I am a deaf bilateral cochlear implant wearer who has been blessed to live a purposeful and meaningful life.

As a speaker, I have been fortunate to travel to many different cities (over 50 cities in 2019/2020!) in the United States including Alaska. It is a joy to inspire others to lead more successful lives in spite of their challenges. I motivate others on Leadership, Success, and Change as a Resiliency Thought Leader

Meanwhile, I authored a children’s book, “Sunny and her Cochlear Implants” and completed a Master’s Degree at University of Houston in Human Resources Development.

When I am not busy speaking, I can often be found at the barn training Arabian and American Saddlebred show horses, in addition to instructing riders to learn how to ride and compete with their horse(s).

I have a creative side too! I own a successful furniture refinishing company: Dussling Fine Finishes.

Who is Susanna

My path to success has required me to navigate many insurmountable challenges. I was born with progressive profound hearing loss. I was fitted with hearing aids at the age of 3 and was raised in a hearing world. I had many challenges mostly communication and speech difficulties; however, these challenges did not stop me from living a meaningful and purposeful life.

In 2005, while working for a large department store company as a successful retail leader, my life changed drastically when I became completely deaf due to “Single-Sided Sudden Deafness.” After suffering depression and misery, I made a life changing decision to become a cochlear implant wearer. I received cochlear implants and am thankful for this amazing technology. Shortly, thereafter, I was fired.

As I contemplated my next professional career pursuit, I obtained a Master’s Degree at the University of Houston in Human Resources Development. While, looking for my next job, I began to paint furniture as my “stress buster” since I could no longer afford to show and train horses.

After being fired again, I turned my “accidental business” of refinishing furniture into a successful business. However, at a very young age, I always knew that my mission in life was to motivate and inspire others.

Now, it’s that time. I am blessed to inspire you as a speaker.

I reside in Tomball, Texas with my 2 furry 4-legged friends: Maverick and Charlie.

Other Fun Facts about me:

Made a childhood dream come true of working on onboard “The Love Boat”
Met Patrick Swayze, as I was his beloved “Tammen” Groom for the day at Sam Houston Race Park
Ran and completed several half marathons
Galloped horses on the racetrack
Adrenaline Junkie – love extreme sports
Accomplished and avid Equestrian
Creative Furniture Artisan – learn more at Dussling Fine Finishes (my creative business website)
Several articles about my experiences have been written and published to include the Arabian Horse Times

“I am on a mission to change the world – one company, one leader, and one individual at a time.”

— Susanna Dussling