field. It opened my eyes to a career that combined my passion for helping others with a fresh, exciting path forward. At that point, I began considering a new direction—massage therapy. I knew nursing wasn’t for me because of my aversion to needles and the sight of blood, but massage therapy felt like a natural fit.

As I packed up my belongings from my desk and said tearful goodbyes to co-workers who had become like family, I wasn’t consumed with fear. Instead, I felt excitement and anticipation about what lay ahead. I drove straight from my job to a massage school and started the enrollment process for the July program. I had no idea how I would pay for it, but something inside me knew this was where I was meant to be. I chose to see this as an opportunity for growth, a chance to explore a new path and learn new skills.

Seventeen years later, I consider that moment a pivotal turning point in my life. That unexpected shift became the best decision ever, and I’ve never regretted my path. It has allowed me to impact lives in ways I never imagined, and I’m deeply grateful for every step of the journey. I wouldn’t be where I am today without that moment of change.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

To expand my reach, I just launched my nonprofit organization, Healing Oasis Wellness Institute, which is dedicated to fostering holistic healing and personal growth. Our mission is to empower individuals, especially youth and families, through comprehensive programs that address mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Our compassionate approach and unwavering commitment to excellence ensure that every participant has the opportunity to thrive and achieve their full potential, providing you with a sense of security and confidence in our services.

I would also like to introduce Vibrant Dimensions, a dynamic collaboration between Jewels of Wellness by Shelby Frederick, also known as “Lady Jewels,” and Sacred Pleasures by Coach Tre’…

“Together, we unite in expertise to facilitate personal transformation, heal the past, provide hope for the future, and enable people to embrace the present fully. Vibrant Dimensions stands as a beacon of empowerment and positive change, dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey to personal transformation and holistic well-being.”

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?

Reflecting on my journey, I can clearly see the pivotal role of three essential qualities: resilience, adaptability, and a passion for helping others. These traits were not just theoretical concepts, but practical tools that empowered me to navigate challenges and transition into a new industry with confidence and purpose.

Resilience – The transformative power of bouncing back from setbacks cannot be overstated. When I lost my payroll coordinator position, it could have been a moment of discouragement. Instead, I chose to view it as an opportunity. Resilience is not about avoiding difficult moments, but about how you respond to them. I urge you to see challenges and failures early in your journey as stepping stones to something greater. Build your resilience by fostering a mindset that seeks solutions rather than dwelling on problems.

Adaptability – Being open to change and new opportunities was another major factor in my success. I had no prior experience in health and wellness, yet I trusted my instincts and was willing to make a bold career shift. My advice is to stay flexible and curious. Industries change, technologies evolve, and sometimes, life takes you down a path you didn’t anticipate. The more adaptable you are, the more you’ll be able to embrace these shifts with excitement and an open mind, finding new areas of growth.

A Passion for Helping Others – At the core of my journey was a genuine desire to impact people’s lives positively. Whether in human resources or wellness, that passion guided me. I encourage anyone starting out to find their ‘why.’ If your motivation is rooted in helping others or making a meaningful contribution, you’ll find fulfillment even on difficult days. The joy of making a difference in someone’s life is a powerful motivator. Cultivate your passion by staying connected to your purpose and constantly seeking ways to improve the lives of those you serve.

I recommend focusing on these three qualities for those just beginning their journey. Start by building resilience through personal challenges, keep your mind open to learning and adapting, and always let your passion lead the way. Developing these traits will give you a solid foundation to weather challenges and embrace new opportunities.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

I’m always looking to collaborate with individuals and organizations who share my passion for making a meaningful impact on health, wellness, mental and emotional well-being, and personal growth. I believe in partnering with those who are driven by purpose, whether they are in the field of holistic wellness, mental health, ministry, or leadership development. Our shared values and goals can guide us in creating positive change together.

Specifically, I’m interested in working with:

Wellness Practitioners and Coaches: Those who offer complementary services in mental, emotional, or physical wellness and are interested in creating collaborative programs, workshops, or retreats that have the potential to empower others to heal, grow, and thrive. Together, we can make a significant difference in people’s lives.

Churches and Faith-Based Organizations: Leaders who want to integrate mental health and wellness into their spiritual community and seek to partner on speaking engagements, workshops, or wellness programs.

Educators and Trainers: Professionals looking to develop curricula, courses, or training programs focused on leadership, personal development, or emotional well-being.

Entrepreneurs and Business Owners: Those who are committed to creating products, services, or initiatives that help people live healthier, more fulfilled lives, and who are seeking partnerships to expand their offerings.

I would be thrilled to connect with you if you’re passionate about any of these areas and believe we could work together to create positive change. You can reach out to me directly at shelby@thriveathowi.org or follow me on my social media platforms for updates on potential collaborations and projects. Let’s explore how we can combine our expertise to make a greater impact!

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