Speaking Engagements

Shining a Light on Stigma and Silence

Through her work with SEA WAVES, Leah Stiles delivers powerful and transformative talks that bring hope and awareness to hidden struggles. A retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief, Leah uses her personal story to illuminate the realities of eating disorders, mental health, and stigma within the military community.

Her message encourages audiences to face silence with strength, to recognize that change begins when we talk openly about what’s hard, and to build compassionate leadership that responds with understanding instead of judgment.

Leah’s presentations are more than storytelling—they’re moments of connection that move people to act, equipping service members, veterans, and leaders with the tools to foster resilience, courage, and empathy in their own spaces.

Need a Light; Be a Light

Speaking Topics Include

• Shining a Light: Eating Disorders in the Military
  Exposing the often-unseen challenges faced by service members and their families, and the urgent need for awareness and support.
• Leading Through the Storm
  Helping leaders recognize hidden struggles, respond with compassion, and guide their teams with empathy and strength.
• Navigating the Storm: A Journey from Darkness to Light
  A deeply personal account of transforming pain into purpose, offering hope to others facing similar battles.
• Education and Awareness: Changing the Conversation
  Challenging stigma around eating disorders and mental health, and empowering communities to save lives through understanding.

What Audiences Say

“Leah’s ability to connect with people on such a personal level is incredible. Her story moved several Veterans to tears and left everyone feeling seen, understood, and empowered to be part of the change.”
— Sharron Stewart, MAJ, US Army (Retired)
Women Veterans Coordinator, South Texas Veterans Commission

Leah’s talks inspire courage, compassion, and conversation—reminding every listener that even in the darkest storms, we all have the power to be a light for others.