23. Living Restored: Dana Gentry on Building a Life with Intention

Sometimes the most beautiful stories come from the most unexpected places. What if I told you that spray tanning people in a small Kentucky town could lead to a thriving real estate career, keynote speaking, and writing a book to inspire thousands?

Dana Gentry's story is anything but conventional. From battling panic attacks and addiction to building a successful business empire, her path has been marked by both struggle and incredible faith. But it's not just about overcoming obstacles, it's about how she's learned to live with such intentionality that every day becomes an opportunity to shine light in the secular world.

What Makes This Conversation So Compelling

This isn't your typical success story. Dana gets refreshingly honest about the messy parts, losing friends in tragic accidents, her father's battle with alcoholism, and her own struggle with prescription drug dependency. But what's remarkable is how she's transformed these experiences into wisdom that helps others avoid burnout while pursuing their biggest dreams.

You'll hear about the moment she sat on Sullivan's Island beach, completely burned out despite outward success, and how God spoke the word "restore" so clearly that it became the foundation for her first book. It's the kind of story that makes you believe in divine appointments and perfect timing.

The Practical Wisdom You'll Gain

Dana doesn't just share inspiring stories, she gives you actionable strategies for living intentionally:

• The power of mentor lunches and seven specific questions that can change your career trajectory
• How to create boundaries that protect and feed your soul
• Daily rhythms that keep you grounded, including her unique approach to morning routines
• The 80/20 principle for sustainable living without perfectionist pressure
• Building authentic relationships that transcend social and economic differences

Her Four Life-Changing Pillars

Through years of personal development work, Dana identified four pillars that shaped her success: intentional living, building great relationships, the power of proximity to mentors, and running your own race. Each pillar comes with real stories and practical applications that you can implement immediately.

What I love most about this conversation is Dana's heart for making Christianity look "perfectly imperfect." She's proof that you can be successful in the secular world while letting your faith shine bright—feathers on your shirt and all.

Whether you're feeling stuck in your career, struggling with comparison, or simply wanting to live with more purpose, Dana's story will leave you feeling both challenged and encouraged. Plus, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at her health routines, her "God boxes" (trust me, this will make you smile), and why she plays worship music around her entire property 24/7.

 

Follow her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/danaggentry/ 

Snag her book here: https://restoredevotional.com/