Meet Tiana Duncan!
Hey y’all,
As we embark on our 6th year in business, we’ve decided to do things a little differently this week! We wanted to give you a chance to learn more about our owner Tiana Duncan and what her journey in business has been thus far!
Can you tell us about your personal journey as a queer black business owner in the wellness space?
I've officially been in the wellness space for 20 years. Yes, I started at 15 years old teaching water aerobic at Rainier Beach Community Center known in the southend as " The Old RB". My journey has been and we continue to be a dance between being the master and the student in my craft and championing inclusive images and approaches to health and wellness.
How did you get started in this industry?
I got started in the health and wellness industry through competitive swimming. Swimming taught me how to strengthen and reconnect to the mind, body, and spirit.
What have been some of the key milestones or achievements for your business thus far?
One of my key milestone is building a team. One thing about being a business owner and an entrepreneur you won't go far by yourself. Taking the time to build a solid team that operates in their area genuis and has impeccable work ethnic. Honey! You just hit gold!
Have you faced any unique challenges or obstacles as a black-owned business owner?
Absolutely, I've face challenges. From barriers to funding to dealing with micro-aggressions.
If so, how have you navigated these challenges?
I've navigated these challenges by speaking openly about them; which tends to align me with people who connect me with resources that address these barriers. And most importantly having faith and doing the work is a must.
How do you ensure that your business is inclusive and welcoming to people of all backgrounds and identities?
I'm naturally a curious person and enjoy learning more about cultural practices, racial dynamics, religion, sexual expression, global history which in return has served me to be open-minded and to implement things like language, furniture, and massage techniques to accommodate the customer.
Can you share your vision for the next 6 years?
My vision for the next 6 years are to spend periods time between living in the States and overseas, be a reputable educator in the health and wellness space, and to move through my life leisurely.
Where do you see your brand heading, and what are your goals for growth and impact?
I see Indigo Movement moving into the digital age and becoming a wellness brand. For example, having a platform that provides fitness, nutrition, and self-massage videos. Hosting continuing education workshops in-person and virtually. And curating bi-annual local and international wellness retreats. The goal is to expand Indigo Movement's approach to health and wellness in an industry that hyper-focused on youth, intense workouts, and trendy diet culture.
Are there any new initiatives, products, or services that you are planning to introduce in the near future to further support the wellness needs of the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities?
Yes, I do. Once I move into a new space I would like to add a sliding scale programming for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ community to receive bodywork based on their personal budget.
How do you prioritize self-care and well-being as a business owner?
Self-care is a must for me; it's the only way I can continue to have longevity in my career and personal life. I priority this by making sure my basics are consistency met; my basics are getting 8 hours of sleep, feeding myself throughout the day, and moving my body daily.
Are there any practices or routines that you personally follow to maintain balance and avoid burnout?
Yes, indeed! I get 3-4 massage a month, attend a weekly conditioning class for dancers, and have one day a week to be lazy.
What advice would you give to aspiring black-owned and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs who are looking to start their own business in the wellness space?
My advice is to advocacy for yourself and understand there will always be ebbs and flows in business; this is the balance of life. You have to speak up for what you need because you are bringing to life a dream. And when you get to those lows use that time to always check-in. Check-in on the foundation and operations of your business, how are you showing up for yourself, take continue education classes, ask and listen to the feedback of your customers. And when you have the highs be presence in the experience and prioritize your "basics" (sleep, food, and movement).
Cheers, Tiana
Movement Snack
Welcome to our June monthly series! Let’s work that side body! Check out our new video HERE!
