1. Where were you born and raised; current city; family hobbies; past business highlights.
I grew up outside of Cleveland, Ohio in a rural town, surrounded by the Amish community. My hobbies have evolved over the years. I do love to cook, but these days I haven’t had the time to enjoy that little luxury. My greatest joy, however, is spending time with my grandchildren. We have another little girl baking for a Spring arrival.
One of the most meaningful highlights of my business journey has been the personal growth I’m embracing now more than ever, along with the sense of community I’m building along the way. It’s been an unexpected gift. Attending the last two conventions has made my almost two years with the company especially meaningful.
2. How have you grown or personally developed since joining PlanNet?
Since joining PlanNet, I’ve become more intentional about looking inward and recognizing the areas where I still need to grow. You cannot lead without having the humility to understand that growth is continuous. Private, honest self-reflection—particularly in how I think, respond, and lead—is something I continue to work on.
Growth isn’t always pretty or comfortable. It requires being honest with yourself and making changes when necessary, rather than focusing on someone else and what they need to change. Look at yourself. That doesn’t mean becoming a doormat. It means knowing when to adjust your approach without compromising your self-respect. We’re imperfect, so learning to handle stressful situations and respond thoughtfully to challenges is ongoing. But we can all get better.
Humility is more than a word to me. It’s something I’m consciously working to embed in who I am, not simply something I practice when it’s convenient. Leadership must have humility attached to it. It’s easy to get a big head if one is finding success, but life has a way of reminding you how much you still have to learn. That’s why humility has to be genuine and sincere. The recommended reading has been a valuable resource in that process, and I’m being intentional about making time for it.
3. What drives you; what motivates you?
What drives me is the possibility of creating greater freedom for myself, my family, and the people I have the opportunity to help. In a world filled with stress and uncertainty, being able to pay bills without overwhelming worry and having more control over our time can make a tremendous difference in our quality of life. To me, freedom means being present for the people I love and enjoying the moments that matter most.
For a long time, building a legacy felt out of reach. Then, when I least expected it, I began to see that possibility for myself. It changed something in me. I’ve found something here worth working for, fighting for, and staying committed to.
My husband, while pursuing his own business ventures, is intentional about spotting and referring new business to me. I appreciate that so much because it shows me that this opportunity and the legacy we’re building matter to him, too. Having that partnership in my marriage means the world to me.
With our daughters, our grandchildren, and the new baby we’re welcoming, my ‘why’ keeps getting stronger. I’m working to create possibilities that reach beyond my own life, when and if needed.
4. Who would you consider a role model and why?
My mother is my greatest role model. She is the kindest person I have ever known, and her loyalty and love for her family are unmatched. She has always been my biggest supporter, and her unconditional love is one of the greatest gifts of my life—something I never take for granted.
Her example reminds me that true strength is not always loud or visible. Sometimes it is found in the quiet consistency of loving others, showing up when they need you, and standing by them through every season of life. Simply put, she is the best person I know, and I hope to reflect even a little of the goodness she has shown me throughout my life.
5. The three words that describe me best are:
Intentional, Compassionate, and Determined.
6. If you had some sound advice to give to anyone what would it be?
I want to share something real. Building a business alongside people with different personalities, perspectives, and expectations can challenge you in ways you never anticipated—especially when you’re developing your leadership skills while guiding others.
Often, you’re growing alongside the very people you introduced to the opportunity. Some may arrive with more experience or stronger transferable skills in certain areas. Because you started around the same time, they may view you as a peer rather than a leader—and they may indeed be your peers. Sometimes that familiarity, or a lack of humility, can make them less receptive to your leadership. Don’t allow that to cause you to doubt yourself or your ability to grow. Give yourself grace, take responsibility for your development, and remember that leadership is an ongoing learning process. We all have to learn it.
You may find that the next group you introduce is more receptive to the guidance you’re now equipped to offer. Keep pouring into those who are willing to receive it, while allowing others room to shine and grow. You don’t need your leadership acknowledged. You just need to lead.
When challenges arise, pause before reacting. Process your emotions, examine your own role honestly, and be willing to have honest conversations—with others and yourself. Set boundaries when necessary. You can remain humble without compromising your self-respect.
Sincerity matters. We’re building something meaningful, not simply seeking approval or trying to fit in. Stay true to your values, and don’t let disappointing experiences distract you from your purpose. No one, including the person in the mirror, is worth you quitting on yourself. Keep moving, keep learning, and remember why you started.
7. What does your life look like five years from now?
Taking my age into consideration, I envision it being a little softer, enjoying our grandchildren and traveling with my husband of almost 43 years.
I want to look back knowing that the work I put in today has helped create more choices, greater flexibility, and opportunities for our family, as well as those I have the privilege of helping to grow their businesses. More than anything, I want to enjoy this next chapter with the people I love, make beautiful memories, and appreciate the life we’ve built together.