Detra Smith-O'Bryant

Detra Smith-O’Bryant is a transformational speaker, CEO, Author, and leadership and personal development coach who challenges individuals to rethink limitations, embrace their potential, and lead with intention. With more than two decades of experience in executive leadership, organizational management, adult education, community development, and team leadership, Detra brings a powerful perspective shaped not only by what she has studied, but by what she has lived.

As a nonprofit executive and founder of Mindset of Me | I See Fishes, Detra combines real-world leadership experience, personal life lessons, and positive psychology-informed coaching to empower individuals to challenge limiting beliefs, overcome self-doubt, navigate change, and take ownership of their personal and professional growth.

Drawing from her book, The Mindset of Me: I See Fishes, and her signature I See Fishes Framework — See It. Shift It. Move With It., Detra guides audiences on a transformative journey from self-awareness to intentional action. Her message goes beyond simply recognizing potential; she challenges individuals to examine the stories they tell themselves, shift the beliefs that hold them back, and make purposeful choices that create lasting change.

Blending authenticity, practical wisdom, relatable storytelling, and just the right touch of humor, Detra connects with emerging leaders, seasoned professionals, organizations, and individuals navigating life's transitions. She doesn't simply speak about leadership and transformation; she brings the lessons, challenges, and experiences of someone who has walked the journey, faced uncertainty, and learned that growth often begins when we become willing to see ourselves differently.

Her message is simple yet powerful: Transformation begins when you change what you see, believe, and expect of yourself. Because recognizing your potential is only the beginning. The real transformation happens when you decide to do something with it.