Today we’d like to introduce you to Wanda La Russa.
Hi Wanda, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Wanda La Russa and I’m passionate about speaking, volunteering and have never met a carne asada taco that I didn’t like. Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, I bring my experience and knowledge of diversity and multiculturalism to my presentations. I studied Human Development as a part of my Liberal Studies Bachelors of Arts degree from California State University, East Bay, and have continued to learn and research self-development, human dynamics, mental health, relationships, and mindset. I’ve brought my education and skill set to a number of endeavors. I was an elementary school teacher and also having worked in direct sales for various companies, I was able to lead nationwide teams and achieve top sales, and was recognized by receiving awards for my team-building skills. Because of my successful leadership, I was also asked to be a trainer at team meetings, as well as both district and regional conferences. I relocated from Northern California to North Texas in 2018 and have conducted numerous workshops in-person and in a teleconferencing format in the DFW Metroplex and nationwide.
I have also served in numerous leadership and membership roles including:
Chapter Member & Committee Chairman, Lakeside Leaders Of American Business Women’s Association
Toastmasters International
National Speakers Assosciation
Black Speakers Network
President & Board Of Directors, Soroptimist International Of Dallas
President & Board Of Directors, Soroptimist International Of Patterson
Parent Representative & Board Of Directors, Bengals Youth Football And Cheerleading Organization
Founding Member & First President, Business Women’s Connection
I Have Also Received The Following Awards And Recognition Including:
2022-2023 Woman Of The Year For The Lakeside Leaders Chapter Of American Business Women’s Association
2012 State Of CA Senator Anthony Canella Certificate Of Recognition For Volunteerism
2011 Ambassador Of The Year, Patterson-Westley Chamber Of Commerce
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I was a reputable & established speaker in Northern California, but when I relocated to the DFW Metroplex in 2018, I was not known in the community. I understood the importance of marketing/advertising/promoting my professional speaking business so I immediately began to attend networking events, mixers, and going to places where business-minded people gathered.
As I interacted with people, my questions were: Does your team, group, organization, or company need a relevant speaker? Are you looking for someone who is dynamic? Someone who can resonate with your audience? Someone who can add value to your event? If the answer was YES then I asked them to allow me to bring my unique blend of fun and facts to their organization’s next meeting. If the answer was NO then I asked them: Who do you know? I informed them that if they could think of anyone who might be open to work with me, I’d really appreciate it if they would connect us.
Even though it took a little while for me to become known in the area, event planners eventually began to contact me and my calendar has been filled with numerous speaking gigs. I’ve been hired as a: Keynote Speaker, Master of Ceremonies, and Guest Speaker on podcasts and have conducted my workshops numerous times.
A closed mouth doesn’t get fed!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a Professional Speaker and over the past 20 years, I have joyfully immersed myself in the uplifting of women of all ages by teaching, inspiring, motivating, and empowering them to enrich, improve and enhance their well-being, and personal relationships, and professional lives. I have trained, taught, and spoken to various groups of girls and women at retreats, sales training, community, and corporate events through demonstrations and participation. My workshops are engaging, interactive & enjoyable and participants truly enjoy my dynamic energy while learning how to improve their lives.
Currently, I offer two workshops:
Let’s Chat…Positivity
Positive thinking is a mental and emotional attitude that focuses on the bright side of life and expects positive results. A person with a positive thinking mentality anticipates happiness, health, and success and believes that he or she can overcome any obstacle and difficulty. I believe that a positive approach to any challenge helps people to work through difficulties and gain a deeper satisfaction with the outcomes, thus leading people to more fulfilling lives and relationships.
Let’s Chat…Love & Respect
Along with my husband of over 20 years, I facilitate a Love & Respect video seminar (developed by Dr. Emerson & Sarah Eggerichs) which explores the essential elements of a harmonious marriage. Participants embark on a wonderful adventure concerning the love that a wife desires and the respect that a husband needs.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I have a genuine talent for connecting with audiences and have been consistently praised as a source of encouragement by friends and event directors alike. I’m a charismatic speaker and facilitator and my love of connecting with people imbues my workshops with laughter and energy.
My favorite quote is: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Mahatma Gandhi
Pricing:
- $250+
Contact Info:
- Website: www.wandalarussa.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wandalarussa/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/info.wandalarussa
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/wanda_larussa
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCICfkI-7kxStlx52k43Jftg
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/
wandalarusa
