We recently had the chance to connect with Theresa Pearson and have shared our conversation below.
Theresa , so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I’m doing both. I know the path I’m on, but I’m wandering because it’s unfamiliar territory. I haven’t seen anyone who looks like me or comes from where I come from walk this path, so I’m figuring it out as I go- questioning, learning, and trusting myself- while staying true to my purpose.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Theresa Pearson- an elected official who believes leadership should be both purposeful and personal. What makes this work exciting is the balance: I get to navigate policy while staying deeply connected to the people it impacts. It’s fast-paced, unpredictable , and meaningful, and it constantly challenges me to grow while serving my community.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My high school language arts teacher, Mrs. Lyles-Moton, saw me clearly before I did. She reminded me that my spice and spunk were leadership qualities-not shortcomings. Twenty years later, I’m living out leader she already knew could be.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self that she’s amazing, even when the noise tries to convince her otherwise. Keep showing up boldly and authentically- because someone is watching and finding the courage to do the same.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely . I don’t know how to be anything else. I’m human first and an elected official second, and I show up as myself because authenticity builds trust- and leadership without authenticity doesn’t last. While not every part of my life is public, my vales, voice, and commitment are always genuine.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What are you doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years?
Every day, I’m investing in my 13 year-old daughter by letting her see me lead, serve, and stand firm in my values. I’m modeling leadership in real time-teaching her, without lectures, that showing up, doing the work, and staying tru to yourself matters. That example may not show up immediately , but seven to te years from now, it will show up in her confidence, her voice, and her belief that she belongs in any space she chooses. The return on that investment will be lasting.
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