Founder Interview With Kathy Rivera
Photo Credit: Kathy Rivera
Kathy Rivera is the founder of a transformative healing and wellness practice that combines trauma-informed energy medicine and therapeutic yoga. A first-generation Salvadoran American, Kathy brings a rich background in healthcare and a deep commitment to creating inclusive spaces for queer people of color. Certified in yoga, breathwork healing, behavior change, and Usui Reiki Level II, Kathy’s approach is grounded in ancient wisdom and focused on holistic well-being.
During our interview, Kathy shared her inspiring journey from corporate burnout to becoming a wellness practitioner. She discussed her passion for holding space for people's trauma and her dedication to fostering community and inclusivity. Kathy's insights into the importance of authenticity and rest in achieving long-term goals were particularly impactful. Her work is a testament to the power of healing and the importance of representation in the wellness industry. Let’s jump right in!
Can you walk us through your professional journey and how you got to where you are today?
As a first-generation Salvadoran-American and the eldest in my family, I faced the expectation to embody the American Dream my parents had worked so hard for. Despite uncertainties about its alignment with my true path, I followed instructions, striving to do "everything right." Amidst being an average student and participating in sports, my life took an unexpected turn when I became a single mom during my senior year of high school. Determined not to become a statistic and disappoint my parents further, I navigated the college journey alone, handling everything from admissions to loans with guidance from counselors. Despite the challenges, it took me years, but I earned my diploma.
Upon entering Corporate America, I worked tirelessly within a system that wasn't designed for someone like me and, frankly, wasn't where I desired to be. I sensed a calling for something more significant, although I was uncertain about its nature. Struggling and unfulfilled, I experienced multiple burnouts and a transformative mental breakdown during this time. Then in March 2020, I made the courageous decision to leave Corporate America for good.
For the first time, I prioritized myself, embarking on a deeper healing journey that brought joy and happiness into my life. This journey involved healing from generational and corporate trauma, dismantling ingrained belief systems, feeling my heart expand, and embracing my wholeness.
Amidst this personal transformation, I obtained my 200-hour yoga certification in 2018, a pivotal moment in my life while still navigating the corporate world. This certification not only deepened my understanding of yoga and the breath but also unexpectedly led me to discover my true passion—working with people's health and wellness. After leaving corporate America, I became a trauma-informed energy medicine practitioner and yoga teacher. I wanted to create spaces where queer people of color could come and feel seen, and that has been my focus ever since.
Photo Credit: Kathy Rivera
What inspired you to offer the services you provide?
In my journey as a trauma-informed energy medicine practitioner, my inspiration for offering these services lies in the deep-seated mission to establish a sacred haven. This space is dedicated to fostering a sense of community, specifically for BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and allies, where they can release and embark on their healing journey. The profound connection I have with my offerings stems from personal experiences. Much like many of my students, I've grappled with the sensation of not belonging, intimately understanding the trauma associated with it. In essence, my work serves as an extension of my own path to healing, reflecting how I aspire to contribute to the well-being of communities that once supported me during my times of need.
“Our mission is to guide individuals on a transformative journey of self-discovery, bridging the gap between them and Great Nature, while dismantling toxic self-help culture and guiding them to reclaim their true essence.”
What is one of the biggest challenges you have faced in your journey as a service provider, and what did you do to overcome this?
Navigating the healing and wellness industry as a QPOC has posed significant challenges due to the scene being flooded with folks who all seem to fit the same mold of the "ideal" yoga person or healer, a visual stereotype that often lacks diversity. And don't even get me started on those who think renaming and appropriating ancient practices makes them innovators. Instead of conforming to industry norms, I anchored my approach in my values. I'm here to show the world that practitioners come in all flavors—different sizes, styles, cultures, and shapes. Standing out in this crowded space meant staying true to my medicine, owning my most authentic self. Because let's face it, authenticity is magnetic, and my audience knows exactly where to find their unique kind of healing magic.
If you could give one piece of advice to future LGBTQ+ service providers within your field, what would it be?
"Trust the What. Fuck the When. Never forget the Why." - Russ
Remember to know who you are and know your values. It’s important to let go of rigid timelines and focus on the process instead. We often love to plan, thinking we have everything set, but our timelines can be unrealistic. We might imagine building a six-figure business in a year, but we need to focus on growing our brand and building trust, especially in services where we hold space for people's trauma.
By trusting the process and having a clear vision, you allow things to unfold naturally without being tied to strict timelines. Achieving your goals often takes longer than expected, so it's crucial to prioritize rest. The 'no sleep' culture isn't sustainable so focus on the pause, the breath, and getting enough sleep.
Photo Credit: Kathy Rivera
How does being openly queer inspire or impact your business?
I feel so proud to be who I am; being queer shows others that healing and wellness are available and possible. It’s essential for me to hold space for people’s trauma and build trust, focusing on inclusivity and representation. I ensure that queer women of color, like myself, feel seen and supported in wellness spaces. By creating environments where people who look like me can feel comfortable and valued, I’m able to foster holistic well-being. This inspiration comes from my own experiences and my desire to make the wellness industry more inclusive and heart-centered.
What brands or services by LGBTQ+ founders are your go-to's and why?
My go-to brands by LGBTQ+ founders include JZD Design and Wildfang. I love JZD Design for their fun casual attire. Wildfang is another favorite of mine because they offer good ass outfits. I'm a sucka for a good print button up and jumpsuit, and Wildfang always delivers on that front.
Who is your favorite LGBTQ+ celebrity and why?
Dan Levy has changed the game for TV and film, especially with "Schitt's Creek," which was such a beautiful support system for me during the pandemic. He brings so much diversity, humor, and relatability to all that he creates. I feel so seen.
Can you share one fun fact about yourself?
When eating chips or fries, I eat the smallest pieces first and move up to the larger pieces. That's just how my brain works. Lol.
