We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Dr. Marita Kinney, BCC, Msc.D a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Dr. Marita thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?
Embracing Authenticity
The defining moment in my professional career wasn’t tied to a single achievement or milestone, it was the moment I stopped being afraid to be myself. I realized that my story, with all its challenges and victories, wasn’t something to hide—it was actually my superpower.
For a long time, I believed that success meant presenting myself as the expert, the one with all the answers. But something shifted when I began to embrace authenticity and transparency. I discovered that people weren’t looking for perfection or expertise—they were looking for someone who could stand beside them, someone who truly understood their struggles because they had been there themselves. That’s what gave me credibility and respect, not any of my degrees.
It became clear that my pain wasn’t just something to overcome; it was a part of my purpose. The challenges I had faced in life weren’t meant to break me—they were meant to shape me into someone who could help others navigate their own storms. I wasn’t just surviving adversity; I was being equipped to offer hope, guidance, and encouragement to others who were walking similar paths.
That realization changed everything. I stopped hiding behind the façade of who I thought I should be and leaned fully into who I truly was. I began to share my journey openly—my struggles, my triumphs, and everything in between. The more I shared, the more I connected with people on a deeper level. They didn’t just see me as someone successful—they saw me as someone relatable, someone who had walked through the fire and come out stronger.
This shift in perspective not only transformed the trajectory of my career but also gave me clarity about my purpose. It taught me that my greatest impact comes from being real, vulnerable, and present. It’s not about standing above others but standing beside them, offering hope and a hand to hold.
The lesson I’ve learned is this: your story is your strength, and your authenticity is your greatest asset. When you embrace who you truly are, you unlock the power to inspire, uplift, and make a difference in ways you never imagined. That moment of self-discovery was the turning point for me, and it continues to guide everything I do. It shaped my ability to connect authentically with others, and it fuels my passion for helping people transform their lives and businesses.
Dr. Marita , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
For those who may not know me, my name is Dr. Marita Kinney. I am a board certified transformational life and business coach, metaphysical practitioner, author, and publisher. I am the proud owner of Pure Thoughts Publishing and Wellness, where I help individuals bring their creative visions to life while focusing on their overall well-being.
With a global impact, with over 19,000 students and counting, my work is centered on empowering others to live a purpose-driven life.
Through my coaching programs, courses, and publishing services, I specialize in helping my clients identify their strengths, overcome limiting beliefs, and craft strategies that lead to success. Whether it’s coaching someone through the book publishing process, developing leadership skills, or creating an eCourse, my focus is on helping others turn their ideas into impactful realities.
One of the core problems I solve is helping individuals find clarity and confidence in their abilities, especially when they’ve doubted themselves. Many of my clients come to me overwhelmed, unsure of their next steps, or struggling with self-worth. Through faith-based strategies, practical tools, and personalized guidance, I help them break barriers and create legacies that last.
What sets me apart is my authenticity and transparency. I’m not just someone with knowledge; I’m someone who has been through the fire and come out stronger. I’ve faced the challenges of self-doubt, personal growth, and reinvention, and I use those experiences to guide my clients with empathy and understanding. My work isn’t just about achieving goals—it’s about transforming lives.
In addition to publishing and coaching, I’m honored to serve on the Health Science and Wellness Advisory Board for Purdue University Global, where I contribute to shaping impactful wellness initiatives. I’m also the founder of Layers of a Woman, a personal development group that empowers women to embrace growth, healing, and self-discovery.
One of the things I’m most proud of is the ripple effect of my work. Knowing that the books I’ve helped publish, the businesses I’ve coached, and the lives I’ve touched are creating lasting change for families and communities inspires me every day. I’m also deeply honored to be part of initiatives like the Global Black Economic Forum and the Advancing Excellence Academy, where I can continue to make an impact on a larger scale and also honored to be a member of Forbes Coaching Council.
If you’re considering working with me, here’s what I want you to know: My brand is built on faith, resilience, and the belief that transformation is possible for anyone willing to put in the work. Whether you’re looking to publish your story, grow your business, or elevate your life, I’m here to help you turn your potential into purpose and create a legacy that lasts.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
I firmly believe that success starts with your mindset. As a metaphysical practitioner, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful our thoughts and beliefs are in shaping the outcomes of our lives. Your mindset isn’t just important—it’s everything. It’s the foundation of how you perceive challenges, approach opportunities, and define what success means to you.
One of the most transformative aspects of cultivating a success-driven mindset is the process of unlearning. We often carry beliefs and habits that no longer serve us—ideas we’ve been taught or experiences that have shaped our fears and limitations. Unlearning those patterns is just as important as adopting new, empowering ones. It’s about letting go of the negative narratives and replacing them with thoughts that align with your purpose and potential.
In my work, I emphasize the importance of aligning your thoughts, emotions, and actions with the outcomes you desire. Success doesn’t just happen externally—it begins internally. By shifting your perspective, reprogramming your mind, and focusing on growth, you set yourself up for lasting success.
When you believe in yourself, remove mental roadblocks, and embrace a mindset of abundance and resilience, you open the door to opportunities you might not have thought possible. For me, mindset isn’t just a part of success—it’s the key to unlocking it.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been a combination of word-of-mouth referrals and social proof through public reviews. I receive 100% of my business this way, and it’s because I’ve built a reputation for delivering consistent, high-quality results. When my work speaks for itself, it creates a ripple effect—satisfied clients naturally share their positive experiences, and public reviews build confidence for future clients considering working with me.
Sharing the number of enrollments or success stories from those I’ve helped also plays a significant role. People want to see evidence of results, and transparency about my impact reassures them that they’re making the right decision.
Beyond this, consistency is crucial. Staying committed to delivering exceptional service in my field, continuing to learn, and evolving with market trends have been key to maintaining my relevance and appeal. The ability to adapt, grow, and stay ahead in my industry ensures that I not only meet my clients’ needs but exceed their expectations.
Ultimately, building trust through authenticity, results, and continuous improvement has been the cornerstone of my success in growing my clientele.
Contact Info:
- Website: maritakinney.com
- Instagram: @drmaritakinney
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-marita-kinney-bcc-msc-d-163b0336/
- Other: https://www.udemy.com/user/maritakinney/