“When I first stepped into the world of pageantry, I had no idea what to expect. From the beginning, Helen was there, guiding me through each step with grace and wisdom. Her expertise in pageant coaching is unmatched, and she’s equipped to help with any pageant, big or small. Whether it was Miss America, Miss Volunteer America, or Miss USA, Helen ensured I was prepared, confident, and authentic.
Her outstanding resume speaks for itself, having led many contestants to the national stage. She has always been my biggest cheerleader, offering unwavering support no matter what the outcome. Over time, Helen has become more than just a coach, she’s become family. I owe my pageant successes to her incredible guidance and encouragement. If you’re looking for a coach who truly understands the heart of pageantry, Helen is the one.”
Abigail Bachman
“My daughter’s MAO local director’s recommended Dr. Helen McCracken to us in the fall of 2022. Since then, Helen has become a go-to partner in my daughter, Maggie’s, development. Over the last two years, they have built a trusting friendship that has created skills and confidence in Maggie that led to success not only in MAO, but also in the Volunteer and Miss Teen USA systems.
Most importantly, all the “pageant interview” preparation was directly applicable to Maggie’s day-long scholarship interview – Helen was right there to ensure Maggie was ready; this resulted in a $40,000 scholarship.
Additionally, Helen knows pageants don’t happen while the rest of the world is on hold. She worked with Maggie to balance school, work, dance injury and illness; I would often overhear laughter coming from their sessions and certainly encouragement and assurance to persevere through all of life’s challenges.
Personally, I now consider Helen a dear friend – the other sisterhood of “pageant moms” is a real one, tool. My best advice for parents and contestants alike is to ask yourself, “Will this coach help me become a better person?” Helen most certainly will! Yes, of course, she’ll teach and help practice the skills and strategies of pageantry, but more importantly, she will love you and guide you to fully express your values. Partnering with her was one of the best pageant decisions we made.”
WayLinda (Wyn) Sipple
Miss Nebraska USA 1999
Miss Michigan Teen USA 1992
Mother of Maggie Wadginski – Miss Nebraska Teen USA 2024
“Dr. McCracken is the best! She leads her coaching with compassion and intelligence. I truly feel like she cares about me as a person, both inside and outside the pageant arena. Her coaching methods truly pay off and I’m so grateful for her support and knowledge.”
Annie Mowery
"Dr. McCracken is the best interview and competition coach. She showed me how to get through Life with a little extra grit and grace! She helped build my confidence and encouraged me to make sure I was in the right mind space! She means the world to me."
"We watched Helen transition a 15 year old girl who was hesitant to willingly discuss her diagnosis of Alopecia Areata into an outspoken young lady who not only can speak openly telling her story of Alopecia Areata, but has also become vocal leader and legislative mentor on a national level for the Alopecia Community. Jersey happily speaks to any size forum with confidence and conviction, with or without notice, because of the fundamentals Helen instilled in her that are required for successful public speaking. Helen is a master at her craft, and we are grateful for everything she has done for Jersey! Greatest of all, what she has done for Jersey is second to what she means to Jersey! Thank you, Helen!"
Dr. Helen McCracken’s expertise in communication & public speaking is simply unparalleled. She provided me with tremendously strategic insight, inspiring me to dig deep in pursuit of becoming the best thinker, leader, & public speaker I could be. Dr. McCracken’s invaluable lessons prepared me for some of the most prestigious speaking opportunities in my life, including presenting a keynote speech at the Elite Global Leaders Conference in London, U.K. She is far more than a coach, as she demonstrates true empowerment of women through guidance that helps them realize & meet their full potential – whether that’s on a stage, in a career, or in life. Working with Dr. McCracken will undoubtedly boost your confidence, expand your skills, & guarantee excellence in your future endeavors!
University of Missouri 2021
Syracuse University 2017
"Thank you, Helen. The best mentor."
