Cathy Reilly: Empowering Leaders Through Intentional Communication

Portrait of Cathy Reilly, featured keynote speaker in Education Eureka’s 2025 edition.
Cathy Reilly, recognized as one of America's most inspiring keynote speakers in the 2025 edition of Education Eureka.

The Inner Voice Behind Outer Impact 

The Spark Behind Sharing the Shine 

In a world that often values noise over nuance, Cathy Reilly is a beacon of quiet strength, intentional leadership, and authentic influence. As the Founder and CEO of Sharing the Shine and the Influential Speaker Academy, Cathy’s three-decade journey in advocacy, business, and personal development has not just inspired thousands — it’s equipped them with the tools to transform. From corporate giants like Anthem and Costco to dynamic speaking platforms such as the LA Tribune and eWomen Network, Cathy’s message has been consistent: true success begins within. 

With a powerful blend of psychology, neurolinguistics, business acumen, and legal insight, Cathy teaches that communication is more than just speaking — it’s about connection. Her unique methodology is rooted in emotional intelligence and mindset mastery, helping individuals and organizations navigate change, unlock inner potential, and lead with clarity. 

Leadership Grounded in Emotional Intelligence 

Cathy’s leadership philosophy centers on emotional intelligence — the cornerstone of effective communication and sustainable success. “We can’t lead others well if we don’t know how to lead ourselves first,” she explains. This principle forms the basis of her corporate training programs and leadership coaching sessions, where she empowers clients to master their emotions, connect with purpose, and drive results. 

Her impactful sessions, delivered to teams at T-Mobile, small businesses, and national conferences alike, demonstrate how emotional awareness, personal responsibility, and clear communication are non-negotiables in modern leadership. Cathy’s approach goes beyond theory — she brings a practical, heart-centered framework that inspires change from the inside out. 

Breaking the Silence — A Voice for Introverts 

In her Amazon best-selling book, Unleash Your Inner Voice: An Introvert’s Guide to Overcoming the Itty-Bitty Shitty Committee, Cathy gives voice to those who often go unheard. With wit, wisdom, and relatable storytelling, she breaks down the internal barriers many introverts face — self-doubt, fear of judgment, and imposter syndrome — offering readers a blueprint to step into their power. 

Her signature podcast, Breaking Bad Communication, complements this message. Through candid conversations and expert insights, Cathy helps listeners identify and unlearn harmful communication patterns. It’s a platform where real change begins — not through shouting louder, but by speaking with intentionality, empathy, and authenticity. 

A Champion for Women and Wellness 

Beyond the stage and the page, Cathy is an active contributor to community growth. She serves on the boards of Colorado Business Women and Healthy Denver, Inc., and leads the Speaker Pro division at Achieve Systems. Her commitment to women’s empowerment and holistic wellness isn’t just professional — it’s deeply personal. 

Whether she’s mentoring rising leaders, advocating for equitable workplaces, or teaching self-care through communication, Cathy remains grounded in her mission to foster inner alignment. “You can’t pour from an empty cup,” she reminds clients. Cathy’s work is a call to refill — not just with productivity, but with purpose. 

Strategic Speaking for Business Growth 

At the core of Cathy’s training is the transformative power of speaking. But she doesn’t just teach people to speak — she teaches them to influence. Through her Speaker Academy and coaching work, Cathy equips entrepreneurs, executives, and thought leaders with tools to use their voice strategically, turning passion into profit and vision into visibility. 

From developing keynote addresses to guiding panel discussions and media interviews, Cathy blends presence, precision, and persuasion. Her clients leave equipped to not only tell their story but to own it — with authenticity, confidence, and a clear call to action. 

Living the Shine 

Today, Cathy lives in Denver with her husband, daughter, and a menagerie of beloved animals, including her trail companion BeauJo. When she’s not training executives or speaking to hundreds, you might find her paddleboarding or running through Colorado’s hills with her dog. 

But no matter where she is, Cathy Reilly embodies what she teaches: living each day with intention, showing up with heart, and leading with voice. Through Sharing the Shine, she has created more than a company — she’s sparked a movement. One that empowers individuals to step into their truth, communicate with courage, and shine from the inside out. 

“You don’t have to be the loudest in the room to be the most powerful — you just need to own your truth, speak with intention, and lead from within.” — Cathy Reilly 

 

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