We recently had the chance to connect with Rachel Wilson and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Rachel, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? Who are you learning from right now?
My top three would be my husband, Dr. Ronald D. Wilson, Dr. Juanita Bynum, and Dr. DeeDee Freeman.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Along with my husband, Dr. Ronald D. Wilson, I founded and established The Center GSO in Greensboro, NC. We have been in ministry and building communities for 29 years.
I am also the founder and CEO of Girl Talk International, Inc. (GTI), a nonprofit organization based in Greensboro. GTI is a faith-based initiative that empowers and inspires women from all walks of life, especially those who have been victims of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and other traumatic experiences. Our mission is to help them recover, heal, and rediscover their self-worth and self-esteem.
Girl Talk provides women and girls with opportunities to come together, strengthen one another, and cope with challenges such as self-worth deficiencies. Our vision is for women to help usher one another into their destinies and discover their true purpose.
I was recently nominated for induction into the Ruth Wicker Exhibit: A Tribute to Women, the first stand-alone exhibit in Guilford County dedicated exclusively to honoring the contributions and achievements of women. Located at Barber Park Events Center in Greensboro, the exhibit highlights educators, philanthropists, researchers, activists, and leaders who have called Greensboro home.
In addition to ministry and nonprofit leadership, I am also a certified fashion consultant and have a great love for antique jewelry.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I believe truth, pride, and life itself can break bonds. Being truthful and transparent with those we love can sometimes create friction, and pride often keeps people from reconciling or taking responsibility. Life also takes us on different paths, which can naturally create distance.
Restoration, however, comes through understanding and a genuine willingness to work things out. Even when life leads us down separate paths, intentionality and effort can sustain or restore relationships if both parties are committed.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering has been one of my greatest teachers. It taught me patience, humility, and relatability. I’ve endured many hardships, from losing loved ones to facing rejection. Although painful, those experiences shaped me into who I am today.
Through suffering, I learned patience—understanding that some things take longer than expected and trusting God’s timing instead of my own. My husband often reminds me, “If God didn’t give me a time, why am I rushing?”
Suffering also humbled me. When blessings come, I can’t be arrogant because I remember where I’ve been and what I endured. It’s only by God’s grace that I made it through.
Most importantly, suffering made me relatable. I can genuinely connect with others who are walking through struggles I’ve experienced. Advice is one thing, but being able to say, “I’ve been there too, and you will make it through,” is what gives people real hope.
Though it didn’t always feel good, my suffering has worked for my greater good. I encourage anyone going through hardship to hold on—better days are ahead.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I would first say my husband, Dr. Ronald Wilson, who has taught me so much during our 29 years of marriage. The second would be Dr. Juanita Bynum.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
My faith would remain.
