EP 288 Building Confidence and Purpose in Kids: Lessons from Dorian Stewart’s Journey

In this inspiring episode of the Stuck In My Mind Podcast, host Wize El Jefe welcomes his longtime friend and special guest, Dorian Stewart, for an uplifting and honest conversation about purpose, self-confidence, and making a difference for the next generation. With a bond stretching back to their high school days in Brooklyn, the two share laughs, wisdom, and real-life stories that resonate with anyone seeking purpose—whether as a parent, educator, or someone just trying to figure out their own calling. Right from the start, Wize El Jefe paints a picture of Dorian Stewart’s accomplishments: entrepreneur, motivational speaker, author of 19 books (many for children and parents), and the founder of Dorian Inspires, LLC. But what truly sets her apart is not just her professional resume, but her deep dedication to building confidence, character, and clarity in children, parents, and educators. A 20-year veteran in healthcare, leadership, and HR, Dorian Stewart has unique insights into what it takes to prepare people not just for success, but for life itself. The conversation starts in Dorian Stewart’s childhood, where she grew up surrounded by a loving, multi-generational family in Brooklyn. She reflects on how being the oldest among her cousins and participating in youth activities at church naturally fostered her love for mentoring children and sharing the timeless wisdom passed down by her elders. This early responsibility planted the seeds for her passion for empowerment and guiding others. As the episode unfolds, Dorian Stewart reveals how her career in healthcare management and HR opened her eyes to the ways people—especially young people—lack preparation and confidence for adult life. Her humorous (and occasionally exasperating) experiences as an interviewer, from outlandish resumes to ill-prepared job seekers, inspired her to start writing practical, empowering books for teens and young adults entering the work world. Instead of mocking those who simply didn’t know the right steps, she chose to become a guide, sharing the “how not to get hired” pitfalls and offering real solutions to succeed. Yet Dorian Stewart’s journey extends far beyond career advice. She candidly shares how her calling evolved through personal stress, faith, and the life-changing experience of adopting her daughter. What began as daily devotionals for friends ballooned into a movement as her messages of encouragement reached hundreds. Through the adoption journey and required trainings, Dorian Stewart discovered gaps in how children’s emotional needs—especially for adoptees—are met. This prompted her to write children’s books that emphasize being chosen, cherished, and unstoppable. She passionately describes her mission to arm both kids and their families with the confidence they need to handle life’s ups and downs. A critical part of this episode centers on affirmations and self-talk, both for children and adults. Wize El Jefe and Dorian Stewart swap personal stories of overcoming self-doubt, the importance of not “locking the door” on one’s dreams, and how negative self-talk can limit potential. Their honesty is refreshing: neither imagined themselves as authors, and both openly struggled with English in school. Yet, they chose not to let those early setbacks define them—proving that your past does not have to dictate your future. The discussion delves into the unique confidence crises facing today’s youth. Dorian Stewart points out that children confront overwhelming external pressures, from unrealistic portrayals in media to the devastation of relentless cyberbullying. She speaks vulnerably about building her daughter’s self-worth through morning affirmations, affirmation jars, and real conversations about individual gifts—methods that go far beyond empty praise and instead focus on cultivating and supporting authentic strengths. A powerful thread running through the episode is the idea that adults often protect children so much that t