About Me

I know what it’s like to feel stuck, unsure, or ready for something new — because I’ve been there myself. After decades of navigating (and reinventing) my own career, I now help others do the same with honesty, humor, and a proven real-world approach.

Why I Do This

Simple: because I still remember what it feels like to be in your shoes — wanting something different, wondering what comes next, worrying about the future.

Back then, I wished I had someone experienced to talk to.
Not my parents or friends — they meant well but were too close.
I needed a pro — someone who had been there.

Becoming a Career Coach wasn’t on my professional bucket list. I was happily climbing the corporate ladder when friends and colleagues started asking for help:

“You’re a good writer — can you look at my résumé?”
“You’ve changed careers before — how did you do it?”
“What did you say in interviews?”

And I loved it. It took me a while to realize this wasn’t just a fun side hobby — it was my calling.

Now, I help people find their footing, tell their stories, and move forward with confidence. My approach is down-to-earth and honest, with plenty of humor (and a little tough love when it’s needed). Because you deserve a coach who’s not just in your corner — but has actually walked the same road.

When you’re ready, I’d love to help you find your next step. (Just fill out the form below and let’s talk.)

My Career Story (The Real-World Version)

It wasn’t always like this — me loving what I do.
My first career? A terrible mismatch.

Fresh out of college, I landed a high-paying engineering job. On paper, it was perfect. In reality? I was miserable. Engineering and I needed to break up.

I had no idea what to do next, what I was good at, or how to pivot from a technical field into something new. What I did know was that I couldn’t spend the next 30 years doing something I didn’t enjoy.

So, while still working full-time, I took a part-time job at James Avery Artisan Jewelry — and everything changed.

There, I discovered:

  1. I thrive in fast-paced environments.

  2. I’m great at managing multiple projects.

  3. I love working in teams and handling customers (even the difficult ones!).

  4. I can balance creative and analytical thinking to drive results.

  5. Most importantly, I met James Avery himself — my first mentor, and a lifelong friend — who encouraged me to find my own path.

That mentorship changed everything. It gave me the courage to pursue my MBA and pivot into retail and marketing — first at Neiman Marcus, then across six major brands. Along the way, I worked with everyone from shipping clerks to CEOs, from interns to celebrities.

Looking back, I’m incredibly glad my career didn’t go according to plan.

And my dad — who once couldn’t understand why I’d leave a high-paying job just because I didn’t like it — came around. He was proud that I earned my MBA and even prouder that I’d found happiness and success on my own terms.

Real Experience. Real Perspective.

Over the years, I’ve had:

  • 4 career transitions

  • 5 job searches

  • 1 layoff

  • Countless interviews

As a hiring manager, I’ve also read hundreds of résumés and interviewed dozens of candidates.

Your path might look different — maybe you’re making a change, recovering from a layoff, or just getting started. Whatever your story, my real-world experience helps me guide you with empathy, strategy, and straight talk that works.   

Credentials & Highlights

Education & Certifications:

  • Certified Professional Career Coach - PARWCC

  • MBA – Texas A&M University, College Station

  • Graduate Marketing Certificate – Southern Methodist University, Dallas

  • Bachelor of Science, Engineering Technology – Texas A&M University, College Station

Companies I’ve Worked For or With:
James Avery • Neiman Marcus • Zale • Nokia • AT&T • Blockbuster • 7-Eleven • Michaels

Publications & Media

  • Voices Columnist, Dallas Morning News (2014–2015)

  • Tales of the Terminated: A Humorous Look at Life After a Layoff (2012)

  • Contributor – Momeo Magazine (Canada)

  • Guest Speaker – Google Hangout: How to Bounce Back After Losing Your Job

  • Contributor – Dallas Morning News’ Neighbors Go (2011–2015)

Current Board Membership

  • MS Marketing Advisory Board, Mays School of Business, Texas A&M University

Want the full story? Click the LinkedIn icon at the top of the page to see my complete background. 

Let’s Talk

If you’re ready for straight talk, practical advice, and maybe a laugh or two along the way — let’s chat. Fill out the form, and let’s start mapping your next move.