Today we’d like to introduce you to Sierra Carter.
Hi Sierra, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
In 2018, I moved back to Minneapolis – after embarking on a journey to love myself, find myself, be in a relationship with God & learn to get in my body. I created something I could be a part of – a judgemental-free space for people like me to try yoga, meditation, group healing practices, and more through THE ZEN BIN. Since then, The Zen Bin has grown to two spaces in North Minneapolis: Heal, our plant-based cafe, and Holy Ground, our donation-based wellness center.
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
My journey has been far from smooth. I’ve encountered numerous challenges, often stemming from my own struggle between following my mind and my purpose. There have been times when my need for acceptance has clouded my judgment, leading to disruptive business decisions. For instance, I made the bold choice to drop out of college, a decision that has shaped my path as an entrepreneur and executive. Despite the potholes, I’ve learned to show up intentionally in this world, gaining invaluable experience along the way.
I appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a spiritual, strategic, creative woman with many talents. I moved to Chicago in 2018 to pursue a degree in music business because I have always been fascinated with the energy required to produce something consumed by the masses since I was a child. I would go to concerts as a kid and pay attention to the people behind the scenes, setting up the stage, working the lights, managing the talent, adjusting the sound levels, and being in awe – I knew at a young age I wanted to be a nurse and in music. I wanted to help heal and nurture people like my Auntie Julie and Mom and be a boss like Kimora and Olivia Pope. When I moved back to Minneapolis in 2018, I started The Zen Bin and then began working as an operation leader for Rhymesayers Entertainment (founders of Soundset Music Festival). Presently, I work as a general vice president. My talent for teaching yoga and being a spiritual leader is all ministry to me – Heal MPLS & Holyground are my safe spaces to exist, nurture, bridge culture, healing, and holistic wellness. It’s beautiful. I am most proud of manifesting my purpose while having fun doing it. I feel fulfilled daily, knowing that I create safe spaces for my community, and my parents are extremely proud of me for finding my way. While maintaining everything I have going on professionally, I have healthy relationships with God, my parents, and my friends. Oh, my nephew Darien is so proud of me and looks up to me – it’s nothing like our bond in this world. What sets me apart from others is that I am Sierra – a holistic goddess, certified lover girl, boss queen, hood hippie 🙂
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
The longer you put off asking for help, the more you prolong your ability to be happy in the work. To be great, you have to study great. Mentors can be studying virtually or someone in your personal life. Find someone you admire in all facets of your life – don’t be closed off to just a business mentor. If you want to grow as a fitness person, find someone you can learn from in that lane; multiple mentors are a flex. I believe God sends people during your journey who will guide you towards your authentic purpose, be a good human, value all your interactions, and be open to learning something daily.
Pricing:
- Donation based yoga, meditation, fitness classes at HOLYGROUND
- Affordable plant based food, juices and smoothies at Heal MPLS
Contact Info:
- Website: www.thezenbin.com
- Instagram: @holisticbaae / @thezenbin / @healmpls
