About Me

Hi, I’m Denise Bard. I’m a speaker and author of 30 Second Moments and the Women Who Raised Me. My life has been shaped by the power of small, meaningful connections — what I call “30-Second Moments.”

As a teenager facing abuse and hardship, I found safety and hope through the teachers, counselors, and coach who showed me kindness in ways they didn’t even realize. A smile. A word of encouragement. A moment of listening. Those simple acts reminded me that I was worthy of love and gave me the courage to rewrite my story.

Today, I share that story with schools and organizations to remind educators of the extraordinary impact they have — often in moments they may never even notice. My mission is to help teachers and staff reconnect with their why, reignite their passion, and see the hero they’ve always been to their students.

I believe it only takes one moment to change a life. I know — because those moments changed mine.

What Educators are saying

“Thank you for the "why" we do this reminders!! Thank you for sharing your story. I smile often at all students and I hope my smile helps someone, even if I don't know it.”

“IT was much appreciated and teachers today need to hear this . Not that we teach to be appreciated or recognized....but knowing that the little things can make such a difference was very encouraging.”

“It is so valuable to hear first person perspective in these talks. Really helps you to see people as whole, makes it so muchmore real than reading it or watching a pre made film. Any one of us could have been you, any kid in this school could be you right now. Made me really think. Thank you.”

“It is amazing the impact a teacher can have on a student. It is good to be reminded how valuable we are to students and how valuable our students are to us.”

“Thank you for sharing your story. We don't often hear about the positive impact teachers have and it means a lot to know that we are impacting kids who need it.”

“Wonderful and touching sharing of your life and how we as educators can make a difference even when we think may not be.”

What Non-Profits & Organizations are saying

“As a volunteer I never really know if I am making the difference. Hearing Denise and her story changed that

for me."

“Knowing that I am not just making the donation but really making the investment. And then seeing

someone in front of me sharing how that investment helps make a change, it really makes it more powerful.”

“Denise’s story reminds me of why I joined this organization. To make a difference.”

“I always wondered what became of those kids as they became adults. Seeing Denise and hearing where she

is today brings me so much joy. That is what this is all about. Seeing the difference that is being made.”

What Educators are saying

What Non-Profits & Organizations are saying

Books-A-Million

Barns & Nobles

Apple Books

Amazon

What Educators are saying

What Non-Profits & Organizations are saying

Books-A-Million

Barns & Nobles

Apple Books

Amazon

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