We had the good fortune of connecting with Britney Dunbar and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Britney, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
The whole idea of creating my own nutritional therapy business was started because of where my own health journey began. I had struggled with health problems off and on for a very long time, misdiagnosed autoimmune disorders, postpartum anxiety and depression, Hashimotos, and SIBO. Then in 2020 I started seeing my own Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and it changed the trajectory of my life. I wanted to go to school and help women (and men) advocate for their own health, I wanted them to feel like they could live a full life without their health holding them back. So in January 2022, Magnolia Wellness and Nutrition was born. You can read why I chose the name, Magnolia here (https://www.magnoliawell.co/about)
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business launched in January 22′ and I set out to help moms and their families one on one in the support of their overall health, by getting to the root cause of their symptoms, using a holistic food first approach. The biggest piece that sets me apart from others would be own story of health, my struggle with postpartum anxiety and depression, an autoimmune disease, all of which I’ve been able to kick to the curb and get my life back. The journey hasn’t been linear and I’ve learned so much along the way. I’ve been able to tap into my story so that I could understand the level of discomfort and changes my clients make. There has been a lack of knowledge of how to work through our own health, especially as a postpartum mom. I’m proud of what I’m building because I get the honor to work clients who are on their way to living a full life free from their health weighing them down, how beautiful is that? It hasn’t been easy to create all of this, but it has been 100% worth it. When you start your own business you become the IT person, marketing manager, researcher, customer service, website designer, the accountant (hire one too) and so on. Thankfully there have been many fellow NTPs who have helped guide me on my business venture.
Some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned have been, don’t let fear of anything hold you back…do it anyway. Who knows what you’re missing if you let fear in the driver seat. Another big lesson, one I always tell my kids, be teachable. Go into things with an open heart and open mind. Last one! Keep working for what you have dreamed of, don’t give up just because things aren’t going your way, your day is coming.
Something I’d love for you to know about Magnolia Wellness and Nutrition would be, there is space for your healing here and as someone who has walked through it, you won’t be alone on your journey to optimal health. Even though you’ve been through so many trials in your life it’s never too late for you to take control. If you’re feeling at your lowest low, know that the light is coming for you and when you’re ready you have the power to make the change. Your diagnosis isn’t the end of your story, its just the beginning. I created this business because I didn’t want other people to struggle for so long like I did.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my close friend were coming to visit, I’d love to take them to Waterfront Wednesday (local summer concert series on the river), grab coffee from Sunergos and treats from Annie Mae’s Sweet Cafe, an allergen friendly bakery. We’d go on a hike at some local nature preserves or parks, and go kayaking. I’d also love to just sit on our front porch catching up, cooking food from my *hopefully* luscious garden. My family and I recently moved outside of the city and we’re learning to embrace slower living, mixed with fun adventures!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My husband for always supporting me in all the wild ideas I bring forth while cheering me on along the way. My kids for keeping me on my toes and encouraging me to keep striving for the best. My NTA class, they’re an amazing. group of people who I’ve learned so much from. And just my close community who have given me all the love and support while I went through school as well as launching my business!
Website: https://www.magnoliawell.co/
Instagram: britdunbar_
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/britney-dunbar-4b0914bb/
Image Credits
Family Photo; Firm Anchor Photography