Meet Danah S. Hayes | Self-Discovery & Transformation Coach, Inspirational Speaker, & Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Danah S. Hayes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Danah S., looking back, what do you think was the most difficult decision you’ve had to make?

The most difficult decision I’ve ever faced was whether to continue living in the familiarity of my pain or embark on the transformative journey of healing. It was a choice between the comfort of the known and the fear of the unknown. As the saying goes, “old keys don’t unlock new doors,” and this truth became my guiding principle.

At the age of 13, I became the victim of rape, marking the beginning of a path where I found myself concealing my true identity as a lesbian to protect the reputation of my family’s tradition. The woman you see today, is a direct result from me doing the work to overcome trauma and heal the wounds that kept me in bondage. Now let’s be clear, this journey was not an overnight success or a 90-day process, it’s been years in the making. I was committed to releasing the pain, as I noticed it was the primary reason why I was stuck! So, I had to make a decision, remain in my pain, or move into my purpose. Into my true authentic self. Into that girl I knew before I was violated.

So doing the work for me came with being honest, doing mirror exercises, releasing the pain, acknowledging the hurt and the root of it, and then knowing that I deserve better. I gave myself permission to live, love, and laugh. Showering the little within with love, I gave her everything I never received from others.  In a powerful moment, I heard her voice, and for the first time, I gave her the freedom to tell her story.  Listen, the freedom!!!!! At the age of 43, I found myself saying out loud I was raped. I remembered. And what a profound moment it was to say to myself, out loud and looking back and saying, it was not my fault. This moment changed the trajectory and set me forward on my path to healing.

And now, after feeling and now living the life I used to pray for, I have devoted myself through my bestselling book, Silently Speaking, and my coaching program to help others, not just see that liberation is possible, they have a walking example that it can be done!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?

Now you know, the path to success is never straightforward. When I embarked on the journey to become a self-discovery and transformation coach, inspirational speaker, and author, I faced confusion and uncertainty. Finances were low! Did I say, low! I was operating two businesses that never evolved, and I hesitated to try again.

On top of that, I lacked knowledge in the area of business and how to operate one successfully. The fear of judgment, the ‘what if’s’ of potential failure, and the constant chatter from my insecurities telling me I couldn’t do it. Although I was clueless, I felt that my lack of knowledge could not stop me. I had a road paved with personal challenges, triumphs, fears, and a desire to share my story to help others heal and evolve.

In January 2022, I took a leap of faith and started my coaching and speaking business, Women of Evolution, LLC which continues to help and service women around the world. The programs were created with the understanding that real change is possible that understanding who you are not is the first step to discovering who you truly are. Discovering who you truly are creates a lifestyle of success, transformation, happiness, and healing. I offer 1:1 coaching service with a choice of 3 or 6 months, and a 12-week self-paced course called Evolve into Your Power Method.

What sets me apart in this industry is not just my journey but the unique perspective I bring. I’ve navigated the complexities of self-discovery and transformation from a place of genuine vulnerability. My authenticity, coupled with a commitment to continuous learning, allows me to connect with my clients on a profound level. I don’t just guide; I empathize. I don’t just speak; I inspire. And as an author, I share not only my successes but also the raw and real moments that shape my journey, making it relatable and empowering for those who seek their path to self-discovery. My approach involves helping my clients not only acknowledge and understand past pain but also guiding them through a transformative journey beyond it.

In a world where many still suffer in silence, my mission is to encourage and support my clients on their journey to healing out loud. Too often, the weight of personal struggles is shouldered in quiet isolation, and my aim is to help break that silence.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

Let me be honest and say, I am an introvert! Planning an itinerary for an entire week would be a challenge for me unless it involves a mix of business with a little pleasure. I must admit it would be a week full of fun, laughter, divine conversations and connections, and some great food.

However, I am pretty sure I can find an amazing spiritual retreat for us to attend while she is visiting. A retreat where we would meditate, do some breath work, set intentions for both business and personal goals, visualization practices, and energy cleansing. Now, this is my type of activity!

After the retreat, we would drive to Uptown for brunch at The Henry or happy hour at Al Biernat’s and enjoy the views of the Dallas skyline. On the drive, we would have conversations about future goals and dreams, and deep conversations with the Universe. After this great meal, we would drive back home, watch a good movie, and relax before heading to an evening of Open Mic at The Dock Bookstore in Fort Worth, and take a horse and carriage ride of downtown Fort Worth.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

My parents! So much of who I am today is because of them. Their unwavering support, belief in me throughout the years, and the knowledge they’ve instilled are invaluable. I can vividly recall, from the age of 5, my mother telling me to walk in my gifts. “You’re gifted, and the world needs your gifts,” she would say. At such a young age, I had no understanding of what that meant. However, on the other side of my spiritual awakening, I knew exactly what she meant!

Now, their influence on my life serves as a constant reminder that success requires commitment, consistency, a work ethic, and dedication to seeing your dreams come to fruition. As I continue to be a guiding light for my clients, I reflect on the lessons learned from my parents—a journey shaped by their wisdom and the love that surrounds it.

Let me start my second shoutout with a fundamental truth: every great coach has a great coach. The second person I would like to shout out is Charron Monaye of Pen Legacy Publishing and CM Writes. Charron is more than a publisher—she’s a mentor, a coach, and your biggest cheerleader on your road to success. She is committed not only to your journey, but your success. She shares her wisdom, knowledge, and speaks life into you and your dreams while pushing you towards your greatness. I don’t believe in coincidences, and I am forever grateful our paths crossed!

In Loving Memory of My Dad:  This article is a special dedication to my father, my hero, my legend.  Dad, may you rest in peace and power.  Your legacy will live on, a testament to the love, wisdom, and strength you shared.  I am grateful for the moments, the lessons, and the enduring impact.  02/04/1945-12/08/2023

Website: wwww.danahhayes.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamdanahhayes/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danahhayeslifecoaching

Other: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1337394038

Image Credits
Alyse Roller D&E Photography Christian Cuan