Today we’d like to introduce you to Natasha Byrne.
Hi Natasha, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I spent 12 years with Hooters, started as a Hooters Girl in Austin, Texas. My career there gave me the opportunity to travel throughout the Midwest, meet so many incredible people, and grow both personally and professionally. I worked my way through different roles and eventually ended my Hooters career as an Assistant General Manager in North Kansas City, MO. Those years taught me so much about leadership, customer service, teamwork, confidence, and connecting with people.
After leaving Hooters, I moved back to Austin, Texas, where I met my soulmate. Our lives changed pretty quickly in the best possible way. Just eight months into dating, I became pregnant with our first child, and two years after having our first, we welcomed our second. We built our family together and eventually built our dream home out in the beautiful Hill Country just outside of Austin. Becoming a wife and mom completely changed my perspective on life and gave me an even greater sense of purpose. Life had a very special meaning all of a sudden.
After having my second baby, I found myself going through postpartum depression. This was during Covid when everyone was locked up at home. I wanted to get back into shape, but I also wanted to find something that made me feel like “me” again. I walked into a Zumba class at my local YMCA on accident, thought I was going to a yoga class but it completely changed my life. I fell in love with the music, the dancing, the energy, and most importantly, the way Zumba made people feel. The friendships it created and friends that soon became family.
What started as something I did for myself quickly became a passion. I decided to become a licensed Zumba instructor, and I haven’t looked back since. I began teaching classes in 2021 and creating an environment where people could come exactly as they are, have fun, and feel comfortable moving without worrying about being perfect.
Over the years, Zumba has taken me places I never imagined physically and mentally. I’ve had the opportunity to teach, perform, participate in charity events, conventions, masterclasses, mentor other instructors, and build an amazing community around something I truly love. One of the most rewarding parts of what I do is watching someone walk into my class unsure of themselves and leave smiling, feeling confident, and knowing they belong.
Now, I’m a wife, mom, dancer, model, fitness enthusiast, Zumba instructor, and mentor. But more than any title, I’m someone who believes in creating safe spaces where people feel seen, welcomed, encouraged, and empowered.
I never could have imagined that a 12 year career at Hooters, finding my soulmate, building a family, and one Zumba class after having my second baby would lead me to where I am today. Every chapter taught me something different, and I’m incredibly grateful for all of it What started as a desire to get my body back became a journey of finding my confidence, my purpose, and a community that feels like family. And this is only a he beginning.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Yes far from smooth. I moved out at 17 when my parents divorced. Financially on my own and living with my best friend and his family. I’ve always had to work and take care of myself. I actually didn’t get to finish college because I had to work 40+ hour weeks.
As you know, we’re big fans of Zumba Fitness. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Brand-wise, I am most proud of being authentic. My brand is energetic, welcoming, family oriented, and rooted in the belief that fitness doesn’t have to feel like a chore. It can be joyful, social, empowering, and something you genuinely look forward to.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Shy in public but a total diva at home. I loved collecting rocks and seashells. I had maybe 5-7 close friends but I held them very close to my heart.
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