info@sheStepsForwardCoaching.com
1-757-809-0313
Strategic Frameworks. Biblical Foundation.
Global Impact.
Equipping women to build businesses, ministries, and nonprofits
that honor God and change communities.
Strategic Frameworks. Biblical Foundation.
Global Impact.
Equipping women to build businesses, ministries, and nonprofits that honor God and change communities.
See Elaine in Action!
See Elaine in Action!
Elaine doesn’t just talk about building — she’s built it.
A Certified John Maxwell Team coach, speaker, and trainer with a Master of Arts in Theology (4.0 GPA), Elaine has founded two organizations from the ground up: She Steps Forward Coaching, a strategic coaching practice for Christian female entrepreneurs, and She Steps Forward International, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that hosts annual conferences in the United States and Africa.
Whether she’s on stage at a faith-based business summit or leading a workshop for aspiring nonprofit founders, Elaine equips audiences with strategic clarity, renewed confidence, and practical next steps. Her message resonates because it’s rooted in real experience, not theory.
Elaine doesn’t just
talk about building
— she’s built it.
A Certified John Maxwell Team coach, speaker, and trainer with a Master of Arts in Theology (4.0 GPA), Elaine has founded two organizations from the ground up: She Steps Forward Coaching, a strategic coaching practice for Christian female entrepreneurs, and She Steps Forward International, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that hosts annual conferences in the United States and Africa.
Her leadership journey spans bedside nursing, hospital program management, national healthcare consulting, nonprofit development, and marketplace ministry — giving her a cross-sector perspective that few speakers can match. She has presented at the Society for Pentecostal Studies, spoken on 30+ podcasts, been featured on local television, and addressed audiences of 500+ across two continents.
Whether she’s on stage at a faith-based business summit or leading a workshop for aspiring nonprofit founders, Elaine equips audiences with strategic clarity, renewed confidence, and practical next steps. Her message resonates because it’s rooted in real experience, not theory.
Signature Speaking Topics
Signature Speaking Topics
Leadership & Entrepreneurship
Stepping Forward: Turning Your God-Sized Dream into a Strategic Plan
That overwhelming moment when you have twenty ideas, forty open tabs, and a vision that feels too big to organize — but you can’t see the clear path forward. This session teaches a proven strategic framework for bringing divine order to entrepreneurial chaos. Audiences leave with a concrete action plan, not just inspiration.
Ideal for: Entrepreneurship summits, women’s business conferences, Christian business networks
Faith-Based Entrepreneurship: Building a Business That Honors God
Christian women entrepreneurs often struggle with guilt about monetization, confusion about structure, and isolation in their calling. This session dismantles the false sacred/secular divide and provides a biblical framework for building sustainable ventures — LLC, nonprofit, or ministry — that align profit with purpose.
Ideal for: Christian business events, church entrepreneurship workshops, women’s conferences
Leadership Lessons from the Marketplace: What three decades Taught Me About Leading
From bedside nursing to national healthcare consulting to founding organizations on two continents — Elaine’s career reinvention arc is a masterclass in adaptive leadership. This session distills the transferable leadership principles she’s learned across every sector and season.
Ideal for: Corporate leadership development, women’s professional networks, chamber of commerce events
From Vision to Launch: The Mindshifts Every Christian Entrepreneur Needs
Before the business plan comes the mindset shift. This session addresses the internal barriers — fear, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and the lie that ‘it’s too late’ — that keep gifted women stuck between calling and action. Audiences leave with both the confidence and the clarity to take their next step.
Ideal for: Women’s conferences (ages 30–65), life-transition events, leadership development programs
Global Impact, Local Roots: Equipping Women Entrepreneurs Across Continents
Drawing from her experience hosting annual conferences in both the U.S. and Kenya and directing humanitarian partnerships in Nairobi, Elaine shares what it takes to extend your mission beyond borders. This session is for leaders who sense a global calling but don’t know where to start.
Ideal for: Missions conferences, global leadership events, nonprofit board retreats
The Nonprofit Journey: Founding and Sustaining a Mission-Driven Organization
Most coaches specialize in one structure. Elaine has built an LLC, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and a conference platform that spans two continents. This practical session helps aspiring founders navigate the critical question: which structure fits my calling? Covers decision frameworks, sustainability strategies, and the realities of mission-driven leadership.
Ideal for: Nonprofit leadership events, social entrepreneurship summits, ministry conferences
Leadership & Entrepreneurship
Stepping Forward: Turning Your God-Sized Dream into a Strategic Plan
That overwhelming moment when you have twenty ideas, forty open tabs, and a vision that feels too big to organize — but you can’t see the clear path forward. This session teaches a proven strategic framework for bringing divine order to entrepreneurial chaos. Audiences leave with a concrete action plan, not just inspiration.
Ideal for: Entrepreneurship summits, women’s business conferences, Christian business networks
Faith-Based Entrepreneurship: Building a Business That Honors God
Christian women entrepreneurs often struggle with guilt about monetization, confusion about structure, and isolation in their calling. This session dismantles the false sacred/secular divide and provides a biblical framework for building sustainable ventures — LLC, nonprofit, or ministry — that align profit with purpose.
Ideal for: Christian business events, church entrepreneurship workshops, women’s conferences
Leadership Lessons from the Marketplace: What three decades Taught Me About Leading
From bedside nursing to national healthcare consulting to founding organizations on two continents — Elaine’s career reinvention arc is a masterclass in adaptive leadership. This session distills the transferable leadership principles she’s learned across every sector and season.
Ideal for: Corporate leadership development, women’s professional networks, chamber of commerce events
From Vision to Launch: The Mindshifts Every Christian Entrepreneur Needs
Before the business plan comes the mindset shift. This session addresses the internal barriers — fear, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and the lie that ‘it’s too late’ — that keep gifted women stuck between calling and action. Audiences leave with both the confidence and the clarity to take their next step.
Ideal for: Women’s conferences (ages 30–65), life-transition events, leadership development programs
Global Impact, Local Roots: Equipping Women Entrepreneurs Across Continents
Drawing from her experience hosting annual conferences in both the U.S. and Kenya and directing humanitarian partnerships in Nairobi, Elaine shares what it takes to extend your mission beyond borders. This session is for leaders who sense a global calling but don’t know where to start.
Ideal for: Missions conferences, global leadership events, nonprofit board retreats
The Nonprofit Journey: Founding and Sustaining a Mission-Driven Organization
Most coaches specialize in one structure. Elaine has built an LLC, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and a conference platform that spans two continents. This practical session helps aspiring founders navigate the critical question: which structure fits my calling? Covers decision frameworks, sustainability strategies, and the realities of mission-driven leadership.
Ideal for: Nonprofit leadership events, social entrepreneurship summits, ministry conferences
Ministry & Teaching
The Elizabeth and Mary Factor: Timeless Lessons for Today’s Calling
A theologically grounded exploration of the relationship between Elizabeth and Mary — and what their story reveals about mentorship, divine timing, and God’s design for women walking together in calling. Elaine brings academic depth from her MA in Theology without sacrificing accessibility or practical application.
Ideal for: Women’s conferences, church leadership events, Bible study intensives
Stepping into Your God-Sized Dream: From Fear to Faith
God plants dreams that feel too big on purpose. This session walks women through the journey from fear to faith — addressing the paralysis that comes when the calling feels larger than the capacity. Elaine shares from her own story of stepping forward when the path wasn’t clear, equipping audiences to move from “what if” to “what’s next.”
Ideal for: Women’s retreats, church conferences, life-transition events
The Power of Purpose: Discovering and Walking in Your God-Given Assignment
For women who sense a calling but feel stuck between ‘I know God has something for me’ and ‘I have no idea where to start.’ This session combines spiritual discernment with strategic clarity, helping audiences identify their assignment and take the first step forward in faith.
Ideal for: Women’s retreats, church conferences, mentorship summits
Kingdom Women in the Marketplace: Faith Meets Entrepreneurship
Lydia wasn’t just a businesswoman — she was a kingdom builder. This session establishes the theological foundation for marketplace calling and gives women biblical permission to see their entrepreneurship as ministry. Grounded in Scripture, delivered with conviction.
Ideal for: Church conferences, women’s ministry events, Christian professional organizations
Spirit-Filled Leadership in the Missions Field
Drawing from her years coordinating missions trips to Nicaragua and her ongoing conference and humanitarian work in Kenya, Elaine teaches what Spirit-filled leadership looks like when you cross borders for the Gospel. This session explores the intersection of faith, cultural humility, and practical missions leadership.
Ideal for: Missions conferences, denominational gatherings, church leadership events
Prayer, Perseverance, and Promise: The Journey of an Obedient Heart
The space between the prayer and the promise is where most women give up. This deeply personal message traces the thread of obedience through seasons of waiting, uncertainty, and delayed fulfillment. Elaine shares from her own journey of perseverance and invites audiences into a deeper trust in God’s timing and faithfulness.
Ideal for: Women’s retreats, prayer conferences, church revival services
All topics can be customized to fit your event theme, audience, and time format.
Elaine is also available for multi-session conference tracks and panel discussions.
Ministry & Teaching
The Elizabeth and Mary Factor: Timeless Lessons for Today’s Calling
A theologically grounded exploration of the relationship between Elizabeth and Mary — and what their story reveals about mentorship, divine timing, and God’s design for women walking together in calling. Elaine brings academic depth from her MA in Theology without sacrificing accessibility or practical application.
Ideal for: Women’s conferences, church leadership events, Bible study intensives
Stepping into Your God-Sized Dream: From Fear to Faith
God plants dreams that feel too big on purpose. This session walks women through the journey from fear to faith — addressing the paralysis that comes when the calling feels larger than the capacity. Elaine shares from her own story of stepping forward when the path wasn’t clear, equipping audiences to move from “what if” to “what’s next.”
Ideal for: Women’s retreats, church conferences, life-transition events
The Power of Purpose: Discovering and Walking in Your God-Given Assignment
For women who sense a calling but feel stuck between ‘I know God has something for me’ and ‘I have no idea where to start.’ This session combines spiritual discernment with strategic clarity, helping audiences identify their assignment and take the first step forward in faith.
Ideal for: Women’s retreats, church conferences, mentorship summits
Kingdom Women in the Marketplace: Faith Meets Entrepreneurship
Lydia wasn’t just a businesswoman — she was a kingdom builder. This session establishes the theological foundation for marketplace calling and gives women biblical permission to see their entrepreneurship as ministry. Grounded in Scripture, delivered with conviction.
Ideal for: Church conferences, women’s ministry events, Christian professional organizations
Spirit-Filled Leadership in the Missions Field
Drawing from her years coordinating missions trips to Nicaragua and her ongoing conference and humanitarian work in Kenya, Elaine teaches what Spirit-filled leadership looks like when you cross borders for the Gospel. This session explores the intersection of faith, cultural humility, and practical missions leadership.
Ideal for: Missions conferences, denominational gatherings, church leadership events
Prayer, Perseverance, and Promise: The Journey of an Obedient Heart
The space between the prayer and the promise is where most women give up. This deeply personal message traces the thread of obedience through seasons of waiting, uncertainty, and delayed fulfillment. Elaine shares from her own journey of perseverance and invites audiences into a deeper trust in God’s timing and faithfulness.
Ideal for: Women’s retreats, prayer conferences, church revival services
All topics can be customized to fit your event theme, audience, and time format. Elaine is also available for multi-session conference tracks and panel discussions.
Why Book Elaine?
Why Book Elaine?
Strategic, Not Just Motivational
Audiences don’t just leave inspired — they leave with frameworks, action plans, and concrete next steps they can implement immediately.
Built It, Not Just Studied It
Elaine has personally founded an LLC, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and a conference platform that operates on two continents. She teaches from the trenches, not the textbook.
Theological Rigor + Practical Application
MA in Theology (4.0 GPA), presenter at the Society for Pentecostal Studies — Elaine brings academic depth without academic dryness. Her biblical teaching is grounded in real-world entrepreneurial experience.
Global Experience, Local Heart
From Suffolk, Virginia to Nairobi, Kenya — Elaine speaks internationally with cultural competence and a genuine passion for equipping women wherever they are.
Audiences of Every Size
Equally effective in a room of 20 or a conference of 500+. She creates deep connections and leaves lasting impressions regardless of the setting.
Strategic, Not Just Motivational
Audiences don’t just leave inspired — they leave with frameworks, action plans, and concrete next steps they can implement immediately.
Built It, Not Just Studied It
Elaine has personally founded an LLC, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and a conference platform that operates on two continents. She teaches from the trenches, not the textbook.
Theological Rigor + Practical Application
MA in Theology (4.0 GPA), presenter at the Society for Pentecostal Studies — Elaine brings academic depth without academic dryness. Her biblical teaching is grounded in real-world entrepreneurial experience.
Global Experience, Local Heart
From Suffolk, Virginia to Nairobi, Kenya — Elaine speaks internationally with cultural competence and a genuine passion for equipping women wherever they are.
Audiences of Every Size
Equally effective in a room of 20 or a conference of 500+. She creates deep connections and leaves lasting impressions regardless of the setting.
What They're Saying...
I attended the 2025 SSFI Women's Conference in Africa, and through the insights of Pastor Elaine Lankford, I was convinced that I needed to hear more. As a God-fearing business owner who was just starting out, I desired a space where I would be equipped to run, grow, and manage my business in a Godly manner. Her message at the conference was the catalyst that set my entire entrepreneurial journey in motion.
Elizabeth Mukami Nyambura
SSFI Women's Conference Attendee (Africa)
Entrepreneur
Nairobi, Kenya
Elaine was an absolutely wonderful guest! The work that she is doing is nothing short of inspiring. I am officially a fan. She openly and honestly shares her story behind the movement, her obstacles and fears that she had to overcome, and when you think you've heard it all... there's more. This lady is on a mission to empower Christian women to rise up, take their place at the table, and live bold, faith-driven lives. She has clearly been called to do this work, and I am happy to have been able to lend a small hand in getting the word out. This was a great conversation and I look forward to speaking with her again in the near future.
Rory Paquette
Wake Up the Lions Podcast Host
Granger, Indiana
Booking Information
Session Formats
- Keynote Address (30–60 minutes)
- Workshop or Breakout Session (60–90 minutes)
- Half-Day Intensive (3–4 hours)
- Full-Day Training
- Multi-Session Conference Track
- Panel Discussion or Fireside Chat
- Virtual & Hybrid Options Available
Audience Sizes
- Intimate groups (20–50) to large conferences (500+)
Speaking Investment
- Fees available upon request.
- Investment varies based on event type, session format, location, and travel requirements.
Travel
- Based in Suffolk, Virginia.
- Available nationally and internationally.
- Travel and accommodations arranged on a per-event basis.
Technical Needs
- Standard presentation equipment (projector/screen, lapel or handheld microphone for larger venues, podium optional).
- Detailed tech rider available upon request.
What They're Saying...
What They're Saying...
I attended the 2025 SSFI Women's Conference in Africa, and through the insights of Pastor Elaine Lankford, I was convinced that I needed to hear more. As a God-fearing business owner who was just starting out, I desired a space where I would be equipped to run, grow, and manage my business in a Godly manner. Her message at the conference was the catalyst that set my entire entrepreneurial journey in motion.
Elizabeth Mukami Nyambura
SSFI Women's Conference Attendee (Africa)
Entrepreneur
Nairobi, Kenya
Elaine was an absolutely wonderful guest! The work that she is doing is nothing short of inspiring. I am officially a fan. She openly and honestly shares her story behind the movement, her obstacles and fears that she had to overcome, and when you think you've heard it all... there's more. This lady is on a mission to empower Christian women to rise up, take their place at the table, and live bold, faith-driven lives. She has clearly been called to do this work, and I am happy to have been able to lend a small hand in getting the word out. This was a great conversation and I look forward to speaking with her again in the near future.
Rory Paquette
Wake Up the Lions Podcast Host
Granger, Indiana
Booking Information
Session Formats
- Keynote Address (30–60 minutes)
- Workshop or Breakout Session (60–90 minutes)
- Half-Day Intensive (3–4 hours)
- Full-Day Training
- Multi-Session Conference Track
- Panel Discussion or Fireside Chat
- Virtual & Hybrid Options Available
Audience Sizes
- Intimate groups (20–50) to large conferences (500+)
Speaking Investment
- Fees available upon request.
- Investment varies based on event type, session format, location, and travel requirements.
Travel
- Based in Suffolk, Virginia.
- Available nationally and internationally.
- Travel and accommodations arranged on a per-event basis.
Technical Needs
- Standard presentation equipment (projector/screen, lapel or handheld microphone for larger venues, podium optional).
- Detailed tech rider available upon request.
Event Planners:
Download Elaine’s speaker media kit for the audience that best fits your event.
Event Planners:
Download Elaine’s speaker media kit for the audience
that best fits your event.
media samples
EntrePastors Podcast
Episode 203 -
Empowering Women in the Marketplace
Interviewing Jesus Podcast
Episode 247 -
Daughtership & Destiny: Keys to Unlocking the Confidence the World
is Waiting For
She Steps Forward In His Strength
Bible Study
media samples
EntrePastors Podcast
Episode 203 -
Empowering Women in the Marketplace
Interviewing Jesus Podcast
Episode 247 -
Daughtership & Destiny: Keys to Unlocking
the Confidence the World is Waiting For
She Steps Forward In His Strength
Bible Study
Ideal Audiences
Elaine speaks to:
- Women’s conferences — particularly ages 30–65, addressing entrepreneurship, calling, and marketplace ministry
- Christian entrepreneurship events — business summits, networking groups, accelerator programs
- Church leadership gatherings — women in ministry, leadership development, missions conferences
- Nonprofit leadership events — boards, founders, social entrepreneurs
- Corporate and professional organizations — Christian women’s professional networks, chamber of commerce divisions
- Podcasts and virtual events — interviews, panel discussions, and webinars
About Elaine
Elaine Lankford is the founder of She Steps Forward Coaching and She Steps Forward International, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that equips Christian female entrepreneurs in the United States and Africa. A Certified John Maxwell Team coach, speaker, and trainer, she holds a Master of Arts in Theology from Jakes Divinity School in partnership with Vanguard University (4.0 GPA, Outstanding Student Award) and has 30+ years of professional leadership experience spanning healthcare, education, and marketplace ministry.
Elaine has addressed audiences of 500+ nationally and internationally, presented at the Society for Pentecostal Studies, appeared on 30+ podcasts, and been featured in local television coverage. She is a published author, a Virginia Christian Chamber of Commerce business partner, and the architect of the SSFI Women’s Conference, held annually across two continents.
A Virginia native, Elaine has been married to her husband, Darrell, for 30+ years. They have one son, Nicholas.
Ideal Audiences
Elaine speaks to:
- Women’s conferences — particularly ages 30–65, addressing entrepreneurship, calling, and marketplace ministry
- Christian entrepreneurship events — business summits, networking groups, accelerator programs
- Church leadership gatherings — women in ministry, leadership development, missions conferences
- Nonprofit leadership events — boards, founders, social entrepreneurs
- Corporate and professional organizations — Christian women’s professional networks, chamber of commerce divisions
- Podcasts and virtual events — interviews, panel discussions, and webinars
About Elaine
About Elaine
Elaine Lankford is the founder of She Steps Forward Coaching and She Steps Forward International, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that equips Christian female entrepreneurs in the United States and Africa. A Certified John Maxwell Team coach, speaker, and trainer, she holds a Master of Arts in Theology from Jakes Divinity School in partnership with Vanguard University (4.0 GPA, Outstanding Student Award) and has 30+ years of professional leadership experience spanning healthcare, education, and marketplace ministry.
Elaine has addressed audiences of 500+ nationally and internationally, presented at the Society for Pentecostal Studies, appeared on 30+ podcasts, and been featured in local television coverage. She is a published author, a Virginia Christian Chamber of Commerce business partner, and the architect of the SSFI Women’s Conference, held annually across two continents.
A Virginia native, Elaine has been married to her husband, Darrell, for 30+ years. They have one son, Nicholas.
Elaine Lankford is the founder of She Steps Forward Coaching and She Steps Forward International, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that equips Christian female entrepreneurs in the United States and Africa. A Certified John Maxwell Team coach, speaker, and trainer, she holds a Master of Arts in Theology from Jakes Divinity School in partnership with Vanguard University (4.0 GPA, Outstanding Student Award) and has 30+ years of professional leadership experience spanning healthcare, education, and marketplace ministry.
Elaine has addressed audiences of 500+ nationally and internationally, presented at the Society for Pentecostal Studies, appeared on 30+ podcasts, and been featured in local television coverage. She is a published author, a Virginia Christian Chamber of Commerce business partner, and the architect of the SSFI Women’s Conference, held annually across two continents.
A Virginia native, Elaine has been married to her husband, Darrell, for 30+ years. They have one son, Nicholas.
Book Elaine for Your Next Event
Looking for a speaker who brings strategic frameworks, biblical depth, and real-world experience to your audience?
Let’s discuss available dates, topic selection, and how Elaine can serve your audience.
Book Elaine for Your Next Event
Looking for a speaker who brings strategic frameworks, biblical depth, and real-world experience to your audience?
Let’s discuss available dates, topic selection, and how Elaine can serve your audience.
Helping Christian Female Entrepreneurs
Change Their Communities
Launching confident, successful Christian female entrepreneurs with targeted strategic plans so they can build sustainable businesses, ministries, and nonprofits!
Let's connect!
- 1-757-809-0313
- info@shestepsforwardcoaching.com
- P.O. Box 7173, Suffolk, VA 23437
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She Steps Forward ® is a registered trademark of She Steps Forward Ministries, LLC, the parent company of She Steps Forward Coaching.