Alicia McKenzie's Mamaprenista Journey Launching Lift Like a Mother

Alicia, how did you start fostering your entrepreneurial spirit?

McKenzie Enterprise dba Lift Like A Mother™ began as a way for me to share training videos with my coaches during my athletic career. Over the years, it has evolved into a coaching practice I am so proud of and a separate nonprofit to help me amplify the health and wellness of others. Spending over a decade in the fitness industry, to include owning a Crossfit gym for 5 years, I have been able to fuel my entrepreneurial spirit while welcoming motherhood. I've most recently added the title of Author to my resume and will be spearheading a 4-women podcast in 2023.

What excites you about being an Entreprenista League member?

I'm excited to dive into the scary world of fund-raising. All of our companies have been bootstrapped from inception to acquisition. You don't know what you don't know so I'm ready to learn!

How did motherhood play a role in deciding to launch your own business?

Motherhood has been an integral part of my journey. I had my daughter very young and being present in my children's lives is incredibly important. Running my own business allows me to not only be present, but also keep that sense of self purpose.

What was your background prior to starting your own business?

I was a systems analyst for the Department of Homeland Security. I found fitness around the same time. That was the start of my athletic career and now business and coaching practice.

Did you always know you wanted to be an entrepreneur?

Yes. My mother and I bought our first rental property together when I was 19, around the same time I had my daughter. We have been evolving ever since.

Alicia, throughout your mamaprenista journey, what is the biggest challenge you have encountered?

Saying no to new shiny opportunities. It is very easy to get side-tracked with all the things you could be doing instead of focusing on what is right in front of you.

What accomplishment excites you the most?

Publishing my book. There were many times when I thought about quitting. It was such a long and arduous journey but I was able to bring it to completion!

As a mamaprenista, do you believe in work life balance?

GOD NO. My book is titled "Balance is Bullsh"I". We are sold this narrative that we can do it all and look fabulous while doing it. I'm here to rewrite that narrative. My best tip is to let go of your ideals and other people's expectations. There is more than one way to live life. My number one tangible tip "Schedule send any emails after 6pm and turn off your computer." It allows you to disconnect and not risk the urge of responding to someone.

What's a piece of advice you can share that you wish you'd known when you first started your Entreprenista journey?

The moment you think "I can't do this" is the moment you're going to have a breakthrough. Similar to childbirth.

What have you achieved recently that you'd like to celebrate with our community?

I had a baby in March of 2022 and published a book in September of 2022. I am proud of both in completely different ways.

What's next for Lift Like A Mother™ ?

A four women-led podcast in Q2 of 2023 and another book by Q4. I will also be opening a hot Pilates studio in the DC area.

Learn more about the Entreprenista League and join today!