As early as I can remember, I’ve wanted to “change the world.”

Doing good and being of service has always been my motivation. I pursued a career in public relations and advocacy because for a long time, I believed that if people just had better information and knew how to plug into the movements and organizations working to solve social problems, we could make the world a better place together. This is important work and I believe in it as a lever for bringing about social justice and beneficial change.

What’s changed is that I’m no longer trying to “change the world.” Although well intended, I now understand that the only person I can change is myself. And, when I listen closely and lead with curiosity, I can create openings for more possibility.

This realization led me to create Relate Together. I didn’t want to lose that pure intention that drew me to do communications work in the first place, but I did want to shift from merely pushing messages I believe in, to listening first and often and prioritizing understanding over persuasion.

I do this in two unique, yet interlocking, ways.

First, as a communications strategist, trainer and coach, I partner with social change organizations and leaders with important things to say, say them more effectively and to the right people.

Second, as a mediator, facilitator, conflict coach and trainer, I help families, neighbors, coalitions, and communities make agreements and navigate turbulent conversations with empathy, creativity, and clarity.

I’m pouring my 30+ years as a professional communications strategist and student of narrative into my unquenchable curiosity about healthy conflict’s potential to transform relationships and solve social problems. I’m a trained mediator and restorative justice facilitator (learn more about my credentials here).

And, this work is personal. I am a white mother to a biracial daughter. I came out as a lesbian in midlife. I’ve navigated a collaborative divorce and currently co-parent in a beautiful, multi-racial, queer blended family. I know what it means to stay in relationship across difference. I love people I deeply disagree with.

I know how hard it can be.

I also know how rewarding it can be to set down our defenses and listen to understand because when we do, we can open doors to deeper connection, trust, and solutions that we didn’t think were possible.

You don’t have to do it alone. Let’s Relate Together.