Ariadne "Ari" Medrano, Founder of Miracle Mindset and an acclaimed Inspirational Speaker and Orator from Dallas, Texas, embodies resilience with her remarkable recovery from paralysis post-craniotomy to dancing in just 21 days. A proud mother of two adult sons, Ari leverages her journey and vibrant Latina heritage to inspire others. Her story of transformation, from facing life's toughest moments to celebrating every victory, big or small, inspires and motivates all to discover the power within. Ari's life is a testament to what's possible wIth action based faith, focus, fashion and commitment anything and everything is possible. Come what may.
Ari is wearing the LYS Shirt. Learn more & follow Ari on IG @arimedranoofficial.
Who is your favorite female role model from history and why?
My favorite role model from history is Frida Kahlo. Her resilience in the face of adversity, boundless creativity, and unapologetic authenticity resonate deeply into my soul and personal journey. Come what may! Like Frida, I've navigated and busted through challenges with a blend of faith, fiery colorful spirit, and an firmly planted belief in the beauty of self-expression in and through unbreakable resilience.
What's the most empowering quote by a woman that motivates you daily?
The quote that turns my radio dial up daily is by Sahara Medrano: "You are more than enough." -Mama
If you could have dinner with three influential women, living or deceased, who would you choose and what would you ask them?
I'd be incredibly excited to break tortillas with Florence Scovill Shinn, Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, and Eva Longoria. I'd ask how they maintained their integrity and sense of purpose amidst male dominated challenges (personally and professionally). An exploratory conversation of breaking cultural and industry barriers, harnessing personal brand, and the influence of perseverance and family support in achieving one's dreams. Their answers would be treasures of insight and wisdom, guiding my own path of empowering others and myself through love, grit and action.¡Viva la mujer!
If you had to create a women's empowerment playlist, which songs would definitely be on it?
- "Brave" by Sara Bareilles
- "A Women Faithful" by Amy Grant and Ellie Holcomb
- "Scars To Your Beautiful" by Allessia Cara
If you could travel back in time and give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
Embrace your unique self. We have a fiery spirit. Don't let it scare you. Let it propel you. Your bold voice is your superpower! Never dim your light for the comfort of others; the world needs your brightness. BE YOU and let the world adjust.
Can you share a memorable and empowering moment from your personal life or career that made you proud to be a woman?
A proud defining moment was when a woman of power took a chance on me. She believed in me and although I did not have a degree in engineering taught me how to read and understand CAD drawings. I became the lead on a pioneering project for ExxonMobil. We were working with top male engineers from Duke and Stanford with a newly developed scanning tool. I found multiple flaws and was then hired to provide quality assurance to their work. My manager Martha was asked where she found me and what university I graduated from. She proudly responded "I found her and she never finished college. She's brilliant." We stood there as two brilliant women. Completely different yet completely united. It was the epitome of women empowering women. A testament to the power of collaboration over competition.
Share a fun or empowering piece of advice you received from an influential woman in your life.
My mentor and grass roots activist, Dr. Suzie Rodriguez gave me the most empowering advice that framed the rest of my life. She told me, 'People can't hear you if they can't get by seeing you. What you wear equally precedes the importance of what you are about to say. Your outfit and your words matter; use them relentlessly.' This life lesson I learned after being dismissed from a very important board meeting with the LA Board of Supervisors doing advocacy work. I listened to her advice and it changed every single room I walked into thereafter. When I speak today the room listens.
What advice would you give to young women who are just starting their careers?
Trust in your unique journey and the strength you carry within. You are greater than the sum of all of your experiences. ALL OF YOUR PARTS (including the challenging ones) are here to work for you and grow you. Remember, your voice matters – use it boldly with truth and grace, creating spaces of support and empowerment around you. Calladita no te ves más bonita, as our mothers told us. Speak up because you are necessary, unique and one of a kind. Your contribution to the world is needed. Someone out here is waiting for you to show up. '¡Sin miedo al éxito!'... Come what may.
What does International Women's Day mean to you personally, and how do you celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in your everyday life?
International Women's Day is a reflection of our collective journey and individual triumphs globally. It's a day to celebrate how far we've come and to recommit to lifting each other up, honoring the diverse tapestry of women's experiences and contributions globally.
White shirts can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for various occasions. How do you style a white shirt to reflect your personality and make a fashion statement?
I style my white shirt with bold, colorful accessories that reflect my Latina heritage, grace, and vibrant spirit. Paired with high-waisted trousers or skirt and statement jewelry, it becomes a canvas for my bold, elegant and beautiful personality – a blend of tradition, modernity, and fearless self-expression.
