Meet Oly Cumpian

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

Hi Oly, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?
That so much of what we accept as “normal” advice around food and health—especially for kids—is actually rooted in diet culture and weight stigma, not evidence-based care. People are often surprised to learn that labeling foods as “good” or “bad,” commenting on children’s bodies, or encouraging restriction in the name of health can unintentionally lead to disordered eating and body shame.

What many don’t realize is how early this starts. From birth to about six years old, kids are absorbing everything—our words, our tone, our body language—and using it to shape how they see themselves. During these early years, their understanding of body confidence and self-worth is forming. They don’t learn to love their bodies from a lesson plan; they learn it from us. If we can model a respectful, peaceful relationship with food and our bodies, that’s what they’ll carry with them.

What should our readers know about your business?
My business is rooted in body liberation and respectful eating—and more specifically, in helping caregivers raise kids who grow up confident in their bodies and free from the weight of diet culture. What sets my work apart is that I don’t offer surface-level tips or quick fixes. I guide families through a deep, often emotional process of unlearning, rebuilding, and reconnecting—with food, with their bodies, and with their values.

One thing I often say is that we can’t change what we don’t even realize needs changing. The beliefs we’ve absorbed about weight, health, and self-worth don’t just come from home—they come from everywhere: school, media, peers, doctors. These ideas become so normalized that we don’t always recognize them as harmful. Until we do. And then everything shifts.

My own shift began in the chaos of motherhood. As a former engineer, I’ve always been driven by research and a deep need to understand. So I dove into parenting books, child development, psychology, and eventually body liberation. What began as a personal search quickly evolved into a professional mission. Today, my work blends science, lived experience, and deep compassion—and it’s not just about teaching parents what to say, but how to think. When we model critical thinking and curiosity, we give our kids something powerful: the ability to challenge harmful norms and write a different story.

It hasn’t always been easy. This work goes against the grain and brings up discomfort—but I’ve learned that real growth lives in that space. What I’m most proud of is that this journey doesn’t just help kids—it liberates the adults raising them. And if there’s one thing I want people to know, it’s this: you’re allowed to question what you were taught—not just at home, but everywhere. And you’re allowed to raise your children in a way that honors dignity, self-trust, and freedom.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend came to visit Knoxville for the week, the theme would be: slow down, enjoy nature, and eat well—without overthinking it. We’d start at Ijams Nature Center, a place I personally love and feel deeply connected to as a Board member. Before heading there, we’d make a stop at Wild Love Bakehouse for coffee and pastries—because nothing pairs better with a river walk than a warm croissant and a good chat.

Throughout the week, we’d explore more of Knoxville’s green spaces, like Lakeshore Park or any of the beautiful greenways around the city. I love simple strolls with big views and time to connect. If we’re up for a mini road trip, we might even drive out to Townsend to visit Peaceful Side Social, a charming brewery with mountain views and great food.

As for local eats and drinks: brunch at Potchke’s is a must, with its unique flair and cozy atmosphere. For afternoon coffee, I’d take them to Seed or Honeybee—both great for catching up. At night, we’d unwind at a brewery like Yee-Haw or Alliance, maybe with a food truck and some live music in the background. And yes, we’d definitely sneak in one treat-yourself dinner at Vida or J.C. Holdway, just to feel a little fancy.

Evenings would be unhurried—maybe checking out a local event or just walking through the Old City or Market Square. But honestly? We’d probably just end up sitting on my porch talking until the end of the world. Because that’s the real magic—slow moments, good food, and the kind of conversation that fills your soul.
Knoxville is full of surprises: beautiful trails, crea
tive food spots, and a laid-back charm that makes it feel like home. That’s exactly what I’d want my best friend to experience.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My biggest shoutout goes to the mothers and caregivers who are bravely doing the work of unlearning what they were taught about bodies, food, and worth. It’s not easy to question deeply held beliefs, especially when those beliefs were passed down with love or reinforced by our culture. But every time I see a mom pause before making a comment about her own body, or choose connection over control at the dinner table, I’m reminded of the quiet power of this work. These women are planting the seeds of confidence, respect, and self-trust—not just for their kids, but for themselves too. They are the heart of this movement, and I’m so honored to walk alongside them.

Website: https://bodyliberationcoaching.mvsite.app/about-page

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