Female Disruptors: Daryn Herzfeld of Feel The Heal On The Three Things You Need To Shake Up Your Industry
An Interview With Dina Aletras
Be authentically you — in both business and life. Once you embrace that, the pressure lifts, and you’re free to do your best, knowing you’ve given it your all while staying true to who you are.
As a part of our series about women who are shaking things up in their industry, we had the pleasure of interviewing Daryn Herzfeld.
Daryn Herzfeld, a Miami native, has always been passionate about natural healing and skincare. Her journey began early with an interest in alternative health, starting with midwifery courses and assisting in over 50 births. She then earned her first license in Massage Therapy, followed by a license in Colon Therapy. As her career evolved, Daryn founded Feel The Heal, serving the Miami community with her expertise. She later became a licensed Master Esthetician and Paramedical Esthetician, deepening her knowledge and bridging the gap between gut health and skincare.
Daryn is renowned as an acne and scar expert, utilizing the Face Reality acne line along with her signature “triple threat” blend of medi skin care treatments and products. Attracting clients who fly in from other states for her trusted results. A long list of A-list celebrities, including some world-renowned artists and musicians, consider Feel The Heal their best-kept secret.
Feel The Heal offers an extensive range of alternative detox and beauty treatments in Miami, including hydrafacials, Aerolase laser treatments, chemical peels, acne solutions, gut detoxes, parasite cleanses, colonics, microneedling, plasma fibroblast, tooth gems, enemas, ear candling, teeth whitening, foot ion detoxes, and more. This diverse array of services makes Feel The Heal a comprehensive destination for complete inside-and-out rejuvenation.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would like to get to know you a bit more. Can you tell us a bit about your “backstory”? What led you to this particular career path?
From a young age, I was drawn to alternative treatments and the spa scene. I quickly realized that the gut is like the engine of our bodies — if it’s not running smoothly, everything else, including our skin, suffers. This understanding sparked a deep passion in me to bridge the gap between gut health and skincare. And that’s how Feel the Heal came to life in 2001.
Can you tell our readers what it is about the work you’re doing that’s disruptive?
Talking about gut health used to be pretty taboo — no one wanted to discuss their bowel habits. It was embarrassing. But now, with social media, celebrities, and influencers bringing this topic to light, gut health is finally getting the attention it deserves. Conversations about skin care, parasites and bathroom habits are trending like never before. This shift is exciting for our brand because it’s putting skincare, health and wellness in the spotlight where it belongs. We take a unique approach to wellness, keeping our space modern, current and welcoming. Our goal is for clients to leave truly feeling the heal — just like our name promises.
Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?
I started Feel The Heal back when Google was just getting started. I printed my own business cards, decorated poster boards, and even made yard signs. In the early years during this ‘doing it all on my own’ era, I nearly burned down my first office with a melted candle. Every day I’m still learning and after 23 years in this business mistakes still happen and they always will. But hey, they say the key to success is failure, right?
We all need a little help along the journey. Who have been some of your mentors? Can you share a story about how they made an impact?
My grandfather, who I was incredibly close to, was a true entrepreneur and businessman. I loved asking him questions, picking his brain, and nothing felt better than getting his approval — a simple nod from him made me proud. After he passed, I grew much closer to my father, finding comfort in being able to ask him the same questions I once asked my grandfather. Along my journey, I’ve met countless mentors, whether they were teachers or professionals who introduced me to new skills or products. I carry a little piece of everyone’s wisdom and teachings with me.
In today’s parlance, being disruptive is usually a positive adjective. But is disrupting always good? When do we say the converse, that a system or structure has ‘withstood the test of time’? Can you articulate to our readers when disrupting an industry is positive, and when disrupting an industry is ‘not so positive’? Can you share some examples of what you mean?
I’ve always been the black sheep, walking my own path and thinking outside the box. When I first started Feel The Heal, I used to hide my tattoos under long sleeves, thinking they were too “disruptive.” I toned down my style and personality, running the business in a more restrained way. But years ago, I decided it was time to show up authentically — not just in how I look, but in how I run my business. I realized that when I visit a place, I’m drawn to what feels unique and real. I love when a business takes risks, and I wanted to bring that vibe to Feel The Heal.
Now, I show up with my tattoos, my hats, my style, and my true voice. I encourage my clients to be themselves too — whether they want to laugh at an embarrassing moment or cry if they need to. I want our atmosphere to be modern, fun, and most importantly, unforgettable. I believe that being respectfully disruptive makes a lasting impression; people remember how you made them feel — or in my case, how they felt and healed. Adding humor to ease an uncomfortable situation is just part of that experience.
Is our office for everyone? I think so, but if it’s not, that’s okay too. After 23 years of running a successful business, I know I’m on the right path, and I have a loyal following that loves what I’ve built. That’s what makes me happy.
Can you share 3 of the best words of advice you’ve gotten along your journey? Please give a story or example for each.
1. Be authentically you — in both business and life. Once you embrace that, the pressure lifts, and you’re free to do your best, knowing you’ve given it your all while staying true to who you are.
2. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or advice. It doesn’t make you naive or clueless; it makes you brave and propels you forward.
3. Don’t be afraid to take risks. Step outside your comfort zone and dream bigger! Does it always work out? Not always. But when it does, it’s absolutely worth it.
We are sure you aren’t done. How are you going to shake things up next?
This year, we’re moving to a new office and rebranding Feel The Heal in the way I always dreamed of but never felt I could. Coming 2025! It’s going to be fun!
In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges faced by ‘women disruptors’ that aren’t typically faced by their male counterparts?
Women are often unfairly perceived as unfit to lead or own businesses. They face challenges in balancing professional and personal responsibilities and may feel guilty about missing family time or choosing to focus on their careers instead of having children. There’s this outdated notion that women should be the ones to stay at home, while others strive to be the primary earners. Why is that? Society often imposes these expectations, and women can lack the support they need or face criticism for not conforming. We’re taught not to be too loud or outspoken, and not to voice big ideas. It’s time to challenge these norms and support women in being ambitious, disruptive and assertive.
Do you have a book/podcast/talk that’s had a deep impact on your thinking? Can you share a story with us?
I don’t spend much time reading or listening to podcasts, but if you want a list of Netflix shows, I’ve got you covered!
You are a person of great influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. :-)
I believe now is the time to make space for the dreamers. The world is shifting so quickly, and it’s anyone’s game. You don’t have to fit a specific mold — you just need to be yourself, fueled by inspiration and motivation. The only person who needs to believe in you is yourself. The movement is simple: “just go for it,” whatever that might be. I’ve had countless ideas in my life — some failed, some succeeded — but I wouldn’t have known unless I tried.
I’m all about girl power. It’s so important to support our fellow women and friends, empower them to be amazing, and cheer them on when they succeed. Clap for other successful businesses, even if they’re in the same field as yours.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
How can our readers follow you online?
I have a tattoo that says “Fate Loves The Fearless.” To me, being fearless means embracing your destiny fully. I’ve always lived fearlessly, and I can honestly say it’s the only reason I am where I am today.
@feeltheheal // www.feeltheheal.com
This was very inspiring. Thank you so much for joining us!
About the Interviewer: Dina Aletras boasts over 20 years of expertise in the corporate media industry. She possesses an in-depth understanding of growth, strategy, and leadership, having held significant roles at some of the UK’s largest media organizations. At Reach PLC, the UK’s largest tabloid publisher, she served in various director capacities. Additionally, she held leadership roles at The Independent Magazine Group and DMGT. Her extensive knowledge spans editorial, digital, revenue, sales, and advertising.
Upon relocating to Switzerland, Dina took on the responsibility of managing and promoting the international section of Corriere del Ticino — CdT.ch pioneering the English page “onthespot.” She also was the Co-Editor of Southern Switzerland’s first official Italian and English bilingual magazine.
