Ray LeCara Jr is a master-certified life coach, educational consultant, and founder of Authentic Embassy Consulting. As the author of the self-help book Who Are You, Really? The Search for Authenticity, Ray is a respected authority in helping individuals achieve academic, professional, and personal success.
An award-winning corporate trainer, Ray has captivated audiences and delivered tangible results. His adaptable teaching approach has reached students in both public and private settings across thirty countries, catering to diverse learning needs.
Committed to lifelong learning, Ray established BestFootForwardOnline.org in 2015, a resource-rich website offering inspiration, youth health information, and strategies for learners of all ages. His nonfiction works, including Best Foot Forward: A Student Success Guide (2016) and Essential Study Skills: A Holistic Approach to Learning (2022), have empowered countless individuals to enhance their abilities and achieve success.
As a podcast guest, Ray offers valuable insights and actionable advice on personal growth, education, and professional development.
Outside of his professional life, Ray enjoys a fulfilling twenty-year marriage and the companionship of their Corgi-mix rescue.
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
The desire to write Who Are You, Really? The Seach for Authenticity originated from my passion for helping others develop clarity and self-awareness, setting them on a path toward meaningful and sustained growth in life, love, education, and career. I wanted to create a resource that would guide people in identifying their true authentic selves because understanding who you are is the key to unlocking your potential. Too often, people seek out coaching without a clear understanding of what they truly need or where they want to go. This lack of clarity can lead to frustration, early quitting, or failure to follow through.
The best coaching experiences happen when individuals are deeply committed, and that commitment begins with asking a fundamental question: “Who am I?” The answer provides incredible insight into one’s values, goals, and areas that need attention. This self-awareness empowers individuals to make informed decisions about which areas to focus on, which coaches to reach out to, and what expectations to set. It also ensures that they have the right mindset to fully engage in the coaching process.
What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?
I’ve had the privilege of spending many years as an educator, working with students across all grade levels—from early childhood to high school. My experience extends beyond traditional learners, as I’ve also had the opportunity to work closely with special needs students. In addition to my work in education, I served as a corporate trainer, where I honed valuable skills in adult learning and professional development.
After years of working in traditional classrooms and corporate settings, I now teach and coach online, which has allowed me to connect with students from over thirty countries. Teaching internationally has shown me the incredible diversity in how people learn, yet it’s also highlighted the universal values that unite us all. Families everywhere care about the same things—seeing their children succeed, be happy, and grow into individuals of good character who give back to their communities. It’s been incredibly rewarding to work directly with families around the globe, adapting to different cultures and learning styles, and discovering those universal connections that make this work so meaningful.
Tell us the story of your book’s title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
The title Who Are You, Really? The Search for Authenticity came from a question that I often find myself asking in various aspects of my work—whether I’m guiding a learner in a conversation course, helping someone in an identity and character-building course, coaching a client, prepping someone for a school or job interview, or working with writers on developing their characters. It’s a fundamental question that cuts to the heart of what it means to truly know oneself, and it’s amazing how much clarity it can bring when someone takes the time to explore the answer.
Finding the title wasn’t instantaneous. I wanted something that would speak to the journey of self-discovery and the authentic self. When Who Are You, Really? finally came to mind, it just clicked. It felt right because it’s a question that has the power to unlock so much insight and growth, and that’s what the book is all about.
How did it feel when you first saw your book cover? Or when you first held your book in your hands?
When I first saw the cover, I knew it was the right fit. The image wasn’t just unique; it truly captured the essence of the book and what I aim to convey to readers. It felt like a natural extension of the content, aligning perfectly with the message and guidance I wanted to provide. Holding the finished book in my hands for the first time was a moment of quiet satisfaction. It represented the culmination of a lot of hard work and careful thought, now ready to serve as a practical tool for those seeking clarity and direction in their personal growth journey. After all, like the cover suggests, they truly do hold the world in their hands.
If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?
A soundtrack accompanying Who Are You, Really? The Search for Authenticity would feature songs that delve into self-discovery, identity, introspection, and personal growth. Here are some that come to mind:
“The Sound of Silence” by Simon and Garfunkel (1964) | Disturbed (2015): A moving song about the struggle to find one’s voice in a disconnected world, with Disturbed’s rendition intensifying the emotional journey of self-discovery.
“I Am… I Said” by Neil Diamond (1971): This song reflects the search for identity and belonging, particularly when familiar things no longer feel the same.
“Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson (1988): Jackson’s ballad emphasizes the importance of self-reflection as a key part of understanding who we really are, whether we’re seeking change or moving forward in life.
“Learning to Fly” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers (1991): This song captures the ongoing journey of personal growth, encouraging us to embrace life’s challenges and remain true to ourselves, even when the path is unclear.
“It’s My Life” by Bon Jovi (2000): A powerful anthem of self-empowerment, this song encourages living life on your own terms and taking control of your destiny.
“Happy” by Pharrell Williams (2013): An upbeat anthem that celebrates finding joy within oneself, despite life’s challenges. Its positive energy and empowering message encourage listeners to embrace and celebrate their authentic selves.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?
One thing I hope readers take away from Who Are You, Really? The Search for Authenticity is a profound clarity about their own identity and a renewed sense of self-understanding. I want them to feel empowered to live more authentically, embracing their true selves without fear or hesitation. In a world where we often tolerate toxic relationships or allow ourselves to be gaslit by headlines and social media, it’s easy to lose sight of who we truly are. My book guides readers to peel back these layers of external expectations and pressures, helping them reconnect with their core identity and find true happiness.
As for my ideal reader, I envision someone who is curious and introspective, perhaps at a crossroads in life—whether in their personal journey, career, relationships, or education—and is seeking direction. Maybe they can’t connect with the person they see in the mirror each morning. They’re ready to ask tough questions, dig deep, and commit to growing and evolving. This reader is open-minded, willing to challenge themselves, and ready to embrace the journey of self-discovery that the book offers. Ultimately, I see my ideal reader as someone who is not just seeking change but is ready to take control of their life by first understanding who they really are, using the insights from the book’s activities to transform their path forward.
What was the most rewarding/meaningful part of publishing your book?
The impetus behind publishing Who Are You, Really? The Search for Authenticity was to give prospective coaching clients a clear framework before they even seek a coach. I wanted to create a resource that helps people find clarity and understand their role in the process before taking the significant step of trusting someone else with their growth. It’s a significant investment, both financially and emotionally, and I wanted to ensure that readers felt prepared and confident before embarking on this journey.
Far too many self-help books are inspiring but lack the practical steps needed to achieve real results. I wanted this book to offer clear, actionable guidance that readers can apply to their lives. Seeing the book come to life was incredibly meaningful, especially knowing it could help someone gain clarity and confidence in their identity—not just in theory, but through practical, actionable exercises.
Bringing the book to life was a significant milestone, as was being the recipient of a 2023 Readers’ Favorite International Book Award, but the most rewarding part has been hearing from readers who have used it to understand themselves better and make real, positive changes in their lives. It’s one thing to write a book, but knowing that it resonates with people and inspires them to look inward and discover their true selves is what makes all the hard work truly worthwhile.
What new writing projects are you currently working on? Or, other projects that are not writing?
I’m always immersed in a variety of projects, both in writing and beyond. Updating the curriculum for the courses I teach involves extensive research and attending webinars to stay on top of the latest developments in education.
In writing, I’m currently working on the second edition of my nonfiction book, Essential Study Skills: A Holistic Approach to Learning. I’m particularly excited about adding a section on AI’s role in education—such a timely and important topic.
In fiction, I’m not only continuing to write short stories but also diving into the long-overdue sequel to The Forgotten Prophecy. Plus, I’m planning to wrap up the Torn Timeline series, which has been a thrilling journey to explore.
Between curriculum development, research, and these writing projects, there’s never a dull moment on my plate. I’m thrilled to be working on so many exciting projects, each one offering its own unique challenges and rewards.
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