Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr Zelana Montminy
Hi Dr Zelana, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve always been fascinated by how our perspectives shape our lives. I knew we held immense power in determining our outcomes and felt driven to explore how we could harness that power to inspire others and challenge outdated narratives. My journey began with a variety of internships in high school, which led me to study psychology at Pomona College, where I later pursued advanced degrees in Clinical Psychology. I also earned additional certifications in nutrition from Cornell University.
Early on, my dissertation explored the connection between nutrition and mental health, revealing that making healthful choices extends beyond physical benefits; it’s a powerful statement of self-worth that positively impacts every aspect of our lives. After working as a project manager on a breast cancer survivor study at UCLA post-graduate school, I realized my true passion lay in working directly with people rather than solely in research.
Over the years, I combined my clinical expertise with a passion for media, translating complex concepts into accessible, actionable advice. This transition led me to television, speaking engagements, and authoring 21 Days to Resilience. My next book, Finding Focus: Own Your Attention in an Age of Distraction, is set for release in April 2025.
My work is all about challenging outdated paradigms and offering practical strategies for building resilience and enhancing focus. I’ve had the privilege of partnering with companies like American Express, Coca-Cola, and Estee Lauder, as well as speaking at universities, non-profits, and on media platforms such as The Doctors and Good Morning America.
Alongside my professional life, I balance being a present mother of three young kids, an engaged wife, and an active community member, serving on several boards and supporting health initiatives. I aim to juggle life’s complexities with resilience, humor, and a grounded sense of purpose.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Is it ever a smooth road?? That would be odd. I think being human means you have bumps in the road and those bumps often lead to the best, most unexpected things. Early in my career, after putting in significant effort to help build a digital network from the ground up, I took a step back from creating content while pregnant with my first child. When I returned, the landscape had shifted, and my content was gradually phased out. While it initially felt personal, I now see it as a blessing that redirected me toward a deeper passion: mental fitness and resilience.
Balancing all the roles in my life has been another consistent challenge that I know many people face. It’s easy to feel pulled in a million directions and overwhelmed by the pressure to be everything to everyone. I’ve had to learn that I can’t do it all, to ask for help which is hard for me to do, and that prioritizing my own well-being is crucial. It took time to find my rhythm, and I’m so grateful to have a supportive husband and community as well. I’ve come to realize that resilience is about embracing the messiness and learning to move through it, not around it.
These experiences have shaped not only who I am but also the strategies I teach. I’ve learned that the real magic happens when we lean into challenges and use them as opportunities for growth, even when it feels hard.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in resilience and focus training, but my approach is different. I’m not here to add more hacks or quick fixes to your to-do list. Instead, I’m on a mission to dismantle old, broken narratives about what it means to thrive and be healthy. I believe our obsession with seeking balance and chasing happiness is leading us down the wrong path, keeping us stuck in cycles of burnout and dissatisfaction.
My work redefines what real mental fitness looks like, offering a more grounded, science-backed approach. I help people move beyond surface-level solutions, providing strategies that are practical, powerful, and transformative. Through my work on platforms like The Doctors, Good Morning America, and in partnerships with brands like American Express and Coca-Cola, I challenge outdated paradigms and guide people toward a deeper, more authentic way of living.
What sets me apart is my holistic, integrative approach—combining psychology, nutrition, and media to create a dynamic experience that’s relatable and accessible. My bestselling book, 21 Days to Resilience, and my upcoming release, Finding Focus, dive into these concepts, equipping people with the tools to reclaim their attention and build unshakeable resilience in a world full of distractions.
I’m excited to announce that I’ll be offering an exclusive membership group soon, featuring exclusive, personalized content, live sessions, and more tailored support for those looking to deepen their journey into mental fitness. To stay updated on this and everything else I’m working on—events, impactful mental health content, and more—sign up for my upcoming newsletter and follow me on Instagram. It’s all about shifting the conversation around mental health and cutting through the noise. It’s not about the superficial pursuit of happiness; it’s about redefining what it truly means to thrive—on your own terms, in a way that lasts.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I’m a big believer in continuously learning and staying curious, so I turn to a variety of resources for inspiration and knowledge. Here are a few that have significantly impacted my work and personal growth:
Books:
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle – A cornerstone for cultivating mindfulness and presence in both life and work.
Atomic Habits by James Clear – An essential guide on the science of habit formation and how small, consistent changes lead to significant transformations.
Mindset by Carol S. Dweck – A powerful resource for understanding and adopting a growth mindset that drives success.
Mindsight by Dr. Dan Siegel – An exploration into the neuroscience of personal transformation, offering insights on how to reshape our brains for emotional health and resilience.
Podcasts:
The Huberman Lab – Dr. Andrew Huberman’s podcast bridges the gap between neuroscience and practical strategies for optimizing focus and resilience.
The Tim Ferriss Show – A deep dive into productivity, performance, and wellness with insights from experts across various fields.
Unlocking Us by Brené Brown – Her honest conversations on vulnerability and courage help me stay grounded and authentic in my work.
Apps:
Headspace – This app is essential for maintaining a consistent meditation practice, which is crucial for my mental fitness.
Google Docs – For organizing my work and collaborating efficiently, especially when developing new content.
Good Old Pen and Paper – There’s nothing like writing to-do lists by hand to help me prioritize tasks and stay focused without feeling overwhelmed.
Blogs and Websites:
Common Sense Media – As a member of their advisory council, I find their research and insights invaluable for understanding the digital landscape’s impact on mental health.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.drzelana.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.zelana/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrZelanaMontminy
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ZelanaMontminy
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.zelana
