We recently connected with Debbie Scofield and have shared our conversation below.

Debbie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear about the best boss, mentor, or leader you’ve ever worked with.

Ray Amanat, my mentor, Martial Arts instructor, boss, and friend, has been an exceptional leader whose impact on my personal and professional journey has been truly remarkable. Ray’s leadership style is characterized by a unique blend of wisdom, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to empowering those around him

As my mentor, Ray has consistently gone above and beyond to provide guidance and support. He possesses an incredible ability to see potential in others and has always believed in my abilities, even when I doubted myself. His insightful advice and constructive feedback have helped shape my skills and encouraged me to push beyond my limits.

In his role as my boss, Ray has been an exemplary leader. He leads by example, demonstrating integrity, professionalism, and a strong work ethic. He fosters a culture of collaboration and encourages open communication, making me feel valued and heard. He always tells me two things to remember about presenting a seminar: Whether one person shows up or 100, always give it your best and don’t try to be like him, make it my own. I watch and learn as I see him working with children and adults with disabilities and how he tailors the material to each of their specific needs. He inspires me to be better every day.

What sets Ray apart as a leader is his genuine care for the well-being and success of those he leads. Beyond professional development, he takes the time to understand the personal aspirations and challenges of his team members. He offers unwavering support, providing resources and opportunities for growth and development. His belief in my potential has instilled a sense of confidence and motivation that has propelled me forward.

Overall, Ray Amanat’s impact on my journey cannot be overstated. Through his mentorship, instruction, leadership, and friendship, he has not only helped shape my skills and knowledge but has also nurtured my personal growth and self-belief. I am truly grateful for the privilege of having Ray in my life, and I can confidently say that his leadership has been instrumental in my success.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Currently, I hold the position of Executive Vice President and serve as a Personal Safety Instructor at Heroes In Action, a nonprofit organization dedicated to violence prevention education.

My journey in martial arts began 25 years ago when I owned a pet grooming salon and often found myself alone at work. Seeking self-defense skills as a precautionary measure, little did I know that it would evolve into a lifelong pursuit and ultimately become my lasting legacy.

Throughout my martial arts training, I have had the privilege of learning from various instructors. However, Mr. Ray Amanat has been my primary guide since the beginning. Seventeen years ago, he established Heroes In Action with a profound motivation rooted in his own experiences of severe bullying from grade school to high school. Determined to prevent others from enduring similar hardships, he embarked on a mission to empower individuals and teach them how to avoid becoming victims of violence.

Six years ago, I received a diagnosis of Pulmonary Fibrosis, a progressive lung disease. Like anyone in such a situation, I turned to the internet for information, only to find articles suggesting a life expectancy of approximately five years post-diagnosis. Refusing to surrender to such predictions, I adopted a regimen of diet, exercise, supplements, and healthy living practices, allowing me to remain within the “normal range” and to look forward to many more years ahead. However, this diagnosis forced me to confront my mortality and consider if I was leaving a positive impact on the world. It was around this time that I began volunteering for Heroes In Action, assisting Mr. Amanat with his seminars. During a dinner together following one of our presentations, I expressed my desire for the nonprofit organization to be my legacy. It encompassed all of my passions: teaching, martial arts, and, stemming from my own survival from an abusive marriage in my 20s, empowering women. Consequently, I sold my grooming salon in 2019 and dedicated myself full-time to H.I.A.

At Heroes In Action, we offer a range of programs designed to meet diverse needs. Whether you require a one-day seminar or ongoing training, all of our services are provided free of charge. We offer anti-bullying and child safety programs for schools and children’s organizations, women’s self-defense and family safety programs, active senior safety training, as well as guidance for businesses and churches on acting as a cohesive unit during active shooter situations. We address all the “what if…” questions that may arise and equip participants with the techniques necessary for their personal safety and the safety of those around them. Tailoring each program to accommodate individual abilities, we emphasize creating an enjoyable, informative, and comfortable learning environment for all participants.

It is a sobering fact that one in three individuals will encounter violence at some point in their lives. If I can teach even a single child or woman to protect themselves or teach someone how to save the life of a loved one, then my life holds true purpose.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Martial arts have been a journey that offers many rewarding aspects, both physical and mental. One of the most gratifying elements is the continuous personal growth and self-improvement that comes with the practice. Martial arts require discipline, commitment, and perseverance. The sense of accomplishment gained from mastering new techniques, overcoming challenges, and pushing one’s limits fosters a deep sense of pride and boosts self-confidence.

Moreover, martial arts instill a strong sense of discipline and focus. The training demands concentration and mental clarity, which translates into increased mindfulness and the ability to stay present in other areas of life. Through martial arts, I have learned to control my thoughts and emotions, developing a heightened level of self-awareness. This mental resilience carries over into everyday situations, helping me to approach challenges with a calm and composed mindset.

The rewards of learning martial arts extend far beyond the physical techniques. It becomes a holistic journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and a path toward becoming the best version of oneself. From the tangible progress in skills and abilities to the intangible development of character and mindset, martial arts have offered a deeply fulfilling and enriching experience for me.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Joining several business networking groups has played a crucial role in establishing my reputation as a personal safety expert. Through networking, I have acquired invaluable skills that have bolstered my confidence in public speaking, confidently handling impromptu questions, and building a relationship with businesses and nonprofits. By arranging one-on-one meetings, I have had the opportunity to not only understand the needs of others but also showcase our programs and establish trust in my qualifications. These connections frequently lead to invitations to speak before other groups or conduct seminars. As word spreads about the valuable knowledge gained and the enjoyable experiences had, a positive reputation develops, fostering organic referrals and further opportunities.

Additionally, I actively seize opportunities to enhance my visibility and allow readers to become acquainted with me through platforms like CanvasReble. Also, having a booth at events such as festivals and fairs, where I can engage with the public directly. Wearing branded clothing and displaying a magnetic sign on my car serve as conversation starters, encouraging people to inquire and initiate discussions. I firmly believe that face-to-face interactions foster trust and credibility, as individuals have the chance to personally connect and establish a genuine rapport.      

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.heroesinaction.us
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/debbiescofield1/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/debbie.scofield1
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/BeAHeroInAction
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DebbieScofield
• Other: https://poplme.co/hash/gUFdkUsr/1/s