Today we’d like to introduce you to Symone Dunlap.
Hi Symone, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I went through a period where I felt trapped by depression, low self-esteem, colorism, and abuse, all of which were compounded by unresolved home issues. For so long, I kept silent about what I was going through, thinking that if I didn’t talk about it, I could escape it. But that silence only kept me bound to my pain. One day, I realized I had to make a change. I knew that leaving the man I loved and the home we built was going to be one of the hardest decisions I’d ever make, but I also felt that God was calling me back to Him and to reclaim my life.
On February 27th, 2018, I took my first step toward healing by breaking my silence and allowing others to see the real me. I started with my YouTube channel, doing an introduction video where I shared my story and began to reveal the deeper parts of myself—the ones that went beyond surface-level beauty. That moment was pivotal for me. It was the beginning of my therapeutic healing journey, which I now call “healing through talking.” From there, I grew into other platforms like my podcast and Instagram, where I continued sharing my testimony and helping others see their worth, too. It’s been a process, but it’s been transformative.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I remember hearing Andre Gaskin say, “Once you give God a yes, expect all hell to break loose,” and I can say that has been so true for me. The struggles I’ve faced have been immense—fear, doubt, complacency, self-sabotage, homelessness, judgment, and so much more. I didn’t realize just how heavy it would be to address trauma, or how deeply the things we go through shape who we are called to be. It’s one thing to know there’s a purpose, but it’s another to wrestle with the things people have spoken over you or the labels they’ve placed on you.
It was a journey of learning to differentiate between who I was created to be and the false narratives I had internalized. The process wasn’t linear, and there were moments I felt like giving up, but through it all, I learned that healing takes time, and growth is often messy.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As SymoneTalks I serve as a Mental Health Advocate and a certified Confidence Life Coach, specializing in helping women find freedom in God through therapeutic conversations that release burdens and embrace joy. My work is rooted in empowering others, especially women, to break free from the chains of fear, doubt, and trauma, and live confidently in their God-given purpose. I’m known for my podcast Word A Word and for curating the A Confident You in Christ women’s conference, which provides a space for deep healing, growth, and empowerment. I aim to reach those who feel ashamed, alone, confused, or lost, reminding them that they are worthy of love, support, and healing.
What I’m most proud of is that even though I once felt so low that I wanted to die, God didn’t allow me to give up. I’m now able to share my testimony with others, and that’s something I know will save lives. What sets me apart is not just my heart for people, but my creativity. Every event, conversation, and project I engage in is about impact—lifting others up, walking with them in their purpose, and showing up with love. I’m committed to pouring into others because I know the support and encouragement we offer can change lives, provide hope, and restore spirits.
When people encounter my brand or my work, I want them to feel the love of God radiating from me and leave with the freedom they need to walk in their purpose. That’s what drives everything I do.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My advice to those just starting out is this: don’t rush the process and trust your journey. It’s easy to get caught up in comparisons or feel like you’re falling behind, but everyone’s path is unique. Your story and your struggles will shape your success in ways that only you can understand.
One thing I wish I knew when I was starting out is how important patience with yourself is. I often felt frustrated when things didn’t move as quickly as I wanted or when I didn’t see immediate results. But healing, growth, and success take time. It’s not about a quick fix or an overnight transformation—it’s about consistency, faith, and resilience.
Also, remember that it’s okay to ask for help and lean on others when you need support. We weren’t meant to do everything alone. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and your mission. And most importantly, trust God’s timing—He knows the right doors to open and the right path to take.
Finally, don’t be afraid to share your truth. What you’re going through, what you’ve overcome, and even what you’re still working through has the potential to help someone else. The more you show up authentically, the more you create a space for others to do the same.
Pricing:
- Confidence Coaching $50 per hour
- Speaking Engagements starts at $250
- Confidence Building Seminar or Workshop $500 and up
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.symonetalk.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/symonetalks?utm_source=ig_profile_share&igshid=1puckqio6ea15
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/12HhsQmetcc/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@symonetalks?si=-pw_-5uKOJjbrE7R
- Other: https://anchor.fm/symone-dunlap
