Speaking
“You don’t have to be LGBTQ+ to have a coming-out story. Everyone has one.”
Why I Speak
Deep down, we all yearn to feel fully alive, but living authentically—saying yes to ourselves and our own needs and desires—often comes at a cost that feels too hard to bear.
That was true for me.
I spent decades living the life I thought I was supposed to live–solid marriage, successful career, beautiful home—but on the inside I was slowly dying. In my mid-fifties, after months and months of wrestling, I finally decided that I was ready to live—really live—which meant starting over in every aspect of my life. I came out, got divorced, moved to a new city, and started a new career. On the other side of my leap, there was joy and peace and possibility—and sometimes also grief. There was life—my life!
I share my story and speak about authenticity and new beginnings to inspire and empower others to find the courage to say yes to their truth so they can step more fully into their lives.
“What a gift you gave to the community - your openness, candor, vulnerability and courage. I saw lots of head nodding. Your words and experiences touched a lot of people.”
Margot Hoerner,
Franklin and Marshall Common Hour attendee
Speaking With an Open Heart
Want a glimpse of what it’s like when I speak?
Here is a short video clip from a recent engagement, along with a selection of podcast conversations. In every conversation, my goal is the same: to show up honestly, share what I’ve learned, and help others feel less alone in their own unfolding story.
Excerpt from a 2024 speaking engagement at Franklin & Marshall College
Select Appearances
Listen in on conversations where I talk about writing, coming out, starting over, and what it means to live an authentic life. Listeners will find insight and encouragement for their own journeys, as well as a behind-the-scenes peek into my writing and new beginning journeys.
For a complete list of publicity click here.
Speaking Topics
It's Never Too Late for a New Beginning
Find the Courage to Raise Your Voice
& Write Your StoryThe Emotional Rollercoaster After the Leap
Where Do I Start? Find the Story That's Inside You
Write Your Story (in 100 Words or Less!)
Recent Presentations & Workshops
From college campuses to community events, these recent engagements reflect the heart of my work—storytelling, identity, and the courage to begin again.
Franklin & Marshall Common Hour
Philadelphia Alumni Writers House
King County Library System
Lancaster Public Library
Women on the Net
Community Book Clubs
Let’s work together.
Whether you're planning an event, exploring a collaboration, or simply curious about working together, I’d love to hear more. Use the form below to reach out, and I’ll follow up personally.