| What is your “Speaker Superpower”? | |
| My ‘speaker superpower’ is my ability to blend raw authenticity with relatable storytelling, creating a deeply resonant experience for audiences. I’m dedicated to creating a space where I can connect with my audience personally and authentically. I’m not afraid to share my struggles and the steps I’ve taken to heal, inviting others to look inward and fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. When I take the stage, I don’t just bring words – I extend an invitation for others to embark on their journey towards resilience, purpose, and healing. My mission is to inspire and empower others to start their own journey, showing them that they are not alone. | |
| How does your message empower others? | |
| My message empowers others by equipping them with the tools and courage to confront their personal challenges and embrace healing as a path to growth. Through my speeches and coaching programs, I provide a blueprint for individuals and organizations to redefine resilience, prioritize mental well-being, and foster environments where vulnerability is seen as strength. By sharing my journey of overcoming trauma and depression, I encourage others to break their silence, cultivate self-compassion, and transform pain into purpose. This approach creates a ripple effect of empowerment, leading people to discover their potential and helping organizations build healthier, more connected teams. | |
| What inspired you to start speaking or coaching? | |
| My journey into speaking and coaching began with a pivotal moment in 2016 when my therapist warned that I was on the brink of a nervous breakdown. I had been juggling a demanding corporate career while raising my daughter, all while struggling silently with depression, anxiety, and unresolved trauma. That warning was my wake-up call; I realized that I couldn’t keep suppressing my pain. Seeking therapy became my lifeline, and the process of healing transformed me. As I reclaimed my voice, I felt compelled to share my journey openly—to create safe spaces for others to address their mental health and know they aren’t alone. Speaking and coaching became a natural extension of this mission, allowing me to guide individuals and organizations toward resilience, transparency, and growth. | |
| What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received in your career as a speaker? | |
| The best advice I’ve received in my speaking career was to “speak from your scars, not your wounds.” This wisdom reminds me that authenticity is powerful, but healing first is essential. Early in my journey, I learned the importance of allowing myself to fully process my own experiences before sharing them with others. This approach has helped me deliver my message with clarity and purpose rather than raw vulnerability. Navigating challenges with this mindset has elevated my impact, allowing me to connect deeply with audiences from a place of strength and empathy. This advice has guided me to make my story a beacon of hope, offering practical tools for resilience and transformation without retraumatizing myself or my listeners. | |
| What are some of your most memorable moments or achievements in this field? | |
| Some of my most memorable moments in speaking and consulting have been when I’ve witnessed the direct impact of my message on others. One of my proudest achievements was receiving two Presidential Lifetime Achievements and a United Nations award for my contributions to mental health advocacy, with my work recognized on major platforms like ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX. Another milestone was launching my WBGR media platforms, where I amplify the voices of women who often suffer in silence. But the most rewarding moment of all was hearing my daughter say, “I am proud of you, Mom,” and seeing her follow in my footsteps as a mental health speaker, author, and advocate. Witnessing her dedication to this work has been a profound validation of my own journey. Serving on the Board of NAMI Prince George’s County has also been incredibly fulfilling, allowing me to contribute to broader mental health policies and community outreach. Each milestone is a testament to the transformative power of mental health advocacy, especially when it inspires those closest to us and continues to create a ripple effect in people’s lives. | |
| How do you stay motivated and inspired to continually grow your influence? | |
| Staying motivated and inspired is rooted in my commitment to personal growth and my mission to impact others. Every day, I begin with a gratitude practice, reflecting on the blessings and progress I’ve made—especially those that seemed out of reach when I started this journey. I also make time for self-care and prioritize my mental well-being, ensuring I’m grounded and ready to give my best. Continuously learning keeps me at the top of my game, whether it’s reading, attending workshops, or connecting with thought leaders in mental health and personal development. Surrounding myself with like-minded, driven individuals reminds me of the importance of my work and fuels my own growth. But above all, my greatest inspiration is witnessing the transformation in those I serve. Every success story, every message of thanks, and, most importantly, my daughter’s dedication to this path as a mental health advocate and the legacy I leave behind drive me forward and reinforce my passion to keep expanding my influence and helping others rise. | |
| How does your brand reflect your core values? | |
| My brand is deeply rooted in authenticity, compassion, resilience, and empowerment—values that I hold at the core of my personal and professional life. Authenticity is foundational; I believe in showing up fully and truthfully and sharing the triumphs and challenges that have shaped my journey. This openness allows me to connect deeply with others and invites them to embrace their own stories without fear or shame. Compassion drives my approach, reminding me that everyone’s journey is unique and deserves to be honored with respect and understanding. My brand is also shaped by a strong sense of resilience. Having overcome significant mental health challenges, I know the power of persistence, and I aim to instill this sense of possibility and strength in others. Empowerment rounds out my values; I want those who engage with my work to feel equipped to take ownership of their lives, find their voices, and transform their struggles into strengths. These values are embedded in everything I do, from my speeches to my media platform on WBGR, and they shape my commitment to fostering a community that heals together openly and with purpose. This foundation has allowed my brand to resonate with people worldwide, connecting on a personal level and encouraging real, lasting transformation. | |
| What do you want audiences to remember after experiencing your presentation or session? | |
| After my presentations, I want audiences to remember that healing is possible and that each of us holds the strength to turn our challenges into catalysts for growth. I hope they leave with a renewed sense of self-worth, feeling empowered to embrace their own journeys and courageous enough to face even the hardest parts of their stories. My message is that vulnerability and authenticity are not weaknesses but powerful tools for transformation. I aim to plant a lasting belief that they’re not alone, that it’s okay to seek support, and that mental health conversations can open doors to healing, resilience, and purpose. Ultimately, I hope each person walks away inspired to take one step closer to their own version of greatness, carrying a reminder that their story has value—and so do they. | |
| What has been your biggest learning experience as a speaker or consultant? | |
| My biggest learning experience as a speaker came from an early event where I had carefully prepared my message but didn’t fully connect with the audience in real time. I was so focused on delivering a perfect presentation that I missed the power of reading the room and adjusting my approach to match their energy and needs. This experience taught me the critical importance of flexibility and truly “being in the moment” with my audience. Now, I prioritize adapting my message to the people in front of me—listening actively to their reactions, noticing where they resonate, and, if necessary, pivoting my delivery to make the experience impactful for them. I’ve come to see that authenticity and presence are more valuable than any script. That experience profoundly shaped my approach, reminding me that a message resonates most deeply when it feels personal and relevant. It was a humbling but essential reminder that the best connection comes from genuinely meeting people where they are. | |
| What advice would you give to aspiring speakers, coaches, or consultants who want to make an impact? | |
| For aspiring speakers, coaches, or consultants who want to make a lasting impact, my advice is to start by grounding yourself in authenticity. People are moved by realness and vulnerability, so embrace your unique journey, strengths, and even your struggles. Your personal experiences are often your most powerful teaching tools. Next, focus on serving rather than selling. Approach each talk, session, or consultation with a mindset of giving value. Ask yourself, How can I help someone transform today? That genuine intent to make a difference will naturally build your influence and visibility over time. Visibility comes through consistency and dedication to your craft. Share your insights regularly—whether through social media, blogging, or guest speaking at smaller events. Each opportunity allows people to see your expertise and authenticity in action. Finally, keep growing. The best speakers and coaches are lifelong learners. Seek feedback, invest in training, and stay connected to what’s happening in your industry. This commitment to learning will sharpen your skills and keep your message fresh and relevant. keep Most importantly, making an impact isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up fully, being relatable, and inspiring others to believe they can achieve their own greatness. | |
| Finally, how can people get in touch with you? | |
| Connect with me at DrRhondaMWood.com or @DrRhondaMWood on all social media platforms. |