Lyena Strelkoff

Recently recognized by the California State Legislature as a finalist for a Woman of Influence Award, Lyena Strelkoff is a storyteller, speaker, writer and coach determined to elevate the way humans relate to change, challenge, and adversity. A lifelong dancer paralyzed at the age of 33, Lyena’s unique approach used the tragedy to catapult her career and personal life forward. As a performer, she is best known for the autobiosolo show, Caterpillar Soup, which enjoyed an extended six-month run in Santa Monica, CA and five national tours. She was a selected performer for the VSA Arts International Festival, an affiliate of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts; has been heard on NPR’s Snap Judgment; and is a fan favorite on KCRW’s storytelling podcast, Strangers. She is a contributing essayist to the acclaimed anthology Dancing at the Shame Prom; a Vermont Studio Center writing fellowship awardee; and a longtime blogger, sharing the absurdity, grace, and deep wisdom of living empowered in a challenging world. She is also a highly sought keynote and inspirational speaker for diverse groups across the country including the newly minted SUE series featuring Successful, Unstoppable, Empowering women. She is the creator of the Shero’s Way, a philosophy and methodology that uses life’s hardest hits as a catalyst for creating inspired, purposeful lives; and she offers retreats and private coaching for women. You can find her on Facebook and at www.lyenastrelkoff.com.