We recently had the chance to connect with Marchelle Sterling and have shared our conversation below.
Marchelle, 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. Would YOU hire you? Why or why not?
Without a doubt, I would hire me. Not out of ego, but because of the experience and impact I bring. I create balance wherever I go. I am fun yet firm, energetic yet grounding, and intentional in knowing when to push and when to pause.
My work is centered on empowering people to overcome life’s hurdles and keep moving forward, especially during moments when it feels easier to stop. I encourage action, honest reflection, and taking calculated risks that align with who someone truly is.
I am the kind of leader and friend who will say what needs to be said, even when it is uncomfortable, because real growth requires honesty. At the same time, I value sustainability and self-care. I believe in putting your own oxygen mask on first, because when you are supported, clear, and whole, everything else flows from there.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I empower educators to overcome limitations so they can create lasting change. As an empowerment coach and seasoned education leader, I speak to teachers, principals, and district leaders with a battle cry to be unstoppable. My signature message focuses on self-care, tapping into the greatness within, and building confidence, connection, and courage because educators who thrive create schools where everyone succeeds.
Known for my signature Sterling Experience, I combine storytelling, practical strategies, and authentic connection to help audiences break through barriers and lead boldly. My journey began at just nine years old when I founded Dabney School to Learn, fueled by a passion for teaching and motivating others even while overcoming a childhood stutter. With over 20 years of experience as a classroom teacher and school principal, I bring real-world insight to inspire educators and leaders to rise above self-doubt and challenges.
Currently, I am booking clients to bring my signature experience to their staff, equipping educators to embrace their full potential, lead with confidence, and create lasting impact in their schools and communities.
I am Marchelle Sterling, your Empowerment Coach! Let’s GO!
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
My earliest memory of feeling powerful was realizing that my voice mattered, and that I could use it to make a difference. At just 11 years old, I helped build Dabney School, and that experience showed me that even at a young age, I could create change and bring people together.
It was there that I first dreamed of becoming an empowerment speaker. I realized that power isn’t about control, it’s about using your voice, your ideas, and your energy to inspire others. That early experience planted the seed for the work I do today: motivating people to see their own strength and step fully into their potential.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
A better question might be: how many times have I almost given up? Stepping into life as a full-time public speaker and entrepreneur will test you. There are incredible days when everything is falling into place and deals are being made, and then there are tough days when nothing seems to work.
It’s on those tough days that you feel like giving up. But you have to keep your eyes on the good days, remember your calling, and keep moving forward. You rely on the messages and encouragement you give to others to pep yourself up, because you know quitting isn’t an option. Anything worth having is worth fighting for. Consistency is key. If you quit too early, you could miss your golden opportunity, and you are the one responsible for making it happen. You show up because you want to see yourself succeed
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely! What you see publicly is who I am privately as well. No matter where I am or who I am with, I show up as myself.
I value authenticity because I never want to lose sight of who I am by performing for others. When I look in the mirror, I want to recognize the person staring back at me. Trust is important to me, and people can only trust me and my voice if I am being real.
I do not dim my light or make myself smaller to make others comfortable. I choose to show up fully, confidently, and unapologetically as me, every single time.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What will you regret not doing?
I would regret not fully stepping into my purpose and using my voice to inspire others. Life is too short to hold back on dreams, to stay quiet when you know you can make a difference, or to play small out of fear. I don’t want to reach the end and realize I didn’t chase the opportunities I was capable of, didn’t encourage someone who needed it, or didn’t live boldly. My greatest regret would be not showing up as fully and authentically as I can in every moment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.marchellesterling.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marchellesterling/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marchelle-sterling-9270417a/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marchelle.sterling
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarchelleSterling
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marchellesterling
