Today we’d like to introduce you to Barbara Guillen.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I am an unlikely success story. Not in the way most people think of success, but in what I have come to believe as true success. I lead a healthy, happy, and deeply fulfilled life in which I get to share with my husband and three beautiful children.
My background is in education. I spent a little over a decade as an elementary school teacher followed by a few years teaching high school English (I loved both!). The fact that I pursued teaching as a career is ironic because I was never a good student. In fact, I cut so much throughout high school that in order to graduate, I had to attend night classes for over a year. But I was determined to wear my cap and gown alongside my classmates and so I did what I had to to make it happen.
I stayed in my career until 2021, when I began to feel a strong and persistent tug to do other things. Namely, to use my gifts of writing and speaking to inspire positive change in others. Since then, I’ve become an author, podcast host, writer, and faith and motivational speaker. It’s a lot and sometimes, even my kids are confused by what my actual job is.
Throughout this process, I’ve learned that growth is a never-ending cycle and it rarely feels comfortable, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I mentioned that I skipped a lot of school as a teenager. At the time, I just wanted to have fun with my friends doing what teenagers do. Looking back, I realize it had more to do with me not having any structure or accountability to keep me on a better track. I was raised by a single mom of seven children on welfare and my stepdad was physically abusive. I hated everything- my stepdad, our home, being poor, etc. I was angry. I was always getting in fights and when I was 19, I got in big trouble. I went to jail. It was the last time I ever fought. Talk about scared straight!
At 21, I got pregnant with my first child and I knew I had to come up with a plan. That’s when I decided to go to school to become a teacher. Before this, I hadn’t given any thought whatsoever to my future. Sad but true.
Thirteen years and three kids later, I had a Masters degree in hand and a teaching career to go with it.
By the time I decided to exit my teaching career, I had experienced many challenges and setbacks. From losing my mom and dad to moving across the state to practically losing my husband to his drug addiction, there were many days of uncertainty and even hopelessness. However, through my faith in God and support from loved ones, I continued to push through as I pursued my bigger calling.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
It’s funny how you can learn so much about yourself simply by being open to a little exploration. For example, I grew up hating my voice but today, it’s one of my greatest assets. I’ve used it to speak life into others through my podcast, YouTube channel, and talks. Through various learning modes, I’ve discovered more about my unique gifts and strengths and have applied them in many ways. After reading one book about the creative spirit within each of us, I created my first physical product- a deck of affirmation cards. After that- it was game on! I wrote a book, devotional, and several gratitude journals. I would’ve never imagined I could do these types of things!
My work includes using my voice and words to inspire transformation and hope in others. Whether I’m speaking to groups about creating a living legacy OR inspiring readers through my books, blogs, or social media posts, I know that my work changes lives.
In everything I do, I try to come from a place of realness. I think about my mom, who died at the young age of 54 due to her lifestyle and who never had anyone speak into her potential. Any dreams or hopes she had died with her. It is my mission to do whatever I can to prevent that from being anybody else’s reality.
I think my ability to blend authenticity, humor, grit, and unwavering belief in others is what sets me apart. I am so committed to the success of others and this comes through in my work.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I’m so glad you asked! I am a huge proponent for both finding a mentor and plugging in to a networking group (or two or three). When it comes to finding a mentor, it’s important to know this can be someone you know personally, or not. Many of my mentors are people I discovered on a podcast or YouTube channel who are where I want to be and whose values I align with. In order to get to where you want to go, it’s important to have someone showing you the way. You can learn so much by learning from the mistakes and successes of others!
As for networking, check for a list of networking groups in your area. These days, there is no shortage of both online and in-person groups. I happen to lead a women’s networking group in San Diego (Hey eWomenNetwork!) and I find that the most savvy business owners and entrepreneurs belong to multiple groups. There is a right fit for everyone and sometimes, it just takes a little bit of leg work to find your people and your place. Be open and enter these spaces with an intention. Most importantly, be clear about your goals and desires. Invest in the things that will bring you closer to achieving them and surround yourself with others who are on a similar path of success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://barbaraguillen.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-guillen-75442b16b/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@barbaraguillenofficial
Image Credits
Moriah Salas
Stefanie Blue
Marcy Browe
