INSIDE EVERY PERSON IS A LEADER

Your Success Story Starts Here—Backed by Faith,
Built for Impact

How I turned struggles into stepping stones and now help leaders rise to new heights in business and life.

Dawn Cazedessus is a nationally recognized speaker, author, and leadership coach with a deep passion for helping people rise from unlikely places and lead with unshakable confidence. From the trailer park to the CEO suite, Dawn’s journey is living proof that God can transform even the most ordinary beginnings into extraordinary purpose.

Drawing from her personal story and her signature book, Trailer Park CEO, Dawn equips aspiring business leaders with her 12 Leadership Stones framework—empowering others to lead with authenticity, faith, and courage. Whether on stage, in writing, or through one-on-one coaching, Dawn’s mission is to guide leaders to embrace their calling, walk boldly in Biblical principles, and become Godly Leaders of Influence in every sphere of life.

A JOURNEY OF RESILIENCE

My Story

My STORY:

My mom was 16. My dad was 19. New parents, still kids themselves. And there I was—2 months old—already part of a story bigger than I could understand.

My First Christmas: December - 1974:

This photo was taken at my grandmother’s house on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. A quiet beginning, wrapped in family, before life got complicated.

Home Sweet Home - 1986:

With the help of my aunt and uncle, my parents bought land and placed our trailer on it. That bay window was my childhood bedroom—where resilience was built and big dreams quietly took root.

A Girl Like Me - 1980:

At just 7 years old, sitting in a second-grade classroom, I was already navigating a difficult home life. School wasn’t just school to me—it was a refuge. A place to breathe. A place where I didn’t feel alone.

Wired to Teach - 1990:

Here I am in Algebra class, chalk in hand, acting like the teacher. Even then, something in me was wired to explain, lead, and help others understand.

A Pivotal YEAR - 1991:

Just before this article was released, my dad passed away. My senior year of high school became a blur. I learned how to stay busy and stuff my feelings so I didn’t have to face the anger, grief, and chaos inside me. I was learning how to grind—not by choice, but by survival.

August - 1992:

Not long after this picture, I drove away from the trailer community and toward college. The rearview mirror held the pain. The windshield held possibility. I was broken, hopeful, and a little afraid—but ready for a future that didn’t yet exist. I chose a new beginning.

May 1997:

Graduation day. Cum Laude from Southeastern Louisiana University—Biology major, Chemistry minor, President of Delta Omega Alpha. Behind this picture are four years of three jobs, long nights, and relentless effort to keep going and earn a shot at medical school.

Running:

This is me crossing a finish line—the moment I realized the race before me was mine to run. Hebrews 12:1 reminds us to run with endurance, keeping our eyes on the path God has set.

Entrepreneurial Spirit:

This is one of my favorite pictures from the opening day of my coffee shop. These teenagers were from my youth group—the ones I poured into and loved deeply. They showed up before we even opened, just to be my first customers. Their support still makes my heart smile. And yes…that very first $5 bill? Still framed in my home today—a small moment that meant the world.

August 2000:

Opening day of Mochaccino’s. I was 25, fresh out of Big Pharma, with nothing but big dreams and a fearless heart. The nerves? Yeah, they were there—but so was the excitement. I leaned in, took the leap, and went on to franchise my coffee shop—7 times over. That day, I chose courage over comfort, and it changed everything.

Take Notice:

We made the newspaper!: The community had my back from day one, loving Mochaccino’s and cheering on our growth. That day was electric—reporters came for the story…and stayed for the coffee. Even a NY Times reporter showed up to be part of it! Moments like this remind me that when you pour your heart into something, people notice.

My Big WHY:

Everything I do is for this KREWE!

Proud Beyond Measure:

Choose Fun! Make Memories! These kids remind me daily to embrace the moments.

On Stage:

Speaking and teaching are one of my favorite things to do! I love getting to share the things I have learned and champion others in their growth journey. It brings me so much joy!

Professional Credentials

Dawn Cazedessus is an author, international speaker, and kingdom-focused leader committed to helping entrepreneurs lead with faith, purpose, and resilience. From a trailer park in rural Louisiana to the CEO suite, her journey proves that success isn’t about where you start—it’s about the principles you follow and the legacy you build.

Dawn’s career began in corporate pharmaceuticals with Merck & Co., where she developed a strong foundation in business. She went on to launch Mochaccino’s Gourmet Coffee & Tea, franchising it into seven locations and employing over 100 people. Transitioning into real estate, she built a thriving investment portfolio and was named Rookie of the Year in her first year as a REALTOR®. She later formed a real estate mega-team, growing her influence in the industry and expanding into executive leadership.

In 2017, Dawn became the CEO of Keller Williams Mandeville and later Regional Director for Keller Williams Gulf States, overseeing 5,000 agents. She then stepped into the role of CEO at Sterling Surgical Hospital (a leading multi-specialty surgical center) followed by CEO of Fleur De Lis Law and Title (a full service Law and title company with multiple locations across SE Louisiana) where she helped position both companies for long-term success. Dawn's most recent position had her serve for 3 years as Regional Director of Keller Williams Southeast Region, leading ~20,000 agents and business leaders across Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee. Today she is focused on her leadership coaching and consulting company and is currently working on a new book and Sabbatical Retreat property.

Through her book, Trailer Park CEO, and 12 Stones Coaching, Speaking, and Consulting, Dawn equips leaders with Biblical leadership principles to develop grit, step into leadership, and build a legacy of faith and influence.

Let’s Build Something Beautiful Together

I built this platform for leaders like you - because, not so long ago, I was you. I know what it’s like to feel called by God for something greater, yet be unsure how to step boldly into that calling with faith, courage, and integrity. I’ve lived the fear, the uncertainty, and the ache of wanting to lead, serve, and impact others without losing sight of what matters most.

That’s why I share my story, my setbacks, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way - so you don’t have to walk this journey alone or wonder if you’re meant for more. My deepest hope is that you will believe in your influence, boldly embrace your unique gifts, and trust that with faith as your foundation, you can build a legacy that outlasts you.

If you’re ready to rise up, lead with conviction, and live a life of true impact - God’s way - I would be honored to walk this path with you. You matter, your story matters, and the world needs your leadership.

Start Your Journey

It is my prayer that you embrace profound joy, unwavering clarity, and impactful influence. Step into our community of faith-filled leaders and live boldly for God, from the boardroom to your home.

– Dawn Cazedessus

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Your Success Story Starts Here—Backed by Faith,Built for Impact