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

Hi Ciara, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
My approach to “work life balance” has changed drastically over the years. When I was younger, I wanted to work as much as possible so that I could afford to maintain the lifestyle that I desired for myself and my children. There was no real balance involved in that. Now, in my 30’s as a mom to 3 children and a wife to my amazing husband I see things very differently. I am willing to work to ensure that we can meet our basic needs but I understand now that there is no job worth missing my life for. I will not work somewhere where I have to choose between work and spending time with my kids or attending events that are important to them. I believe that I can approach my work fully when I know that my family is content and taken care of. Not the other way around.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At The Radical Wellness Center, we stand out by offering a holistic approach to wellness. Our full-service apothecary not only provides high-quality products like herbs, homemade skincare, crystals, and jewelry but also offers transformative services such as yoga classes, Reiki, and Full Spectrum Doula support. What sets us apart is our commitment to nurturing the body, mind, and spirit of our clients. Our journey to where we are today was marked by hard work, trial, and error. Starting with minimal knowledge of business management and managing a brick-and-mortar store with limited resources wasn’t easy. Yet, every challenge we faced was met with determination and a belief in our mission. Through perseverance, we’ve overcome obstacles and grown stronger as a result.
What I’m most proud of is our dedication to quality and authenticity. Every product and service we offer is a reflection of our personal commitment to wellness. Our journey began with a deep concern for what we put in and on our bodies, especially during my first pregnancy and journey into motherhood. Each item in our inventory was initially created to nurture or heal myself and my loved ones.
At The Radical Wellness Center, we want the world to know that we’re more than just a business – we’re a community. We’re grateful for the support we receive, whether it’s through purchases or simply sharing our message. Our space is a place where people can not only learn and heal but also feel supported and valued on their wellness journey. We’re here to empower individuals to prioritize self-care and embrace holistic wellness practices.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting the area I would take her to some of my favorite places. We would start our day with breakfast or brunch on the rooftop at Mustard Seed Market followed by a bike ride on Towpath Trail. We’d ride the trail out to Szalay’s Farm where we would get some fresh fruit and listen to the live music. On the way back we could put our bikes on the train and enjoy the scenery of the park as we ride. We would follow that with lunch at a locally owned restaurant like Marques in the East End followed by ice cream from either Handels or Stricklands. We would visit the Akron Art Museum and explore all of the beautiful pieces. I would be sure to take her for some live entertainment at Lock 3 followed by a quick stop across the street at The Peanut Shoppe. We’d end the night with something fun like attending the R&B sing-a-long night at House Three Thirty.

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?
There are so many people and spaces that have contributed to my growth and helped to mold me into the person I am now. First and foremost shoutout to God & my ancestors who continue to light my path. Shoutout to my parents and my husband who are always in my corner cheering and ready to support however they can. & Shoutout to my city!!!! Akron has some of the dopest people and organizations that have poured into me year after year. Special shoutout to The Freedom BLOC!!!

Website: https://www.radicalwellnesscenter.com/

Instagram: TheRadicalWellnessCenter

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ciara-vinzant-59b529217

Image Credits
A Positive Image Photography – Dazmine Jerin McIntosh

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutOhio is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.