Check out our interview with Megan Gallagher who is a 2x TED Talk Speaker, 3x Best-Selling Author, AfterBuzz TV Host, Model, Dancer, Writer, Podcast Host & Wellness Blogger.
Follow Megan @meganwgallagher
Hi Megan, please tell us a little about you?
Hi! My name is Megan Gallagher! I’m a 25-year-old 2x TED talk speaker and mental health speaker! I am extremely passionate about wellness! While growing up, I struggled severely with anxiety and body dysmorphia. As a teenager in this generation, it is so challenging to find yourself in a world filled with comparison! After I overcame my own issues, I decided to follow my true passion and create a new school system. One where students feel heard and seen, for the real humans that they are!
Describe yourself in 3 words?
I would describe myself as caring, bubbly and optimistic!
Who is your role model?
My role model is Oprah Winfrey, Ashley Graham, Lauren Conrad and Elaine Welteroth! I’ve always had a passion for TV hosting, fashion and blogging! I have super big dreams and goals, still at 25! I have vision boards all over my apartment!
How did you get started into the business?
At 18 years old, I decided to leave College. It was a conscious choice, since I knew that I was not happy in School. I kept having massive epiphanies about my dreams and goals. My parents supported me, and I honestly don’t regret it all!
How has this changed your life?
Well starting my business at that age, really taught me the value of hard work. I knew I was never passionate about school, yet when it came to being an entrepreneur, I took charge. It has been a really beautiful seven years of speaking around the country and making content surrounding mental health. It’s also been so full circle because I never really felt it, yet I realized only recently that my career journey has inspired others to follow their dreams. For me, that is the most fulfilling thing!
Tell us about your work as an author and motivational speaker?
I currently speak at universities across the country! Throughout covid-19, I’ve been able to fully work, which I am super grateful for! As an author, blogger and influencer, I make content centered around mental health! This past year has been extremely challenging for most, so I really pride myself on being a positive source of wisdom. In March of 2021, I will launch my fourth book, this one being a mental health journal for teens! Since they are in a virtual classroom, I wanted to make this book as a way for them to express themselves.
What mindsets helped making you so successful?
I would say my resilient mindset has made me successful. In my industry, you have to be open and flexible! That’s challenged my anxiety at times! My mind wants to stay dead set on something, when in reality, everything is always changing.
What would say are the greatest lessons you learned so far?
The greatest lesson I’ve learned so far in my life has been to never underestimate the power of positivity. It has guided me through my entire career! I’ve faced so much rejection, yet my attitude has carried me through all of that. I’ve learned certain mantras that allow me to let go of what I can’t control!
Any advice to entrepreneurs out there?
My best advice would be to just start! It may sound cheesy, yet many people tend to get stuck in fear. You have to keep moving forward and just take action! I always say, “Do now. Think later”. It has helped me in many situations yet sometimes thinking things out is important!
What book should every entrepreneur read?
Every single entrepreneur should read, “Everything is figure outable”, by Marie Forleo. That book has saved me in more ways than I can count! When I first was starting out, I was scared and worried. I had taken that leap of faith and didn’t have an entire plan mapped out. Now, at 25, I realize that was the best thing for me, because you just learn as you go.
What is the toughest decision you had to make in the last few months?
Definitely moving to Nashville! It’s been the best decision I’ve ever made, yet in the beginning I felt a ton of mixed emotions. Over time, I’ve learned to not live in the past and that this happened for an awesome reason! The move has made me grow in so many ways, I actually feel very proud of myself!
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
I would say the most rewarding part of my job is seeing the domino effect of positivity and hope! It makes me proud knowing that my work will be around long after my time on earth!
What is your favorite healthy food?
The best healthy food I typically enjoy are grain bowls! For dinner, I typically make a bowl filled with white rice, vegan meat or salmon, avocado, mixed veggies and cilantro! It’s so filling and nutritious!
And your favorite cheat food?
My favorite cheat food is a big, juicy burger! I typically don’t eat red meat or chicken. So, every weekend, I have a burger with sweet potato fries.
How would you explain your fashion style?
My fashion style is very LA. I love neutrals, pastel matching sets and simple looks.
How would your best friend describe you?
My best friend would describe me as positive, social and goofy! I always have so much energy and I like to have fun in life! I would say I am a walking disco ball!
What’s next for Megan Gallagher in 2021?
I am so excited for this year! I have many projects in the works! In March, I will be launching my brand-new book! It is a mental health workbook for teens in the virtual classroom! I think it is so needed during this time, so I took it upon myself to be the leader I knew was needed! I will be going on a virtual book signing tour for my book!
What is your own definition of happiness?
I feel that happiness is a feeling, not necessarily a place or person. When you put your happiness in the value of a thing or person, you don’t feel happy! Yet when you bring it back to yourself, you remember that it’s something you bring wherever you go!
How is a normal day in your life?
There isn’t really a normal day for me. Some days, I am traveling to speak while other days I am home recording YouTube videos! I think that’s what I love though. I thrive off of adventure and being spontaneous!
What is your idea of a perfect Sunday?
My idea of a perfect Sunday would entail: waking up at 8 in the morning, having a healthy yogurt bowl breakfast, drinking tons of lemon water, cleaning my entire apartment and going on a long hike in nature!
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I think I would love to meet my twin brother. He passed away when we were little, and I always felt this emptiness in my childhood. I’ve actually had psychic readings where he comes through, it’s so crazy! Yes, I would love to meet him!
Best advice ever given?
A positive attitude and hard work will take you anywhere!
Do you support any charity?
Yes! I support all of the mental health non profits, especially for the youth!
Name 3 things you can’t live without?
I can’t live without my lip balm, moisturizer and Justin’s peanut butter!
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
I have really big dreams! I would love to be an anchor or host on The Today Show. I am very passionate about writing, producing and editing!
Favorite song? Why?
“Love it if we made it” The 1975. I think it’s such a bright, upbeat great song!
What music do you like?
I love electronic, pop and oldies! My favorite artists are Coldplay, the 1975, the Weeknd, Louis The Child and Asap Rocky!
What do you think of Social Media?
I think social media is a great way to feel inspired, yet there is a negative side to it! It’s important to be mindful when you’re scrolling! Ask yourself, is this making me feel better about myself?
Where we can follow you?
@meganwgallagher that’s me everywhere!
Quote: “Everything is happening for me, not to me”
Favorite Singer/Artist: The 1975
Movie: The Devil Wears Prada
Travel Destination: Maldives
Sports Team: Tennessee Titans
Tv Show: The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills
Book: A New Model: What Confidence, Beauty & Power Really Look Like
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