How old are your kids and how long have you lived in Westport? We have four children: Austin, who is 15, Skye is 14, Jaclyn is 12, and Geena Hope is 10. Our family moved to Westport in August of 2022.
How did you end up where you are now in terms of your job, or whatever passion project it is you might be doing? I began my career working for a motivational sales trainer and that experience made me realize early on that my passion was rooted in supporting people and helping them pursue their goals. I began life coaching about twenty years ago and I’ve been focused on inspiring positive direction ever since. Writing a book had always been on the “wish list,” and having completed it only reinforces my message that everyone’s goals are achievable!
What was your best memory from the last few COVID years, a strange time we know…Who knew that living through the Covid-19 pandemic would help us rediscover the significance of family? Prior to this worldwide crisis we didn’t realize how much time we spent away from each other outside of the home. Covid’s requirements kept us at home and we spent so much more time together. I’ll always value and appreciate the closeness it brought our family. I was also writing my book (“If It’s Not Right, Go Left”), during this time and the shelter-in-place gave me all the time I needed to edit.
What is the best show you have recently (binge) watched? AND/OR what is the last book you read? I actually watch very little television probably because I can never figure out how to work the remote! Despite that, I am currently watching “Ted Lasso” with my husband. For books, I’m now reading Living in the Light: Yoga for Self-Realization, the latest from Deepak Chopra.
What is your favorite podcast? I’m not much of a podcastgirl [podcast listener?]. When I have downtime, I tend to listen to my own mental music. I really value the quiet. When I’m on the road with my husband we do listen to SmartLess with Jason Batemen, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes, which I really enjoy.
What is one food you could not live without? Please don’t make me live without French fries or sushi!
What is one product you could not live without? Hands-down it’s my Vitamix! My girls are smoothie obsessed so we use that blender practically every day.
What is your greatest fear? Even though I try hard to move away from fear-based thought, I do have a reoccurring dream about sharks.
What is your greatest indulgence? Having someone come in and do the housekeeping. I love a clean house and I’m not that good at it, so that’s a gift for myself. And fresh flowers!
Which talent would you most like to have? I would love to be able to speak multiple languages.
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you? I’m a homebody. I really like being home and I don’t really travel that well.
If you weren’t doing what you are today, what might your career path might have been? I have always been interested in running for office and/or being part of the political process. I think it’s another way to help people and the community.
If you could travel to one place this next year, where would it be and why? This year I’m turning 50 so I asked my husband to plan a special trip for the whole family. We’re looking at various destinations now, and on the short list at the moment are Hawaii and Costa Rica.
If you had 24 hours to do whatever you wanted to do, what would it be? One of my favorite things that I try to do every year is to spend one overnight with my high school crew. They are still my closest and dearest friends and our yearly mini-trip is very special to me.
Are you a morning person, or a night owl? How does sleep fit into your life? I am definitely a morning person. In fact, I’m an awesome sleeper and everyone in the family knows I’ll be the first in bed every night. It’s how I prioritize me and I’m able to be my best version.
What thing has surprised you most about being in the suburbs? I guess I shouldn’t be surprised, but it’s so relaxing! And, now I love taking the kids the school. It used to take me 45 minutes in an Uber and now I drive by cherry blossoms, daffodils; the scenery is just lovely, coming and going.
What is the first thing you do when you walk in the door after a long day? I love to greet our sweet puppy Brisket. He’s always so excited to see us come home, and he always makes me smile.
Who is your favorite hero of fiction? Who are your heroes in real life? Wonder Woman. She goes from every day to superhero with an energetic spin. I love that quick change. Wouldn’t it be great to go from tank top to date night chic with just a twirl? In real life, I have such respect for several women in my life who have gone through challenges these last few years. Whether it’s cancer or losing a partner, their strength and grace in the face of enormous adversity has been inspiring. They will always be my heroes.
QUICK THIS OR THAT:
At a movie: Candy or Popcorn? Candy
Cook or order in? Cook
Cake or Ice Cream? Cake
Iced Coffee or Hot Coffee? Hot
Beach or Mountains? Beach
Puzzle or Board Game? Board Game
Wine or a Cocktail (if cocktail, which one?) Both! and if it’s a cocktail, it’s a martini
Reading or writing? Neither—I am much more apt to have a conversation.
Before bed: Social media or book/TV? Magazine
Watch or play sports? Play
Stay in or go out? Stay in
Comedy or Drama? Drama