Being a monthly columnist and Contributing Fitness Editor to Shape Magazine, a model, Beach Volleyball athlete and Nutrition Specialist. I got a chance to interview Nora Tobin and learned how she got into fitness and why nature inspires her the most.
Shyvanne Delva: What sports did you play as a child? And who got you into them?
Nora Tobin: I grew up in Lake Tahoe where my parents taught my brother and me every outdoor sport. We were put on skis by age 2. We spent every weekend on the mountain as a family. We also hiked, rock climbed, wake boarded, mountain biked and swam as a family. I tried to keep up with my brother at all times. Whether it was flying down the mountain or running on the baseball field.
Delva: Who is a “hero” in your life and why?
Tobin: My parents are my heroes. They always taught me and my brother to be good to everyone, no matter what. They helped us develop such a positive mindset and love for our lives. They made sure we followed our passions and go after everything we want in life. They have always encouraged us to make bold decisions, big moves and never settle with less than we expect. My relationships and career have been shaped because of their unwavering love and support.
Delva: Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Tobin: I draw my inspiration from nature. Any time I need to brainstorm new product or content ideas, I always get outdoors. Whether I am paddle boarding or hiking, I always find a strong sense of focus and peace. I feel so connected to nature and do not feel 100% without spending part of the day outside. My Dad and I go for a long beach walk every Sunday to strategize and we always seem to come up with a clear exciting vision.
Delva: Have you experienced a breakthrough, and if so, what led to it?
Tobin: I experienced a breakthrough when I switched my focus from training for beach volleyball to building a wellness brand. After many challenging tournaments, strict training programs and shelling out my savings to travel to events, I was feeling very discouraged. I was not making it like I thought and felt defeated. Fortunately, I was working on my training and nutrition certifications during this process and started my business. Once I decided to completely let the volleyball go and focus solely on developing my brand, everything started to fall into place. I was in the position to make connections and major strides because I had one purpose and a very clear vision.
Delva: What was the best advice you were ever given?
Tobin: Best advice I have ever been given was by my parents- never be afraid of the unknown, stay sunshine, be kind to everyone- period, dream bigger than you ever thought possible.
Delva: What would be your ultimate achievement?
Tobin: My ultimate achievement would be to develop a worldwide brand that represents healthy California living through quality content, products, TV, film and retail.
Delva: Do you have a saying or motto that you live your life by?
Tobin: Motto: “Have faith in yourself, hope in the future and enthusiasm for life.”- My Dad
