Holly Rivers

About Holly Rivers

Empowering EntrepreneursI didn’t set out to be a business owner. My journey began in dance and psychology, culminating in a master’s degree in Community Counseling with an emphasis on body, mind, and energetic healing. I was content with my path—teaching, counseling, and building an off-grid homestead with my family. But life had other plans.A retiring colleague offered me the chance to buy her dance studio, and on a whim, I said: Why not?That leap of faith transformed everything.The Unexpected Journey to EntrepreneurshipI became a business owner overnight. It was exhilarating, challenging, and, most importantly, transformative. Entrepreneurship not only changed my career but reshaped my identity. I felt like a Phoenix—rising from the ashes of the life I thought I’d have to embrace a bold new one.When I eventually sold the business, I realized I could channel my own experience into helping others transform their businesses—and lives. Since then, I’ve guided hundreds of entrepreneurs, offering them the tools and support they need to embrace their own Phoenix moments.🤝 Joining the Mountain BizWorks TeamToday, as a Learning Programs Manager and Specialist, I help business owners and entrepreneurs build thriving, resilient ventures. Mountain BizWorks’ mission to foster small business growth and community vitality is deeply aligned with my passion for empowering others.We offer workshops, one-on-one coaching, and mentorship, helping individuals at every stage of their entrepreneurial journey. Together, we turn challenges into opportunities and dreams into sustainable realities. What Drives MeTransformation is at the heart of everything I do. Whether guiding a new entrepreneur through their first business plan or helping a seasoned business owner navigate growth, I’m here to help people rise, adapt, and thrive.Key Areas of Expertise:Entrepreneurial Coaching: Empowering individuals to clarify their vision, build confidence, and take strategic action.Business Transformation: Supporting entrepreneurs through growth, pivots, and scaling challenges.Workshops & Training: Facilitating engaging and practical sessions on business fundamentals and personal development.Community Building: Strengthening networks and fostering collaboration among local entrepreneurs.Financial Empowerment: Helping entreprenuers master their numbers to empower them in decision making. What’s Your Story?Everyone’s journey is unique. I’d love to hear your story and explore how we can rise together.Let’s connect and start building your next chapter.

Experience

1. Learning Programs Manager

   Mountain Bizworks

   Jun 2024 — Present

Education

• Blue Ridge Kung Fu Arnis Academy

  Reiki Level I and II

  2006

• Blue Ridge Kung Fu Arnis Academy

  Introduction to Chinese Medicine and Theory

  2004

• Mountain BizWorks

  Crowdfunding and Investing for Small Businesses

• Blue Ridge Kung Fu Arnis Academy

  Tai Tzu Chang Chuan (Emperor's Long Fist)

  2002 — 2004

• High Country Start Up

  Launching Startups to Scale

• Mountain BizWorks

  Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations

• Appalachian State University

  Master's Degree, Dance, Psychology, Community Counseling, Body-Centered Therapy

  1994 — 2006

• StoryBrand

  Business Made Simple

• Mountain BizWorks

  Relaunching Business during Lean Times

• Lotus Palm School

  Thai Yoga Massage Level I

  2007