Redefining Success
In a recent, deeply personal interview, Emma Cunis shares the moving origin story of Dartmoor’s Daughter, a nature connection business inspired by the wild and ancient landscape of Dartmoor National Park. What unfolds is not just the story of a business, but the story of a life transformed — through nature, through healing, and through choosing to follow a path led by the heart and soul.
From Burnout to Breakthrough
After 20 years of success in the corporate world, Emma reached a breaking point. Burnout and chronic fatigue left her physically depleted and emotionally drained. During this challenging period, she found herself walking on Dartmoor’s rugged terrain when, seemingly out of nowhere, the words “Dartmoor’s Daughter” came to her.
That moment wasn’t just about branding or business strategy — it was a soul whisper, a clear sign pointing to a different way of living and working. It marked the beginning of a profound life shift, moving from the pressures of corporate life toward something more authentic and aligned with her inner compass.
The Challenges of Building a Values-Led Business
Emma speaks with refreshing honesty about the complexities of building a values-led business. Running Dartmoor’s Daughter is not just about guiding walks or facilitating workshops; it’s about crafting a livelihood that stays true to personal and ecological values, even when the going gets tough.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought particular challenges, forcing many businesses — including hers — to pause, pivot, and reconsider how to serve community needs while staying financially afloat. Emma discusses the ongoing dance between passion, purpose, and practical sustainability, reminding us that values-led work often requires resilience, creativity, and patience.
Redefining Success and Wellbeing
One of the most powerful themes in the interview is a redefinition of success. For Emma, success is no longer about status, salary, or societal approval. It’s about living in alignment with her health, values, and connection to the land.
She shares openly about her chronic fatigue journey, her experiences of perimenopause, and how these life stages have deepened her commitment to holistic wellbeing — not just for herself, but for the communities and landscapes she serves.
Nature as Medicine and Mirror
At the core of Dartmoor’s Daughter is the belief that nature is both a mirror and a healer. Emma describes how Dartmoor itself became a trusted guide in her recovery. The land taught her to slow down, listen, and reconnect with a deeper rhythm of life.
The conversation explores how nature invites us all to:
Remember who we truly are beneath societal roles
Reconnect with ancestral wisdom
Walk forward with greater balance, awareness, and meaning
This isn’t just about spending time outdoors — it’s about cultivating a relationship with place, self, and community.
Part of that relationship is honouring the cultural heritage of Dartmoor — the stories of its people as well as its landscapes. Emma highlights the importance of including the voices of those who have lived and worked here for generations: the farmers, craftspeople, and local families whose lives are intertwined with this land. Through walks and gatherings, Dartmoor’s Daughter also creates space for conversations about history, folklore, and traditional practices, offering a deeper understanding of Dartmoor beyond its scenic beauty.
A Conversation Rich with Insight and Heart
The interview feels like one of the most personal and insightful conversations Emma has shared publicly. The thoughtful, open-ended questions lead to discussions on a range of meaningful topics, including:
How to build a heart- and soul-led business
What it really means to be “successful”
Health, wellbeing, and navigating life changes like perimenopause
The role of nature connection in personal and collective healing
Listening to ancestral wisdom and walking a path of purpose
Honouring the stories of local communities and cultural heritage alongside ecological stewardship
An Invitation to Reflect
Emma’s story is a testament to the power of listening — to your body, your intuition, and the land beneath your feet. It’s a reminder that life doesn’t have to follow a linear, corporate path. There is another way: one that honours health, purpose, the wisdom of nature, and the heritage of place and people.
If you’re navigating burnout, seeking deeper meaning in your work, or curious about nature-based healing and values-led entrepreneurship, this conversation is rich with guidance and gentle inspiration.
Book Your Own Private Experience with Dartmoor’s Daughter
If Emma’s story resonates with you, perhaps it’s time to step away from the noise and reconnect with nature, your health, and your deeper purpose.
Whether you're seeking personal reflection, team wellbeing, or a meaningful day out in Dartmoor's wild beauty, you can book a bespoke private walk, event, or ceremony with Dartmoor’s Daughter.
