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

What People Are Saying

"Inspiring with practical tips and plenty of worthwhile examples."

Ken Marsh - Author of "Fearless Networking"

 

"Meaningful First Hand Experiences."

Jim Bratt - Owner of Bratt Communications“

"Enjoyable! Empowering! Encouraging! Informative and Inspirational!

Geanna Kinkardon - HR and Compliance Manager at G-Con Biotherapeutics

"The fact that you can really use these suggestions immediately."

Vergie Kitchen - Owner of Tomball Tool Rental Inc.