We had the good fortune of connecting with Dwanika Walker and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dwanika, how does your business help the community?
SmashZen has made a significant mark on the greater Houston community by transforming what is often seen as a taboo act into a powerful form of cathartic release, allowing individuals to break objects in a safe, controlled, therapeutic environment. We’ve also provided a calming space after the smash to process and recenter which gives a balanced experience of release.

What should our readers know about your business?
While other rage rooms offer destructions, SmashZen brings balance to the other side of it by offering the Zen Room experience which essentially is a cool down session, Guests are able to experience a relaxing setting with ambient. lighting, aroma therapy, massage chairs, a cold drink and a snack accompanied by soothing lo-fi music. I’ve been most proud of the reception to the concept of the business. Most people are not aware of what a rage room is, so that in and of itself brings excitement but then the Zen Room is the cherry on top. I’m also extremely proud of the impact it has made on the many people who have come through our doors. Each time I have a conversation with someone and hear their story or read a review about how transformative their time was at SmashZen.

I got to where I am today in this business journey by not giving up. Its so simple to want to throw in the towel when guests aren’t coming through the doors, the post you made didn’t gain as much traction or when you didn’t execute a vision you had in mind, but the moment that one person comes through the door and reminds you of how much they needed your service that specific day, it brings it all back into focus. These challenges have been overcome by faith and unwavering support. Entrepreneurship is definitely not for the weak and that has been the biggest lesson. You will be tested mentally, physically and emotionally and you have to know when to rest. My brand was created to promote mental wellness and balance it would be hypocritical of me not to model that within my own life. I want the world to know that balance and mental wellness is so essential to living a fulfilling life. Despite what the world tells us there is more than one way to achieve that and it may not look like what everyone else is doing to get there.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Man, I’ve only been in Houston for 5 years and don’t feel like I’ve even scratched the surface of what the city has to offer. Of course this city is known for the party life so we would definitely visit some places over in 3rd Ward and Midtown. I like a more low-key vibe so any smaller lounge with live music would suffice, For food, a good BBQ spot, pho, Thai, dessert is a must specifically cupcakes. I love being outdoors so we’d visit a few parks, rent bikes and ride along Buffalo Bayou, visit some farmers markets and outdoor festivals. Eventbrite is my go-to to find fun and interesting things to do. I’m always open to new experiences so we would go wherever the wind blew us!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to shoutout my success to the incredible support system I have around me who have been part of this journey and listened to the highs and lows and continue to lift me up and encourage me when I want to give up . My mom – Gloria and brothers Dorian and Joe. The many friends who get to listen to the tears, triumphs and daily doses of being an entrepreneur: Andie, Jolisa, Jovanna, Raquel, Celina, Jaz, Voneika and the list goes on. I appreciate every last one of them way more than they realize! I’ve been connected to some amazing resources that have given me a new outlook on what it is to be business owner, one being the SURE Program at the University of Houston. Hands down one of the absolute best programs and resources available to entrepreneurs.

Website: https://www.smashzen.com

Instagram: @smashzenhtx

Twitter: @smashzenhtx

Facebook: SmashZen

Yelp: SmashZen

Other: Tik Tok – @smashzenhtx

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