Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Darla Nelson of Turlock, CA

We recently had the chance to connect with Darla Nelson and have shared our conversation below.

Darla, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Outside of work, so many things bring me joy. What immediately came to mind when I read this question was being “Ooma” to our four grandkids—with one more on the way! Watching their wonder, excitement, and eagerness to learn lights me up. I also find joy in my daily walks, catching up with girlfriends over lunch, and simply being with our family. Those moments fill my heart.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Darla Nelson—Christian life coach, author, and speaker. I work with women (and a few wise men!) who are tired of living in constant stress and want to experience more peace, purpose, and connection in their lives. What makes my coaching unique is simple: I truly listen. I care deeply about my clients and walk alongside them through real-life challenges with faith, compassion, and practical tools that create lasting change.

I recently released my new book “I’m Fine. Really?”—now an Amazon bestseller. It’s a hope-filled, honest look at how to move from stress and anxious thoughts to a life of calm and clarity. Whether I’m coaching one-on-one, speaking at events, or writing, my heart is to help others feel seen, supported, and strengthened—mind, body, and soul.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
What breaks the bonds between people? Often it’s dishonesty, unkind words, or a lack of understanding. But what restores those bonds is just as powerful—honest conversations, vulnerability, forgiveness, and a willingness to connect on a deeper level. I believe healing happens when we choose love over judgment and remember that we’re all walking this journey of life together.

What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
Two of the defining wounds in my life were losing my brother 32 years ago, when I was a young mom, and later, losing my dad in 2013. My dad was such a steady, faith-filled presence and taught me what it means to truly live for God. The healing hasn’t come all at once, but over time—with the deep knowing that both of these men would want me to choose joy, to keep living with purpose, and to walk alongside others who are grieving. I honor their lives by encouraging others not to stay stuck in sadness, but to move forward with faith and compassion.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m deeply committed to the belief that we can change—our lives, our thoughts, and the way we speak to ourselves. Even if we’ve lived in negativity or doubt for years, we can learn to see life as half full instead of half empty. It takes intention, practice, and for me, a deep dependence on God. But with time, I’ve seen how this mindset shift brings peace—even in the midst of life’s hardest moments. It’s a message I live out personally and one I share with every client I coach

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people remember me as someone who loved deeply and without judgment. That I listened with my whole heart, made others feel seen and valued, and genuinely cared for the people around me. More than anything, I want to be remembered for the way I loved others.

Contact Info:

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