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Annie Meehan: Speaker, Author, Coach and “Pineapple Person”

Annie Meehan is a motivational keynote speaker, award-winning author, certified coach and mental wellness expert. She believes that every person has something to teach and that we learn the most when we lead with kindness. Known for her signature “pineapple person” philosophy, Meehan encourages others to stand tall, wear their crown and stay sweet on the inside just like a pineapple. Through her work, she demonstrates to audiences how to shift their perspective and recognize their value. Meehan believes that if you are sweet on the inside, you can use your voice to encourage, uplift and lead others.

Tell us about yourself and your business—what makes it one of a kind?

I am a ‘pineapple person,’ standing tall, wearing my crown and spreading kindness wherever I go. I’m passionate about mental health and helping people connect with others on a deeper level. As an expert in communication, confidence, and human connection, I work with corporations, associations, and nonprofits to deliver actionable strategies for navigating change. I help build relationships and eliminate the excuses that hold people back from achieving their goals. 

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What inspired you to start your business?

I climbed the corporate ladder in a male-dominated world, earning five promotions in nine years. Then, I owned two franchise gyms. I also lost two siblings too young. From there, I decided to change my life by inspiring others to rewrite stories that no longer served them. I credit the storms for the unshakeable optimism, drive and resiliency that I employ as a speaker.

What was the first step to starting your business?

Creating my own Speaker Showcases, speaking and coaching anywhere and everywhere.

Who’s a female entrepreneur that inspires you?

Nicole Johnson, a dramatist who teaches lessons and stories through powerful presentations like Stepping into the Ring.

What’s a business myth you’d love to bust?

That women should speak for free! That our voices are worth less than men’s on stage. That we’re seen as doing ‘gigs’ instead of delivering powerful presentations. And if we only quote men, refer male speakers and cite men’s books, why would anyone think to refer us?”

What’s one mistake you made early on in your business, and what did you learn from it?

I used to believe I was worth less than others; that not having letters after my name made my background, wisdom and experience less valuable. Now, I show other women how to own their worth and lead with it.

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Describe your company in three words.

  • Powerful
  • Passionate
  • Life-changing

What’s your proudest business milestone so far?

There have been so many milestones over the years. From being told I was too dumb to go to college, to earning my Bachelor of Arts this year! I’ve written nine books (and counting), helped others recognize their worth and was even inducted into the MN Hall of Fame as a speaker.

What excites you about your work?

The positive impact it makes on the lives of those in my audience.

How do you differentiate your company from other similar offerings?

I genuinely care about my audience. I show up as my full, authentic self. ‘Do-It-Annie,’ ‘Pineapple-Annie,’ all of me. I go above and beyond to serve my clients. I help teams understand how life’s storms can spark breakthrough ideas, renewed vision and the kind of unshakable collaboration every business needs.

What advice would you give to other female entrepreneurs?

Refer female speakers if you are not available, quote women in your speaking and books and refer women authors…change who and how you elevate!

Anything else you want to share with our audience?

I would love to invite readers to watch my TED Talk to understand the why and how behind being a pineapple person.


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About the author

Anja Soltesz

Anja Soltesz is a full-time intern at Carlton PR & Marketing. She recently earned her B.S. in Psychology from Quinnipiac University, with a concentration in Applied Workplace Psychology and a minor in Marketing. This fall, she’ll return to QU to pursue her MBA while working as a Graduate Assistant for the M&T Bank Center for Women and Business. Anja is passionate about supporting women in business and hopes to move abroad after graduate school.

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