I am a Youth Mentor, Podcaster, and Speaker who helps teens and tweens grow curiosity, compassion, and confidence. I teach workshops on self-development, physical and mental health, friend/relationships, and media literacy through my business Empowerful Girls. I discuss those topics on my podcast, 10 for Teens + Tweens, and when I speak to youth groups. I also am a substitute teacher with CCSD. I enjoy hiking with my family, karaoke with friends, discovering new flavors at local restaurants, and hosting girls nights.
Brent and I have been married nearly 17 years, he is a managing attorney at CVBN Law. We have three redheads – a son in 7th grade who plays flag football and guitar, a daughter in 5th grade who sings and creates art, and a daughter in Kinder who wants to be a mermaid.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I love helping girls build a stronger sense of self. They are truly incredible, but they have a hard time believing it because of the messages coming at them and the struggles they face, so I love helping girls recognize that they are enough.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Meraki, Chef Marc's, Babystacks
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
Nearly 16 years, we moved here the day after he graduated from law school.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you've met here in our community?
My friend Connie was one of the first Disneyland Ambassadors and she personally knew Walt Disney.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
I would go to a tranquil tropical beach to disconnect from schedules and devices, and rest and recharge.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
If you only knew the impact you have when you help a teen/tween feel seen and accepted..
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
See the Northern Lights. That phenomenon is fascinating to me.
Q: What is your favorite quote or saying?
"In a world that tells you you're not enough, loving yourself is a highly rebellious act." – Lizzy Cangro, Reclaim the Rebel
Q: What current (or former) local business are you a frequent visitor of in our community?
Yassou — the lemon rice!
Q: If you could choose anyone living today (or has passed) and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you meet for this lunch?
I would meet Jacinda Arden at ChinaMama, I'd listen to her insight on how we can better-support women and girls here in the US like New Zealand does.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
The community trails and parks, I enjoy walks with my family and seeing friends along the path.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
By that time I'll have my own event space for my business, a published book, and a TED Talk. Our family will have explored several more National Parks and hiked the more-difficult trails in Red Rock.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don't know about you?
In first grade I was hit by a car at my school bus stop, somehow I walked away from it with just a bruise on my hip.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Tankah cenote near Tulum, Mexico.
Q: What local charity/non-profit organization is most near and dear to your heart?
Project Marilyn, they provide free period supplies to the community. Periods shouldn't be taboo or a source of shame; they're a natural part of life.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
The smell of rain in the desert.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My daughters are honestly my inspiration–they are bright, brave, and bold.
Q: Who is someone you’d like to nominate to be interviewed for The Faces of Summerlin? (Maybe an inspiring teacher or coach, a great student, first responder, active Military or Veteran, local small business owner or unique person in the community that you'd like to see featured? )
Lauren Busby with Lift Period and Kari Curletto.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Belonging, Comfy, Joyful
