Meet UCLA alum Lizzie Brown, Founder of Yoga Wake Up

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amyr rice
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Tell us about your company:
Yoga Wake Up transforms the way people start their day by offering a simple, mindful morning routine that promotes mental clarity and physical well-being. Our app delivers 10-minute audio-guided yoga and meditation sessions designed to help users wake up gently and with intention. As the first-ever yoga alarm clock app, we provide a unique solution to incorporating wellness into the busiest part of the day. 
What inspired you to start your business?
Yoga Wake Up was born out of a personal frustration with the traditional alarm clock and the endless cycle of hitting the snooze button, which left us feeling groggy and unmotivated. We wanted to find a way to transform that crucial first moment of the day into something positive and energizing. Inspired by our passion for yoga and mental wellness, we realized the potential of using yoga and meditation as a more mindful and refreshing way to wake up.
What are your proudest achievements so far?
Our proudest achievements include being featured as Apple’s “App of the Day” and being highlighted in their Latin Heritage Month “Developer Spotlight”, recognition that affirms our mission to make wellness more accessible and inclusive.
What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs:
My advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is to prioritize building meaningful relationships and helping others without expecting something in return. Networking isn’t about what others can do for you—it’s about creating a supportive community that lifts each other up and grows together. Also, embrace failure as part of the process; each setback builds resilience and confidence. The more you put yourself out there and learn from challenges, the stronger your business will become.
Please share a memory or thought about your alma mater:
One of my favorite memories from UCLA was serving as the social chair for my EMBA class of 2024. In this role, I had the privilege of creating the container for our cohort to connect and create a lasting bond. The connections I helped foster continue to thrive, and it’s rewarding to know I played a part in shaping that foundation. Plus, our grad gala was EPIC.