Today we’d like to introduce you to Tola Casanova.
Tola, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m known as Zee but also called “Auntie” by many of my supporters. I was born in Mississippi, raised in Atlanta, and spent part of my childhood in East Memphis so my story carries that Southern culture, resilience, and talent. I come from a lineage of powerful people who understood Hoodoo as a way of life, not a trend. My ancestors guided me to embrace that gift early on, and I take pride in helping other Black people remember their power, get in touch with their creative side while manifesting through our traditional practices.
About 10 years ago, I was going through a moment of rebuilding my life and myself, I leaned on Tarot Reading for answers. I studied and mastered tarot within the first 5 years. Starting with myself, family, friends, co-workers, etc. then turning public. Years later, I turned my calling into a business by opening my spiritual shop. The first product I ever published was my poetry book. That’s what kicked things off for me. What started as a few candles, readings and oils made from my kitchen has now grown into a thriving brand and community. It grew so large, I hosted Spiritual Retreats in different states for the last 6 years. My mission has always been to make spirituality approachable, empowering, and rooted in laughter, love, and authenticity. I believe humor heals, so I keep things real and relatable while teaching my followers how to walk in their purpose and attract abundance. That’s what also makes me a great entertainer/influencer. I don’t live for aesthetic or try to appease to a specific audience. I’m me. I’m a magnet.
Every product, reading, event and ritual I create is guided by my ancestors (I love you Grandma), they’re the heartbeat behind everything I do. My journey as a poet, an influencer, tarot reader and spiritual shop owner has been about more than selling products; it’s about inspiring people to remember who they are, showing them that magic runs in our blood and showing them you can be multi-faceted.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road hasn’t been smooth at all, but it’s been worth it. I’ve faced betrayal from friends and lovers, and I’ve learned that not everyone clapping for you truly supports you. There’s a lot of fake love in this industry, and I had to learn to see through it without letting it harden my heart. The same people that love you today will turn their nose up at you tomorrow.
One of my biggest lessons was learning to control my own aggression and emotional “crash outs.” People will start drama with you just to feel seen or feel special, especially if they can’t get your energy anymore. I used to respond from anger instead of purpose, but with time, prayer, and guidance from my ancestors, I learned to move smarter and protect my peace. Write it down and turn my pain into success. People will come into your life or get in contact with you just to destroy everything you’ve built. You can’t let them.
Even through the setbacks and disappointments, I never had the mindset of giving up. Every challenge made me sharper, wiser, and more grounded in who I am. My focus has always been on growth of becoming a better person, business owner, and spiritual teacher every day. Nobody can tell my story better than me; I lived it.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Creativity and entrepreneurship have always been in my blood. I come from a family of artists and entertainers. I’m known for many things: my poetry, my business, my retreats, my social media presence, my giveaways and my rootwork. I’m most proud of publishing my poetry book and starting my hoodoo business almost nine years ago. Now my daughters are carrying that same flame of talent, always creating, drawing, and building their own little projects.
I’ve always been a poet and storyteller at heart. My work reflects my rawness and authenticity. I speak from real experiences, both the beauty and the struggle. Whether it’s through my spiritual products, my readings, or my words, I create from a place of truth. That’s what sets me apart. I don’t sugarcoat healing or success; I show the process and help others see the power in their own story.
I’m proud of the community I’ve built around that realness almost 10 years ago. My art, whether poetic, spiritual, or visual is about connection, freedom, and reminding people that their voice and spirit matter not all that other mess. Focus on your path only.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
My authenticity is the most important quality behind my success. I’ve never been afraid to show the real parts of my journey : the growth, the mistakes, and the wins. I’ve had supporters following me since 2016, and they’ve seen me evolve in real time. That transparency built trust and community.
I’m a no-nonsense person, and I think people respect that most about me. I don’t pretend to be perfect or put on a persona. What you see is what you get; honesty, humor, and heart. That rawness is what keeps my brand grounded and relatable, and it’s what allows me to connect deeply with people all over the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Tolasbotanica.store
- Instagram: Adoseofpapabear
- Facebook: Tola Casanova
- Youtube: The GeminiVedic
Image Credits
Zee “Tola Casanova” Banks
