We recently connected with Lisa Charles and have shared our conversation below.
Lisa, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Overcoming imposter syndrome has been a journey that required me to draw upon the very skills I honed as a prosecutor. The courtroom taught me the art of discovery, the power of direct and cross-examination, and the importance of a strong closing statement. These skills, typically applied in the pursuit of justice, became invaluable tools in my personal quest to uncover and embrace my true self.
Discovery: Uncovering My True Self
In the legal world, discovery is the process of gathering evidence and understanding the facts of a case. I applied this process inwardly, embarking on a journey of self-discovery. This involved peeling back layers to reveal my innermost core—my loves, dreams, passions, and moral compass. I took the time to reflect deeply on what drives me, what makes me feel alive, and the values that guide my life. Integrity, kindness, compassion, truthfulness, generosity, and my connection with God emerged as the pillars of my being. This was more than just an intellectual exercise; it was a spiritual and emotional awakening that helped me to see myself as a person of worth, deserving of every opportunity and success that came my way.
Direct Examination: Developing My Core Qualities
Just as direct examination involves questioning witnesses to build a case, I spent time nurturing and developing those qualities that are central to who I am. I focused on activities and practices that tied me to my purpose, like engaging in acts of kindness, cultivating compassion, and deepening my connection with God through prayer and meditation. I also pursued my passions with renewed vigor, allowing myself to dream big and invest in the things that truly matter to me. By consciously developing these qualities, I began to build a solid foundation of self-worth that could stand firm against the winds of doubt and insecurity.
Cross-Examination: Confronting and Overcoming Barriers
In the courtroom, cross-examination is used to challenge and expose weaknesses in testimony. In my personal journey, it became a tool to confront the barriers that fed my imposter syndrome—fears, negative thinking, and self-doubt. I questioned these barriers rigorously, seeking to understand their origins and dismantle their hold over me. Where did these fears come from? What beliefs were at the root of my negative thinking? By analyzing and understanding these barriers, I developed strategies to counteract them. I replaced self-doubt with self-compassion, fear with faith, and negativity with positive affirmations. This process of cross-examination empowered me to see these barriers for what they were—false narratives that no longer served me.
Utilizing Expert Witnesses: Leaning on a Positive Community
Just as expert witnesses provide crucial insights in a trial, I leaned on a community of people who knew my heart and uplifted me. These were individuals who saw my potential, believed in my purpose, and reminded me of my strengths when I struggled to see them myself. They served as mirrors reflecting back the best parts of me, helping me to stay grounded in my truth and focused on my goals. This positive community was instrumental in reinforcing the belief that I was not an imposter, but someone with a unique purpose and the ability to achieve great things.
Closing Statement: Affirming My Purpose and Power
Finally, I crafted my own closing statement—a declaration of my excellence, rooted in the qualities and passions that define me. It became a powerful reminder of who I am and what I stand for. My closing statement is a testament to my belief that I can do all things through the strength God gives me. It’s a reminder that with faith the size of a mustard seed, I can say to a mountain move and it can be moved. Nothing is impossible. This affirmation not only quieted the voices of doubt but also became a source of inspiration and strength, guiding me forward with confidence and purpose.
In the end, the journey of overcoming imposter syndrome was not just about silencing self-doubt; it was about fully embracing who I am, guided by the principles and values that define me. Through discovery, direct examination, cross-examination, and the support of a positive community, I was able to step into my power and pursue my purpose with unwavering faith.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
When was the last time you dared to dream BIG? Seriously, think about it. Do you remember a time when you had ambitious goals and unstoppable energy? A time when nothing could hold you back? But now, does everything feel like a nightmare? Year after year, day after day, nothing changes except the rising cost of living. You feel frustrated, hurt, and most of all, stuck. There’s a huge disconnect between where you are now and where you want to be. Does it feel like life is passing you by?
It’s like society, life, and everything else have conspired to make you believe that your best days are behind you. You’re tired of being defined by your job, but what else is there? Your mental health is all over the place, you barely recognize your own body with the weight changes, and your business—well, what business?
This was me too. Yes, me, Coach Lisa! Years ago, I was a seasoned Federal prosecutor, locking up the bad guys, taking them off the streets to make society better. But then I hit a point where I asked myself, “Is this all there is?” What happens when you find yourself in a prison of your own making? Is this you too? Have your dreams been dashed over time, leaving you to settle for what’s expected? I know I did! And now, are you letting society and life lock you up? I can’t let this happen to another woman or man—not on my watch!
So what if your dreams didn’t come true on your timeline? Fear crept in, and that fear became a way of life. Weight gain or loss, mental instability, and a negative outlook on life have become your new normal.
What now? Deep down, you’re yearning for so much more—but how?
I’m Lisa Charles, CEO of Yes, Coach Lisa!, an award-winning keynote speaker, the creator of sold-out BBB retreats, and the best-selling author of “Yes! Commit. Do. Live It.” I empower professional women and men to elevate their Brain, Body, and Business Wellness Journey, enabling them to live stress-free, energized lives without the fear of failure. With my 3B method, it’s time to break free from the bars that have held you back. Are you ready? Join me.
It feels incredible to go from locking people up to now freeing others from the imaginary prisons that society and we ourselves create.
Plot twist—in the midst of life changes…
What if who you are now doesn’t match who you used to be? What if the people around you don’t challenge you or grow with you? Where do you go? That’s why I’m here! Is it time for a plot twist, a flipping of the script? Who are you now? Let’s discover that together, with me as your guide.
My unique B3 strategies are crafted from my diverse experiences as a federal prosecutor, entertainer, and Fitness/Wellness Research Coordinator at Rutgers University. This approach makes wellness in health, mind, and business accessible and achievable for everyone.
As a pioneer in Brain, Body, and Business Alignment, I help clients rediscover themselves, their true passions, and reclaim their bodies and spirits. I specialize in Sleep Management and Breathing Techniques, guiding corporate teams and individuals to break free from limiting beliefs, ignite creativity, and transcend age-related barriers. Through our sold-out international retreats, my innovative top-down, inside-out methodology transforms lives, helping people reach their fullest potential, experience lasting happiness, and achieve their dreams.
In addition, I am the Co-Creator of Reinventing the Woman – an International woman’s mastery group dedicated to elevating all dimensions of health (Mental, Emotional, Physical and Spiritual). (www.rtwtribe.com).
I also am the creator of a Healing Blog called “Transformation.” It is designed to uplift lives and calm spirits. (www.yescoachlisa.com/blog)
Join me on a journey to shatter your limits, embrace wellness, and achieve the extraordinary.

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, three qualities and skills that were most impactful in my journey were resilience, self-awareness, and the ability to embrace continuous learning. Each of these played a crucial role in overcoming challenges and navigating the transitions in my life, from being a Federal prosecutor to becoming a wellness coach and entrepreneur.
Resilience: Life throws many curveballs, and resilience is what allows you to keep going even when things get tough. For me, resilience was about not giving up, even when I felt stuck or when my dreams seemed out of reach. It’s the quality that helped me push through self-doubt, setbacks, and the fear of failure.
Advice: To develop resilience, start by embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. Practice self-compassion when things don’t go as planned, and remind yourself that setbacks are temporary. Build a support system of people who encourage you, and engage in practices like mindfulness or journaling to strengthen your mental and emotional endurance.
Self-Awareness: Understanding who you are at your core—your values, passions, and strengths—was critical in aligning my career and life choices with my true self. Self-awareness helped me recognize when I was off track and guided me back to a path that was authentic to who I am.
Advice: To cultivate self-awareness, spend time in reflection, whether through meditation, journaling, or simply quiet contemplation. Ask yourself deep questions about what drives you, what makes you happy, and what your core values are. Regularly check in with yourself to see if your actions align with your true self. Seeking feedback from trusted mentors or friends can also provide valuable insights into areas where you might be blind to your own strengths or weaknesses.
Embracing Continuous Learning: The world is constantly changing, and the ability to adapt by continuously learning new skills and knowledge has been vital in my journey. Whether it was learning about fitness and wellness or diving into business management, being open to learning kept me evolving and relevant.
Advice: Develop a mindset that sees learning as a lifelong journey. Stay curious, seek out new experiences, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone to acquire new skills. Invest time in reading, taking courses, or attending workshops related to your interests or career. Surround yourself with people who inspire you to grow and learn, and never stop asking questions.
For those early in their journey, these qualities—resilience, self-awareness, and a commitment to continuous learning—will be your foundation. Nurture them, and you’ll find yourself better equipped to face challenges, make informed decisions, and grow into the person you aspire to be.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Yes, I am actively seeking partners and collaborators who are passionate about empowering women and making a positive impact on the world. I’m hosting an International Retreat from April 24th-28th, 2025, in the beautiful Dominican Republic, where we will celebrate women and their incredible influence. This retreat, titled “Reinventing the Woman,” is more than just an event—it’s a journey of transformation, set in a community that values family, friendship, and personal growth.
I am looking for sponsors and vendors who align with this mission and want to be part of this transformative experience. If you have a brand or business that resonates with the themes of empowerment, wellness, and personal development, I’d love to explore how we can work together to make this retreat an unforgettable experience for all participants.
Additionally, I’m seeking readers and supporters for my Transformation Blog. This platform is where I share insights, stories, and strategies on how to live a life of purpose and fulfillment. By partnering with me, you can help spread these messages globally, reaching women who are ready to step into their power and reinvent their lives.
If you’re interested in collaborating, sponsoring the retreat, or supporting my blog, please reach out to me directly. You can connect with me through my website, social media channels, or email. Let’s join forces to inspire, uplift, and create a lasting impact together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.yescoachlisa.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisaembracefitness/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yescoachlisa/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/embraceyourfitness/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/YesCoachLisa
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@yescoachlisacharles
- Other: https://vimeo.com/916119991?share=copy – Speaker ReelLisa Charles Documentary – a Bayer Mack Production: https://vimeo.com/530120544




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