Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Angela Anderson.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
For as long as I can remember, I knew that I wanted to help people and I loved studying the way people think and thrive. Initially, I began my career in acute mental health until an unexpected opportunity led to a shift in my plan. I took a position at a telecommunications company. I did not immediately understand how the role would fit into my plans, but I said yes to a challenge and it paid off! It was in this role that I learned my true calling and passion was developing and coaching others. Although I had a clinical background, I decided to return to school and get a doctorate in organizational leadership and management. Following graduate school, I found myself wondering how I would use what I learned to have the greatest impact. I had checked all of the boxes that society defined as successful, but I was still unclear about my path. One question provided clarity for me. I asked myself: Now what? I took a deep dive into the question and developed concepts to help me move past the doubt, fear, and uncertainty that I was experiencing. I journaled for a few months and these concepts eventually became my #1 international bestselling book entitled Now What?! Get OVER Yourself and MOVE! To my surprise, my journey was one that many other people shared! I used writing to hold myself accountable to my dreams. I had to take a real look at what happens when you need direction and guidance in the pursuit of purpose. I am now an internationally certified speaker, trainer, and coach! I help companies and individuals push past their excuses and move into action! The very part of my life that I thought was the challenge, led to my life’s work. The experience taught me so many things. It taught me that sometimes detours are no delays. I know firsthand that nothing is random and every step, even when we don’t understand it, is necessary. Trials are just training ground to prepare us for our service to others! I am so grateful for life and the opportunity to help others discover their gifts. There is magic in MOVING!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Purpose requires work. It isn’t easy, but it is worth it. One of the struggles I encountered was getting over the fear that people would not be able to identify with my journey. It was so personal to me. The idea of putting it out for other people to read was scary. I literally had to get over myself and release the doubt. For any young woman who is just starting out, my best advice is to stay ready!! Always prepare for opportunities before they arrive because sometimes the door is only open for a short time or only opens once. Do the work and be confident in what you what you bring to the table. Your voice has value and you deserve to be heard.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
The best part of my work is helping people activate their talents. As a speaker, I am able to share with groups of all ages and watch as they come to understand their power and potential. As a trainer, I am given the opportunity to help companies develop and improve organizational communication, culture, and team dynamics. As a coach, I get a front row seat in watching people grow and succeed at things they once thought impossible. It is an amazing gift. I am most proud of being a wife and mom of two wonderful girls who happen to be born on the same day, four years apart! I think the thing that sets me apart from others is my commitment to ensure that people feel seen, valued, and heard. I genuinely believe that everyone has a gift that is unique to them. I feel that it is my job to help them open and apply them.
There’s a wealth of academic research that suggests that a lack of mentors and networking opportunities for women has materially affected the number of women in leadership roles. Smart organizations and industry leaders are working to change this, but in the meantime, do you have any advice for finding a mentor and building a network?
Networking is a must. Creating relationships is very different from just making connections. I always tell people to take time to develop working relationships that could lead to mentorship. I personally attend networking events and schedule meetings with those who may have work that aligns with mine.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.drangelaspeaks.com
- Phone: 901-201-0312
- Email: drangelaspeaks@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drangelaspeaks/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drangelaanderson/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/drangelaspeaks
- Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drangelaanderson/
Image Credit:
Marci Lambert Photography, BrandYouBrandNu
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
