Meet Billie Walls

Today we’d like to introduce you to Billie Walls.  

Hi Billie, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
My name is Billie Walls, and I’m a former East Carolina University cheerleader, competitive gymnast, and sprinter. Most known for my power, strength, positive mindset, and energy! I graduated from ECU with a Bachelor of Science in Health Fitness Specialist and Master of Arts in Teaching. My athletic background spans from the playing field to the classroom, as I began my teaching career at Green Hope High School as a Healthful Living Teacher and Head Cheerleading Coach. During this time, I led our cheerleading program to multiple regional titles and a state championship. 

Although my background reflects exercise and athletics, there were many years of reactive habits, restrictive diets, and unhealthy eating. My workouts were all over the place, and I had ZERO structure to WHAT I ate and WHEN I ate. During this time, I saw zero change in my body composition, and I had a very toxic relationship with food. I’d often say the following things to myself: 

“You ate fried foods and candy… go to the gym, “or “You drank alcohol, don’t eat until 12:00 PM” 

In the last 2 years, my fitness journey has evolved into a more defined discipline centered in purpose & passion. I unexpectedly lost my father in 2020, and exercise has truly saved my life. I joined a gym called Find a Way Fitness in September 2021 and gained a new perspective on how exercise and mental health are directly correlated. Prior to his passing, health & wellness were a part of my job, but now I see it as a privilege- I don’t HAVE to work out, I GET TO WORKOUT. Exercise is freedom; Exercise is community; exercise is mentally stimulating. I’m a firm believer that movement is medicine! 

When I walked into Find A Way Fitness in September 2021, I had no clue what my fitness journey would entail… 12 months later, I became a Certified Personal Trainer and transitioned into teaching classes as a support trainer! I’d say I’m a passionate motivator… each class is an opportunity for me to inspire others to unlock their full potential. I love being transparent with fellow members about my fitness journey and the tools that helped my change my life. I’ve finally found success in building a healthy lifestyle with structure, discipline, and consistency. My mental health and physical health are finally aligned on a path of success due to this LIFESTYLE change! 

Here are some of the healthy habits that I practice: 

👉🏾Intentional movement 5x a week 

👉🏾Strength training 3x a week 

👉🏾80/20 lifestyle 

👉🏾Stress management tools and healthy coping methods 

👉🏾A positive relationship with food, fueling my body with whole foods and less sugar/ alcohol 

I started my Instagram page in April 2021 to document my fitness journey and to create content to motivate others to move and nourish their bodies. Life has an interesting way of presenting the unexpected… and most recently it has been a bit unpredictable yet rewarding… 

After months of determination, I created an event dedicated to intentional movement, wellness, and self-care 🌿I hosted my first fitness pop-up on April 23, 2023, titled “Spring into Wellness.” I brought together 31 participants, some I knew, some I didn’t. I was supported by 6 sponsors, including Restore Hyper Wellness, Lululemon, Kwench Juice Bar, Body 20, Green Compass, and Umbrella Dry Bar. We started the event with a 20-minute High-Intensity Interval Training session, then transitioned into a recovery and self-care session. This inaugural event is the beginning of a quarterly series that I will host in the Raleigh- Durham area. I look forward to motivating others thru intentional movement while celebrating health and wellness. 

Our bodies are our greatest assets. Therefore it’s important to INVEST! 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Finding balance in the journey takes time! There were no shortcuts… it took consistent effort for 2 years to build the lifestyle and mindset💪🏾 I’ve found SUCCESS in INTUITIVE EATING… eating when I’m hungry, stopping when I’m full, and eating foods that give me energy. 

Some of the struggles were balancing fun and healthy living! I would often overthink my choices and feel isolated in social settings.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a renewals specialist for a software company. I build quotes for Fortune 500 companies and enjoy working on the Customer Success team. My background sets me apart because I transitioned from being an educator to a technology specialist. 

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Find someone whose habits motivate you and surround yourself with individuals who are comfortable telling you the truth! 

Make a habit of meeting and introducing yourself to others. Take advantage of networking opportunities and have the confidence to ask questions. Always know your worth and own your potential! 

What has worked well for me: 

Stepping out on faith, controlling my narrative, and believing in myself! 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.instagram.com/billzbythepound/
• Instagram: @billzbythepound

Image Credits
Mgarris Photography
Jessica Bratton Photography
Michael Byrd Photography