Meet Ouida Duncan

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ouida Duncan. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ouida below.

Hi Ouida, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

I discovered my purpose through books like Your Erroneous Zones by Dr. Wayne Dyer, which explores how self-defeating thought patterns obstruct growth and happiness. Dyer’s strategies for releasing guilt and fostering self-fulfillment inspired me to free myself from trauma bonds and guide others in doing the same. My journey has been one of faith, service, self-reflection, and international travel, shaped by my experiences.

As a severely traumatized person, I realized my passion for helping others heal and unlock their potential. Now, as a transformation coach, I empower individuals and communities to overcome self-doubt and embrace emotional intelligence. My work, grounded in integrity and empathy, aims to transform education and mentoring, creating a lasting impact for future generations.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

Growing up in Kingston, the New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut Tri-State area, and traveling to 30 countries, I bring a unique global perspective to my work. I’ve had the honor of coaching clients from five continents, helping them break through emotional barriers and worthiness issues to achieve profound breakthroughs. My approach combines strategic problem-solving with emotional intelligence, which leads to sustained confidence and success. My coaching practice is all about transforming mindsets and reminding people about their core values while helping them find their superpower from the inside out so they can reach their full potential, no matter their origin story.

As an iPEC-trained certified professional coach, one of the most exciting parts of my journey is the Duncan Tree Foundation, the charity I founded in 2008. We’re about to launch a game-changing initiative, the Kids in the Middle Coaching and Mentoring program. This program is designed to support students at risk of falling through the cracks, particularly those vulnerable to the school-to-prison pipeline. By providing emotional intelligence training, we help them overcome self-doubt and unlock their potential, creating powerful life shifts. Parents and teachers will also benefit through workshops that enhance their listening skills, patience, empathy, and understanding. This work is deeply meaningful and truly revolutionizes education.

To learn more visit www.duncantreefoundation.org

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, the three qualities that had the greatest impact on my journey are resilience, emotional intelligence, and a global mindset. As a lifelong learner, Landmark Curriculum for Living grad, and as a Hoffman Institute grad, studying at the master’s level at the University of Bath in Somerset, UK, taught me the value of adapting to new environments and thriving through change. Emotional intelligence, coupled with my faith, helped me understand both my own emotions and those of others—crucial in coaching and transforming lives. A global mindset and remaining curious allowed me to embrace diverse perspectives without judgment, shaping how I approach challenges.

For those early in their journey, I recommend forgiving yourself when you fall short of your goals and forgiving others who may not support or believe in your dreams. Develop resilience by seeing failures as opportunities to learn—each setback brings you closer to success. Cultivate emotional intelligence by actively listening, practicing empathy, and reflecting on your emotional responses. Finally, broaden your perspective by stepping outside your comfort zone, whether through travel, reading, or engaging with people from different cultures. These skills will form a strong foundation for growth and impact, no matter the path you choose.

Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?

One book that played a pivotal role in my development is The Value in the Valley by Iyanla Vanzant. It taught me that life’s valleys—the tough, the uncertain, and the painful moments—are necessary for personal growth. One key nugget of wisdom is the importance of embracing challenges instead of resisting them. These valleys are where true transformation occurs. Another impactful lesson is the power of self-reflection and accountability. Vanzant reminds me that we must own our choices and reactions, which empowers us to shift our perspectives and reclaim control over our lives. Finally, she emphasizes the need for faith and surrender, trusting that the valley moments are shaping us for something greater. These teachings have deeply influenced my approach to coaching and how I guide clients through their own valleys, helping them see that even in their darkest moments when it feels like all hope is lost, there is wisdom and opportunity for growth.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Final photo: with Reggie Van Lee a benefactor of Duncan Tree Foundation, Inc. Photographer, Nat Valentine.

All other photos:
Photographer Kyran Marshall

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