Meet Vivian—a content creator, lifestyle blogger, podcast host, psychologist, mother and wife. Upon meeting her, you can feel the confidence that radiates from her both inside and out.
We spent an hour with Vivian learning more about her intention to be a voice for those who feel they aren’t being seen. She recently received her doctorate in educational leadership to further her abilities make a positive impact in her community. She knows her power and is using it to make a much needed societal change. Get to know Vivian...
I AM Vivian Rodriguez AND I DEFINE CONFIDENCE AS self-acceptance with room to grow.
WHERE DID YOU GROW UP AND WHERE DO YOU LIVE NOW?
I grew up in a suburb in the Greater Los Angeles Area. I have stayed in the same area that I grew up in within five minutes of my childhood home. Being one of the only Afro-Latino families in the area came with some challenges. At the same time, it has given me the confidence to create my own path. Likewise, I love the energy and diversity of Los Angeles!
HOW DO YOU DESCRIBE WHAT YOU DO?
I have been creating content for a life and style blog almost four years. The objective of my blog, Liv By Viv, was to create a space for women, like me, who have curves and have felt less than. I’d like women to say, “hey, I can wear that too”. At the same time, I wanted to feature style that is accessible and budget friendly. My podcast, Don’t Mix In, gets into these topics and my personal story. I believe that we are all multifaceted.
I am also a school psychologist with a focus on supporting students in the area of mental health. I recently earned my doctorate in educational leadership so I can continue to make a positive impact. In both worlds, my intention is to be a voice for those who feel they aren’t being seen.
WHY IS HAVING A HEALTHY GUT IMPORTANT TO YOU?
Yes, gut health can impact so many other aspects of your well being. Everything is connected. I can immediately tell a difference when my gut is unhealthy. When something is off. I can sense it in my energy, mood, sleep, and cognitive functioning.
HOW DOES THE CONFIDENCE CO MISSION RESONATE WITH YOU?
I truly believe that healing occurs from the inside out and that there is a nexus between the gut and the brain. I think it can affect our moods, cognitive functioning and our overall well-being. I am my most confident when I am able to think clearly and my mood is steady. When everything is in alignment :-)
NAME YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT.
An Italian restaurant, Brunos, in Brea, California. Love this spot! They have the best tiramisu!
NAME THREE OF YOUR FAVORITE FOODS.
Coffee (does that count as a food?), Pho, and Salmon.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RECIPE?
A roasted whole chicken with herbs, potatoes, and veggies!
ANY MAJOR WELLNESS MOMENTS IN YOUR LIFE?
Yes, I needed to shift my attention from a relationship that was ending. So, I decided to do a marathon with a group that trains you in exchange for raising money for the leukomia and lymphoma society. It was one of the most positive wellness experiences of my life.
WHAT'S YOUR CURRENT SELF-CARE ROUTINE?
I am conscious of what I eat and how it contributes to the life I want. Likewise, running and weights to keep my mood up and relieve stress. My workouts are my time to clear my head and recharge to be the best version of me for my family.
WHERE DO YOU GET OR DRAW INSPIRATION FROM?
This is great question. I think my inspiration comes from my parents. They are both immigrants from Dominican Republic that built a life for their family that has always been centered in compassion for others, hard work, and kindness. I also think my inspiration comes from stories of other individuals forging ahead despite limiting expectations and norms.
WHAT WOULD YOU TELL YOUR 18-YEAR OLD SELF?
You are and will be enough. Continue to harness your energy and passion to create your own path!
HOW HAVE YOU KEPT UP YOUR CREATIVITY DURING THIS TIME?
I think just changing up my content to blend the possible emotions that others and myself are feeling with style and positivity. Trying new ways to take shots at home -that I wouldn’t have in the past. I don’t have the buildings as backdrops to my pictures but I can still tell stories. As a result, I have created content more often. I am also grateful for the opportunity to be safe at home, work from home, and the luxury to create content!
HAVE YOU FOUND CREATING ART TO BE HELPFUL WITH EVERYTHING GOING ON? IF SO, HOW?
Yes! I definitely think creating content in different ways has helped me stay positive and hopeful. It’s been a great way to go out of my comfort zone and improve my story telling.
WHAT ARE IS ONE SELF-CARE RITUAL YOU'RE LEANING INTO FOR COMFORT?
Definitely working out. This is the foundation for me. When I workout I am able to think more clearly and handle whatever comes my way. It brings me a boost of energy!
DO YOU HAVE A QUOTE, POEM OR SONG THAT YOU WOULD DEFINE AS YOUR ANTHEM?
Absolutely! “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel” – Maya Angelou