Today we’d like to introduce you to Kanika Nikki Utley
Hi Kanika Nikki , it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My career journey began with a dream come true—I landed a position as an NBC Page and soon became an assistant producer on Dateline NBC, right after graduating from Syracuse University. It was an exhilarating time, working in a fast-paced environment where every day brought new challenges and excitement.
Next, I found my way into the world of unscripted television, producing award-winning content like Flipping Out for Bravo and Keyshia Cole: The Way It Is for BET. These projects solidified my passion for storytelling. But after a few years, I was ready for something different.
That’s when I took a leap, moving to Southeast Asia and becoming an announcer for Star World’s competition reality show called Design Your Destiny: The Apartment. It was a thrilling adventure pursuing my dream in Singapore which pushed me to new heights in my career.
Eventually, I pivoted once again, diving into the fitness and wellness industry by launching Bold Bodies By Nikki in Honolulu, Hawaii. There, I helped clients transform their lives—mind, body, and soul.
My latest venture is my book Stay Bold, where I share my journey and hope to inspire others to conquer fear. Looking back, it’s clear that building relationships and helping others thrive has always driven me. I live boldly and push the limits—always.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One of the biggest struggles in my career has been knowing my worth. For a long time, I felt like I had to prove myself to others. My identity was so deeply tied to what I did for a living that I believed being a storyteller was all I could offer. I never thought I was good enough for anything else, so I sought validation externally. If I didn’t receive recognition for my work, it took a toll on my mental well-being.
Throughout my career, I faced countless rejections and even encountered colleagues who tried to sabotage my efforts. Despite this, I refused to let anyone or anything stop me. But deep down, the biggest obstacle I faced was myself—my own insecurities.
There came a moment when I realized I was meant for something greater. Walking away from nearly 20 years in unscripted television was monumental, but I didn’t let fear hold me back. I had to confront my inner doubts and reach a place where I could truly believe that I am enough. It wasn’t easy, but learning to embrace my own worth has been the most liberating part of my journey.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
What makes me stand out is my authenticity. I’ve worked hard to become unapologetically myself, embracing who I am without compromise. This didn’t happen overnight—it took years of inner work, including therapy, meditation, yoga, and journaling. As I navigated this healing journey, I also invited others to join me, hosting retreats and workshops in Honolulu, Hawaii. It was a chance not just to grow myself, but to help others connect with their own power and potential.
My specialty is the energy and spirit I bring to everything I do. I often hear people say, “You have such good energy,” and I know it comes from doing the deep inner work—facing my fears, overcoming negative thoughts, and learning to let go of what no longer serves me. What I share with others isn’t necessarily new, but what is unique is me. My spirit, my energy, my story—it can’t be replicated.
There’s a certain peace in knowing that no one else can do me better than I can. That’s what makes my work powerful, and that’s why I stand out. I’m real, I’m grounded, and I’m unafraid to show up as my true self.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My advice to those just starting out is simple: believe that you deserve more. I’ve taken several pivots in my career, and each time, I had to trust that I was capable of achieving new dreams. Even at 50, when I decided to plant roots in Texas and start over, it felt daunting. I thought, “Am I too old for do-overs?” But then I read about entrepreneurs like Colonel Harland Sanders, who became a millionaire at 74, and Wally Amos, who sold the Famous Amos cookie brand at 49. It wasn’t too late for them—and it wasn’t too late for me.
So, I left paradise to create new dreams. I started a walking group called Walk It Out San Antonio and began working part-time at the Northeast Senior Center. There, I helped build a community that allows senior citizens to live longer, healthier lives. I never stopped doing what I loved—being of service to others. I shared my life experiences, even donating my book Stay Bold to the senior center’s library.
And now, I have been offered the opportunity to be a Lifestyle Manager for an award-winning master planned community called Pomona by Hillwood. I look forward to seeing where this new career path will take me as I continue to aim higher.
The key is to keep going, keep showing up, and stay persistent. Stay curious and bold. This journey isn’t meant to be perfect, but it’s designed just for you, with all its twists and obstacles, to help you shine.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://amzn.to/2MKoOeI
- Instagram: Nikkigrowbold
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kanikanikkiutley?mibextid=LQQJ4d
