Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Dr Pamela Gurley

Dr Pamela Gurley shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Pamela, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is a normal day like for you right now?
A normal day for me starts with either prayer or meditation, which helps ground me before anything else. I get up, feed my furbaby, and then make coffee and breakfast. I’ve recently cut out added sugar, processed carbs, and alcohol from my diet, and I’m already feeling healthier and more energized as a result. My focus is sharper, my mood is more balanced, and I’ve noticed I sleep better at night. These changes have really helped me feel more in control of my well-being.

Lately, I’ve committed to working out every day, and after seven days in a row, I’m genuinely surprised by how much better I feel. Honestly, I haven’t always been the type of person who enjoyed the gym or working out. That sense of accomplishment and energy has been a game-changer for me.

Outside of my wellness routine, I work and then spend time working on creative projects. Currently, I’m writing new chapters for the first book I published in 2019 (a 2nd edition), which I plan to re-release this year. I’m also working on a companion journal to “The Pedestal Philosophy,” which will be released on November 8, along with my children’s book, “Kofi Roux the Yorkipoo.”

My days are a mix of self-care, focused work, and creative growth, and I’m really enjoying this chapter of my life.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Dr. Pamela Gurley, and I am a speaker, author, and founder of both Clark and Hill Enterprise and the Brown Girl and Brown Boy Literacy Foundation. My work is all about empowerment, transformation, and challenging social norms, whether I’m on stage, writing, or working behind the scenes. Through my foundation, I focus on inspiring a love of reading and writing in children, especially those who don’t always see themselves reflected in the stories they read.

What makes my journey unique is that I wear many hats: I’m an entrepreneur, a full-time professional, and a creative who’s passionate about mental wellness and leadership. I’ve written 30 books (mostly for children aged 4 to 9), and I’m currently preparing to re-release my very first book, along with two new publications and a companion journal. I’m also deeply invested in helping others grow, whether that’s through my writing coaching, speaking engagements, or my weekly podcast for women.

At the heart of everything I do is a commitment to authenticity and empowerment. I love connecting with people, sharing real stories, and helping others find their own voice. My mission is to make a positive impact, one story, one event, and one conversation at a time.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
Honestly, there would be a long list of names since it is not just one relationship/person that has shaped how I see myself. Every connection, both good and bad, personal and professional, has contributed to who I am today. The positive relationships have encouraged and inspired me, showing me what is possible and helping me grow. The challenging ones have taught me resilience, self-awareness, and the importance of boundaries. All have taught me how and when to advocate or speak up for myself.

Each experience has added a new layer to my perspective. I truly believe that every person I have crossed paths with has contributed something valuable to my journey. I carry those lessons with me, and they continue to shape how I show up in my work, my relationships, and my life.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be to listen to your intuition, let go of the idea that you have to be perfect, and truly love everything about yourself. Your instincts are powerful and will guide you, even when you are unsure or afraid. It is okay to make mistakes and not have it all figured out. Perfection is not the goal; growth and self-acceptance are what truly matter.

I would remind my younger self that every part of who you are is worthy of love and respect. Embrace your unique qualities, celebrate your strengths, and be gentle with your flaws. Life becomes so much more fulfilling when you allow yourself to be authentic and show yourself compassion. You are enough, just as you are, and you always have been.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. How do you differentiate between fads and real foundational shifts?
I have never been one to buy into fads. Most of the time, I don’t even notice trends until they have already passed or are on the verge of passing. {laughing} If I were younger, I would pay more attention, but I am very intentional about my energy and where I place it. What I really pay attention to are foundational shifts. These are the deeper changes that have a lasting impact on how we live, work, or think.

I believe in taking the time to understand what is truly behind a new idea or movement. If something aligns with my values and feels meaningful or sustainable, I am much more likely to embrace it. Fads come and go, but I am drawn to changes that create real growth and positive transformation.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If immortality were real, what would you build?
If immortality were real, I would dedicate my endless time to building something that truly changes lives for generations. I would create a global network of literacy and empowerment centers, places where children and adults alike could discover the power of their own voices, learn to read and write, and gain the confidence to shape their own futures. These centers would offer not just books, but mentorship, leadership training, and creative opportunities for people from all walks of life.

With unlimited time, I would also focus on building a living archive of stories—personal narratives, cultural histories, and lessons learned from people around the world. My hope would be to inspire and connect communities, encourage empathy, and help people realize their full potential. If I could leave an everlasting legacy, it would be one rooted in education, empowerment, and the belief that every person’s story matters.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Photography by Deasia Photography

Suggest a Story: BoldJourney is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems,
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Highlighter Series
What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?

Coffee? Workouts? Hitting the snooze button 14 times? Everyone has their morning ritual and we

Highlighter Series
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?

Our deepest wounds often shape us as much as our greatest joys. The pain we

Highlighter Series
Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?

Culture, economic circumstances, family traditions, local customs and more can often influence us more than