Principal Consultant and Strategist Shaneè C. Morgan, PsyD is the Founder of Dennis-Morgan Coaching & Consulting. Dr. Morgan has a background in Human Development, Public Administration & Social Change Psychology, Behavioral Health Leadership Psychology, Motivational Speaking, and Career Development. She’s recognized by the National Society of Leadership and Success, and the Psi Chi International Honor Society in Psychology. With over 20 years of experience in administration, teaching, and facilitation in various capacities. She has taught and worked at the grade school level in the public and private sectors. Dr. Morgan has also worked as a Facilitator, Consultant and Professional Development Trainer, providing consultation to individuals and families, and extensive training for educators and social and behavioral services professionals. 

Your memoir touches on your powerful and challenging journey of navigating through childhood trauma. What inspired this project?

Throughout my career, I have worked with the most vulnerable populations within my community. My experience has taught me that there are many individuals who have encountered similar trauma and obstacles as myself, so it became apparent to me that my story would be an inspiration to others who may have or may currently be dealing with similar challenges. As such, I understand that not everyone believes in their ability to overcome adversity, and some people really need the inspiration and encouragement from others who can relate to them and understand what they may be going through, and how they may be feeling. I understand that some people just need to know that overcoming adversity is possible, but in order to believe that, they want to know that there have been people who have been in similar situations, who were able to overcome obstacles that threatened to break them. People want to know what challenges were faced and what steps were taken to conquer those challenges, so I felt that it was my obligation to provide that information through the sharing of my personal story. My purpose and calling in life is to inspire and motivate others to strive to be their best selves despite the adversity they may be faced with.

What message do you hope readers takeaway from this memoir?

I want people to understand that no matter what obstacles and trauma you may have experienced, there is light at the end of the tunnel, and if you have a strong desire and passion to overcome adversity, no one can stop you from doing so. I often tell people that past trauma can be the motivation needed to push you accomplish your goals. The first step to overcoming is taking accountability for yourself. Then you must decide what you want for your future, and take the necessary steps to accomplish the goals needed to obtain the results that you want.

 Can you share a specific turning point in your life that propelled you towards breaking generational curses and strongholds for the betterment of your family?

I cannot identify a specific turning point in my life that propelled me towards breaking generational curses. However, I can say that I have always had a strong desire to succeed in life. Growing up, I saw a lot of examples of what I did not want for my future and I learned my lessons from what I observed around me. I was often turned off by the actions of those around me, and I just always knew that I was different. I knew that the family cycle of dysfunction was not a cycle that I wanted to continue. I knew I wanted better for myself and my future family, so I made a decision to begin focusing on my goals at an early age in my life.

 “Shaken, Yet Here I Stand” is a compelling title. How did you come up with it, and what does it symbolize for you in terms of your experiences and healing journey?

I wanted a captivating title that would catch the attention of readers. Initially, I considered the title “Shattered, But Not Broken;” however, I decided not to use that title because there were other books with that same title, and I did not want to confuse potential readers. Also, I wanted a title that was original, but still held the same amount of power and fascination. After a long bout of brainstorming, I prayed about it and came up with “Shaken, Yet Here I Stand,” which simply means, I have been through years of trauma and adversity; situations that could have broken me had I allowed them to, but despite the many challenges, resilience has allowed me to stand strong and serve my purpose in life, which is to inspire others do the same. Simply put, obstacles have threatened to break me, but because of my strength and God’s mercy, I am still standing.

 How did the process of writing the memoir impact your own healing, and what challenges did you face in revisiting those difficult moments?

The process of completing the book evoked many different emotions during the course of writing. There were times when I felt fine, and other times when I felt like old wounds were being opened. During those moment I would step away to process my feelings and proceed when I felt better, which sometimes took about a week for me to pick up where I’d left off. There were other times when I’d recall specific moments and my style of writing bought about laughter. Then there were times when recalling and writing about certain situations made me angry. Ultimately, I set a goal to have the book completed within a year, and because I’m so goal oriented, I was determined to complete the book by the deadline, so despite my feelings about the content, I had a mission to accomplish. With that end goal in mind, I did what I’ve always done and worked diligently through the process.

 Have you received feedback from readers that resonates with the message you intended to convey through your story?

I have received nothing but positive feedback about the book. Currently, the book is five-stars on Amazon, and I continue to receive input from people who are really inspired by my story. The following are just some of the comments I received:

“The author provided a real and very raw accounting of the strength and resilience it took to overcome many barriers and struggles she faced both growing up and into adulthood. I found myself both rooting for her and sending empathy throughout. Dr. Morgan is a true inspiration!!!”

“I love the raw and uncut layers to this book. It definitely is a “rags to riches” story still developing. Adversity is all around us but to live in an environment where you have to grow up so quick just to survive and still accomplish goals is somewhat of a miracle!”

“Not only is this book a great read. It is also insightful and inspiring for many people who feel like their lives were complicated by circumstances in which they had no control of. This book will have you ready to cry over some of the things the Author has been through as well as laughing at some of the situations as well.”

“Dr. Morgan takes you through the depths of her lived experience in such a way that you feel like you are part of her story.”

“It’s like a movie.”   

There were also readers who stated that they loved the rawness of the writing style, and appreciated that it was written from a hood perspective, so they were able to better relate. All of the above feedback resonates with me, in addition to all of the other comments I’ve received about the book.  

 How do you envision continuing to use your story and expertise to inspire and uplift others in the future?

As an empowerment speaker, I am focused on sharing my personal story to inspire, empower, and motivate the youths and young adults throughout the country, to continue moving forward in pursuit of accomplishing their personal and professional goals. Currently, I speak to students and young adults, ranging from middle school through college. My goal is to not only be their cheerleader; reminding them to always maximize their full potential to be extraordinary, but also to continue sharing my story as re-enforcement that as long as you have a desire to obtain success in their future, no one can stop you. My catchphrase is, “You Can’t Be Stopped!”

 What is your definition of a Pretty Woman Who Hustles?

My definition of a Pretty Woman Who Hustles, is a woman who considers herself just as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside. She’s a woman who is fearless and admirable, and she’s not afraid to get out there and show the world who she is an what she has to offer. She’s her own woman, who is a force to be reckoned with. She’s independent and understands the importance of making a positive name for herself. A pretty woman who hustles embodies the qualities of a hardworking, dedicated, classy, go-getter, who is a positive example for others to follow.