Cynthia Waine Brandt
Author • Speaker • Advisor
I believe that life’s unexpected transitions, major disruptions, and losses — in all their forms — invite us into periods of growth and transformation.
My journey has been shaped by both personal and professional turning points: decades of advising hospitals and leaders through complex change…and a profound season of rebuilding after the sudden loss of my husband.
Together, these experiences inform the heart of my work today.
Whether you're seeking guidance for navigating change or inspiration for personal or professional transformation — I’m glad you're here.
I know what it feels like for life to change in an instant.
And I know that clarity, compassion, and courage can carry us through.
A few years ago, my world shifted when my husband, Harry, passed away unexpectedly.
I didn’t know how I would move forward — or who I would be without him.
But what followed were moments of connection I couldn’t explain, intuitive nudges that appeared just when I needed them, and an unfolding journey that revealed grace in the most unexpected places.
That experience — and the transformation it sparked — became the foundation for the work I create and share today.
My Story
Before writing my book, I spent more than 30 years serving as a financial executive and advisor to hospitals — helping organizations navigate uncertainty, stabilize systems, support teams, and lead through complex transitions.
But after Harry’s passing, something shifted inside me. I began sensing gentle invitations toward a more purposeful and meaningful life. Writing became my way of making sense of it all — and also my way of honoring the connection that remained.
Song of the Cardinal emerged from that sacred space — a story of love, loss, healing, transformation, and the quiet magic available to all of us.
Today, my work extends beyond writing into speaking, advising, music and the meaningful conversations I share with individuals and organizations navigating their own moments of change.
Why I Write • Speak • Advise
I believe our stories shape us.
I believe transformation — whether personal or professional — begins with presence.
I believe intuition and synchronicity are invitations.
I believe leadership is as much about humanity as strategy.
And I believe that when we share our truth, we help others discover their own.
My purpose is to create work that brings comfort, clarity, and courage — whether through memoir, music, mentoring, speaking, or guiding leaders through transition.
I don’t offer quick fixes.
What I offer is perspective, presence, and the reminder that we’re capable of more than we think.
How I Support Individuals & Organizations
Two paths. One purpose: Courage, clarity, and meaningful transformation.
Courage
I support individuals seeking healing, meaning, or a renewed sense of self —
through writing, music, speaking, and soon, the Cardinal Club.
Whether navigating loss, rediscovery, or intuitive awakening, my work offers gentle guidance and hope.
Clarity
I advise executives and teams navigating transition, cultural change, burnout, or new chapters.
My approach blends strategic insight, emotional intelligence, and lived experience to help those in a business setting move forward with clarity and grounded confidence.
Transformation
Through storytelling, songwriting, and speaking, I teach and inspire others to embrace their own creative genius to help themselves heal, illuminate, and transform.I love helping others reconnect with their voice — personally or professionally.
What I hope you'll find here.
This space was created to offer stories, resources, and reflections that invite comfort, clarity, and connection — in your personal life or your leadership journey.
Whether you're experiencing grief, seeking meaning, moving through transition, or simply following a spark of inspiration, my hope is that something here meets you exactly where you are.
I’m so glad you're here.
Let’s Stay Connected
If something in my story resonates with you…
if you're navigating change…
or if you're curious about how we might work together —
I’d love to hear from you.
Use the form below to reach out.
Your message is always welcome.
