We had the good fortune of connecting with Lizzy Chiappy and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lizzy, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
That it was time to create a yoga home similar to the one I had once experienced, but stronger. I had tried all kinds of studios in my city and nothing called to me. I knew there was an opportunity to create a yoga home where people felt seen, heard, and accepted. In addition, after 10 years of working as an independant contractor, I realized I wasn’t growing anymore and was simply comfortable. I knew it was time to take the next step. I learned so much from all the different places I worked for, from all the different bosses I’ve had, and other instructors I’ve worked alongside, and I felt it was time to put my own vision into place. I also knew what I was trying to build and a partner and the right staff and instructors would be key.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. 
My drive and ambition is what I believe sets me apart from others. I’m most proud of my work ethic and my desire to always do more and be better so that I can continue to grow and also so my future family is taken care of. I got to where I am today by always working hard no matter what. No matter how tired I was, how burnt out I was, even if it meant missing an important event for a friend or family member, I did it knowing that it would pay off someday. It was never easy. I had a lot of disappointments and what seemed like set backs along the way. I’ve had to “start over” many times. I over came the challenges by moving forward no matter what and having faith that God has a plan for me. I kept focusing on my goals and what my next step should be. I’ve learned that setbacks, disappointments, and failures are part of the learning process and part of what gets you to where you’re trying to go so that when you get there you are stronger and better and ready. I’ve also learned that if you stay in integrity throughout the journey, good things will come and all of your hard work will pay off. Both of my yoga businesses are about courage, love, integrity, and tenacity. Both weren’t created because I thought it would be fun, both were created because I saw an opportunity to build something powerful that can change peoples lives.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Since I’m Cuban American I would start with taking them to Versailles restaurant on 8th street to eat traditional Cuban food. I would then take them to Coconut Grove to take them for a bike ride to appreciate the landscape, the vibe, the sites, and the variety in architecture. Next I would take them to downtown Miami so they could the Miami Arena, The Freedom Tower, the PAM Museum. Then a ride to Miami Beach to see the beauty of what it is to be surrounded by water down here. We would go to Broken Shaker for some drinks and then head to the actual beach and lay in the sand. After a while we would head to Wynwood Walls to check out the art and then head to Charlies Vegan Tacos for dinner.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I have to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for blessing me with the talents and the family He gave me. My parents have been by best supporters, encouragers, and teachers. They emphasized not using any of my short comings as an excuse to not be the best, they taught me about working hard, passion, drive, positivity, and never giving up. I learned so much from each of my bosses and from all facilitators that led each of my trainings. I also owe so much to my peers who hold me accountable and who inspire me daily to continue to learn and get better at what I do.

Website: www.casavinyasamiami.com www.mypathletes.com
Instagram: @lizzycfitness @casavinyasa_miami @mypathletes
Linkedin: Lizzett (Lizzy) Chiappy
Twitter: @mypathletes
Facebook: Lizzy Chiappy Fitness Instructor, Casa Vinyasa Miami, MYP Athletes
Yelp: Casa Vinaysa
Youtube: MYP Athletes

Image Credits
Alexis Aleman Matt Rice Frank Gibson