Meet Jacques Mcneil | Author, Speaker, Spiritual Growth Coach, Pastor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jacques Mcneil and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jacques, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I firmly believe that the cornerstone of my success lies in my unwavering dedication to my morning routine—a practice I call my ‘Sacred Time.’ For nearly three decades, rising between 3 and 4 a.m. has been non-negotiable, whether I’m traveling, under the weather, or simply navigating life’s demands.

These precious early hours provide uninterrupted solitude that has proven transformative. In this quiet sanctuary, before the world stirs, I engage in prayer, meditation, scripture reading, journaling, and reflection. This intentional space allows me to seek divine guidance, process life’s complexities, and align my goals with God’s purpose.

The power of these dawn moments has birthed some of my most impactful initiatives. The concept for W.I.T.N.E.S.S Book Club, was developed during one such morning session and it went on to touch thousands of women’s lives across the country for over two decades. My podcast, ‘Empowered By The Word,’ which reached listeners for four years, was also born in these early hours weeks before the pandemic. Most recently, the Empower75 Challenge, which just concluded in October 2024, brought together over 30 participants from various states in a transformative 75-day journey – mind, body, and spirit.

This disciplined approach to starting each day creates a fertile ground where creativity flourishes and inspiration flows freely. The stillness allows me to hear God’s voice more clearly, enabling divine downloads that often transform into purposeful projects. By thoughtfully planning and prioritizing my day during these hours, I establish a foundation for success that harmoniously blends spiritual growth with personal and professional achievement.

By intentionally offering these first moments of each day, I’ve witnessed how this sacred investment has blossomed into a harvest of purpose-driven success, touching not only my life but rippling out to impact countless others.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As an instructional designer at UCLA Health, author, speaker, spiritual growth coach, and pastor, I bridge multiple worlds to create meaningful impact. My work at UCLA Health allows me to develop innovative learning solutions in healthcare education, while my ministry and coaching enable me to nurture spiritual and personal growth in others. What truly sets me apart is my ability to forge authentic, deep connections with people, meeting them exactly where they are while helping them envision where they could be. My approach combines practical wisdom with spiritual insight, creating a unique bridge between faith-filled aspirations and tangible action steps.

I’ve been blessed to witness countless transformations through my work, from individuals finding their voice after years of silence to leaders stepping into roles they once thought impossible. These testimonies of transformation fuel my passion and confirm the power of combining faith with purposeful action.

One of my proudest accomplishments is my book, “Life Happens: 30 Strategies for Triumphant Living,” which emerged from my own journey of overcoming obstacles and now serves as a practical roadmap for others facing similar challenges. The recent launch of my 5-day devotional on the YouVersion App, “Arise: How To Get Back Up When Life Has Knocked You Down,” represents another milestone in my mission to reach and uplift those who need encouragement during difficult seasons.

My journey to this point has had its share of challenges. As a woman of color in both corporate and ministry leadership, I’ve navigated through systemic barriers and unconscious biases that could have limited my progress. However, these experiences haven’t defined me; they’ve refined me. Each challenge has strengthened my resolve and deepened my capacity to empathize with others facing similar struggles. One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned is that adversity often serves as the catalyst for our greatest growth. When we stand firm in our faith and remain anchored in our purpose, what seems impossible becomes achievable.

I want the world to know that I’m more than a survivor – I’m a testament to the power of resilient faith and unwavering determination. As a courageous overcomer, risk-taker, and faith-driven leader, my story isn’t just about personal triumph; it’s about creating pathways for others to discover their own strength and purpose. Every learning solution I design, every book I write, every message I speak, and every life I touch is part of a larger mission to show that with faith, determination, and the right support, we can all rise above our circumstances to create lasting impact

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting Los Angeles for a week, I’d curate an unforgettable blend of coastal charm, urban sophistication, and cultural richness. We’d begin our adventure at the iconic Santa Monica Pier, soaking in the Pacific breeze and vibrant atmosphere, before ascending to Elephante for lunch – a chic rooftop restaurant where the California cuisine is rivaled only by its breathtaking ocean views.

For our dose of glamour, we’d spend a day immersing ourselves in the luxurious ambiance of Beverly Hills, followed by a legendary meal at Crustaceans, known for their secret recipe garlic noodles and sophisticated Asian fusion cuisine. No visit to LA would be complete without experiencing the glitz of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and we’d cap off the evening under the stars at the Hollywood Bowl, where music and magic merge beneath the city lights.

Manhattan Beach would call us early one morning, where we’d energize our spirits with a walk along the scenic Strand. A breakfast stop at the beloved Urth Caffé would fuel us for our cultural exploration at the California African American Museum, whose powerful exhibitions never fail to inspire. For dinner, we’d savor the soulful flavors at Fixins Soul Kitchen, where every dish tells a story of tradition and comfort.

To conclude our week in true LA style, we’d indulge in a day of pampering at Burke Williams Spa, allowing the stress of everyday life to melt away in one of the city’s most luxurious wellness sanctuaries. It’s the perfect finale to a week that showcases the best of what Los Angeles has to offer – from its natural beauty and culinary excellence to its cultural richness and endless opportunities for relaxation.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My journey to success has been shaped by an incredible network of support, and I’m deeply grateful for each person who has contributed to my story. At the foundation is my faith, which has provided unwavering guidance and strength throughout every chapter of my life.

My family stands at the heart of my support system, particularly my husband David and our daughter Micaela. David isn’t just my husband – he’s my rock, best friend, and creative inspiration. His boundless creativity and steadfast support have helped shape my personal, professional, and spiritual growth in ways I couldn’t have imagined. As co-pastors of Transforming Lives Ministries, I’ve witnessed firsthand how his deep biblical knowledge and genuine heart for people transform lives daily. His ability to connect with and shepherd others continues to inspire and humble me, making our ministry partnership as rich and meaningful as our marriage.

Our daughter Micaela is truly our miracle child and continues to be a source of profound inspiration. During the pandemic, she demonstrated remarkable resilience by maintaining a 3.98 GPA while facing tremendous personal challenges, including the loss of her grandmother and an emergency surgery. Her ability to not only persevere but excel – graduating early and now pursuing her Master’s degree – reminds me daily of the power of determination and grace under pressure.

I’m also deeply indebted to my mentor of several decades, Arleta Houston, whose wisdom has guided me through countless seasons of growth and transformation. Her mentorship has been a compass, helping me navigate both professional challenges and personal evolution with clarity and purpose.

Lastly, I must give a shoutout to my dear friend Kimberley Thompson, who has been an unwavering pillar of support in my life. Her friendship transcends typical boundaries – she’s a trusted confidant who not only believes in me during moments of doubt but also celebrates my victories as if they were her own. Her insight, strength, and authentic friendship have been instrumental in shaping my journey

Website: https://jacquesmcneiil.com

Instagram: @jacquesmcneil

Linkedin: Mary Jacques McNeil

Facebook: jacquesmcneil

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ebtwmemorizingscripturewit4498

Image Credits
Jackie Smith of jasmithphotography.com took photos #1, 2, & 4. And I do have the rights and permission to use each of these photos for the article.