BABES IN HART: BETSY WILLS

BETSY WILLS

Betsy Wills is all about helping people uncover their untapped potential. With her new book, Your Hidden Genius, she’s on a mission to help others discover the unique gifts that make them shine by offering tools to help align their lives with their unique strengths.

Whether she’s hosting a casual Nashville dinner with friends (“where charades would inevitably devolve into chaos”), exploring local art galleries, or sharing her love for original artwork on her blog, ArtStormer, Betsy brings creativity and intention to everything she does.

Her philosophy? Say “yes” to new possibilities—and keep a little magic close, just in case.

You’ve just released your new book, Your Hidden Genius - was there an “aha” moment when you realized your hidden genius, or how did you discover it?

At 32, I was married with two kids and loving the life I’d built. But one morning, as I caught my reflection in the mirror, I had a surprising realization: there was so much more life ahead of me, and I hadn’t fully considered how many exciting chapters were still waiting to be written. In that moment, I shifted my mindset—I wanted to embrace my future with intention and take an active role in shaping it. A friend recommended I try the Johnson O’Connor aptitude tests, and they turned out to be a total game-changer. It felt like I’d been handed the instruction manual to my brain.

Where does your passion for helping others realize their full potential and ultimately become happier stem from?

My passion comes from something simple—I absolutely love watching people light up when they realize how incredible and unique they are. There’s this sense of relief that washes over them, like they finally have permission to live more authentically. Watching that transformation—the courage and confidence to explore new possibilities and try things they never thought they could—is like seeing someone unwrap the best birthday present ever. Being part of that journey is the most fulfilling thing in the world.

If you could challenge our readers to take one actionable step toward uncovering their hidden genius, what would it be?

The best place to start is by taking the assessment included with Your Hidden Genius. This will help you discover your innate abilities and begin understanding the unique gifts you bring to the world. But remember, this is just the beginning of your journey.

Let’s talk about your hometown, Nashville TN. What is special to you about Nashville? Take us through your absolute ideal day in the Music City.

Nashville is friendly, creative, and just a little over the top. My ideal day? Coffee at Roze Pony, a walk on the McCabe Park Greenway to cancel out whatever I’m eating for lunch at Dozen Bakery, then hitting up some art galleries including Tinney Contemporary, Red Arrow, and David Lusk. I’d wrap up the day hosting a casual dinner of Martin’s BBQ with friends, where charades would inevitably devolve into chaos.

How has living in Nashville influenced your perspective on creativity and self-expression? Do you think the city has shaped your work in any way?

Totally. Nashville’s got this energy that says, “You do you, but make it interesting.” It’s a city of storytellers, and that’s definitely rubbed off on me. Plus, it’s so welcoming—it’s like the golden retriever of cities.

Aside from being the Director of Marketing and Branding at Diversified Trusts, you write the blog Art Stormer – “Flash Storms of Art for the Visually Addicted” – who is an artist you are addicted to right now?

Currently, I’m enthralled by the works of local artists David Onri Anderson and Emily Weiner. On an international level, Kathleen Ryan’s sculptures captivate me.

What’s next for you after Your Hidden Genius? Are there any upcoming projects or goals you’re excited about?

Right now, I’m soaking up the excitement of the moment. The future can wait!

Why did you choose the charms on your necklace? Which one(s) speak the most to you?

Every charm tells a story, but the one I’m really into is the “oui” charm. It’s my reminder to say yes to life—even when “nope” feels tempting. I also have the gorgeous Ribbed Vesta Case that holds a secret note to myself. Spoiler alert: I’m not telling what it says—it’s magic, and I don’t mess with magic.

THE GOOD STUFF

Favorite Quote?

“Hope is the thing with feathers” – Emily Dickinson

What’s on your nightstand? A Kate McLeod lotion stone, a vocabulary book, and a huge carafe of water.

Worth the splurge? Investing in original art that speaks to your soul.

Favorite book? I enjoy biographies, especially of interesting women.

Favorite city for a weekend getaway? Charleston, SC—charming and full of inspiration.

Best part of your job? Getting people to say, “Wait, you mean I’m awesome at that?!” Yes. Yes, you are...

Any hobbies you haven’t tapped into yet that are on your radar? I’d like to live on a different continent for a summer. Not sure yet where! Suggestions?

Favorite piece of art in your house? A paper sculpture by Jen Stark. It is psychedelic and intricate!

Favorite art gallery/space in Nashville? The Ann and Monroe Carell Family Sculpture Trail at Cheekwood. It is a gem.