We recently had the chance to connect with Dani Parks and have shared our conversation below.
Dani, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day are dedicated to prayer and a 30-minute devotional. Once I’m spiritually grounded, I move into my workout and take a refreshing walk to clear my mind before stepping into the day’s work.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
For over 15 years, I’ve served as a Mental Health Advocate and Life Coach, empowering individuals to strengthen their resilience, cultivate healthy self-care habits, and stay focused on achieving their goals. Before becoming a prominent mental health advocate, I knew first-hand what it felt like to struggle in silence with a mental condition which is why my transformative mindfulness and self-care journey played a pivotal role in saving my life and managing my mental well-being. This journey led me to my purpose and passion for empowering the next generation and creating Bring E.M Out, a virtual peer-to-peer teen program designed to equip teens with practical tools for mental resilience, conflict resolution, and suicide awareness. What makes the program unique is its safe, supportive, and relatable environment, led with coaching strategies that encourage teens to express themselves, build confidence, and connect with peers in meaningful ways.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My relationship with my oldest cousin really shaped the confidence I carry in all circumstances and situations. Seeing how boldly she embraced her womanhood, her power, her body, and the unconditional love she had for her skin as a Black woman has been a lasting source of inspiration for me. And I’ve been intentional about instilling that same confidence in my daughter, ensuring she knows exactly who she is, her worth, and how to carry that assurance into every room she enters.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
One of the most defining wounds of my life was the breakdown of my mental wellness during my teenage and young adult years. I silently battled depression, suicidal thoughts, and even attempts. My healing began when I realized I didn’t have to carry this burden alone; that there were people and resources ready to support me on my journey to wellness. Taking that first courageous step to reach out for help transformed my life, and since then, I’ve not only been thriving but also lifting others up along the way.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
One belief I hold firmly is the importance of walking in purpose and fully operating in what has been divinely ordained for my life. I believe that each of us has been entrusted with gifts, callings, and assignments that are uniquely ours, and true fulfillment comes when we embrace them wholeheartedly. For me, walking in purpose means aligning my choices, my work, and my service with God’s plan, knowing that every step taken in obedience not only transforms my life but also impacts the lives of those I am called to reach.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
The pain, guilt, shame, confusion and stress youth hold onto when they are suffering with mental health issues. And the frustration, anger, and sadness that comes when they’re misunderstood, ignored, or dismissed because they’re feelings are invalidated by those they are supposed to trust and feel safe with.
Understanding and empathizing with our youth is vital to their mental wellness and by truly listening and validating their experiences, we can help protect and strengthen their mental health.
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