Episode Overview:
In this special episode, Kolby interviews Coach Isabel to explore her journey from growing up in Oxnard, California, to becoming a long-time CrossFit athlete and coach, as well as a successful cosmetologist. Isabel reflects on her early life, career shifts, and what brought her to the world of CrossFit. They also discuss the unique challenges she's experienced, including her recent journey through menopause. This episode is part of a series where listeners get to know the staff at Oxnard|MVMNT on a personal level.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Isabel's Early Life and High School Days
   • Isabel reminisces about her high school experience, including her favorite subject, biology, and her dislike for math and history.
   • She shares memories of ditching class and nearly not graduating due to poor attendance, showing a different side of her fun, rebellious teenage years.
2. The Path to Cosmetology
   • After working at fast-food chains like Taco Bell and McDonald’s, Isabel found her true calling in cosmetology, a passion she had since high school.
   • She describes her beauty school journey, the sacrifices she made to attend, and her first steps in the industry, from early mistakes to building a loyal clientele.
3. Cosmetology as a Business
   • Isabel discusses the realities of being a small business owner, from the challenges of relying on walk-ins to the fulfillment of developing long-lasting relationships with clients.
   • Her 20+ years in the industry have allowed her to witness clients grow, and she reflects on the bittersweet moments, like losing long-time clients.
4. Transitioning to CrossFit
   • Introduced to CrossFit by a coworker in 2013, Isabel shares her initial experiences with strength training and the competitive edge she brought from her time at 24-Hour Fitness.
   • She talks about how the culture and equipment at CrossFit Oxnard have evolved since she started, highlighting the supportive environment now present at Oxnard|MVMNT.
5. Becoming a CrossFit Coach
   • As a coach, Isabel draws from her own early CrossFit experiences to guide others. She emphasizes the importance of scaling movements and learning proper techniques—lessons she wished she had known when she first started.
   • Isabel is also deeply invested in continuing education, constantly pursuing new certifications and learning opportunities to become a better coach.
6. Navigating Menopause
   • Isabel opens up about her ongoing experience with menopause, sharing insights on the physical and emotional changes, such as hot flashes, fatigue, and clumsiness.
   • She offers practical advice to other women going through the same journey and encourages them to seek support, whether from doctors or trusted friends.

Takeaways:

1. Perseverance Pays Off: Whether it's starting over in a new career or pushing through a difficult workout, Isabel’s journey is a testament to the power of dedication and resilience.
2. Invest in Yourself: Whether it's continuing education in cosmetology or CrossFit coaching, Isabel shows that you should never stop learning or improving your craft.
3. Support Matters: From navigating the challenges of small business ownership to experiencing the effects of menopause, Isabel emphasizes the importance of a supportive community—both at work and in life.

Call to Action:
If you're interested in getting to know Isabel better, reach out to her via Instagram or email, whether you have questions about cosmetology, CrossFit, or navigating menopause.

Connect with Isabel:

Instagram: @huera101
Email: isabelmvazquez225@gmail.com

Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe, rate, and share the episode. Catch us next week as we feature another coach from the Oxnard|MVMNT team!