by Cyrus Webb
Dr. Teresa A. Smith aka Dr. TAS has been able to help individuals through her own personal journey of overcoming and thriving, however, she has also been clear of one thing: Change is challenging. Through her books and her shows, Dr. TAS has reinforced this message, reminding her audience---and herself---that we are all a work in progress.
As she navigated a new series of challenges in 2025, we talk about the year, lessons learned and what she is looking forward to for herself and others in 2026.
Dr. TAS, you are going into 2026 with 2025 being different than you probably expected it to be. What has it been like for you to think about this year and where you are today?
2025 was not what I planned, but it turned out to be exactly what I needed. I set a goal to publish three books, and I did. Each one offered something unique: a second edition of STRONGER, which remains a healing anchor for many; Transform With TAS: Sip to Heal, a restorative guide designed for those navigating illness or recovery; and Mama Said, which birthed a show from my book Transformation: How Mama's Wisdom Unlocks the Secrets to Success, which I now co-host with my mother, Ms. Gloria.
Even with those wins, I had to pause. Mental and physical health forced me to confront how much I was giving without refilling my own cup. So now, entering 2026, I’m guided by a personal mantra: “If it doesn’t add value, it doesn’t make the list.” That includes what I say yes to and how I serve.
You are one of those individuals who has been able to share your gifts in books, shows, interviews and even in the kitchen. What has it been like to see how the world has responded to your talent?
It’s both humbling and affirming. Whether it’s someone sipping one of the healing smoothies I curated or sharing how STRONGER helped them survive a hard season, it’s a reminder that purpose has a ripple effect. My work centers on service, sharing stories, tools, and perspectives that support personal transformation. Knowing it resonates tells me I’m aligned with that purpose.
Ironically one of your most popular books is TRANSFORMATION. You begin it by saying CHANGE IS CHALLENGING. How has that message continued to resonate with you as you build your brand and navigate the challenges of life?
"Change is Challenging" remains one of the truest things I’ve ever written. As a Type A, overachieving creative, it’s hard for me to slow down. Some days I’m practicing focus and balance; other days I’m juggling too much and paying the price, mentally and physically.
Building a brand while battling perfectionism is like crafting a patchwork quilt; some squares are strong and beautiful, others require rework. But I remind myself daily that transformation is ongoing, and grace is part of the process. I'm living proof that you can grow while still healing.
You released a second edition of your debut book STRONGER. Why was it time to revisit it, and what was that experience like for you?
STRONGER came out in 2017, and I’ve changed since then, so the book had to evolve, too. This second edition includes more practical exercises for those moving through adversity, merging my love of workbooks with my memoir. Revisiting it reminded me that healing isn’t a one-time event but a rhythm we have to adopt. And as I encourage others to do the work, I continue to do it, too.
You have made your brand a family affair, hosting a show with your sister and even introducing your mother to the world. What has it been like to share this experience with them?
Bringing my mother and sister into the work has been one of the greatest gifts. My mom, Ms. Gloria, co-hosts Mama Said: Truth Bombs with Dr. TAS & Ms. Gloria, and my sister, OnJerya, and I co-host Real Talk with TAS and OnJerya exclusively on Instagram. What started as conversations at the kitchen table became a community platform. Audiences see our love, our debates, our truths, and I think that transparency connects with people looking for something real.
Speaking of your sister, you have a book coming out in January 2026. Tell us about it.
Yes! It’s called Real Talk With TAS and OnJerya: Two Sisters, Two Perspectives on Life, Love, and Everything In Between. It captures our honest, sometimes hilarious, often heartfelt conversations from the show. We talk about real-life issues like love, parenting, finances, grief, healing from church hurt, and we don’t hold back. We wanted to put our voices in a format that people can come back to when they need encouragement, validation, or just a good laugh. It's available on Amazon.
What are you looking forward to in 2026 that you can tell us about?
I’m excited to continue nurturing the Real Talk With TAS and OnJerya brand and to return to projects I had to pause. I’m also focusing more intentionally on my work as an editor, publisher, and marketer, helping others bring their businesses and stories to life. The new seasons of Talk With TAS and Dr. TAS & Ms. Gloria will premiere in 2026, and my goal is to keep growing platforms that heal, educate, and empower.
That sounds great, TAS. Let me ask you this: How important has it been for you as you are making plans to give yourself grace?
Giving myself grace has been one of the hardest but most necessary lessons. As an incest survivor, I poured myself into service and achievement. It was how I coped. I poured myself into achievement and service as a way to cope. I did a lot of good for others, but often at my own expense.
So now, I’m learning to unlearn behaviors that once protected me but no longer serve me. This is the most personal transformation of all, and it’s one I hope encourages others to give themselves the same grace. It’s not about weakness; it's about survival and sovereignty.
Any advice you have for our audience when it comes to preparing for the new year but being realistic in their expectations?
Yes. I’d offer four things:
1. Set realistic goals, understanding that progress will take more time than you want to complete them.
2. Celebrate everything, especially small wins.
3. You are allowed to remove people, places, or things from your life that do not add value.
4. Define what taking care of you looks like consistently for 365 days, and then do it unapologetically without seeking permission.
Thanks again for spending this time with us, TAS. Excited about what’s to come. How can our audience stay connected with you?
Thank you, Cyrus, for the opportunity. For those looking to transform how they live, lead, and heal, I invite you to connect with me on Instagram at instagram.com/drteresasmith and subscribe on YouTube at youtube.com/@DrTAS.
For speaking, media, or collaboration inquiries, feel free to reach out via email at drtastronger@gmail.com. Let’s keep growing, together.
No comments:
Post a Comment