Penney Peirce’s life has been a remarkable tapestry of continuous learning, creativity, and an unyielding quest for deeper understanding. Her journey, marked by an inner life of active imagination and an outer life of constant change, reflects the essence of a passionate woman who has transformed her dreams into an empowering reality for herself and others.
A Childhood of Discovery and Curiosity
Penney’s childhood was a whirlwind of geographical transitions. Moving every two years with her family due to her father’s management consulting job, she lived across the United States—from New York City to a farm in Kansas. These varied environments instilled in her a profound understanding of people and their behaviors, surpassing any formal psychology education.
From a young age, Penney’s inquisitive nature drove her to look beyond the surface. She questioned everything, seeking the hidden dynamics of life, creativity, personal growth, relationships, and identity. Her curiosity about the true causes of disease and the limits of conventional medicine hinted at her future path as a spiritual detective.
The Spark of Entrepreneurship
Penney’s journey into entrepreneurship began in college, where she studied interior design and delved into the “psychology of spaces.” Her interest in how environments affect our state of being and consciousness led her to New York City, where she expanded her knowledge of psychology and human behavior at Columbia and The New School. It was during this time that she became fascinated with psychism, all while working for a renowned lighting designer.
Her pursuit of “environmental design” took her to California Institute of the Arts, where she learned about “pattern language” and “design thinking.” These studies laid the groundwork for her future endeavors, since professional training for becoming intuitive didn’t exist at the time. She further honed her skills in graphic design, learning to convey complex ideas through symbols and typefaces.
Building an Empire of Intuition
After being laid off from her job as a corporate art director, Penney launched a freelance graphic design business and began teaching metaphysical classes and doing intuitive readings. Joining the Center for Applied Intuition in San Francisco, she worked alongside scientists using “intuitive consensus” for research. This led to international opportunities, particularly in Japan, where she taught and counseled for over two decades.
Penney’s reputation grew organically as she said “yes” to opportunities that came her way. She trained CEOs, counseled thousands, wrote eleven books, and traveled globally, sharing her wisdom and insights. Her authenticity and deep comfort in her own methods allowed her to thrive without resorting to aggressive marketing tactics.
Guided by Values and Authenticity
Penney’s business philosophy is rooted in authenticity and a deep sense of self-entertainment. She values integrity and prefers genuine connections over traditional marketing approaches. Her understanding of energy and frequency helps her work first from imagination and the inner realms to materialize the next just-right steps; she calls this “spiritual marketing.”
Leadership Through Connection
Penney doesn’t lead traditional teams but works closely with colleagues who become friends and family. Her approach is simple and humble, focusing on high-quality, soul-to-soul connections. As an introvert, she thrives on deep, meaningful interactions, teaching complex metaphysical ideas in practical ways that resonate with others.
Overcoming Challenges with Grace
Penney faced sexism and egotism from other practitioners in her early years. Male trance mediums dominated the metaphysical field, often unwilling to share the spotlight. Penney chose to follow her own path, trusting her unique approach. She also encountered skepticism and ridicule, but her ability to explain abstract concepts simply and clearly helped plant seeds of understanding and create Aha moments for her clients and audiences. Being a widow also has not stopped her taking challenges hands on.
Staying Focused and Motivated
For Penney, staying focused and motivated is about being centered and present. She practices noticing the hidden messages in life and values enthusiasm over ambition. Her intuitive listening to others often reveals higher insights while keeping her grounded and inspired.
Balancing Work and Life
Penney integrates work into her life, seeing each task as an opportunity to infuse soul consciousness—love, joy, and wisdom—into the world. She trusts her decision-making and waits for the right timing, which she senses intuitively.
Defining Success and Long-Term Goals
Success for Penney is helping people wake up to their true selves, aligning with their deepest loves and interests. Her long-term goal is to continue reaching those who need her perspective, maintain a simple, authentic lifestyle, and increase her ability for “skillful perception.”
Empowering Women
Penney’s message to Womenpreneur readers and aspiring women is powerful: “You already are someone. You have built-in skills and interests that will guide you to what you love. Share your passions, and connections will come.” She encourages women to think positively and trust their inner path, recognizing opportunities as they arise.
A Vision for the Future
Penney’s future plans include continuing her work with writing, speaking, and teaching as well as graphics, film, and various art forms. Her focus on joy and unconditional love reflects her belief in the high consciousness these states engender, and she remains dedicated to helping those in need emerge from darkness.
Penney Peirce’s journey is a testament to the power of curiosity, authenticity, and deep connection. Her life and work inspire others to trust their path, embrace their passions, and make meaningful impact in the world. Through her wisdom and insight, Penney continues to empower women and bring light to those she touches.
