Born Rhonda Eva Harris in Brooklyn, New York, Iyanla Vanzant is an American inspirational speaker, lawyer, New Thought spiritual teacher, author, life coach, and television personality. Her journey into spirituality led her to be ordained as a priestess in the Yoruba tradition, receiving the name "Iyanla," meaning "great mother." She holds a Juris Doctor degree and a Master's degree in Spiritual Psychology, reflecting a blend of legal and spiritual scholarship.

Vanzant gained significant recognition through her books, her own talk show, and frequent appearances on "The Oprah Winfrey Show." She hosted the OWN series "Iyanla: Fix My Life" from 2012 to 2021, where she guided individuals through personal challenges. Her work has been acknowledged by publications like Ebony and Watkins' Mind Body Spirit magazine, recognizing her influence in spiritual and personal development spheres. She is also an ordained New Thought minister.

Iyanla Vanzant's work centers on spiritual growth, self-empowerment, and healing. Her teachings, rooted in New Thought philosophy and informed by her initiation as a Yoruba priestess, aim to guide individuals toward understanding and overcoming life's challenges. Vanzant's approach often involves practical steps for self-awareness, emotional transformation, and cultivating inner peace. She has authored numerous books that explore themes of faith, healing, relationships, and personal strength, offering readers tools and insights for navigating difficult life transitions and fostering a deeper connection with their spiritual selves. Her role as a spiritual teacher and life coach emphasizes the integration of mind, body, and spirit for holistic well-being.

Vanzant is a prolific author whose bibliography spans decades, with notable works focusing on themes of healing, faith, and personal transformation. Her books, such as "Yesterday, I Cried" and "Peace from Broken Pieces," have resonated with a wide audience, establishing her as a prominent voice in inspirational literature. Beyond her writing, Vanzant has made a significant impact through her television presence. Her eponymous talk show and her role as a life coach on "Starting Over," followed by her long-running series "Iyanla: Fix My Life" on OWN, have brought her teachings directly to a broader public. These platforms have allowed her to address complex personal issues and offer guidance, further solidifying her reputation as a multimedia figure in spiritual and self-help circles.