When chatting with our guest this week, you would haze zero idea that she has overcome such adversity in her life. Or maybe you would, maybe her sunny yet determined outlook on life is one that would only come after such obstacles. We are overjoyed to welcome Mindy Henderson of Mindy Henderson Speaks to the show - professional speaker, coach, and writer focused on overcoming adversity.  

At 15 months old, she was diagnosed with a neuromuscular condition called spinal muscular atrophy. Her parents were told she would lose all of her abilities to stand or walk, she would lose all of her cognitive functions, and probably wouldn't live to be 3 years old. Between parents that would not take her diagnosis lying down, and a self-described personality of a natural born project manager with a sprinkling of bossiness, Mindy has defied all odds and our world is better for it.

Discussion highlights:

Hope, Gratitude, Independence

• Implementing a plan in the face of devastation
• Impact of being the Texas State Poster Child for the Muscular Dystrophy Association
• The start of catching the public speaking bug

From Tech Career to Speaker Entrepreneur

• Working in high tech for two decades
• Overcoming fear of risk to become an entrepreneur
• What pushed her into following her dream of becoming a published author
• Adding coach to her repertoire

Life's Curve Balls as Messenger

• Skipping the pity party and jumping into productivity
• Ignoring your life's plan for your life's purpose

Becoming a Public Speaker

• How to identify your topic
• Engaging with your audience with stories and tools
• Getting clear on your values, priorities for audience connection
• Speaking for groups, organizations, nonprofits, UT Austin

 The Impact of COVID-19

• Battling through event cancellations
• Creating workshops that align with the current state of the world

Key Success Principles

• The importance of having multiple arms to your business
• Getting comfortable with risk taking
• Being intentional with honesty and vulnerability
• Networking through social media and 1:1 

Moving Forward - Goals and Visions

• Expanding coaching clients
• Land a publishing contract
• Increase speaking engagement
• Do a Ted Talk or Tedx Talk

Muscle Creative Wrap-Up

If you could listen to only one music artist for the rest of your life, who would it be? Eagles

Where can people find you online?

• Mindy Henderson Speaks
• Instagram
• Facebook
• Women's Thrive & Shine Network Facebook Group