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Maya Carpenter is a dynamic voice in the world of resilience, emotional intelligence, and social-emotional learning, using her diverse background to inspire transformation in others. With experience spanning the entertainment industry, journalism, education, and social advocacy,

Maya brings a unique blend of creativity and compassion to her work. Whether guiding incarcerated students toward educational achievements or helping individuals navigate life’s unexpected turns, Maya’s mission is rooted in empowering others to embrace their stories and unlock their inner strength. Her dedication to storytelling, emotional intelligence, and reframing rejection continues to create impactful change in the lives of those she reaches.

What made you choose this path? What inspired you to focus on resilience and social-emotional learning as your mission?

Maya: Honestly, this path chose me. Life has taught me that while we all have choices, when there is a mandate on your life, you won’t be able to avoid what’s meant for you. The choices we make will often lead to unimaginable places. Along the way, I’ve learned to adapt and pivot, and it’s through navigating these unknowns that I’ve developed resilience and embraced the principles of social-emotional learning.

You’ve achieved so much and worn many hats throughout your career. With all your accolades and roles, how do you feel you’re most beneficial in the spaces you’re known for?

Maya: I believe I bring the most value to these spaces because I deeply connect with what I’m sharing. I don’t speak or teach on things I haven’t personally experienced. I must feel that connection. It’s through my own journey that I’m able to offer tools that have helped me navigate life’s unexpected twists and turns.

Rejection is a tough topic for most people. You’ve mentioned that it’s something you’re passionate about addressing. How do you reframe it as a positive, and what’s the one key takeaway you want people to leave with?

Maya: Yes, rejection is a tough topic, but I’ve come to realize that I’m uniquely equipped to navigate it, which is why I can speak about it with confidence. I call myself “The Resilience Navigator” because there is a method to navigating. The ability to reframe rejection comes from shifting perspectives and drawing on valuable life lessons. A key part of this process is cultivating a heightened sense of emotional intelligence because we can’t afford to navigate life aimlessly. That’s why I’ve developed tools to help us show up for ourselves when rejection hits, whether it’s in our careers, relationships, or any other aspect of life.

Your work with incarcerated students achieving their GEDs is incredible. What lessons did you take away from that experience, and how has it shaped your approach to guiding others?

Maya: This is such a great question because I’ve learned so much from working with incarcerated individuals. My biggest takeaway is the power of perspective. I will never forget one student, a 20-year-old facing a lengthy prison sentence. At the time, she hadn’t been sentenced yet, but we all knew she would be serving many years.

While helping her work toward her GED, she said something that stopped me in my tracks:

 “I feel so free.”

I couldn’t wrap my head around it at first. How could someone incarcerated feel free? But then it hit me, so many of us on the outside have unlimited choices, yet we’re trapped in our own minds. Meanwhile, here was someone physically confined, yet she had found freedom within herself. That moment taught me that freedom isn’t about circumstances it’s about perspective. If you can embrace where you are and make the most of it, you can experience a kind of freedom you never imagined possible.

You’ve shared your passion for storytelling. How do you use storytelling to connect with your audience and inspire transformation?

Maya: My background is rich and multifaceted. Before stepping into professional speaking and starting a business, I was already immersed in creativity. I worked as an actor and journalist in the entertainment industry and later as an educator. Storytelling has always been at the heart of what I do, allowing me to connect deeply with emotions and inspire transformation in others.

Your career spans diverse fields, from entertainment to education. What role does your background in journalism play in how you approach your work today?

Maya: As I mentioned before, my layered background in the creative space, particularly as a journalist, is part of what makes storytelling in my work compelling. I excel at sharing credible, well-sourced stories that are both informative and impactful. I know how to craft a narrative that resonates and lands on good soil, ensuring it’s meaningful and easy to understand. And because I love to entertain, I always try to weave a bit of that energy into my talks, workshops, and interactions, making the experience engaging and memorable. I had an amazing time interviewing Maya Carpenter. Her wisdom, passion, and resilience are truly inspiring. As we celebrate Women’s Month, let’s honor the strength, courage, and brilliance of women everywhere.

“There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.” – Michelle Obama

 

Photo Credit: Provided by Maya Carpenter