We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Dr. Joanne Chestnut a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Dr. Joanne, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
When I was young, life threw me challenges that felt insurmountable. Growing up, I faced a turbulent childhood, navigating hardships and learning how to survive in circumstances that many wouldn’t imagine. These experiences shaped the resilient, determined person I am today. Despite the obstacles, I developed an unyielding belief: even with broken wings, we can still fly.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am the founder of Whole Well You, a purpose-driven wellness organization based in Atlanta, Georgia, committed to helping individuals heal from emotional trauma so they can step into their power and fulfill their purpose.
What I do is deeply personal and profoundly purposeful. I work at the intersection of healing and entrepreneurship, creating safe spaces for individuals, especially women, to unpack their pain, rewrite their narrative, and become successful leaders in life and business. I’ve turned my own journey of trauma, loss, and rebirth into a movement of resilience and restoration through coaching programs, trauma-informed workshops, leadership development courses, and bestselling books like Birds with Broken Wings Still Fly.
What’s most exciting about my work is witnessing the moment someone realizes they are not broken, they are becoming. I specialize in helping people move from survival mode to success mindset, using evidence-based tools, spiritual insight, and personal development models like my signature ASISST Model and From Broke to Boss framework.
Right now, I’m focused on expanding my platform through speaking engagements, digital course offerings, and national wellness events. One of the most exciting things on the horizon is the Whole Well You Conference, a transformational experience designed to equip attendees with tools for emotional healing, business growth, and personal breakthrough. We’re also launching the From Broke to Boss Entrepreneurs Connect, a membership community that offers support, education, and networking for purpose-driven entrepreneurs.
If there’s one thing I want readers to know, it’s this: your wings may feel broken, but you can still fly. I am living proof. My brand isn’t just about healing, it’s about helping others bet on themselves, build sustainable businesses, and live lives that reflect wholeness, worth, and unwavering faith.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Developing my prayer life was instrumental in my personal growth and development. One of the best qualities that I practice is always showing up as my authentic self.
Effective verbal and written communication skills have taken me a long way.
Knowledge of others cultures has been helpful in navigating different spaces and has had a great impact on my career and journey in business.
The best advice I have to offer is to get an alignment with your purpose and find a mentor who can help guide and develop your skills and character. You will need to grow in both areas.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I am looking to collaborate with others in the space of trauma-informed coaching, business & leadership development, particularly women in business looking for support, tools, strategies, and resources to scale their business and heal from trauma.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://drjoannechestnut.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.joy_chestnut?igsh=eWR5ZjFod2lpdzNn&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ECBqfRTtx/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: @dr.joy_chestnut
Image Credits
Mmenyene Ekpenyong
