Bio via her website workwithmelaniesmith.com.

In my early 2o’s, after studying psychology and public relations I went out into the world and quite by accident became an award-winning actress, copywriter, songwriter, jingle writer, and choreographer. It’s funny how life can capture us, and if we let it, take us in a direction that elevates us beyond our own vision.

Then, when I was 27 and starring in the role of Emily Stewart on As The World Turns, one of the oldest and most popular daytime dramas the news came: My mother was dying of a rare and terminal cancer. The news came out of nowhere. It was devastating. She was my best friend.

As The World Turns was my mother’s favorite show. We watched it together religiously during my childhood and now I would leave that very same show to usher her out of our world.

In learning to deal with the loss of my mother, I delved into studying ways to cope, and unbeknownst to me at the time, so began my first steps into becoming a grief and loss specialist and personal development expert. Life had snared me once again.

After long days of filming for shows like Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Star Trek, Melrose Place, and more, I would immediately return to my studies, my books, and my teachers.

I buried myself in the spiritual sciences, depth psychology, yoga, nutrition, and personal growth practices. Going back to school, studying in ashrams, traveling for certifications, and mentoring with some of the greatest teachers in the world…

After the birth of my son, I had to make a decision. I left a successful career in Hollywood to raise Gideon and follow my purpose.

I was on a mission.