[Author Spotlight] Laura Browne, co-author of INTERVIEW SPEAK

by Cyrus Webb

With so many shifts in the job market, it's great to know ways you can stand out from the crowd. That is what Laura Browne and Barbara Limmer share in their new book INTERVIEW SPEAK. 

This is more than a guide of what to say. It's a mindset shift in the way you approach an interview, listen and focus so that you can make yourself memorable. 

I spoke with Laura about the book's message, what she hopes readers take away from it and how LinkedIn can be a valuable tool. 

1.      Laura, the message of the book INTERVIEW SPEAK is so timely. What has it been like for your co-author Barbara and you to see the response to it?

 It’s been really wonderful. We started working on the book together more than 3 years ago and the job market was very different then. We’re so excited to hear how this book has made it easier for people to have great interviews and get jobs. 

In the book we have a character we call Clueless Clark – he makes a lot of mistakes and we talk about how to avoid those mistakes. A reader said that he had been Clueless Clark until he read the book. He changed what he was doing and got a new job. That was great feedback!

2.      The job market has changed so much over the past decade. How has the way employees decide in the interview process who is the best fit evolved in that time?

Yes, things have changed. In most cases, a real person doesn’t look at all the resumes because they have systems that weed out most of the candidates. And some interviews are just video recordings that potential employers review later. What hasn’t changed is that interviewers want to know 3 things. First, they want to know that you can do the job. Second, they want to know if you’re really motivated and excited to do THIS specific job. Third, they want to know that you will fit in well with their culture. That’s what you need to focus on.

3.      I know from our interview on Conversations LIVE that Barbara and you have been friends for some time. How did the idea for the book come about?

Yes, we’ve been friends for many years and we both have a lot of experience in interviewing. A few years ago we were talking about it and said we wished that candidates knew some of this information because it would make it easier for them and the companies. I told Barbara that I thought it was a great book idea. She agreed but said she was not going to write a book. I kept bringing it up and I think I finally wore her down because one day she came to me and said she was interested in writing the book together so we did it.

4.    

  One of the things I enjoyed about INTERVIEW SPEAK is that it helps the interviewee to get a sense of what they should be prepared to share not just about their work history but what they have learned and contributed to their previous employment. Why is that important for them to consider when answering questions?

Potential employers want to know that you will be a good fit now and in the future. It’s important to show what you learned in the past so they believe you will learn and contribute at the job you’re applying for.

5.      The other thing that you do in the book is remind us that not all interviewers are created equally. How should the interviewee use that information when approaching an interview?

It’s important to be prepared and flexible since you never know who you’re going to be talking to. Each interviewer may approach the questions a little differently. We talk about how important it is to really hear the whole question and not just the beginning of the question. If you’re not sure what the interviewer wants, you can ask them to clarify.

6.      Laura, stepping back from the book for a moment, you and I connected on LinkedIn. I was curious how you think our audience should think about that platform now when it comes to not just looking for opportunities but building their own platform and audience.  

I love LinkedIn, and one of the reasons I do is that it is a wonderful place to connect with people. I suggest that even if you’re not looking for a job right now, you should start connecting with people you know and build your network BEFORE you need it. These are the people who can help you when you do decide it’s time to make a job change.

7.      What is your hope when it comes to how INTERVIEW SPEAK can be used and become a resource?

My hope is that many more people get this information and use it to get the job they want. Right now, it can take a lot of time to actually get interviews and when people do get them, I want them to have the best interviews possible.

8.      Thank you for your time, Laura. How can our readers stay connected with you and get their copy of the book?

Thank you, Cyrus! Please have your readers connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurabrowne/

They can also find me at www.CareerCoffeeBreak.com where I offer online training classes on How To Get A Raise and How To Get A Higher Starting Salary at A New Job. They can also send me a message at laura@careercoffeebreak.com.

My publisher, Manning Publications, offers your listeners 45% off Interview Speak, any format, by going to https://hubs.la/Q03BFL3m0 or manning.com and using discount code: LIVElimmer

 

AUTHOR PROFILE: Author Roselyn Kachak

by Cyrus Webb

Roselyn, I am glad to have you as part of our series in Conversations Magazine. First I have to ask you, what has it been like for you to see yourself as a published author and to have your book THE MEMORY LINGERS ON available for the world to read?

I must smile when I think to answer this. After three quarters of a century, I know whatever I am doing, I feel like me. I have been a girl scout leader, fortune teller, bank teller, decorator and resort manager. I am a product of my generation., so I was at Woodstock and lived in San Francisco during the Summer of Love.

In my attempt to publish THE MEMORY LINGERS ON, what is important is the protagonist - Anna. She is a product of the generation before me and how that generation transformed our culture, as mine has shaped my daughter's. It is a story about an ordinary woman in extraordinary times and how she evolved as a living soul. And how that affected her at the end of her life. This is what I wish to achieve by presenting her story to the public.

So many in my generation have had to deal with parents or partners who are moving into the next world. As Anna dies in this one, she becomes more alive in the next. And she can only tell her story from the next world. It is a story of possibility and hope - whatever faith one may have, for, I believe, we get beyond belief to knowledge. 

So, it is my hope that if publishing THE MEMORY LINGERS ON gives even one person comfort then I can, also, be happy. 

Have you always known that storytelling was something you wanted to do?

I wonder if storytellers think of themselves as such. The first time I biked cross-country someone asked if I prepared. I hadn't, consciously. I just liked to ride my bicycle. And the truth is I wasn't prepared. I didn't even take a replacement tube or a repair kit. But I made it from Raleigh, NC to Yellow Spring, OH despite that.

So, I like to write because I can go to another world where I can be whoever I want to be.

I noticed since we connected that you love nature and the outdoors. Have you always felt connected to nature?

Yes. I grew up in New York City, but spent summers on the family farm. Everything was alive then. Literarily - I talked to the trees. I still believe everything is as alive as I am.

I once asked my mother if God was everywhere, even in the air we breathe. She only said, "Yes." Being small, it was all I needed to hear. I went outside and took a deep breath of God. That is nature.

THE MEMORY LINGERS ON is a powerful look at life, life lessons and the challenges so many experience over time. Where did the idea for the book come from?

From women in nursing homes. As a volunteer friend I spent a great deal of time with them. They may have been eighty, but in their mind they were twenty. I could not challenge their reality, but I could see that for them it was true, even if it didn't seem to jive with the rest of the world around them. I wanted to share their experience. Maybe I did get a glimpse into their world. It was like time travel and it made the past as real as the present.

The lessons that Anna shares with her daughter Susan really do linger with the reader. Especially the importance of appreciating the moment. What helps you to stay present, Roselyn?

Anna did. It is Anna who speaks. It is her comfort and love that are present. 

You and I have talked about social media and the challenges of it, however, you have definitely been using it. How has that helped you to share your thoughts and your book?

As I mentioned, I have lived three quarters of a century. It is not something I grew up with. I struggle with it. I don't quite understand how to use it yet. Needless to say this has caused me some stress. 

What advice would you give to aspiring writers out there who are reading this?

Write for the love of it and the freedom it gives.

Get THE MEMORY LINGERS ON on Amazon. 

Chanelle Coleman Wesley: Showing Others How to Live Life Unapologetically

by Cyrus Webb

Chanelle Coleman Wesley is a person on the move. 

It's been great watching her pursue her passion, pour into others and expand her creative tent throughout 2025. 

We talk about the year, her growing brand and advice for others looking to live life without limits. 

Chanelle, it’s great to catch up with you again. You’ve had another busy year. What has it been like for you to continue to see how your message of self-love and female empowerment is resonating with your audience?

It’s been nothing short of incredible. Every time I receive a message, hear a testimony, or see a woman light up because she finally gave herself permission to choose her, I’m reminded of why I do this work. My message is personal—because I lived it first. I know what it feels like to lose yourself while showing up for everyone else. So to now see women embracing self-love, reclaiming their voices, and walking in purpose unapologetically—it lets me know the seeds I’m planting are taking root. It’s not about popularity for me. It’s about impact. It’s about transformation. And watching that unfold year after year? That’s powerful.

A big part of your platform is saying yes to YOURSELF. How has that benefited you, remembering to put yourself first?

Saying yes to myself has been one of the most powerful decisions of my life.

I had to learn that it’s up to me to serve from a place of overflow—not from an empty cup. God desires that we operate in a space of abundance. But for so long, we’ve believed the narrative that it’s our birthright—serving in a space of deficiency. As women—especially Black women—we’ve been conditioned to become minimalists with our needs. We serve from scarcity and call it strength.

I would have kept living that way… if life hadn’t handed me a set of life-altering cards. Cards that came with undeniable pain. But that pain pushed me into purpose. I needed the disruption. For me, it was my rock-bottom moment. That experience forced me to pivot.

I asked myself: How much more impactful could I be if I gave myself what I so freely give to everyone else? What would it look like if I chose rest, joy, and wellness as requirements—not rewards?

That change allowed me to show up—not just present, but powerful. Not just surviving, but thriving. And when I operate from that space, everything I touch—my family, my business, my community—benefits from the overflow.

That shift changed everything. It allowed me to show up not just present—but powerful, healed, and ready.

I’ve noticed this year you have also been pouring into young girls and young women. Why has that been important for you?

That part of my work has been deeply personal. I started this journey by serving women—women who had been through the fire, who had survived betrayal, heartbreak, trauma, and setbacks. I saw them because I was them. I understood the pain of showing up broken but still trying to carry it all. I thought equipping women with the tools that they needed to happy, healthy, and whole was the assignment. But then, during an interview I was asked a powerful and provocative question, “What about the girls?” And that question wouldn’t leave me. It took me back to the young girl inside me—the one who was trying to grow through abuse, navigate life with low self-esteem, confusion, and identity struggles. That girl didn’t get the tools, the support, or the strategies she needed. So I thought—what if we reached the girls before they were broken? What would the next generation look like if we caught them now, equipped them with confidence, coping tools, and the truth about who they are? That’s why I do it. Because prevention is just as powerful as healing.

This year you are also adding a new title to your name, that of Editor-In-Chief of your own magazine. Tell us about it.

Yes! I’m the proud Editor-In-Chief of Hustle Her™ Magazine, a publication designed to celebrate and elevate Black women of faith. I didn’t just want to speak to women—I wanted to intentionally create a space for women who look like me. Women who’ve had to shrink themselves, dim their light, or delay their dreams because the world wasn’t ready for their brilliance. Hustle Her™ is her space. Her reminder that it’s her time, her turn, her season. We tell stories of women who have overcome, risen, and redefined what it means to lead with purpose and power. It’s more than a magazine—it’s a movement.

You were a part of our Amazon live event STRONGER TOGETHER this year. Share with our readers what inspired your message.

My message was inspired by the movie Finding Nemo. There’s a scene where Dory tells Marlin, “Just keep swimming.” And as simple as that sounds, it hit home. I related that to the mother-daughter dynamic—how many women are still trying to parent while navigating trauma. I wanted to speak to that space. The in-between space where women are attempting to hold it together for everyone else but silently unraveling. I wanted mothers to see that if they don’t heal that instead of handing down the keys to break cycles we will hand them pretty packaged trauma if we don’t heal. I wanted daughters to understand their mother’s journey to motherhood wasn’t paved along a crystal staircase. wanted mothers and daughters alike to know: I wanted mothers to know you can clip or wings or watch her soar and I wanted them to choose which type of mother they wanted to be. I also wanted to them to know that despite the sometimes rocky and turbulent waves of mother-daughter relationships-You can keep swimming. You can heal together. You can grow together. You are stronger together. The moment was bigger than me. It was a heart-to-heart reminder that even in deep waters, we don’t have to drown. We can rise—together.

 There’s a lot going on in the world. What has helped you to stay encouraged, even when things don’t go your way?

Honestly, my faith has always been my anchor. But it’s also been having a community around me—people who can pray for me and over me, even when I didn’t have the strength to pray for myself. I’ve had seasons where I’ve poured out everything—where I’ve fasted, prayed, held others up—and then I’ve had times where I needed that same love poured back into me. And God always sent someone. That’s what’s helped me keep going: knowing I don’t have to carry it alone. Reflection, rest, and real relationships have kept me grounded. And when I remember what I’ve survived, I know I’m built for whatever comes next.

You and I have had discussions about the importance of taking care of yourself. How has that played a role in not just what you say YES TO but also what you say NO to?

Taking care of myself has been a radical act of obedience. For so long, I said yes to everything—to prove my worth, to avoid guilt, to be accepted. But healing taught me to be intentional. Now, I say yes from alignment—not obligation. And just as importantly, I’ve learned to say no. No to what drains me, what distracts me, or what dishonors the version of me I’m becoming. My yes is powerful—but so is my no. Taking care of myself has helped me become a better leader, mother, speaker, and woman. Because I’m not giving people what’s left of me—I’m giving them what’s real in me.

What advice do you have for our audience, Chanelle, about the importance of prioritizing themselves in life?

Prioritize yourself without apology. Stop putting yourself on layaway, hoping one day you’ll get around to you. Today is that day. You don’t need anyone else’s permission to put yourself first. You don’t need another title, degree, or validation to start treating your needs like they matter. Your peace matters. Your rest matters. Your healing matters. Give yourself the same energy, love, and grace you give to everyone else. You are worthy of being a priority in your own life.

Thanks for all you do, Chanelle. Let readers know how to stay connected with you.

Thank you, Cyrus. It’s always a joy to share space with you. You can stay connected with me through my website: www.shesaidyestoherself.com, and follow me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and LinkedIn @ChanelleColemanWesley.

And of course, Hustle Her™ Magazine, the Unapologetic & Unplugged with Chanelle Coleman Wesley Show, and my books he Said Yes to Herself Unapologetically, The E.M.P.O.W.E.R. H. E. R. Blue-Print available on Amazon are all powerful ways to stay inspired and empowered.

Let’s keep doing the work—unapologetically.

MELISSA BANKS: From Mississippi to the Masses, Designing a Life of Her Dreams

 

by Cyrus Webb

From start to finish, Melissa Banks has made 2025 a year of dreams fulfilled. She hosted her annual conference IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES, was a guest speaker for other events, launched a new book PLAN IT LIKE A PRO and expanded her online business. 

Through it all she has shown how a woman raised in Mississippi has been able to touch the masses by tapping into her God-given abilities and talent. 

Melissa, great to catch up with you again in the pages of Conversations Magazine. 2025 has been a big year for you. What has it been like for you to reflect on some of the highlights?
I'm excited to be back! 2025 has truly been an incredible year. When I reflect on all the opportunities I’ve had and the doors that have opened, I’m filled with gratitude. It’s a powerful reminder that when you believe in yourself, stay committed to the work, and lean into your faith, amazing things can happen.

One of the big things for you that I have seen this year is your really leaning into your role as a media personality with your new show The Melissa Banks Show. Talk to us about what that’s been like for you to engage with a new audience.
The Melissa Banks Show has been such a rewarding experience. It’s given me the chance to connect with new people, hear their stories—their wins, their struggles, and how they’ve kept going—and then share those stories to inspire others. I hope that through these conversations, viewers are encouraged to take action in their own lives.

Books have been a big part of your brand over the past 4 years. What has that been like for you to embrace your title of bestselling author?
Wow—Bestselling Author was never even a title I thought to dream about. Embracing that role has been incredibly humbling and fulfilling. I’m so grateful for the journey and the impact the books have had on others.

We’ve talked before about some of the challenges you have overcome. What has that been like for you to show others what is possible?
It’s been a true honor. My passion is showing people that their circumstances don’t have to define them. I remember the first time I shared my story and saw how it resonated with the audience—it reminded them that no matter what things look like, they can keep going. If you don’t quit, you can achieve far more than you ever imagined.

 

Event Planning continues to be a big part of your business. You are actively doing events as well as discussing it in your books and even this year a training series. What has that been like for you to share your love of event planning and the importance of having an event planner?
Event planning is where it all began for me 26 years ago, and I still absolutely love it. Being able to share what I’ve learned in my books and now through my training series has been incredibly rewarding. Hosting my first training and pouring into aspiring planners was a true full-circle moment—it was an honor to share the knowledge and tools that have helped me thrive in this industry.

Fear is something that holds so many people back. What has helped you to not let it stop you?
I made a decision that quitting is not an option. When fear shows up—and it still does—I acknowledge it, but I keep moving anyway. I’ve learned not to wait for the fear to disappear, because sometimes it doesn’t. Instead, I move forward with courage in spite of it.

Feeling worthy is something that some struggle with. What has helped you to not just embrace your worthiness but walk in it even through the difficult times?
Affirmations have been life-changing for me. I say them out loud every day—sometimes several times a day—to remind myself of who I am. It’s not about what I see in front of me; it’s about what I know to be true. These affirmations keep me grounded and help me walk in my worth, no matter the circumstances.

Any advice you can share with our audience about the importance of going after your goals and dreams, even when it’s tough?
Your dream won’t happen on its own—you have to take intentional action every single day. Keep moving in the direction of your dreams, even when it’s hard. Progress doesn’t always look like big leaps; sometimes it’s just not stopping. Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Keep going, keep working, and most importantly, keep believing.

Melissa, excited to see what’s next. How can our readers stay connected with you?
Thank you so much for having me back! Readers can stay connected with me on Facebook and Instagram and through my website at www.themelissabanks.com.

Ally Dalsimer: Showing IT'S OKAY to Pursue Your Goals and Dreams

by Cyrus Webb

It's been a privilege of mine to not just work with Ally Dalsimer in 2025 but to watch her rise and thrive in so many endeavors. We connected around her book IT'S OKAY NOT TO BE FABULOUS EVERY DAY. Since then we have hosted two seasons of a show and podcast together on Amazon LIVE, and she has co-hosted the first season of her own podcast SO...WHAT'S YOUR PROCESS with her son/actor Kyle Dalsimer. 

We talk about the year and more in the inspiring conversation. 

Ally, you have been busy in 2025 not just with sharing your book IT’S OKAY NOT TO BE FABULOUS EVERY DAY. You’ve been exploring other arenas like writing in a different genre and even speaking. What has it been like for you to see how your work is touching others?

It’s been like finding the prize in a box of Cracker Jacks – a delightful surprise and so rewarding! 

I originally wrote my book as life advice for my kids in hopes they would use it to better navigate life’s challenges. They and others encouraged me to publish it and, since then, so many readers have reached out to say that the book – or more often, specific sections – made them feel seen, supported, and inspired. 

Knowing my words benefit others in meaningful ways is incredibly gratifying and humbling, and has brought me great joy. Expanding into speaking enables me to share the book’s messages with a much larger pool of people so they too can better navigate those life challenges we all must face. 

As for other arenas of writing, yes! I’m currently working on manuscripts in two different genres. One is an upper middle grade adventure/friendship novel that explores themes such as bravery, prejudice, and personal growth; the other is a new adult novel that’s more of a mildly spicy romance thriller. 

You had mentioned before that your book was initially for your children. Could you have imagined that people around the world would also resonate with the messages?

Honestly, no – I never imagined it would resonate so widely. As you know, the book has garnered several awards, hit #1 in three Amazon self-help categories, and was an international best seller.  

Having said that, if I sit back and think about it, maybe it’s not so surprising since the topics I deal with, the stories I share… they’re universal. Sadly, all of us deal with loss, grief, fear, insecurity, self-doubts, etc. at some point in our lives. So while the stories I share in FABULOUS may be personal to me, the emotions and struggles underlying those events are broadly applicable.

It’s been great watching you since we first met exploring new opportunities. What has given you the courage to say yes, even to things that might be new?

Well, thanks for that! It’s actually been great sharing my journey with you as well as with others – a real-life implementation of the steppingstones I lay out in my book! 

As for what has given me the courage, I’d have to say: surviving emboldens. 

My grandmother used to say, “That which doesn’t break you, makes you stronger.” Those words have stayed with me. Like so many others, I have had to face some pretty significant challenges in my life. Surviving those tough experiences has made me braver. 

Surviving is emboldening. Conquering is reinforcing. If I could overcome that, why not this?

One of the messages in your book is the importance of moving forward, even in the face of uncertainty. What has helped you to keep swimming against the difficult waters you’ve experienced?

Swimming, or just staying afloat, is so much better than sinking. I’ve been to that dark place: depression, self-doubt, even self-loathing. Climbing out of that pit takes way more effort and energy than gracing myself a respite.

What I’ve come to realize is that, for too long, I let others diminish my sense of self-worth – allowed them to demean my accomplishments and belittle my aspirations. But the truth is that people who try to diminish others usually do so because they’re broken. 

Embracing our perfect imperfections is what keeps us moving forward. And to keep going, no matter how small the steps – to survive and, in the end, thrive – that’s real strength. 

Floating on days we just don’t have the physical or mental capacity to swim is not weakness… it’s wisdom. It’s balance. It’s yin and yang. In the end, the pause is just as important as the notes to the overall quality of the music we play, especially when the piece we are playing is life.

You were one of the speakers of Conversations’ Stronger Together event on Amazon LIVE. Tell us about that experience for you.

That experience was quite emotional for me. I spoke on “Cherishing the Mother-Daughter Bond,” and my goal was to demonstrate how the chain of generational trauma can be broken. I did this by using my own personal family history, which was tough as I’ve never shared the stories of mine or my mother’s childhoods publicly before. 

In the end, delivering my talk turned out to be a more emotional experience than I anticipated, though I hope I was able to communicate how that bond can grow and strengthen over the generations. 

If I give a version of that talk again, I’ll be better prepared emotionally so hopefully won’t tear up as much…  though, if I do, I do, and I won’t apologize for it. Those stories are deeply personal and real, and I truly hope people can find parallels in their own mother-daughter bonds so they too can move beyond the recurring cycle of pain, anger, and emotional distancing.

The part of your book title that I always focus on is IT’S OKAY. How has that fact helped you in giving yourself grace in life?

Yes, you picked up on the power of that bit even before I did, though it forms the basis for the entire book. And it’s funny you should raise it… 

A while back, I was feeling a bit overwhelmed and stressed. My son came over to me, put his hand on my shoulder, looked me in the eye, and said: “You know, Mama, it’s okay not to be fabulous every day.” It was perfect timing and immediately made me feel better. Now it’s become a sort of running mantra in our home. 

Because it really is okay… It’s okay not to know everything. It’s okay to need help. It’s okay to fall short. It’s okay not to be fabulous every day because, honestly, who can be? 

And I think it’s important that we continually remind ourselves of that. I literally wrote the book on ‘it’s okay’ and I still have moments when I need reminding, though many fewer now.

You are also big on defining for yourself what your FABULOUS is. What would you say to our audience about the importance of doing that for themselves?

I think what makes us fabulous is whatever makes us us – our own set of inherently unique traits, whether that’s creativity, kindness, resilience, vision or something else. So, I would say: lean into your uniqueness, your passions, your joys. Take the steps needed to bring you closer to those qualities.

I genuinely believe everyone already has everything they need inside them to succeed in the life they were meant to live, but only you can flip that switch, change your mindset, embrace your inner fabulosity. So actively choose to nurture you, believe in you.

And also, surround yourself with people who uplift you, who support you and believe in your dreams. Walk away from those who diminish you, who minimize your accomplishments or belittle your ambitions. 

Every day, remember to embrace your inner fabulosity and take a step then one more towards maximizing your personal potential. Believe in yourself because you are worthy, your dreams are worthwhile, and you really can achieve them.

What are you looking forward to?

I am looking forward to continuing my journey, wherever it might lead! Each of us has a unique destiny, a personal path, and I’m excited to see where mine leads. 

More specifically, I’d like to expand my speaking engagements to spread the message that embracing one’s inner fabulosity is the key to true happiness. I’m also looking forward to completing at least one of the two manuscripts I’m currently developing, as well as hopefully find a publisher for it. 

In my personal life, I’m very much looking forward to spending time with my kids. 

Thanks again for your time and all you do, Ally. How can our readers stay connected with you and join your newsletter?

You can find me on Instagram @ally.dalsimer and on YouTube at @AllyDalsimer1, where I post fun, quick book review shorts. 

Definitely sign up for my newsletter at AllyDalsimer.com/newsletter. It comes out twice a month and is packed with life tips, fabulosity boosts, author updates, and sneak peeks.

Also subscribe to the show SO... WHAT'S YOUR PROCESS on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SoWhatsYourProcess

Author Melanie D. Phillip: Using Her Light to Lead Others to Healing

 

by Cyrus Webb

I am glad that we get to feature Melanie D. Phillips as part of our WOMEN WHO ROCK series. She is one of those individuals who has taken her platform and used it to remind others of the possibilities that life has to offer. She has also used her story to remind us that with time, healing is something we can all experience if we're willing to have faith and do the work. 

Melanie, first of all let me say I’m excited to be working with you this year. What has it been 

like to reflect on your journey as an author and speaker?

Reflecting on my journey as an author and speaker, I’m amazed by how far I’ve come. Writing 

has been my way of processing life’s challenges, transforming personal growth into powerful 

stories that inspire others and myself. As a speaker, I’ve seen firsthand how sharing my 

experiences can spark healing and change. Every book and every speech have reaffirmed my 

belief in the strength of the human spirit and the power of transformation. It’s a blessing to help

others turn their struggles into strength, and that is what drives my passion every day.

When did you know that you had a gift that you were meant to share?

I first recognized my gift during my divorce, a time of pain and confusion. As I navigated that 

overwhelming period, I realized I could turn my struggles into something meaningful. Sharing 

my story helped me find strength in vulnerability, and I knew then that I was meant to help 

others facing similar challenges.

Whether speaking to a youth group or CEOs, or writing, I discovered the core message remained

the same: we all face challenges, but with the right mindset, we can turn them into opportunities

for growth. Each speaking opportunity reinforced my belief that we all have the power to 

overcome, rebuild, and thrive. My goal is always the same—to ignite that spark of possibility in 

others and show them that transformation is within their reach.

 Believing in yourself is not easy. What has helped you to do it?

Believing in yourself is not always easy, but my faith and family have helped me do it. My 

strength comes from God, and I rely on the scripture, "I can do all things through Christ who 

strengthens me," to remind me that I am never alone. Through every challenge, my faith 

empowers me to keep going, knowing that God provides the strength I need. My family has also

been a constant source of love and encouragement, helping me believe in myself even when I 

falter. Together, my faith and family have given me the courage to trust in my purpose and 

abilities.

I noticed when I was prepping for this chat with you that you have been connecting with 

organizations both online and offline. How does it feel to know that people are benefiting from 

your gifts?

It feels incredibly fulfilling to know that people are benefiting from the gifts I’ve been given. 

Whether connecting with organizations online or offline, it’s rewarding to see how my 

experiences, words, and guidance can help others find strength, healing, and clarity. There’s a 

deep sense of purpose in knowing that my journey—my faith, my lessons, and my stories—can 

make a difference in someone else’s life.

It’s humbling to witness the positive impact, especially when I see individuals or organizations 

shift their mindsets, overcome challenges, or rediscover their inner strength. The fact that my 

work resonates with people, helping them navigate their own journeys, confirms that I am 

exactly where I’m meant to be. This connection with others is what truly fuels my passion and 

reinforces my belief in the power of sharing one’s gifts with the world.

How does it feel to connect with like-minded individuals from around the world who are 

looking to motivate others like you do?

Connecting with like-minded individuals from around the world who are also passionate about 

motivating others feels incredibly energizing and inspiring. It’s a reminder that we are all part of 

a larger community with shared goals—helping others heal, grow, and thrive. These connections

affirm that the work I’m doing isn’t isolated; it’s part of a global movement of people committed

to making a difference.

When we come together, exchanging ideas, experiences, and strategies, it’s not just motivating; 

it’s empowering. I feel a deep sense of camaraderie and purpose knowing that others are out 

there, just as dedicated to inspiring change and uplifting others. These interactions fuel my own 

passion, reinforcing the belief that we can all be catalysts for transformation, no matter where 

we are in the world. It’s a beautiful reminder that our impact can ripple out far beyond what we 

see.

 The book you and I connected with was And Your God Shall Be My God. What inspired it?

Mothers and daughters don't always see eye to eye, and at times, they may even become 

estranged. But despite these challenges, their bond should remain unbreakable. Even in 

moments of disagreement or distance, the foundation of love and shared history endures. This 

book And Your God Shall Be My God, was born from the understanding that mothers and 

daughters, while different in many ways, are still deeply connected by faith, love, and the desire 

to try and understand one another.

We may not always agree or understand each other’s paths, but we are each other’s keepers. In 

times of struggle or separation, it’s the prayer, the heartfelt moments of connection, and the 

faith we share that brings us back together. This book reflects that dynamic—how, even through

adversity, the bond between mothers and daughters can be a source of strength, healing, and 

renewal. Through poems and prayers, it celebrates the love, wisdom, and support that continue 

to flow, even when life challenges us to grow and change. It’s a reminder that no matter how far 

apart we may feel, we are always bound by love, faith, and the willingness to grow together.

You were the keynote speaker for our STRONGER TOGETHER event on Amazon LIVE this year. When did you know that public speaking was part of your calling?

I knew public speaking was part of my calling the moment I realized my voice carried more than words; it carried healing, truth, and transformation. I had spent years encouraging others from behind the scenes, ghostwriting their stories, coaching through pain, and quietly walking people through their breakthroughs. But every time I did, there was a fire inside of me that wouldn’t go out.

The real confirmation came when I stood in front of an audience, shared my own truth, and watched walls come down in the room. Women began to weep, open up, and confront things they had buried for years, not because I had all the answers, but because I was willing to be real. That’s when I knew, this isn’t just a gift, it’s an assignment.

Speaking publicly allows me to not only share my story but to speak life into others, to help them shift from pain to purpose. Being the keynote speaker at the STRONGER TOGETHER event was more than an opportunity it was a divine alignment. I was reminded that when we show up authentically, God shows out powerfully.

So yes, this is my calling. And every stage I step on, every mic I hold, I carry the stories of women like me; women who need to be reminded that they can rise, they can heal, and they are not alone.

Any advice you want to share with our audience about the importance of believing in 

themselves?

Believing in yourself is the first step toward unlocking your true potential. It’s easy to get caught 

up in doubts, fears, and the opinions of others, but the truth is, your belief in yourself is what 

drives you to act, face challenges, and grow. When you trust in your abilities, even in uncertainty,

you create space for opportunities, healing, and transformation.

Remember, your journey is unique, and there will be obstacles, but those obstacles are not 

roadblocks—they’re stepping stones. Each challenge you overcome builds your confidence and 

resilience. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, seek wisdom when needed, and always 

stay connected to your faith and purpose.

Believing in yourself doesn’t mean you won’t face setbacks; it means you’ll rise from them 

stronger and more determined. The most important thing is to keep moving forward, one step 

at a time, with faith in your strength and the knowledge that you are capable of more than you 

realize. Embrace your worth, your power, and your purpose—you have everything within you to 

achieve your dreams.

Thank you for your time, Melanie. How can our readers stay connected with you?

Thank you for having me! Readers can stay connected with me through my website, 

MelanieDPhillips.com, where you can find out more about my work and upcoming projects. You 

can also connect with me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/strengthenthebond, and 

on Facebook at Melanie RichardsonPhillips (no hyphen). If you prefer email, feel free to reach out

to me at MelanieDPhillips1@gmail.com. I look forward to staying connected and continuing this

journey together!