Episode 122

Journey of Becoming

In this Scars to Stars episode, Leandra shares the real behind-the-scenes journey of becoming who you are—not just what you do. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she followed the “get the degree and the job will come” promise… and instead found burnout, long commutes, imposter syndrome, and the quiet pressure of trying to keep up.

From public health and nonprofit work to serving pregnant and postpartum moms in the Black Infant Health Program, Leandra’s heart for community has always been clear—but so was the cost of hustle culture on her mind and body. When COVID hit (and family loss hit even harder), she began asking deeper questions about identity, purpose, and what really matters.

Leandra opens up about taking a terrifying leap into entrepreneurship, the grief and financial strain that followed, and the hard-but-holy work of untangling worth from titles and paychecks. She also shares what she learned as a domestic violence advocate—reminding listeners: it’s not your fault, and you deserve a safe plan and support.

This episode is for anyone rebuilding, pivoting, grieving, or realizing they can’t “push through” anymore—you need your people, your peace, and a path forward.

#scarstostars #suicideprevention #mentalhealthawareness #conversations #community #personalstory #havetheconversation #savealifechallenge #virtualevents #amazonbestseller #suicideawareness #mentalhealthmatters #kindnessmatters

#PivotWithPurpose #WorthBeyondWork #BurnoutToBoundaries #CommunityIsCare #FromSurvivingToStrategizing

About the Podcast

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Scars to Stars™ Podcast

About your host

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Deana Brown Mitchell

Deana Brown Mitchell is a driven, optimistic, and compassionate leader in all areas of her life.

As a bestselling author, speaker and award-winning entrepreneur, Deana vulnerably shares her experiences for the benefit of others. As a consultant/coach, she has a unique perspective on customizing a path forward for any situation.

Currently President of Genius and Sanity, she teaches her proprietary framework created from her own experiences of burnout and always putting herself last... for entrepreneurs and leaders who want to continue or expand their business while taking better care of themselves and achieving the life of their dreams.

In 2022 Deana released the book, The Shower Genius, How Self-Care, Creativity and Sanity will Change Your Life Personally & Professionally.

Also, Deana is the Founder and Executive Director of The Realize Foundation. She is a suicide survivor herself, and vulnerably uses her own mental health journey to let others know there is hope. The Realize Foundation produces events and publishes books that let people know they are not alone.

“But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds” Jeremiah 30:17