Her Story
About Simona
Simona Means is the Chief Executive Officer of Willow Health and Wellness Center, a health and wellness professional, consultant, and coach based in Knightdale, North Carolina. With a career grounded in healthcare, education, service, and entrepreneurship, she is dedicated to helping individuals pursue healthier and more purposeful lives. Through her leadership, Simona combines professional knowledge with a strong commitment to personal empowerment and holistic well-being.
Simona’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Philosophy from Frostburg State University and advanced studies in Health Services, Allied Health, and Health Sciences at Walden University. Her professional journey has been influenced by her mother’s legacy as a nurse and trailblazer and has included experiences across healthcare, education, and service-oriented roles. These experiences have shaped her approach to wellness, particularly her interest in helping individuals understand themselves, overcome trauma, discover their purpose, and create meaningful change in their lives.
As CEO of Willow Health and Wellness Center, Simona is passionate about creating positive change one person at a time. Her philosophy emphasizes healing, empowerment, and the belief that helping one individual can create a ripple effect that positively influences families and communities. Rather than seeking recognition or visibility, she considers herself a “foot soldier” committed to serving others and contributing to a healthier, more harmonious world. Her work reflects a deep belief in the power of personal healing, purpose, and service to create lasting generational impact.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Simona
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my desire to create a more harmonious world by helping people understand, heal, and love one another as God intended. My children are my greatest motivation, inspiring me to help them become positive contributors to society. Through influencing others and creating purposeful organizations like Willow Health Wellness Center and Chia Black Vocational Center, I strive to inspire people to discover their purpose, pay it forward, and create a lasting impact.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to be a witness to my emotions, rather than a participant in them. When I step back and observe my emotions, I gain a bird’s-eye view of the situation and can respond with greater clarity. Emotions can be like mirages in the desert—they may feel real and overwhelming in the moment, but they eventually pass, allowing me to refocus and continue toward my destination.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to know and embrace your authentic self first. Do not allow the industry to define you; instead, let it become an extension of who you already are and the purpose you carry. Find your purpose spiritually and approach your career as an opportunity to serve and make a meaningful difference in your community. When you lead with purpose, you can remain grounded and resilient; without it, the pressures of the industry can easily consume you.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are compassion, healing, service, and meaningful influence. I believe influence does not require fame or visibility; I see myself as a foot soldier, helping one person at a time. By helping one person heal and become empowered, I can create a ripple effect that allows them to positively impact others.
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