author, mom, analyst, avid traveler, public speaker, family lover, kindness doer, beach goer, faith believer, Disney fanatic, music lover, foster & adoption promoter, travel advisor, diversity supporter, equality advocate,
& more than half of the time... optimist!
About Shannon D. Rhodes, Author
I graduated from the University of Arkansas, obtaining my bachelor's degree with an emphasis in Human Resources. I have written in journals for therapy and fun for nearly 35 years. I started my professional career 28 years ago in an extremely empowering industry for women—TRUCKING! Okay, maybe not so much. I spent the first couple of years facing stereotypes and discrimination. I've worked through individual contributor and manager positions across Sales, Communications, Education, Analytics, and Solutions, focusing on project management and planning.
The many facets of my personal life inspired me to become a children's book author. As a survivor of childhood trauma, I understand the value and need for open communication with your child.
The many facets of my personal life inspired me to become a children's book author. As a survivor of childhood trauma, I understand the value and need for open communication with your child.
"I try not to dwell on regrets; the lessons I've learned through pain have made me who I am today."
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Regarding life experience... let's just say my spectrum is pretty broad. From Arkansas High School Debate Champion to having a commercial driver's license and working assembly line shift work. From being a Christian Camp counselor and Youth Pastor to booking bands, working with club owners, and promoting independent female musicians. From being an Arkansas Razorback Pom Squad member and FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) member to working as a cashier, Railway hostess, and waitress while completing college. Travel has always been a way for me to revive, and I treasure the opportunities I've had for domestic and international travel!
I've endured the sadness of a miscarriage and multiple failed insemination attempts and been the victim of TWO horrible adoption fraud incidents. Despite the rough start, I'm now the parent of three kiddos. I was overjoyed when chosen to adopt a 2-day-old, who is now a teenager. I was a foster parent to a precious 3-year-old who struggled with tantrums, self-harm incidents, and destructive behaviors as a result of his early childhood trauma. After a year in foster care, we adopted him and continue to help him allow love to replace fear, pain, and abandonment. In 2020, before the pandemic, we adopted our third child after having him as a foster son for 15 months. Before his first birthday, he was diagnosed with a swallow dysfunction and had a G-tube for four years.
I LOVE being creative, talking about travel, writing books, and sharing my Faith! Telling stories is a big part of my life. Stories create a connection, they have the power to evoke emotions, foster empathy, teach valuable lessons, and provide insight into different perspectives and experiences. Stores can create unforgettable memories! |
Interesting Fact: many years before the movie release, I once auditioned for the roll of Wonder Woman at a local Warner Brothers store. I was told they had interest in using me for store visits once the movie rolled out. Sadly it was delayed for 10 years!
Speaking Opportunities
Available for speaking on the following topics:
- Overcoming struggles with childhood trauma
- Parenting children from trauma
- Understanding struggles with foster and adoption
- Becoming a children's book author
- At Schools (in person and online) - about kindness and character development.
- Traveling with kids
Copyright 2024 My Kind of Family, LLC All Rights Reserved | Contact Shannon