Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathy Thorne.
Hi Kathy, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born in the Dominican Republic, in a place that many people might have looked at and wondered, “Can anything good come from there?” Yet I’ve learned that God has a beautiful way of bringing extraordinary purpose out of places and circumstances the world often overlooks.
In the early 1990s, my family and I immigrated to the United States in search of greater opportunities. From a young age, I carried a deep desire to become more than my circumstances suggested was possible. At the time, I couldn’t fully explain it, but now I know it was God placing purpose inside of me long before I recognized His hand on my life.
I became the first person in my family to graduate from college in the United States with a bachelor’s and then a master’s degree. That milestone wasn’t just a personal achievement; it became a doorway for others. After me, many of my siblings and cousins also pursued higher education and earned their degrees. It showed me that when one person has the courage to step forward, it gives others permission to believe they can do the same.
Then, in 2017, everything changed. I had a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ that completely transformed the direction of my life. What began as ambition became purpose. What had been striving became surrender. Christ not only changed my heart but also revealed my identity and calling. Since then, my passion has been helping others experience the same freedom, healing, and restoration that I found in Him.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I wouldn’t say it has been a smooth road, but I would say that everything God has truly called me to has ultimately come with His grace and His timing. Every significant milestone in my life has been met with opposition. I’ve learned that whenever God is preparing me for something greater, resistance often comes first. Whether it’s fear, doubt, setbacks, or unexpected challenges, I’ve come to recognize that opposition isn’t always a sign to stop; sometimes it’s confirmation that you’re moving in the right direction.
Looking back, those difficult seasons have strengthened my faith and my resolve to keep pressing forward. Scripture tells us to “fight the good fight of faith,” and I’ve learned that perseverance is often where our character is shaped and our trust in God deepens.
One of the hardest feelings for me is the thought of looking back and wondering, “What if I had given just a little more?” I never want regret to be the reason I miss what God has called me to do.
Even this interview is an example of that. I delayed doing it because there was still a small voice of fear and hesitation trying to convince me to hold back. But I’ve learned that courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s choosing obedience despite it.
So, no, the journey hasn’t been smooth. But every time I’ve surrendered the process to God instead of trying to carry it on my own, I’ve experienced His peace, His strength, and His supernatural ease. What once felt impossible became possible because I wasn’t relying on myself; I was relying on Him.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Professionally, I serve as an Instructional Math Coach for DC Public Schools, and I absolutely love what I do. One of the things I enjoy most is that my impact extends far beyond a single classroom. Rather than teaching just 30 students each year, I have the privilege of coaching teachers, which ultimately impacts more than 400 students annually. By equipping educators with effective instructional practices, I’m helping create lasting change that reaches countless students.
Interestingly, that same calling to teach and develop others has carried over into my business and ministry. I often say that God is the CEO of my business and ministry, and I simply have the privilege of stewarding what He has entrusted to me. Through The Virtuous Journey Collective, I teach, disciple, and guide women toward healing, freedom, and purpose through biblical truth and guided healing sessions. My heart is to help people identify the lies that have kept them bound, encounter Jesus in the places where they were wounded, and replace those lies with God’s truth. I believe true transformation happens when we don’t simply change our behavior; we allow God to heal our hearts.
Most recently, I fulfilled a dream that God placed in my heart by publishing my first book, Relearning and Reclaiming Self: A Journey into Healing. The book invites readers to embark on a journey of healing, restoration, and rediscovering their God-given identity. It is a reflection of my own healing journey and serves as a practical and spiritual resource for those who are ready to move beyond pain and embrace the life God has called them to live.
What I’m most proud of isn’t a title, degree, or accomplishment. It’s the fact that God took some of the darkest and most painful seasons of my life and redeemed them for His glory. He didn’t simply help me survive my story; He transformed it into a testimony that now helps others find hope and healing.
I believe what sets me apart is that I don’t lead from theory; I lead from transformation. Everything I teach has first been tested in my own life. I know what it’s like to wrestle with rejection, fear, trauma, disappointment, and brokenness, and I also know the freedom that comes when Jesus heals those places. That allows me to meet people with both compassion and truth, creating a space where they feel seen, heard, and empowered to walk confidently in the purpose God has for them.
Whether I’m coaching teachers, leading women through guided healing, or writing, my mission remains the same: to help people renew their minds, reclaim their identity, and walk boldly in the purpose God has prepared for them.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
My biggest piece of advice is to show up. Attend conferences, networking events, workshops, and gatherings where people are doing what you aspire to do. Opportunities often come simply because you’re in the room.
I’ve found some of my greatest mentors by being willing to ask questions and remaining humble enough to ask for help. Too often, people attend these events, sit quietly, collect a few business cards, and leave without ever starting a meaningful conversation. Networking isn’t just about exchanging contact information; it’s about building genuine relationships.
I’ve learned that most people are willing to share their knowledge and experiences if you approach them with sincerity, respect, and a willingness to learn. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself, ask thoughtful questions, and follow up after the event. One conversation can open doors you never imagined.
I also believe mentorship is about more than finding someone with influence; it’s about finding someone whose character, values, and life align with the direction you’re trying to go. Skills can be taught, but integrity, wisdom, and humility are qualities worth learning from.
Finally, remember that networking isn’t about what people can do for you. It’s about building authentic relationships, serving others well, and trusting that the right connections will come at the right time. Some of the greatest opportunities in my life have come simply because I was willing to show up, ask questions, and remain teachable.
Pricing:
- one-on-one Guided-healing sessions start at $67
- Relearning and Reclaiming Self book $19.99
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thevirtuousjourneycollective.com/
- Instagram: lael_shebelongstogod
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-thorne-735552351
- Other: tiktok @lael_shebelongstoGod
