LEADERSHIP & MENTORING

For over 25 years, I worked in international higher education, leading teams of various sizes, teaching at colleges in the US and Europe, carrying responsibility for multi-million dollar budgets, and regularly working 60+ hours a week. At the same time, I raised kids, managed a household, assisted aging parents, and traveled the world for work and leisure. I was (and still am) quite proud of the success I achieved.

BUT the lack of sleep, all the grab-and-go food, and the endless hours of sitting at desks and on planes began to take its toll. I often felt exhausted, had more and more aches and pains, and increasingly not-so-great blood panels. Friends, family, and even doctors mostly just shrugged and said things like "well, that's just how it is getting older." For a while, I accepted this. 

RESEARCH & MOVEMENT

In 2021, I began using my expertise in research and data analytics to find and implement simple, yet highly effective, healthy habits that really fit my interests, my lifestyle, and my work schedule. It turns out that regularly getting a good night's sleep, moving more, and eating nutritious food truly can make an incredible impact. 

Walking, running, and hiking are the kinds of movements that bring me the most joy as well as a sense of freedom and empowerment that goes beyond "exercise." I'm also a big fan of the great outdoors, with a special love of being at, on, or in the ocean. So, snorkeling and kayaking are also at the top of my list.

For me, going from a mostly sedentary to a very active lifestyle has been life-changing ... and life-saving. I have had more energy than I'd had in years. The aches and pains are gone. My blood work looks great. And, I just feel freaking awesome! 

CERTIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Although my daily life had become quite sedentary over the years, I've always hiked and explored any cities I've visited on foot, both throughout the US and abroad, for example in Germany, France, Denmark, Greece, Spain, South Africa, Namibia, Australia, Japan, and China, to name a few. Walking/hiking through the 100s of cities, forests, and coasts, I've always felt that time slows down, allowing all my senses to be activated so that I experience the place/space in a very intimate and impactful manner.   

My passion for movement as well as my dedication to improving my health and helping others do the same led me to pursue and earn my certification as a personal trainer from the American Council on Exercise in 2023. Shortly, thereafter, I founded The Blizzard Blueprint LLC to offer coaching that helps busy women attain an active lifestyle regardless of their demanding schedules. 

I am also a certified outdoor guide (Oregon State University Extension), and I've also attained my Wilderness First Aid certification. In 2025, I will begin offering coastal excursions for small groups in addition to my individual coaching. 

COACHING & GUIDING APPROACH

I hope to inspire others to feel empowered by (not trapped in) their bodies, to embrace the abilities they do have (instead of focusing on those they don't, or don't yet, have), and to begin to see movement as an essential and exhilarating part of every day (not a chore or another task to be added to the never-ending to-do list).  

My approach is to foster a trusting relationship that leads to more self-confidence and self-reliance. I believe a good coach will provide you with the tools you need to continue growing long after the last session. And, I believe a good guide will help you learn about yourself while and because of the amazing environments you encounter. -- I strive to be both! 

#MovementMatters