Her Story
About Rosalyn
Dr. Rosalyn Smith is a Doctor of Strategic Leadership, Breast Cancer Victory Coach, and Strategic Health and Self-Care Strengths Coach based in Louisville, Kentucky. Drawing from her personal experience as a BRCA2 genetic cancer survivor and Stage 4 cancer thriver, she is dedicated to empowering women as they navigate the challenges of a cancer diagnosis and treatment. Through compassionate coaching and advocacy, Rosalyn helps individuals and caregivers develop resilience, maintain a positive mindset, and discover renewed strength and purpose while managing significant health challenges.
With more than 20 years of experience in research, data analysis, organizational development, and administrative management, Rosalyn has built a diverse professional background spanning education management, higher education, and health coaching. She previously worked in data management at Jefferson County Public Schools and served as an office manager at the University of Louisville. She earned her Doctor of Strategic Leadership from Regent University, building on her academic foundation in political science and organizational leadership. Combining her leadership expertise with her personal health journey, she provides strategic leadership, personal development, and health coaching to help individuals align their well-being with their personal and professional goals.
Rosalyn attributes her success to her faith, resilience, positive outlook, and the encouragement of a strong support system, including her husband, sister, and mentors. Her work centers on helping others recognize their strengths, embrace change, and move forward with confidence through life's most difficult circumstances. As a coach and self-advocate, she remains committed to inspiring women facing cancer and empowering entrepreneurial-minded individuals to reach their potential through purposeful leadership, self-discovery, and personal growth.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Rosalyn
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my strong support system, positive attitude, resilience, and faith. My husband, sister Madeline Marable, Coach P. Pamela Lou Luhan, and Dr. Della have played significant roles in encouraging me, supporting my growth, and keeping me accountable. Their guidance and unwavering support have helped me persevere through challenges and continue developing personally and professionally.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received has come from the mentors who have influenced my professional growth, including Vicki Bridgeman, Jane Goldstein, Melissa Longshooter, Paula McCraney, and my Uncle William Hardin. Their guidance and wisdom have helped shape my career, strengthen my perspective, and continue inspiring me to grow personally and professionally.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to understand who they are, identify their core values, and ensure their career aspirations align with their authentic selves. Reflect on what motivates you, whether it’s financial success, recognition, influence, or a genuine passion for your work. Let your values guide your decisions and help you determine whether your chosen path truly aligns with your purpose.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges is becoming too invested in a client’s journey and moving ahead of their readiness. It is important to walk alongside clients, respecting their pace and supporting them without pushing them. In breast cancer cases, another challenge is helping clients maintain hope and believe in the possibility of victory, especially when they feel like giving up.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are faith, hope, resilience, and compassion. My personal journey with stage 3 triple-negative and inflammatory breast cancer, which later progressed to stage 4, strengthened my determination to choose life and support others facing similar challenges. I believe in the power of positive encouragement, unwavering hope, and walking alongside others through difficult times to help them find strength and pursue victory.
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