In the dynamic world of personal development and mental health, a rising star is reshaping the landscape of Christian life coaching. Brianna Manning, the 25-year-old founder of Growing Testimony, is breaking new ground with her innovative approach that seamlessly blends faith, psychology, and personal growth.
A Journey of Excellence and Perseverance
Manning’s path to entrepreneurship is marked by exceptional achievements from an early age. Graduating high school at 17, she excelled as a D2 collegiate athlete in both soccer and track while pursuing her academic goals with equal vigor. By 21, Manning had earned a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Sociology, followed by an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health at 24, boasting an impressive 3.95 GPA.
“Education has been the cornerstone of my personal growth,” Manning shares. “Each step of my academic journey has equipped me with the knowledge and tools to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.”
Her academic accomplishments include membership in the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and recognition at the Western Psychology Association for her research on grit – a quality that would become central to her coaching philosophy.
The Birth of Growing Testimony
At 25, Manning took a leap of faith and founded Growing Testimony, a Christian life coaching service aimed at bridging the gap between faith, mental health, and personal development. “I saw a need for a holistic approach to life coaching that embraces the spiritual aspects of growth,” Manning explains. “Growing Testimony is about nurturing the whole person – mind, body, and spirit.”
Manning’s unique approach draws from her diverse background:
1. Clinical Expertise: Five years as a registered behavioral therapist provide a solid foundation in mental health practices.
2. Athletic Mindset: Her collegiate sports experience informs her coaching on goal-setting and resilience.
3. Spiritual Foundation: A strong faith underpins her coaching philosophy.
4. Academic Rigor: Her extensive education ensures a scientific approach to faith-based coaching.
Overcoming Adversity: A Personal Testimony
Manning’s journey has not been without challenges. As a young, biracial female in a field often dominated by older professionals, she has faced skepticism and discrimination. “I’ve often been underestimated,” Manning reveals. “But these challenges have only fueled my determination to succeed and prove my worth through results.”
Perhaps more poignantly, Manning has experienced what she calls “church hurt” – rejection from her faith community when seeking help during difficult times. This experience inspired her to create a space where others could find the support she once sought.
Manning’s personal struggles with mental health have also shaped her approach to coaching. “I’ve been misdiagnosed multiple times and told I’ve missed opportunities due to depression,” she shares. “These experiences have given me a unique perspective on mental health and the importance of proper support.”
The Growing Testimony Difference
What sets Growing Testimony apart is Manning’s commitment to authenticity and holistic growth. Her approach emphasizes aligning actions with faith and values, a principle she calls “pleasing God over man.”
“Too often, people feel trapped by societal expectations,” Manning explains. “At Growing Testimony, we encourage clients to tap into their God-given potential and pursue their true calling, even if it goes against the grain.”
Manning’s coaching philosophy is built on several key principles:
1. Confidence building in wellness and sports performance
2. Mental health awareness and management
3. Embracing one’s unique identity and gifts
4. Integrating faith into personal and professional development
5. Overcoming adversity through resilience and grit
The Future of Growing Testimony
While still in its early stages, Growing Testimony is poised for significant growth. Manning envisions expanding beyond coaching to establish a full-fledged counseling practice. “My goal is to create a diverse team that can serve a wider range of clients, particularly focusing on the middle class and young adults,” she says.
This expansion aligns with Manning’s broader mission of becoming a “growing testimony” herself – continually learning, evolving, and sharing her experiences to inspire others.
Impact and Recognition
Despite her young age, Manning’s work has already garnered attention. She has been featured in publications highlighting her undergraduate research on grit and her athletic achievements in the Northwest Athletic Conference.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For those looking to follow in her footsteps, Manning offers some hard-earned advice:
1. Embrace your unique perspective: “Your unique experiences are your greatest assets.”
2. Persevere through adversity: “Challenges are opportunities for growth.”
3. Stay true to your values: “Success means nothing if you compromise who you are.”
4. Invest in continuous learning: “Never stop educating yourself.”
5. Build a supportive community: “Surround yourself with people who believe in your vision.”
The Road Ahead
As Brianna Manning and Growing Testimony continue to make waves in the Christian life coaching industry, it’s clear that this is just the beginning. With her unique blend of academic knowledge, personal experience, and unwavering faith, Manning is poised to transform countless lives and redefine what it means to live a purpose-driven life.
“My journey is far from over,” Manning concludes. “Every day, I’m growing, learning, and becoming a better version of myself. And that’s what I want for every client who comes to Growing Testimony – the opportunity to grow, overcome, and become a living testimony of God’s grace and power.”
For those seeking to embark on their own journey of growth and self-discovery, Growing Testimony offers a beacon of hope and guidance. As Manning continues to break barriers and challenge norms, she invites others to join her in creating a world where faith, mental health, and personal development go hand in hand.
To learn more about Brianna Manning and Growing Testimony, visit their official website or connect with them on social media:
Previous Press Coverage
Read more about Brianna’s story and achievements in these articles:
In a world that often seems divided and uncertain, Brianna Manning and Growing Testimony stand as a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and unwavering determination. As this young entrepreneur continues to make her mark, the future looks bright for those seeking a holistic approach to personal growth and spiritual wellness.
