La Niecia Vicknair, known as Coach LaLa, is a fitness trainer, founder of Thrive Health Lab, and a passionate advocate for building healthier communities, especially for people of color and teens. In this heartfelt conversation, she and Kara dive into her journey from growing up in an overweight family to creating a safe, empowering space where health is about so much more than just working out. They explore the difference between athletic performance and true wellness, the mental and emotional transformation that comes with physical strength, and the real challenges of balancing mission-driven work with financial realities. Coach LaLa shares why setting boundaries is essential to avoid burnout and how prioritizing self-care allows her to support others more deeply. This episode is a powerful look at community, healing, and redefining what it means to thrive.

00:00 Creating a Community of Health and Wellness

00:22 Introduction to The Powerful Ladies Podcast

00:35 The Power of Proximity

02:34 Meet Coach Lala

02:43 Coach Lala's Journey and Mission

05:24 The Importance of Busing Programs

06:47 Proximity and Community Impact

10:30 Athletics vs. Health and Fitness

18:27 Balancing Empowerment and Business

24:33 Experience and Burnout

25:46 Transitioning from Trainer to Coach

26:07 Health Over Diets

29:46 Navigating Fitness Trends

35:28 Empowering Clients

40:11 Defining Power and Womanhood

44:29 Future Goals and Manifestations

46:44 Conclusion and Gratitude

The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms.

Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think.

Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com.

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