MY PASSION STATEMENT

Storytelling is my education, passion, and profession. Story, to me, builds connections and community. It merges authentic and creative expression with self-discovery. In short, I bring stories about the human condition to life—including my own.

As a seasoned storyteller, interviewer and producer, I know how to listen well and what to listen for. I stay curious, listening to what drives people to make the decisions they've made, listening to what motivates them to adopt a specific world view. I intersect with people in the shadow spaces and important moments of life, plumb the depths of their narrative, help them connect the dots of their lives, and draw out their richest, most compelling story so they can act on and share it with others. I try to give voice to the voiceless—meaning those whose voice has been oppressed or those who simply can't find theirs. These stories are meant to inspire reflection and engage people in the moment, but also leave a lasting impression. They are meant to build relationships, catalyze and promote dialogue about perspectives and social issues, and reveal something about ourselves. We learn, grow and heal when mutual sharing happens.

I had the good fortune to be featured on Taylor Williams’ Unvarnished podcast, where I shared with her how I use story to build community and wellness.

Using story to sell widgets and propel a bottom line doesn't appeal to me; using story—especially stories from people who have endured adverse childhood experiences—to serve others and catalyze change does.

Along these lines, I’ve written a dramatic-memoir novel that links adverse childhood experiences to the development of destructive belief paradigms and identities; co-produced with Dr. Syraj Syed the Third House Books podcast series; delivered open-mic stories at Self Narrate’s Story Meet-Ups; worked with college undergraduates through the University of Florida’s Human Library Project; participated in Ignite Applied Theater and Guts and Glory’s Pants on Fire sessions; interviewed many people as part of my role as Director of Creative Services for University of Florida Health; and delivered talks about the power of story at conferences like Story:GNV.