Today we’d like to introduce you to Carrie Speed
Hi Carrie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I think with any journey it can be difficult to relay just how you got from point A to point B, because it never does it justice. I’ll do my best though. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to helping others. That passion led me to a career in the nonprofit child welfare field, where I have spent over a decade advocating for children and families. One thing I noticed in this line of work is how serious the weight of stress, burnout, and anxiety can be on the people trying to help and serve others.
Many years ago, yoga and mindfulness came into my life at just the right moment. Initially, they were simply ways to get back into shape postpartum and manage the stresses of raising small children. I discovered not only how to feel more grounded and joyful, but later realized that these tools needed to be shared with others, especially with those who give so much of themselves—like parents, caregivers, and professionals working in the social impact field who so often forget to take care of themselves in the process.
In 2020, I became a certified yoga instructor, combining my love of movement and mindfulness with my background in psychology. In 2024, I founded Joyful Rising to help women in nonprofits and social services reconnect with their purpose, find joy in the everyday, and create lives that feel aligned and fulfilling by ditching the stress and prioritizing their well-being. Now, through coaching, yoga, and workshops, I get to support individuals as they navigate their own journey toward a happier, more connected life.
What I’ve learned is this: joy isn’t something we have to chase—it’s something we can cultivate daily. It’s a choice. And while life will always have its challenges, we can navigate them with intention, grace, and a little bit of humor. (Because really, who couldn’t use a good laugh along the way?)
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like everyone’s journeys, mine has had plenty of unexpected obstacles. One of the most important lessons I’ve had to learn is how to take care of myself while working in a field where you pour so much of your heart and energy into helping others. Burnout is a very real thing in the nonprofit and social services world, and there were times when I felt completely drained—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
The last decade, in particular, has been full of challenges. In 2017, I lost my father and grandmother just a week apart, which was very difficult. Then, in 2019, I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. Going through cancer treatment was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but mindfulness, meditation, and my incredible support system helped me get through it. I was so weak from treatment that I started practicing yoga in bed, thinking I’d come up with something brand-new, only to find out later that bed yoga is already a thing!
Then in 2020, I lost my stepdad and became the caregiver for my mom, who has dementia. Let’s just say the last few years have thrown a lot my way. But honestly, the tools I’ve leaned on—positive psychology, mindfulness, yoga, and having a strong support system—have been my saving grace. They’ve kept me grounded and helped me navigate all the tough stuff without losing sight of my purpose or being completely derailed from my journey.
Life isn’t easy, and challenges are part of the deal. But I’ve learned that we can choose how we show up for those challenges. With intention, grace, community, and a little humor, it’s possible to keep moving forward, and even find some joy along the way.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Joyful Rising empowers women in nonprofits and social services to reclaim their joy, reduce stress, and find balance—so they can keep making a difference without sacrificing their own well-being. I blend mindfulness, positive psychology, and yoga into practical tools that are easy to fit into even the busiest schedules. Through coaching, workshops, and a curated resource vault, my goal is to help women prioritize themselves while navigating the meaningful but demanding work they do.
What sets Joyful Rising apart is the heart-centered, relatable approach. I understand the challenges of working in social services and nonprofits because I’ve been there. I know how easy it is to put yourself last while trying to care for others. That’s why everything I offer is designed to meet you where you are—with no judgment and plenty of support.
I’m incredibly proud of how Joyful Rising inspires women to reconnect with what matters most. It’s not just about relieving stress—it’s about helping you create a life that feels fulfilling and aligned with your values. My 1:1 coaching focuses on creating real, lasting change, and this spring, I’m launching the Impact Collective.
The Impact Collective is a membership-based subscription that gives women access to self-care strategies, stress reset tools, and personal and professional development resources, all within a supportive community. Members will enjoy weekly virtual meetings, trainings, planning parties, book clubs, and more, offering connection, inspiration, and practical tools that make a difference. What I want readers to know is this: taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. That’s why I also launched a podcast on January 1st of this year to give practical tools, strategies, and inspiring stories to women in social impact. Wait, Am I Saving the World? is on Apple Podcasts & Spotify.
In addition to these services, I offer consulting focused on bringing the principles of mindfulness and yoga into child welfare and school settings. These practices have incredible benefits, especially for vulnerable populations and the communities that serve them. I believe we should be using these tools more intentionally to support healing, resilience, and overall well-being.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I love most about Houston is its diversity and energy. It’s a city where people from all over come together, bringing a blend of so many different traditions, cultures, and food. There’s always something going on, whether it’s a festival, a concert, or just discovering a great new restaurant. I love the museums! And even though I live in Spring, I love that I’m close enough to enjoy all the opportunities Houston has to offer while still having that more suburban feel.
What I like least about Houston? Honestly, the traffic can be overwhelming! I have to give myself a pep talk if I’m headed to downtown Houston. But even with the traffic, the endless opportunities make it worth the trip.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.joyfulrising.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joyfulrisingcommunity/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joyfulrisingcommunity/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carriejspeed/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JoyfulRisingCommunity/podcasts
- Other: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wait-am-i-saving-the-world/id1786906367
