Today we’d like to introduce you to Deanna Mangum.
Deanna, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I grew up in a household where living a healthy lifestyle was ingrained into our everyday lives. To my surprise, I discovered I had a gluten-intolerance my Sophomore year at ASU. Studying Psychology, I wondered how many people felt the way I did because of food? I couldn’t focus in class, I felt uncomfortable in my own skin, and I became sluggish. Sparked by this feeling, educating others about the power of nutrition became an interest that would bring my passion to life. Becoming a Certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant two years ago is a decision I am thankful for everyday!
After getting married to my best friend and Passion Partner in 2016, my husband and me began brainstorming and formulating the concept of CoupleyFit™️. With many roses and thorns along the way, we are so thankful to have celebrated our two-year work-anniversary this past March. Through the power of social media, we’ve had the opportunity to teach what we’ve been taught, by living what we’ve learned, so others can taste and see that the Lord is good!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
My journey has been bumpy, bewildering, and auspicious throughout the transitions in my life. I’m extremely grateful for the grace God has shown me along the way! For the duration of college, I struggled to pay for tuition, housing, and books – sometimes only having $1 to my name with a tuition bill due the next day. Being gluten-intolerant during the early stages of “GF” awareness meant food was double the price, and your money definitely wasn’t going towards taste. Often times, I slept in the backseat of my 08’ Toyota Yaris between swifts as a server to ensure I could pay for expenses. These experiences taught me grit and determination, preparing me for the peaks and valleys of Entrepreneurship. At the moment, it may not seem like the sacrifices will pay off, but when we are at our weakest, God is at His strongest!
Please tell us about CoupleyFit™.
Modeled after Kurt and I’s relationship, CoupleyFit™ means two or more Feeling. Better. Together.™! Our goal is to create positive social impact by removing barriers to health and wellness; making it easier to be passed down to generations. Our philosophy S.W.A.N.™ (Sleep, Water, Activity and Nutrition) ensures you will feel better by doing more of each component every day. Transforming you into the best version of yourself!
As a Benefit Corporation, CoupleyFit™ was elected by South by Southwest as one of the prominent new and emerging companies in the world! We were honored to represent the “Valley of the Sun” at the 2019 SXSW “Startup Spotlight” in Austin, TX; an experience that will last us a lifetime!
What’s your outlook for the industry in our city?
Innovative businesses are moving into Arizona at an influx, and wellness is becoming more of a priority for conscious, forward-thinking leaders.
There are positive strides and shifts happening in Arizona’s business economy, however the mindset of “Competition over Collaboration” can hinder growth, diversity, and inclusion. As long as we continue to place power in partnerships, together we can achieve the greater good!
Pricing:
- Join the S.W.A.N.™ movement by following us on social media! (FREE)
Contact Info:
- Website: www.coupleyfit.com
- Email: info@coupleyfit.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coupleyfit
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoupleyFit1
- Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/coupleyfit
- Other: https://www.linkedin.com/company/coupleyfit
Image Credit:
MJD Photography, Jordan Neel
Getting in touch: VoyagePhoenix is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
