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

Hi Volonda, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?

My thought process for starting my own business came from a deep entrepreneurial spirit that I have had since I was very young. I have always seen myself as my own boss. As a kid I was so fascinated with how my dad had the luxury of planning his work schedule around family functions and setting and achieving his own personal business goals with no limit on his income potential.  I knew that was my heart’s desire.
I remember when I first started working for the Federal Government, people would always make jokes that I would not be eligible for retirement until December 15, 2039. Well, that did not sit well with my spirit. The desire to have my own business was too great, therefore I could not find peace in settling for working the traditional 9-5. In fact, I knew that I would never officially retire from anywhere because I would be running my own business that I would leave as a legacy to my family. This stuck with me for years. I knew I had to create my own rules and avenues for success in order for me to truly pass down a legacy. Whenever I thought of success, it never was associated with being tied to a company other than my own.
I started speaking things as though I already had a business up and running when I began telling people I would be “retired” by 36. Although, my “retirement” was delayed by 7.5 years due to me being scared to step out of my comfort zone of a 9-5, I eventually took a “Crazy Faith” step at age 43. After an almost 18 year career in Government Contracting, in June 2021 I began chasing my dreams as a full time entrepreneur and Temple Fit was birthed!
Temple Fit began with a notion of wanting to help and serve others from living in mental and physical despair like I had for most of my life. For years I had struggled mentally and it took a toll on my body physically. I actually wrote about my journey in my newly released book: What LIES behind those EYES- Silencing Negative Thoughts on Your Pathway to Peace. Temple Fit began after completing that book, as it was only natural that I continue my efforts set forth in my book, and showcase how to break free of your negative thinking and start walking and living in peace. This happens by way of changed mindset, full reliance on God and taking action. I had not only gained peace but I lost a great deal of weight. Because of this, I vowed to help others by showing others how I was able to do this and some products I used regularly. By December 2021, I had expanded into Health and Wellness and Mindset coaching. Temple Fit is growing and has incorporated natural supplements to aid in obtaining your optimal health! I have so many plans and ideas that I am currently exploring and it is all geared to help others become Temple Fit- Mind, Body and Soul!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

Having served almost 18 years working in the Federal Government as a Contracting Professional and over 12 years in the Real Estate profession, I am one that prides herself in resiliency. Working in both arenas has poised me to step out into full time Entrepreneurship because both required an insurmountable amount of patience and determination. They both have garnered me the knowledge in contracting and prepared me to go after what I want and ensure the outcomes are in my favor or the favor of my client. Both career fields have prepared me to take a look within and find that grit and organization to get things done in a timely fashion. This was not easy, but nothing good ever comes easy! I learned to embrace challenges. Challenges brings out that fight! I believe this sets me apart from other people, my “why” won’t let me stop or give in. Because of my resiliency, I will look that challenge in the eye and say “bring it”!
Having a creative mind lends me that opportunity to be myself and just think outside the box to the problems for every solution. Temple Fit is more than just a brand, it is a way of life. It embodies getting Fit starting from the inside out by changing your mindset. This was hard to articulate at first. However, seeing that I embrace challenges, I refuse to sit idle and hope someone understood my message for the business. I am constantly researching and implementing new strategies to ensure I get in front of my ideal client and customer.
I strive to build brand that people can trust.  As stated before, Temple Fit was built on my story, a story of fighting and overcoming mental and physical illness. This is why I go so hard for my brand. I want to give others hope and encouragement that they, too, can be Fit- mentally and physically. As a Former Certified Personal Trainer, now Health Coach and Life Coach, I get so excited to walk in my calling of helping others become Fit and Happy!
Because of my desire to make a wellness impact on my sphere of influence and to the masses, I am constantly researching natural supplements and health products to offer my clients to help them on their journeys. Imagine if we could all be operating out of a place of optimal health:  less stress, more energy, less aches and pains, etc? I would think the world would be a happier place, don’t you?

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
This is funny that this is asked as I am JUST now starting to get back out and do things. Prior to overcoming my mental barrier, I was a recluse and did not want to be seen or do anything. However, now I am always doing something and visiting new restaurants! My Favorite spot in the City is Robyn’s Garden, which is owned by my friend and fellow Huntsvillian, Roland Carter. The vibe is amazing and they regularly have different singers and musicians. Some of my favorite restaurants are Superhero Chefs, The Veggie, Fatsy’s, and Rhythm on Monroe. My Favorite Ghost Kitchen is My Huntsville Kitchen and Vujee Vegan! The people of Huntsville are always hosting various events and pop ups so if my friends were in town we would definitely see who is hosting something and add that to our itinerary. I am sure there is something going on at Studio 53 Social Venue. During the spring and summer months hanging out at the park is one of my favorite past times as well. There is likely something going on there as well, from Jazz in the Park, Concerts in the park or Food trucks in the park.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would first like to give thanks to my Heavenly Father for blessing me with the vision and heart for helping other obtain wellness and for instilling in me, at a very early age, the drive for entrepreneurship. I am eternally thankful for the encouragement of my parents and friends. This road is not easy, but seeing the lives of those I impact makes it all worth it. Moreover, I would like to send a special shoutout to my clients and customers as without them none of this would have been possible! A huge shoutout to my photographers , Charles Beason and Fredro Star for capturing the most amazing pictures and moments! And lastly, I would like to thank Dr. Sonja Stribling and everyone at Dr. Sonja Enterprise for all the guidance they have given to me over the last few months. There are so many others that have served as a supporting cast in my story and although I will not name them individually, they must know that I am forever grateful that God has placed them in my life. They have all encouraged me to see what I have in my hand and use it to impact others!

Website: www.templefit-mbs.com and www.volondareedus.com

Instagram: @templefit_mbs and @volondareedus

Linkedin: Coach Volonda

Twitter: @CoachVolonda

Facebook: @TempleFitMBS

Other: Pinterest: Coach Volonda

Image Credits
Charles Beason and Fredro Star

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