141: Building conscious community in southern Italy: The freedom business journey of Liz Cirelli

Meet freedom business owner Liz

Liz Cirelli is a former internationally successful DJ and award-winning music producer who now runs La Vita Sukha, a conscious co-living community and regenerative farm in Puglia, Italy.

Born and raised in London to Italian parents, Liz moved to Italy ten years ago and inherited her parents’ property in Roseto Valfortore after they passed away.

Beyond music, Liz is also a yoga teacher, permaculture designer, and massage therapist who is passionate about creating spaces where people can connect with nature and each other while living according to permaculture ethics: earth care, people care, and future care.

“When things get overwhelming, which is often because I’m wearing lots of hats, I just remind myself to plug into the big vision.”

Key takeaways from our freedom chat with Liz:

➡️ Learn the local language & systems: Learning the language of the country where you establish your business is crucial for success. It enables you to navigate bureaucracy, build meaningful connections, and understand cultural nuances that affect your business operations.

➡️ Build a strong local support network: Find knowledgeable locals who can guide you through complex systems and regulations. The right accountant, lawyer, or mentor who understands both the local environment and your vision can save you countless hours and prevent costly mistakes.

➡️ Stay aligned with your vision: Regularly reconnect with your big-picture vision, especially when day-to-day tasks become overwhelming. An aligned business should feel energizing rather than draining. If it feels like “pulling a heavy boulder uphill” instead of “wind beneath your wings,” something needs to change.

➡️ Be willing to pivot: Don’t fear letting go of partnerships, approaches, or audience segments that aren’t working. Successful freedom business owners recognize misalignment quickly and aren’t afraid to make necessary changes, even significant ones that might initially seem scary.

➡️ Trust your intuition and capabilities: Don’t underestimate your ability to run a business independently, even without prior experience. Listen to your body’s responses to different opportunities and decisions—physical sensations of freedom or constraint can be valuable guides toward greater business alignment.

Connect with Nienke Nina

More digital nomad tips and life advice via instagram @digitalnomadsdaily

Connect with Nienke Nina on LinkedIn @Nienke Nina Keizer

Find Nienke Nina on Instagram @growwithnienkenina

Connect with Liz

Visit on LinkedIn @Liz Cirelli

Instagram: @liz_cirelli

Website: www.lavitasukha.com