Meet our Partner…

Heidi Petak | DrHeidiPetak.com

I’m a communication coach, helping people communicate bravely on stage and in their professional and personal relationships. I coach clients privately and through Hippo Solutions, an actor-based corporate training company, as well as teach communication courses at Williamson College.

While I really am a “doctor,” my 4 kids are quick to tell you I’m “not the kind of doctor who looks in your ears.” I earned a PhD in communication specializing in Theatre Arts Studies from Regent University, an M.A. in communication from the University of Arkansas, and a B.S. in Broadcasting from John Brown University.

In my past life I was a radio DJ and went by April Kelly for country music (it sounded good with a southern accent) and Lauren West for classic rock (I could say it with a bit of “gravel” before I announced Zeppelin). I have voiced hundreds of commercials and other projects and have been the voice of those phone systems that make you press “1” and then “5” then “star 3” and never let you talk to a real person. Now, when I call them, I annoy myself.

I’m also a writer, with devotionals and scripts published by Word, Brentwood Benson, and Lillenas. One of my most-loved jobs was as the creative director of Fellowship Bible Church in Northwest Arkansas where I was given countless opportunities in acting, writing, and directing. I now serve on the board of Christians in Theatre Arts (CITA) and still use drama and role-plays when I coach and speak.

I’m married to Brian, the pastor of Outreach and Missional Living at Fellowship Bible Church in Brentwood, TN. We have four boys who challenge my communication skills daily with conversations about bodily functions. And, in case you’re curious, my last name is pronounced “Pea-tack,” but Siri thinks it’s “Pet-ick.”