Her Story
About Dawn
Dawn M. Rivers, MLS, is a certified life coach, author, and transformational speaker specializing in identity, reinvention, and midlife transitions. She is the founder of DMR Coaching & Consulting and the creator of the Luxe Identity Spiral™, a framework grounded in neuroscience, epigenetics, and yogic philosophy that supports individuals in uncovering and realigning with their authentic identity. Her work focuses on helping women break inherited cycles, navigate life transitions, and create lives that feel intentionally designed rather than externally assigned.
Dawn’s professional background spans more than two decades in education and wellness leadership. She began her career as a school librarian, serving for approximately 25 years after earning an undergraduate degree in English and a Master of Library and Information Science. In 2013, she transitioned into yoga instruction, eventually becoming a yoga studio owner and teacher trainer. As demand for mentorship grew among students and instructors, she founded the Business of Yoga Academy to support yoga professionals in developing both sustainable business practices and personal growth.
About three years ago, Dawn transitioned from studio ownership into full-time life coaching, expanding her focus on identity work and transformational change. She is the author of You Get What You Get: Break the Cycles You Didn’t Choose, Reclaim Your Identity, & Create a Life That Finally Feels Like Yours, a teaching memoir that integrates her yoga journey with the eight limbs of yoga and her identity-based coaching framework. Set to launch on July 11, the book reflects her mission to help women understand generational patterns, reconnect with their authentic selves, and build a life aligned with who they truly are.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Dawn
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance and believing there's always another way forward. Early in my career as a school librarian, I learned that a no isn't always final. Great leaders appreciate people who bring both problems and thoughtful solutions.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received was simple but life-changing: believe in yourself. My coaches and mentors consistently reminded me that I was capable, especially during moments when self-doubt crept in. They told me, you can do this, and don't forget who you are.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
“You can do this. Don’t forget who you are,” has helped me push through challenges and continue pursuing my dreams.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my industry is standing out in an increasingly saturated coaching market. With so many coaching specialties available today, it can be difficult to distinguish yourself. I'm also considering whether to pursue International Coaching Federation certification or rely on my life journey and client results.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, honesty, and diligence are the values most important to me.
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