I grew up in Metro Atlanta in the heyday of 90s radio dreaming of becoming a radio star. With a degree in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Georgia, I started my career at a local radio station, reporting the afternoon news and traffic. I spent my “free time” preparing to compete in the Miss Georgia pageant, hoping to become Miss Georgia and ultimately Miss America. I figured if I was going to be a star, Miss America was a good foot in the door. For two years post college, I worked 12+ hour days between the radio station and the local bagel shop scrubbing the inside of cream cheese coolers to pay for the pageant coaching, training, and custom wardrobe.
Spoiler: I did not win. But through the training, coaching, and preparation, I learned the value of hard work and how to set and pursue seemingly impossible goals. This experience led me to a renewed perspective on what truly mattered and a deeper sense of self. I thought: maybe I’m not the star of my own story. In fact, maybe my life’s work was not to become a star but to highlight other people’s success by sharing their stories. I transitioned into Public Relations, where the focus on workplace culture was rejuvenating. However, despite having amazing clients, the work felt empty, prompting another path of self-discovery.
This path of self-discovery led to fried chicken, and I joined Chick-fil-A Operator Shane Todd in Athens, GA to help develop his growing leaders. I created a leadership development program for college graduates who want to invest 2 to 3 years in Athens Chick-fil-A and invest in their personal and professional growth to propel themselves to whatever is next. The organization has since more than doubled in revenue, and I’ve worked with dozens of high-performing leaders.
In the meantime, I’ve gotten married and started a family—two babies in two years. Learning to integrate being a mom with career aspirations has made me more intentional about my work, seeking joy, fulfillment, and purpose while supporting my family. I became a Certified Professional Coach and now help others clarify who they are, what they want, and how to create a plan forward to realize their dreams.
I once thought I was the star of my story. Then, I believed I was meant to tell other people’s stories. Now, I realize my life’s work is to help others live a better story—one worth telling and sharing, impacting generations to come.