I am deeply blessed and grateful for the hundreds of young girls and women who have trusted me over the years to be a part of their personal development team. These ladies have achieved winning results, not because of any one person’s guidance; but instead, they have been teachable, taken action, and believed in themselves after working with the many members of their team. As you read their words of appreciation, know that I am only one of many people who have played a part in their journey.
Blessings,
Rhonda

Shana Williams
Mrs. Delaware America 2011

“The thing I loved most about working with Rhonda is her ability to make me feel special. So often, as women and competitors, we gauge how interesting we are on our large successes. It could be raising thousands of dollars for charity, starting a non-profit organization, or embarking upon a mission trip to a third world country. While all of those things are amazing, there is so much more to all of us that unlocks the essence of who we are. Rhonda really helped me tap into those things. By just talking to me about my life, she uncovered random instances that put me on this path that I am walking. Reflecting on those moments and discussing them openly had a definite impact on my interview. It is so important that judges get an understanding of all of our many layers. Furthermore, in pageants and in life, it is so important to be able to articulate our motivations. Rhonda truly helped me do that! For me, working with her was part pageant coaching, part life coaching, and part soul searching. I ended each session on a natural high. I felt calmer! I felt lighter! I felt at ease! I also felt that I was enough!! While at Mrs. America for two weeks, that feeling remained. And although I didn’t walk away with the title, the mere feeling of being fully prepared made all the difference in the world. And walking off the stage and finally meeting Rhonda face to face (we skyped) was the icing on the cake! Her energy and light shined brighter than all of the rhinestones in the room! ”

Shana Williams
Mrs. Delaware America 2011

Kodi Baumann
Miss Panhandle Outstanding Teen 2012 and Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Non-finalist Interview winner

“I was very skeptical of hiring someone, especially over the internet, but within minutes you had us feeling confident of our decision. It is the best money we have spent on any pageant accessory! I am shocked at the re-creation of Kodi’s paperwork, and it couldn’t have happened without you! Thanks for restoring my faith! “
Jennifer Baumann, Mother of Kodi Baumann
Miss Panhandle Outstanding Teen 2012 and Miss Nebraska’s Outstanding Teen Non-finalist Interview winner

 

Andrea Sonnier, Miss Capital City 2011
2nd RUNNER UP Miss Louisiana America 2011,
State Community Service Award Winner
State Healthy Lifestyle/Physical Fitness Award Winner

Winning through Pageantry instilled in me the self-confidence, communication skills, and essential knowledge in applying for a job such as being a title-holder. Throughout my journey in the Miss America organization, I greatly relied on Rhonda Shappert’s Winning Through Pageantry and placed 2nd runner-up in my state. As a deaf contestant, many assumed I would go far due only to sympathy votes. However, many learned that while I used my deafness to support my platform, I achieved a great accomplishment in the system as 2nd runner up by being the best all-around contestant I could be. . Not only was I able to apply my confidence and interview skills acquired from this program to my pageant experience, I was able to use those same skills in my first job interview…and I got that job! I now have the career of my dreams as a high school English teacher for deaf students. Thanks to Winning Through Pageantry for helping me make a difference!”

Be blessed,
Andrea Sonnier
Andrea Sonnier, Miss Capital City 2011
2nd RUNNER UP Miss Louisiana America 2011,
State Community Service Award Winner
State Healthy Lifestyle/Physical Fitness Award Winner

 

 

 

Karla Myers
Ms. Senior American Dream 2011

Dear Rhonda, I wanted to thank you for all the information you provide in your newsletters. I competed in a pageant for the first time in my life in August 2011 at the age of 66 (and won). Thanks to you and your advice and wise counsel from your newsletters. After deciding to compete, Stephanie McClain suggested I subscribe to your newsletters and it was one of the best decisions I made in order to follow a dream. In 2010 I became Ms. Senior Nebraska American Dream. In August 2011, I competed in the American Dream Pageant in Las Vegas in my division and won not only the division, but Best Interview, and the Internet Choice Award for favorite contestant. Among all the tips you provided, the one that I cherish the most is the tip about the difference between the peach and plum in the judges’ eyes. One should go with only the attitude to do one’s best…not set on winning. You so wisely stated that the judges may be looking for the best peach that day and you are the best plum. I took that thought with me and my attitude was one of confidence and calm. I went for the adventure and to just do my best. Whatever happened after that was out of my control. But I listened to your wise counsel based on your vast experience. And I listened to my other coaches who provided one-on-one lessons in how to walk, turn, etc. The other piece of valuable information that stands out for me from your newsletters was how to pack for a pageant. However, ALL of your newsletters have so much merit. Anyone who is planning on competing in pageantry should subscribe to your newsletters. With pride of accomplishment, I’ve attached a copy of my formal coronation picture. Not bad for a gal of 66 years of age. Bottom line: It is NEVER too late!

Karla Myers,
Ms. Senior American Dream 2011

 

What happens when your daughter and your pageant coach’s daughter compete in the same age division in the same pageant? Hallelujah, Rhonda was still on our team!

We love having Rhonda as a Pageant Coach but when it happened that our daughters were competing in the same pageant, one of them in the same age division, I was intimidated (I mean her daughters have a Pageant Coach on tap 24/7). And anyway, what is the correct protocol when your “Pageant Coach” (who’s normally on your team) is there as a “Pageant Mom” (the competition).

It didn’t take long to find out.

After leaving the check-in table, on the first day of the pageant, we went to practice my daughter’s piano piece for the talent competition. All wide eyed and clueless we ran straight into a show stopper. No piano?!….Seriously?? As a Pageant Mom you expect and prepare for handling last minute emergencies… but I sure didn’t see this one coming. I was stunned. The director apologized for the over site and offered to refund the entry fee, which was nice, but my daughter had poured a lot of practice time, not to mention money for lessons, into preparing for this and I considered it to be her strongest area.

Heads weighed down with disappointment and feeling defeated we watched in silence for the next 20 minutes while carefree moms and happy daughters traipsed down the connecting hall way to the check in area. Eventually focusing past my self pity I saw someone waving at us. It was Rhonda coming over with her daughters in tow, to say hello and see how we were getting along. After hearing about the lack of piano situation she snapped opened her cell phone and started making calls to get a keyboard brought to the Hotel. Then she asked “Why are you sitting in the hallway? Don’t you have a room yet? Come and hang out in ours.” Hallelujah, Rhonda was still on our team!

But not just our team, through out the weekend I noticed her giving advise and encouragement to her many other clients that were there. “It’s not just hype.” I thought “It’s true, her objective really is for each young lady to win by being the best they could be.” How refreshing…..

If Rhonda’s actions alone didn’t convince me then watching her daughters did. They were genuine, warm, and approachable; a delight to be around. But more impressive you could see they had a healthy balanced attitude toward pageantry. If they walked off the stage with a trophy, a crown, or nothing at all they are still authors, speech makers, dancers, photographers and graphic arts designers. That is exactly how I want my daughter to view these experiences too.

As a bonus, I was able to observe Rhonda interacting with her own daughters. A living, breathing example of what a good pageant Mom should be on competition weekend. Encouraging, supportive, and always ready to smile, cheer loudly and afterward to say “Great job!”

Joyce Escobar, Mother of Angela Escobar
2011 Miss Ohio American Coed Jr. Teen
Top 30 from a field of 200 contestants in Ohio National American Miss Jr. Teen, 2010
2nd Runner Up Talent Ohio National American Miss Jr. Teen,2010
Photogenic Winner and 1st Runner Up Ohio American Coed Jr. Teen,2010
Jr. Teen 3rd Runner Up Photogenic at National American Coed Pageant,2010
Angela Escobar

Rhonda,

Our experience with you was wonderful and I just wanted to say thank you and let you know how you’ve helped transform my daughter’s life.

Reagan tends to be on the shy side so my husband and I were thrilled when Reagan had the desire to enter the pageant. It wasn’t an easy road. With your help, encouragement and coaching ability Reagan came a very long way. Had the judges had the opportunity to see her at one of the camps that NAM provided she surely would have won most improved!

She went from being barely able to talk in front of a crowd and looking down to confidently and enthusiastically giving her personal introduction in front of anyone who would listen! This change in her has benefited her in her personal life and at school. I see her approach things and do things that she never would have attempted last year. She eagerly ran for Student Council Government at her school this year. She had to write and give a speech in front of the class. This is a very different young girl from last year!

I was also amazed by the families I met at your coaching camps. I thought it might be awkward having my daughter participate in a camp where she would practice with girls that she would be competing against. It was just the opposite. The mom’s were so helpful and eagerly gave advice on how to do things in the pageant world and their daughter’s were just as nice and polite.

Your enthusiasm is contagious and we really look forward to working with you again! I know the skills Reagan has learned with you will benefit her well beyond her pageant career!

Sincerely,

Christine Hoyt, Mother of Reagan Hoyt
2010 Top 20 Ohio National American Miss Pre-Teen
2010 Photogenic 2nd Runner Up Ohio National American Miss Pre-Teen
2010 Photogenic Winner and 4th Runner Up at Ohio American Coed Pre-teen
Reagan Hoyt

Rhonda’s professionalism and dedication to her craft is seen in the winners she produces.

Rhonda Shappert is truly an inspirational coach. Her professionalism and dedication to her craft is seen in the winners she produces.

She believes that it is the journey toward the crown that will help her clients excel in all areas of life in addition to pageantry. Rhonda walks that talk with her clients and helps them to be the very BEST that THEY can be.

I would highly recommend Rhonda Shappert to any mother that is looking for a pageant coach for their daughter. She is passionate about pageantry and compassionate towards her clients. She understands the journey, dedication and commitment and will help you not only see your dreams….but believe in your dreams! With Rhonda…..you always walk away a winner!

Anedra Million, mother of Aunjanna’ Million
Miss High School America Ohio 2010
Miss High School America 2010- 3rd Runner Up at national pageant
Miss Black USA Talented Teen Ohio 2010
Miss Black USA Talented Teen- 2nd Runner Up at national pageant
Miss Teen Ohio-World- 2nd Runner Up
Aunjanna’ Million
Miss High School America Ohio 2010

I was blessed to be crowned National Miss American Dream 2010. Thank you so much Rhonda for all your help and expertise. I couldn’t have done it without you!

I just want to thank Rhonda for all of her help getting me ready for the National American Dream Pageant. Her pageant coaching was so valuable in my quest for the crown. I truly wish I had done this 10 years ago!

I was always unsure of working with a pageant coach, just because of my own insecurities. Rhonda was amazing! I immediately felt very comfortable with her and that she really wanted to help me do my best. She helped me realize that the quirky things that make me who I am are the things that the judges will remember.

The little gems of information and tips from her helped so much. I was blessed to be crowned National Miss American Dream 2010 in New Orleans, Louisiana and I also won the fitness award! Thank you so much Rhonda for all your help and expertise. I couldn’t have done it without you!

Thanks!!!

Kristin Adams
National Miss American Dream 2010

Even though we were miles away, I felt I was speaking to a friend. To someone who really cared about me and the betterment of my life.

After one year of working with Rhonda Shappert, I must say that winning her pageant coaching services as Miss Black Ohio USA 2010 was my best and most useful prize!

Over the past year, besides giving me pageant coaching, she has really coached me through things in my life. We have been able to successfully work through issues of my past, evaluate my relationships, goals and aspirations. Basically anything I needed or asked of her.

Rhonda is such a caring woman and shows much compassion in our conversations. Even though we were miles away, I felt I was speaking to a friend. To someone who really cared about me and the betterment of my life!

I feel like I could go on and on and on about how incredible Rhonda is, but I will simply say this, I will definitely miss our coversations, her assistance, her willingness to walk me through decision making…and if I find a pageant where her services are listed in the prizes… I WILL be signing up!!!
Thanks Rhonda, You are AWESOME!!!!!!

Love,
Ashley Miller
Miss Black Ohio USA 2010
Miss Black USA 4th Runner Up 2010
Miss Kentucky USA 2010- Top 15
Ashley Miller
Miss Black Ohio USA 2010

I never once felt like she was giving me general advice that she was telling everyone else.

My experience with Rhonda Shappert, at Winning Through Pageantry began last April when I decided to compete for the title of Mrs. Ohio America, 2010. What I instantly loved about Rhonda is that she really strived to get to know the real “Kimberly Miller”.

I could tell she was truly invested in helping me be my best to capture the title. I never once felt like she was giving me general advice that she was telling everyone else. I am a professional ventriloquist and magician, and certified sign-language interpreter. My platform is promoting ‘Childhood Obesity Awareness” and I created the show, “Come Out Of Your Shell and Get Well”, featuring Toned Tony the Turtle. So when I asked “how do I tie all this together as Mrs. Ohio America”, Rhonda began to perform her magic!

Whether we were working on my platform, judges bio, interview questions, etc. she pointed me in the right direction to bring out the best “ME” that I could be. So when I won the Best Interview Award at Mrs. Ohio, and had a flawless onstage question interview, I knew it was only through working with Rhonda, who helped me gain the confidence that it was ok to be myself!

In preparing me for Mrs. America, Rhonda and I took it to the next level of interviewing. I never had a memorized answer for anything. I knew why I wanted to be the next Mrs. America, and what I would do with the title if I won. And honestly, that’s what it was all about for me. I competed because I truly want to make a difference in the lives of children and families on a national level, and that is what I will CONTINUE to do as Mrs. Ohio America, and beyond!

I can truly say that Rhonda is a sharp, brilliant woman who gave me endless support and encouragement! I believe Rhonda is uniquely set apart from the many pageant coaches out there, and after one 15 minute conversation with her, anyone will see why!

Kimberly Miller, Mrs. Ohio America 2010
Kimberly Miller
Mrs. Ohio America 2010

At first I was curious how pageant coaching would work out due to the distance between us. I was able to work with her once face to face and I loved it; but the phone sessions were just as helpful!

What is not to like about the fabulous Rhonda!

I feel honored to have had her help and support in my pageant preparation for my national competition, America’s Perfect Teen. As Michigan’s Perfect Teen 2010, I received pageant coaching for nationals, and wow did it help.

At first I was curious how pageant coaching would work out due to the distance between us. I was able to work with her once face to face and I loved it; but the phone sessions were just as helpful!
She has an excellent way of breaking down your ideas and digging deeper into your opinions. She is brilliant! I always seem to do well with my onstage presence but sometimes the one thing keeping me from the crown was how I answered questions.
Rhonda helped me organize my thoughts and opinions. I felt extremely confident going into my press style interview. I give credit to her for my high scores in interview. I would love to work with her in the future and not only for pageants but also to improve my public speaking skills for everyday life. Words cannot describe how talented she is in preparing girls, you just need to find out for yourself!
Sarah Gerberding
Michigan’s Perfect Teen 2010
America’s Perfect Teen National Miss Photogenic Winner
Sarah Gerberding
Michigan’s Perfect Teen 2010

 

I love the way you encouraged Natalie to think beyond the answer without sounding like you are critiquing.

Dear Rhonda,

As a mother of a contestant, Miss Teen Arizona, who was competing for Miss Teen United States-World, I found it so comforting to know there is someone like you out there!

Natalie had only competed once before and I found your advice was invaluable! There is a very friendly way you get contestants to feel safe about talking to you.

I love the way you encouraged Natalie to think beyond the answer without sounding like you are critiquing. Interview can be the most intimidating event of a pageant and I think you put Natalie’s nerves to ease in helping her feel assured and prepared about potential questions. We will definitely use you services again!

Thanks so much!

Sharon and Natalie Gardner, Miss Teen Arizona-World 2010

Natalie Gardner
Miss Teen Arizona-World 2010

 

I attended my first national pageant America’s Perfect Miss as New Mexico’s Perfect Miss, and I made top 15!

Receiving help from Rhonda was the best thing I could have ever done! I didn’t know what to expect since I never had an interview coach before.

The first time I spoke with Rhonda she was the sweetest person and made me feel comfortable right away. She made me realize I had true potential in interview, and helped me with any fears I had. Rhonda helped me dig deep within myself and allowed me to face things from my past that were still holding me back from showing my full potential in interview. I was amazed that she not only helped me with interview, but with life itself.

She taught me about bullet points and how to narrow subjects down to what was most important. She also helped me with the physical part of interview, how to respond with my body language to the judges, and how to work the room.

I attended my first national pageant, America’s Perfect Miss as New Mexico’s Perfect Miss, and I made top 15! I know I couldn’t have succeeded without Rhonda’s amazing help! Rhonda helped me gain so many great skills that I will continue to take with me in the future. I feel truly blessed to have received helped from Rhonda. She is a wonderful interview and life coach!

Miranda Adams
New Mexico’s Perfect Miss 2010
Top 15 at 2010 America’s Perfect Miss Pageant
Miranda Adams
New Mexico’s Perfect Miss 2010

 

After three previous attempts for an Ohio title, I finally won my first!

I used to have major difficulty with anxiety because of the amount of pressure I put on myself to achieve (both personally and professionally); but the uncertainty of any new path would turn my internal critic on high blast which in turn would make me doubt myself. In addition, the pressure of having a child with Autism can be quite overwhelming on me as a mom and my marriage.

I started working with Rhonda as my “Life Coach” in June 2009 to help relieve my anxiety through careful planning and control of my internal critic. In addition, she was there to help me plan out my long-term personal and professional goals. But what I found most valuable is with Rhonda being a parent of child affected by Autism; she has been able to give me personal insight on how to cope effectively on a daily basis which helps wonders!

With Rhonda’s achievements in pageantry, it was very easy for me to request her help in March 2010 as I was going for the Ms.Ohio Plus America title. I have lots of energy and I could never figure out how to contain it within a pageant interview setting. After having my sessions with Rhonda, I am able to not only answer questions more precisely (both in person and in writing), but she has taught me how to keep the high positive energy without going overboard!

After 3 previous attempts for an Ohio state title… I finally won my first!!!As the new Ms. Ohio Plus America 2010, I am thankful of the lessons my life coach has equipped me with! Rhonda has such great depth of people and why we do or do not do things.

I firmly believe that this is what makes Rhonda special and stand out as an amazing life coach! If you have big dreams and huge aspirations; I highly recommend Rhonda for your personal and professional life!!!
Thank you Rhonda for being a great friend and fantastic life coach!!!!!

Best Regards,
Ocipare “Key” McKinley
Ms. Ohio Plus America 2010
1st Runner Up at national Ms. Plus America pageant

I left the interview room at Mrs. America feeling as though I had won the crown!

I always looked forward to my sessions with Rhonda! She helped me to focus on what made me unique; and showed me how to put a shine on my strengths. Through her vast pageant experience, I was able to go to the national stage feeling prepared and confident! She helped me to quiet my voices of self-doubt, so I could best represent the married women of Delaware. I left the interview room at Mrs. America feeling as though I had won the crown! Thanks so much, Rhonda!

Amanda Shepard
Mrs. Delaware America 2010
Amanda Shepard
Mrs. Delaware America 2010
http://www.mrsdelawareamerica.com/mrsde.html

2nd Runner-up in the National Speech Competition

I cannot express how grateful I am for all the wonderful encouragement and help Rhonda Shappert has given to me over the past couple years I have known her!

After winning the Miss Ohio American Teen title, Rhonda wrote an amazing speech for me to compete with at nationals. To top it off, we met a couple of times to go over the delivery. I felt so confident at nationals and even with all the tough competition still managed to get 2nd runner up in the national speech competition! I loved spending time working with Rhonda because she always manages to see the positive in any situation, and always has the best solutions, especially when it comes to pageantry! Thanks Rhonda for all your wonderful advice! You’re the best!

Brittany Leddy
2007 Miss Ohio American Teen

 

Rhonda takes what the girls have and works with that instead of trying to shape them into something that she is looking for.

The thing that I like most about my girls working with Rhonda is that she does not try to make the girls fit a mold that she has established as a winner. She helps the girls to know and understand their strong points and works to make these stronger. She also lets them know the areas they are weakest in and shows them how to make improvements there too but without making them feel inferior. Rhonda takes what the girls have and works with that instead of trying to shape them into something that she is looking for.

Susan McClure-Lange
Mother of Mackenzie (2007 Miss Ohio American Coed Sweetheart’ and ‘2007 Commercial Point Homecoming Little Miss) and Makayla Lange

 

Had the highest score in “Interview” – and won the title

I entered my daughter in her very first pageant at the age of 5. I do not come from a pageant background – so we went to see what it was all about, knowing her and I would have great fun together regardless!

Her first pageant was NAM. Since it was our very first pageant, I signed her up for the workshop the night before. It was so helpful! I felt she learned everything she needed to know – from how to walk, stand, sit, even interview! She loved it! I knew she was hooked!

My daughter is 8 years old now and absolutely loves pageants! She looks forward to picking her pretty dresses, dance choreography and meeting new friends!

She and I have so much fun together during our pageant weekends! I have met some great friends as well! I first met Rhonda at a pageant where our two daughters won their age divisions. I liked Rhonda and her wonderful family right away! Rhonda was so friendly and easy to talk with! It was obvious she was beautiful, poised and well spoken, but also very humble. She never mentioned all of her pageant accomplishments! I think looking back, that’s what I liked most about her.

Since my daughter loves pageants, as a mother, I want her to be her very best. She looks just beautiful on stage and I am very proud of all that she has accomplished. I’ve always heard “Interview” is the heart of the competition. Although my daughter always comes out of the interview room smiling ear to ear and telling me how much fun it was – I knew that is where I wanted to help her be the best she could be! I thought of Rhonda instantly to help her with “Interviewing”. Why not get expert advice from one of the best in the industry? (Who just so happens to be an incredible lady, a Christian and our friend!)

My daughter adores Rhonda – they just had the easiest conversation! Whatever Rhonda discussed with her, it just “clicked”. A month after their conversation, she placed 4th runner-up in her age division at NAM out of 128 girls! We were most proud to find out she had the highest score in “Interview”! This year she won the title. Thank you Rhonda! I think that speaks volumes for Rhonda’s expertise!

The expert advice my daughter has gained and learned from Rhonda has helped in her “Pageant Interviews” most definitely – but more importantly, it has given an 8 year old little girl the confidence to speak with any adult in any situation! What a lifelong gift! To me – that is priceless!

Gina Fusco
Mother of Gracie Fusco, 2009 Miss Ohio Jr. PreTeen National American Miss

 

“Rhonda helped me achieve self confidence”

When I first met Rhonda Shappert in 2007, I didn’t know anything about pageantry. After spending just two hours with her, I knew she was the “real deal”. I was confident she could help me succeed in pageantry and improve my everyday life skills. In only my second pageant in 2008, I was the 4th runner up out of 131 contestants in the National American Miss Ohio Junior Teen Pageant. Without Rhonda, I don’t think I would have made it this far. Rhonda taught me to walk properly, speak into a microphone correctly, taught me about makeup, hair and even posing. Rhonda kept me on a schedule to make sure I completed all paperwork on time. She taught me the best ways to stay calm during an interview. But most of all, Rhonda helped me achieve self confidence. For me, pageantry is more than a crown and a title. It is a learning process!

That’s why I’m thrilled to call Rhonda my coach. She taught me about pageantry and so much more! At my first pageant, I wasn’t scared to go on stage, in fact, I was excited. I didn’t have to worry about anything during my pageant weekend, because Rhonda coached me through it all. So, by the time my second pageant came around, I had everything perfected and Rhonda by my side cheering me on. Rhonda truly is a fountain of information about pageantry. I enjoy working with her and would recommend her to any newcomer or experienced pageant participant.

Sarah Wisenbarger
National American Miss Ohio Junior Teen- 4th Runner Up