Kristine Smith

Kristine Smith is a magnet for inspiration. She is a Child of God, Wife, Mother, Entrepreneur, Podcast Host, Public Speaker, Author, and Therapy Dog Handler.

Originally from Oakland, CA, Kristine’s mission is to make a positive impact in every life she touches. After surviving life-changing pituitary brain surgery in 1993, she vowed to make a difference in the lives of others.

She is the CEO and Co-Founder of InSpira Performing Arts, with studios in Newark, Highland Park, and North Plainfield. Since 2002, InSpira has been a thriving center for dance and community.

Kristine is the author of Let’s Dance: An InSpirational Coloring Book for Kids Who Love to Dance, a celebration of children of color. She is also the host of the Got InSpiration Podcast and an official registered therapy dog handler with her Mini Golden Doodle, Koko.

She speaks at various events about navigating small business ownership while staying grounded in values.

Kristine holds a BA in Mass Media Arts from Clark Atlanta University and an MS in Sports Administration from Georgia State University. She is an alumna of the prestigious Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program, IFEL, and the SBA Emerging Leaders Program.

She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and has received numerous honors, including Woman of Achievement from DST Central Jersey Alumnae Chapter and Leader in the Arts from NCNW.

Kristine sits on the Board of Directors for Dance New Jersey and is active in her church community. She is the wife of Leon Smith, mother of twins Kiara and Kiana, and caregiver for her 100-year-old father, Mr. Leroy Mitchell.