Entrepreneur Spotlight: Darryl Bigelow of A Walking Vibe
- Casey Ariel Thobias
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Darryl Bigelow | Owner & CEO, A Walking Vibe
'Trust the marathon."
As we continue to honor Black Business Month, we’re shining a light on the entrepreneurs who are not only building businesses, but restoring ecosystems — one step, one breath, one intentional gathering at a time.
This week, we’re proud to feature Darryl Bigelow, founder of A Walking Vibe, a Charlotte-based wellness company offering events, workshops, and retreats that integrate physical fitness, mental health, and financial literacy.
A Walking Vibe doesn’t just host wellness sessions — it curates restorative space that’s culturally rooted, community-driven, and deeply resonant. For college campuses and neighborhood organizations alike, Darryl’s work is expanding how we define healing — and who gets held in the process.
The Disconnect: Big Budgets, Burned-Out Leaders
In an era where wellness programming is becoming more visible and more funded, Darryl isn’t afraid to call out the truth:
“A lot of wellness programs out here are getting big budgets, but they’re not really connecting with people — especially in our communities. Most of the time, they’re surface-level, underused, and the people leading them are burning out with no support.”
His critique is a fresh take on an experiential wellness industry that is gaining momentum but still struggling to create sustainability for practitioners. His call is urgent: the wellness movement can’t truly thrive without cultural intelligence, community trust, and systemic care for those doing the work.
And that’s exactly what A Walking Vibe is stepping in to provide.
The Money Story: Cash Flow as Rhythm
Darryl’s financial journey is rooted in hard-won wisdom. It’s not just about revenue — it’s about rhythm.
“One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that revenue means nothing without healthy cash flow. I’ve had moments where deals came in, but poor timing on expenses left me stretched.”
Instead of chasing every dollar, he’s built systems for predictability and peace.
“Now I focus on building predictable streams and systems. Aligning my vision with my financial reality — because cash flow controls the tempo.”
These words are absolutely delicious. Through experience, reflection, and adjustment, Darryl has found his rhythm in cash flow conversion. This is what we deserve: the spaciousness and time to adjust with experience.
As Darryl so beautifully conveys — business isn’t just about growth. It’s about staying in sync.
The Strategy: Survey, Adapt, Repeat
A Walking Vibe’s success is fueled by responsiveness. After every event, Darryl and his team collect direct feedback to understand what’s working — and what needs to shift.
“We offer surveys after every program to pinpoint exactly what our customers are looking for. This feedback is essential — it shows us what’s working, what’s not, and helps us carry that same momentum into the next event.”
It’s this rhythm of listening and refining that keeps A Walking Vibe relevant — and deeply respected.
The Legacy: Still in Formation
When asked whether he’s building a generational business or something he might eventually sell, Darryl is honest:
“Right now, I’m fully hands-on and building something with intention. But I’m not sure if my family would want to be involved long-term.”
We love that we can witness this real-time reflection while he’s still on the journey. Entrepreneurs are shaping so much along the way — and that includes whose hands their businesses will be passed into. We love that Darryl is still shaping this part of the vision, and that he knows he has time to figure it out.
Still, his north star remains clear: if he ever does pass the baton, it’ll only be to someone who truly understands the mission and honors the work that came before.
The Lesson: Stay Ready
Coming from a background where resources were often scarce, Darryl learned early on to make every dollar count.
“In the event planning world, there’s always an unexpected cost. So I’ve learned to stay ready by keeping funds set aside for those ‘if and when’ moments. It’s all about being prepared without losing momentum.”
He’s not just talking about finances — he’s talking about the emotional stamina required to lead and to last. In a swelling market where hesitation can cost you your edge, that advice could not be more timely.
The Final Word: Ten Toes Down
“Trust the marathon. Don’t chase quick wins — build something real that solves real problems, something you can stand ten toes down on for the long haul.”
Darryl’s voice carries a rare blend of clarity and compassion that this moment demands.
He’s not rushing.
He’s not burning out.
He’s moving with purpose — and inviting us to do the same.
Thank you, Darryl.
Learn More About A Walking Vibe
🌐 Website: awalkingvibe.com
📸 Instagram: @a.walkingvibe
💼 LinkedIn: Darryl Bigelow
🎥 YouTube Feature: Watch Here
📍 Based in Charlotte, North Carolina
About This Feature
Stay connected to more stories like Darryl’s by exploring our Entrepreneur Spotlight Series — where we're celebrating the real financial journeys of business owners in our community, one story at a time.
🤎 This feature is part of Blaze Group’s Black Business Month 'Tell Your (Money) Story' initiative. Additionally, in partnership with our friends at Kiva, we also support our #FundBlackMen capital initiative by inviting community members to join our Lending Team!
Have a story of your own? Let’s share it this Black Business Month!
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