Wanda Lopez on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We recently had the chance to connect with Wanda Lopez and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Wanda, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Something outside of work that has been bringing me joy lately is my weekly Bible study. A small group of us, spanning all ages, gathers to read scripture and share our insights. Together, we fill our spiritual cups and encourage one another on our journeys. This year has been especially meaningful, as it has blessed me with a true sense of community—people united by a desire to grow closer to God or to open themselves to spiritual healing in whatever form that may take.

Because I believe in holistic healing, I see spiritual wellness as an essential part of the whole. For me personally, nurturing my spirit through study, reflection, and fellowship is just as important as caring for my emotional, physical, and mental health.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am the creator of the HerStoryinasmile Movement, an initiative dedicated to advocating for women’s trauma and mental health. Through educational posts and storytelling, I highlight the profound impact these experiences have on women, while also sharing the hidden truths behind their smiles—hence the name “Her -Story – In – A – Smile”.

This movement was born from my own personal journey, where my smile often served as the only shield between myself and the world. It became the starting point of reclaiming my voice and embracing the truth that healing is not something to be ashamed of, but something to be empowered by.

My mission is to remind women that it is never too late to reclaim our voices, our power, and our sense of self. Most importantly, I want women to know they are not alone in their walk of healing from trauma or in overcoming the challenges of mental health. By combining storytelling and photography, I strive to create visibility, foster connection, and inspire resilience.

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 part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
The belief that I must overperform, overcare, or overgive to the people I love in order to keep their love has served its purpose. At one time, it may have helped me feel secure and worthy, but now I recognize that true love does not require constant proving or self-sacrifice. I release this belief with gratitude for the lessons it taught me, and I embrace the truth that I am deserving of love simply by being myself.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
You are such an amazing protector of those you love. But remember, your worth isn’t measured only by how much you protect others; it shines simply because of who you are.”

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
A project I am committed to, no matter how long it takes, is the movement I created. My intention is to continue growing it so that it serves as both an online and real-life space where women feel safe to open up, speak their truths, and share their stories.

As women, we often carry strength like a shield… even among one another. But I believe that, at our core, women are meant to feel seen, supported, and uplifted by other women. This movement is my way of creating that visibility and fostering a community where healing and empowerment can flourish.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
My hope is that whoever I have the privilege of crossing paths within this lifetime remembers me as someone unafraid to speak from the innermost depths of my heart; someone who embraced emotional depth without hesitation.

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