Meet Waneka Jackson | Founder, My Blooming Mind | Executive & Leadership Coach

We had the good fortune of connecting with Waneka Jackson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Waneka, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I was working in learning and development, supporting people through coaching and training, when I started to feel frustrated by how growth and development were being approached. I worked with young professionals who were intelligent, capable, and motivated, yet completely overwhelmed. Many were navigating adulthood, failure, pressure, and responsibility for the first time, and the unspoken expectation was that they should automatically know how to handle it all.

People were being held accountable for outcomes without being given the emotional support or skills needed to sustain themselves, often by others who were under pressure themselves. When I shifted my approach to help them take a breath, prioritize self care, build supportive relationships, and trust their decision-making, they began to thrive in their lives and their work.

This work felt personal as I began to recognize my own story in theirs. I had spent much of my life being the “capable one” who can handle more, so more was always given. I carried a lot, often without acknowledgment, and learned to push through instead of asking for support. That pattern followed me personally and professionally.

My Blooming Mind was created from the belief that people don’t need to be fixed or pushed harder. They need to be seen, supported, and given space to do the inner work. When we address stress, unlearn unhealthy patterns, and build emotional intelligence and confidence, people unlock a level of agency and potential they didn’t realize was available to them.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My Blooming Mind is a leadership development and personal growth practice that supports individuals and leaders who are navigating high levels of responsibility, pressure, and internal stress. I work with people who are capable and driven, yet often carrying more than they realize and questioning themselves more than they need to.

What distinguishes My Blooming Mind is the way the work slows people down before asking them to move forward. Rather than focusing solely on performance or outcomes, my approach helps clients examine what’s happening beneath the surface—how stress, emotions, and internal narratives are influencing their decisions, relationships, and leadership. From there, we work to strengthen emotional intelligence, self-trust, and agency so people can make choices that feel intentional rather than reactive.

I’m most proud of the impact this work has on people. Clients often experience meaningful shifts in how they relate to themselves, which changes how they how up professionally. They report greater clarity, confidence, and a stronger ability to navigate challenges without losing themselves in the process.

Building the brand has required patience and the support of others. There have been moments of uncertainty and fear, particularly around sustainability, but those challenges have reinforced the importance of alignment. I’ve learned that the work I’m most proud of is the work that stays rooted in care and long-term growth.

At its core, My Blooming Mind exists to remind people that growth doesn’t come from forcing change, but from paying attention to what needs care. When the foundation is supported, progress follows naturally.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d plan a week that balances good food, creativity, rest, and quality time. We’re definitely going to one of my new favorite brunch spots and there will be sushi at some point. I love places that feel intentional and allow you to slow down and actually enjoy the experience.

I’d take them to Trilith exploring, dining, and soaking in the atmosphere. We’d likely do something creative in Atlanta together like take a workshop to make pottery, lipstick, or body butter. Hopefully, they are visiting while the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater is at the Fox Theatre, so we can experience a live show. If not, we will certainly get tickets to a stage play.

I also love building in time for self care and rest, so a salon or spa day is a must. More than anything, I enjoy experiences that allow for connection and moments that don’t feel rushed.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my late grandmother, Bessie Baker. She had a deep love for houseplants and often spoke in metaphors while we watered them together. She’d talk about planting seeds and watering them over time, when referring to caring for people. She would also that when something feels off, you should always check the roots.

At the time, I didn’t fully understand what she meant. Honestly, I didn’t take much interest in the houseplants either. After she passed, I found myself wanting a way to feel her presence. I began receiving plants as gifts and that’s when it clicked. I started paying attention, remembering her stories, and realizing how much wisdom had been in her messages.

She had a habit of giving pieces of her plants to visitors. She wanted everyone to nurture their own garden. Her lessons and stories have deeply shaped how I think about growth, care, and supporting others. They ultimately inspired the name of my business, My Blooming Mind, and continue to guide how I approach helping people.

Website: https://www.mybloomingmind.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/waneka-jackson

Image Credits
Shamar Souprayen, DaShawndra Beaugé, Iris Faulkner