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32nd Annual Loudoun Small Business Awards Finalist Spotlight: MVA Wellness

by Sarah Spencer

Thank you to Owner John Mead for sharing MVA Wellness story with us. Congratulations on being named a finalist in our Exceptional Entrepreneur category for the 32nd Annual Loudoun Small Business Awards!

Tell us the story of your business and how it has evolved. 
MVA Wellness grew out of a shift in my own perspective during 15 years working in juvenile detention. Connecting with young people changed how I saw people, their circumstances, and what’s possible when someone feels supported. It inspired me to do more and bring those lessons beyond detention into the community. What started there has grown into youth programs, school workshops, staff development, and speaking engagements that help people see themselves and their possibilities differently.
What are you most proud of?

I’m most proud of being able to support young people across a wide range of experiences, from youth in detention to high-achieving students and young entrepreneurs. Their circumstances may be different, but every young person deserves someone who sees their potential and helps them recognize it themselves.

What sets your business apart?

MVA brings together wellness, art, philosophy, and my background in counseling to create experiences that encourage reflection, connection, and growth. We make room for creativity and meaningful conversations while giving people practical tools they can use in everyday life. Authentic relationships are at the heart of that work.

How do you give back to Loudoun?

Through my involvement with the Loudoun Chamber and its Young Entrepreneurs Academy, I support young people as they explore ideas and build their businesses. I’ve also taught storytelling to entrepreneurship students at the Academies of Loudoun, helping them communicate their purpose and connect with others. I enjoy sharing what I’ve learned while learning from their creativity and ambition.

What would it mean to you and your business to win a Loudoun Small Business Award?

I’m grateful to be considered alongside so many businesses contributing to Loudoun. This community has given me opportunities, encouragement, and relationships that have helped MVA grow. My hope is that this recognition helps us reach and support more young people, teams, and organizations.

Who is one person who has influenced you most in your career?

Truth be told, right now it’s Claudia and Athena, my unofficial C-suite! They’re my AI assistants, Claude and ChatGPT. They help me work through ideas and tackle the tedious tasks that come with running a business, giving me more time for what I love: connecting with people, teaching, and creating. They’re also remarkably available for a 5 a.m. strategy session.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I always knew I wanted to own a business. I just didn’t know what that business would be. It took 15 years working in juvenile detention to discover how I could turn my experience and passion for helping people into something of my own.

When you’re not working, where can we find you or what is another passion you have?

You’ll likely find me exercising, spending time in nature, or enjoying the countryside where I grew up. I’m passionate about holistic wellness and the everyday habits that support our well-being. Being outdoors helps me slow down and reconnect.

How do you see your business evolving over the next five years?

MVA plans to expand into more school districts across the region and build partnerships in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Florida, and Colorado. We want to create lasting opportunities to support students, educators, teams, and communities while staying rooted in our purpose & to uplift everyone we reach.

https://www.mvawellness.com/