Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Connolly
Monica, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey began in survival mode. For years, I was everything to everyone—the sole provider, the caregiver, the glue holding my family together. Between the loss of my infant son, my husband’s traumatic brain injury, and my children’s complex medical issues, my focus was solely on keeping everything together. I poured myself into my family, ignoring my own needs, my own health, and ultimately, my own identity.
Then came my own health crisis—a rare genetic condition that caused severe, immobilizing chronic pain, compounded by a heart condition that could have been fatal. My body was breaking down under the weight of my life, and my doctor’s words were a wake-up call: “If you don’t make drastic changes, you’re going to die.”
I realized I wasn’t just physically unwell—I had completely lost myself. I didn’t know who I was outside of the roles I played. I had dreams, goals, and passions, but they had been buried under years of sacrifice and survival. It was in that moment that I decided—I was done just surviving. It was time to reclaim my health, my confidence, and my purpose.
The journey wasn’t easy. I started with small steps, walking on a treadmill while listening to motivational podcasts. I committed to healing, not just physically but emotionally. I lost 150 pounds, rebuilt my mindset, and found the confidence to step into my true calling—helping other women do the same.
Now, as a transformation expert and mindset coach, I specialize in guiding ambitious yet unfulfilled women—whether they’re empty nesters, navigating career shifts, or feeling stuck—through their own breakthrough moments. Through The THRIVE Blueprint, my coaching programs, and my Rise and Thrive Mastermind, I help women reclaim their confidence, health, and purpose so they can step boldly into the next chapter of their lives.
But it’s not just about personal transformation—it’s about building legacy businesses that allow women to create financial independence and impact. I work with women who are ready to turn their passion into purpose-driven businesses, helping them step into entrepreneurship while prioritizing their well-being. Success shouldn’t come at the cost of health or fulfillment, and I help my clients design a business that aligns with their deepest values.
In addition to coaching, I launched Ember to Empire: A Women’s Collective, a growing networking group designed to connect, empower, and elevate women in business and leadership. I also share my journey and the lessons I’ve learned on my podcast, Unshakeable Belief, to inspire women everywhere to step into their power.
Looking back, I see now that every hardship prepared me for this mission. I was meant to rise so I could help others do the same. And if I can do it, so can you.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road to where I am today has been anything but smooth—it’s been a journey of resilience, reinvention, and rising from the ashes. Every step of the way has been met with challenges, but I’ve come to realize that struggle isn’t a roadblock—it’s part of the process of transformation.
For years, I lived in survival mode, carrying the weight of being the sole provider and caregiver for my family. The loss of my infant son, my husband’s traumatic brain injury, and my children’s medical struggles consumed me. I was so focused on taking care of everyone else that I completely neglected myself—physically, emotionally, and mentally. The breaking point came when my own health collapsed under the weight of stress, chronic illness, and years of self-sacrifice.
I was killing myself—not just from illness but from years of neglecting my health, pushing my emotions aside, and losing my identity in the process. I had stuffed down the pain with food and drowned it in constant busyness—filling my days with tasks that kept me distracted but never fulfilled.
I felt numb.
Disconnected.
I had no idea who I was anymore.
The wake-up call came when my doctor looked me in the eye and said, “If you don’t make drastic changes, you won’t be here much longer.” That moment shook me to my core. It wasn’t just my body that was failing—it was my entire sense of self. I had lost my identity in caregiving, in responsibilities, in putting everyone else first.
The hardest part of my journey wasn’t just losing 150 pounds or healing my body—it was confronting the emotional wounds that had kept me stuck for so long. I had to unlearn the belief that self-sacrifice equaled love. I had to fight through self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the fear of putting myself first. There were moments of deep guilt, fear, and even loneliness as I redefined my boundaries and stepped into a version of myself I hadn’t met before.
Building my coaching business also came with its own set of challenges. I had no formal business background. I was navigating entrepreneurship while still healing, still managing a household, still figuring out how to be a leader in my own life. There were times I doubted myself, wondering if people would take me seriously, if my story was enough, if I could truly make an impact.
But every struggle forced me to grow. Every setback gave me the tools I needed to help the women I now coach. I had to live through the challenges of losing myself, rebuilding my health, and overcoming fear in order to guide other women through their own reinvention.
Now, I see my struggles as my greatest teachers. They shaped me into the woman I am today—stronger, wiser, and more committed than ever to helping others reclaim their power.
The road hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it. And if I’ve learned anything, it’s that every challenge holds an opportunity for growth—if we’re willing to rise and take it.
We’ve been impressed with Monica Connolly Coaching, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At Monica Connolly Coaching, my mission is to help ambitious yet unfulfilled women break free from self-doubt, reclaim their confidence, health, and purpose, and step boldly into a life of impact. I specialize in transformation coaching for women navigating life transitions—whether they’re empty nesters, career shifters, or simply feeling stuck in their current season.
Using my THRIVE Blueprint, a holistic framework blending mindset mastery, self-leadership, and intentional action, I guide women from uncertainty to empowerment, helping them align their lives with their deepest values and aspirations. But my work isn’t just about personal transformation—it’s about legacy-building. I help women create businesses that reflect their purpose while prioritizing their health, well-being, and personal fulfillment.
What Sets My Brand Apart?
I don’t just coach from a textbook—I coach from lived experience. I know what it feels like to lose yourself in caregiving, responsibilities, and self-sacrifice, and I also know what it takes to reclaim your power. My journey of losing 150 pounds, healing my body, and rebuilding my life has given me firsthand insight into what real, lasting transformation requires.
What makes my coaching different is the deep integration of mindset, health, and purpose. Many women struggle to move forward because they’re only focusing on one piece of the puzzle. True success isn’t just about business growth or weight loss—it’s about aligning every part of your life so you can thrive in mind, body, and purpose.
My Offerings & Services
1:1 Private Coaching (for high-impact transformation in life, health, and business)
RESET 6-Week Group Coaching Program (for women ready to kickstart their transformation)
Rise & Thrive Mastermind (for those ready to step into leadership, build legacy businesses, and embrace their next level)
Speaking & Corporate Training (empowering women’s leadership and mindset breakthroughs)
Digital Courses & Membership Community (coming soon for ongoing coaching and support)
Gut Health & Wellness Coaching (helping women optimize their health for sustainable energy and success)
Ember to Empire: A Women’s Collective (a networking group designed to connect and elevate women entrepreneurs)
What I’m Most Proud of Brand-Wise
I’m most proud of the community and impact I’ve built. My work is more than just coaching—it’s about creating a movement of women who rise together. I’ve helped women step into leadership, launch businesses, reclaim their health, and transform their lives. Seeing my clients break generational cycles, set bold boundaries, and rewrite their stories fuels everything I do.
What I Want Readers to Know
If you’re a woman who has spent years pouring into others, feeling stuck, or struggling to reclaim your identity—I see you. And I want you to know that it’s never too late to rewrite your story. The life you desire—the one filled with confidence, energy, and purpose—is possible. And I’m here to help you step into it.
This is your time. Your time to rise. Your time to thrive. Your time to build a legacy you’re proud of. Let’s do it together.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Absolutely! Personal growth, mindset mastery, and leadership development are at the core of what I do, and I’m constantly learning and evolving. Here are some of my go-to resources that have shaped my journey and continue to help me show up as my best self—both in life and in business.
Books That Transformed My Mindset & Business
“Atomic Habits” by James Clear – A game-changer for building sustainable habits and breaking self-sabotaging cycles.
“The 5 Second Rule” by Mel Robbins – Helped me push past fear and take bold action, even when I didn’t feel ready.
“You Are a Badass” by Jen Sincero – A powerful reminder to stop playing small and step into my full potential.
“High Performance Habits” by Brendon Burchard – Essential for anyone looking to elevate their mindset, energy, and productivity.
“Dare to Lead” by Brené Brown – Helped me embrace vulnerability as a strength in leadership and coaching.
Books by Trent Shelton – His powerful messages on resilience, growth, and overcoming obstacles inspire me daily.
“Live WELLthy” by Dawn Dahlby – A great resource for shifting your money mindset and building true wealth.
“The Universe Is Hiring” by Aniston Riekstins – A transformational book on aligning with your purpose and calling in abundance.
Podcasts That Inspire & Educate Me
“The Ed Mylett Show” – Inspiring interviews with high-achievers who share their personal breakthroughs and strategies for success.
“On Purpose” by Jay Shetty – Deep conversations about purpose, mindfulness, and personal transformation.
“The Amberly Lago Show” – Focused on resilience, overcoming obstacles, and stepping into your power.
“The Unshakeable Belief Podcast” (my own!) – Where I bring in guests to discuss transformation, mindset, and building a life in purpose and on purpose.
“The Good Life” by Rudi and Aniston Riekstins – A powerful podcast on leadership, personal growth, and spirituality.
“Align the Good Life” by Brooke Hemingway – A must-listen for high-achievers who want balance in life, health, and business.
“Live Out Loud” by Brooke Thomas – A powerhouse podcast for women looking to grow their business and faith.
Apps That Keep Me On Track
Calendly – Helps me stay organized and streamline my coaching appointments and networking calls.
Canva – An essential tool for creating professional content and branding materials.
These resources have played a huge role in my growth as a coach, speaker, and entrepreneur. They help me stay aligned, motivated, and constantly evolving so I can serve my clients at the highest level.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://monicaconnollycoaching.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monicaconnollyandco/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/monica.a.connolly.7
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mnconnolly/
- Youtube: https://www.facebook.com/monica.a.connolly.7
