1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing? 

I never expected to become a writer and oddly, it still sounds strange to my ears. Yet, here I am. I’ve written a teaching memoir, created an accompanying workbook that came from a dream and developed a digital workbook. The ball continues to roll as I have added a trademark and public speaker to my bio. My writing came out of necessity as I journaled my way through healing from a dysfunctional family system, childhood trauma and a tragic accident that none of us saw coming. 

In midlife, I experienced a period of unraveling that led to unexpected change through self-reflection, divorce, loss, and tragedy. Twenty years later, I am retired from corporate and focusing on my passion to help others reclaim more authentic and meaningful lives. I am happily remarried and living in the suburbs of Austin, TX with my husband, Craig and our two cats, Wrigley and Ivy. I have three adult children; Sydney and Nathan live nearby while Daniel is on the west coast. I’m also Maymie to three remarkable grandchildren, Emerson, Joaquin, and Jude. When I’m not writing, or planning a workshop, I love live music, theatre, and baseball.

2) What inspired you to write your book? 

A vivid dream was the spark that gave me a purpose that eventually became my workshop. Women in my workshop often asked me when my book was coming out so they could read my story. I didn’t have one but I had journaled many stories during my self-discovery journey. I was inspired by their curiosity about my story to write a book based on my experiences. 

3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book? 

It’s never too late to reclaim their sense of self and identity. We were born to be seen and heard for who we truly are. I hope readers walk away knowing that their story is valuable and their experiences add value to the lives of others.

4) What drew you into this particular genre? 

Part of my healing journey involved volunteering in women’s support groups. I was so inspired as I watched each one realize their true potential and develop the courage to embrace positive change. It was genuine guidance they had lacked in their lives that prevented them from moving forward and realizing their full potential. I recognized myself in their shoes and wanted to create a tool that supported a new beginning for those asking “Who am I?”

5) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership? 

I am new to this side of developing readership. It feels so overwhelming at times. I have found Linked In to be very helpful, but I truly enjoy in-person networking. Having close connections with people is the most valuable tool for me. I have joined several groups and attended events that align with my genre of personal development.

6) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there? 

Never give up and work at your own pace as you follow your dreams. My experience as a first-time non-fiction writer was harder than I expected, but extremely rewarding as I watched the process unfold. It was difficult to write about myself, but I learned so much about myself on a deeper level. Writing expanded my ability to accept people for who they are and to have compassion, not judgement, for their circumstances and what shaped them, including myself. I realized my potential and capabilities went far beyond anything I could have imagined. 

About the Author

• Austin, TX is my home
  
• Started my career at Humana in July 2008; Retired January 2024
• Executive Admin for Central Division Senior Products (6yrs)
• Texas Region Provider Development and Engagement (9yrs)
  
• Humana Well-being Champion representing the South Region – 2014 – 2023
• Women’s Networking Resource Group (WNRG) Perspectives Steering Committee (2017 – ’24); Leadership Symposium Steering Committee (2017 – 2022); Associate Recognition Advisory Board (2018); Founding Member of the Mindfulness & Compassion Group (2020); Mindfulness Mentors Steering Committee for the (2021 – 2023)
• Presenter – Many groups and departments in Humana invited me to share my story and shoe steps to their associates beginning in 2018
• Featured on Hi! Page “Women with Vision” in March 2019
  (Humana’s Associate Intranet Website) 
• Moderator WNRG Ted Talk WOWZA (Vulnerability) October 2019 
• Keynote Speaker – Women’s Perspectives Event (“Building Self-Confidence”) September 2022
  
• Keynote Presenter – Humana Regional Health Services Leadership Summit (Mental Health and Wellbeing) May 2023 (this included the medical directors of this region)
• Developer and Facilitator – WNRG Post Event Discussions (I created the format and lead these discussion groups after each quarterly event we broadcast each quarter – each discussion group met once a week for 3-4 weeks) 2021-2023
• Life Coach certification specializing in Identity and Emotional Wellness
  
• Creator/Facilitator – Shoes for the Woman’s Soul^©
  workshop for Mindfulness and Compassion Community 2020 – 2022 
• Podcast Host for “Hear and Now” podcast through the Mindfulness and Compassion group. Podcast based on my shoe steps and emotional wellness – every Thursday during 2023 – this was on Humana Radio with a co-host – so I don’t have the recordings ☺
• Founder/CEO SHOES THAT FIT HER SOUL, LLC 2022
  
• Enjoy live music, baseball, traveling and family