A $1 pamphlet in the redwood forests changed everything I thought about professional "failures."

The Dyerville Giant—370 feet tall, 1,600 years old—crashed in 1991 with such force that a neighbor a mile away thought it was a train wreck. But that "dead" tree now feeds over 4,000 species as a "nurse log."

Your career setback isn't your ending. It's creating conditions for breakthrough.

I bet on a horse named Sovereignty at a Kentucky Derby party—and won. But what stuck with me wasn’t the $75 prize or the winner’s sash. It was the unexpected reminder that we get to author our own stories—and that asking better questions (like a good journalist) is often where that authorship begins.

Five years ago, I lost my dream job—and found my true calling.

In this reflection on my layoff-aversary, I share how one painful moment crying under a tree became the start of a new story. If you’re navigating your own turning point, this one’s for you. 💫

When I set out to become “Surfer Girl” in Portugal, I thought it would be a triumph. Instead, it was three days of wipeouts, saltwater tears, and one surprisingly holy moment involving a surfboard and the words: “Put your arms out like Jesus.”

This is the story of how I stopped trying to control the ocean—and started rewriting my story instead.

Five years after the world shut down, I’m reflecting on a grocery store trip that meant more than I realized. This story isn’t just about snacks and Zoom pasta—it’s about connection, resilience, and the power of looking back to move forward. Download your free Story Spark Worksheet to reflect on your own journey.

That sh*t is no longer my sh*t. A moment of clarity after getting fired changed everything. Read how I reset—and find your own story of letting go.

We’ve all been there—stuck in should, weighed down by guilt. But what if we rewrote the story?

Shifting from Should → Shame → Stuck to Could → Curious → Choose opens up new possibilities.

I'm so excited to share this episode with you because Lis and I had such a thoughtful conversation about how reflecting on your own stories can give you clarity, confidence, and direction—whether in your personal life, career, or leadership.

Discover how a simple tattoo, "This is happening," became a powerful mantra for grounding, reflection, and intentional storytelling. Learn how to pause, reflect on your year, and create a clear vision for 2025 with actionable tools and personalized coaching.

In this wide-ranging interview, I share the story of how getting laid off in 2020 was actually the catalyst moment that propelled me on my path to becoming a Storytelling Coach.

I also explore the science of why storytelling is so powerful and why I am so passionate about creating transformative storytelling spaces where people can practice their innate storytelling skills.

I'm going to be honest with you: this has NOT been an easy year.
But I’m so grateful to take this pause to see how far I've come! It reminds me just how much love and care and my own essence I've poured into this business. And it just fuels me up for whatever the next year of my business has to bring.

From layoffs to new beginnings, every story is a chance for growth. Join me in celebrating 4 years since my career catalyst moment and discover how storytelling can guide you in times of transition.

The surprising story of how my favorite desk toy - a mini Slinky - helped me embrace my true self at work, and how a storytelling exercise helped me realize it.

So, what’s on your desk? Finding meaning in small objects shows how lessons can hide in unlikely places.