One of my earliest memories is of desperately trying to author a book around age 7. I remember sitting in my room with the paper in front of me, forming the letters and getting frustrated that I couldn't get my thoughts on paper quickly enough.
My concept of stories worth sharing has changed a lot since then, of course. But the desire to share ideas and stories has remained consistent. It's a fundamental part of who I am -- I can't not do it. I am most inspired when I hear a fresh take, get a glimpse of how someone else really sees the world, or learn something that enables me to better make sense of life -- the deep questions as well as the everyday stuff.
I'm driven to uncover fresh ideas -- they are the foundation of making things happen. I can see the pursuit of ideas embedded in every major life decision I've made. This drive first led me to Washington, D.C. as a college student. Instead of heading off to a secluded campus, I couldn't wait to get a front row seat to the world of politics, policy, and journalism.
In Washington, I was drawn to the debates and action in the global health arena, and it shaped my early career. Millions of people die from preventable diseases every year. I gravitated towards the changemakers addressing these issues, finding ways to use my communication skills to create awareness of what works (vaccines!) and what still needs solving (also vaccines).
I'm drawn to innovators who try to solve problems in creative ways and work well with people who question assumptions. Startups have naturally been appealing. I've worked with some and created my own to test new approaches -- learning lots along the way.
Writing is a way that I've consistently shared ideas. Usually the ideas come from really smart people, but sometimes inspiration will flower, and I'll offer my own perspective. I'm attracted to the energy that arises when you convene the right group and provide a platform for new thoughts. As a conference producer, my goal is always to get attendees to think big and help them connect the dots in unusual ways.
Colleagues, friends, and associates often seek me out for brainstorming. I absolutely love to be fully engaged in a good mental sparring match with big ideas flying. But at the end of the day, it really is all about the execution. It's extremely exciting to see an idea actually become a thing in the world whether it's a new business, an article, event, service, or something else. The possibilities are endless, and that's my jam -- fresh ideas that I can spread or enable to help others inform, inspire, or improve. It's why I do what I do.
