Childhood Resilience, Career Evolution, Public Speaking, and Leadership Growth

Heather Carnes shares that her leadership foundation began with childhood illness, being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at age two and spending much of her early life in hospitals. Those experiences developed resilience, grit, and a determination not to be “defined by circumstance.” She describes pushing boundaries from a young age, including joining soccer and cheerleading despite pain. Heather began her career in association publishing, later becoming managing editor of Today’s Hotelier and eventually joining AAHOA, where she rose to Executive Vice President of Communications and Chief Strategy Officer.

Launching Carnes Agency represented a major transition. Heather explains that she does not view herself as a risk taker but as a “boundary pusher,” stepping outside her comfort zone to grow. Public speaking played a central role in her development; she recalls shaking during her first moderating opportunity, but she gained confidence through repetition, preparation, and emotional connection to her topics. She shares strategies such as identifying three main points, knowing the audience, and only accepting engagements that resonate. Heather discusses overcoming self-doubt by reframing negative self-talk and strengthening mindset through books, podcasts, and repetition.

Notable Quotes/Highlights

• “I did it through the pain.”
• “I did not consider myself to be a risky person whatsoever.”
• “Public speaking has been the foundation for confidence.”
• “Self-doubt is just a lack of understanding.”
• “The world is only advanced by those who more than fill their present place.”

Closing Reflection

Heather’s story underscores the power of resilience, intentional growth, and redefining limits. She shows how pushing boundaries, embracing discomfort, and investing in mindset create lasting confidence. Her reflections highlight that leadership evolves through self-awareness, compassion, and the willingness to learn new skills. She encourages others to pursue clarity of vision, challenge negative narratives, and remain open to personal reinvention. Heather’s journey demonstrates how each experience, difficult or triumphant, becomes a building block for future success.