In 2012, I was in a moment of transition and feeling a little lost. Seeking a project, I decided to beautify the large concrete slab that is my driveway. The image that came to mind was a labyrinth, a visually attractive image that would support contemplation. Although “labyrinth” and “maze” are used interchangeably in everyday […]
Since I left academia a year ago, the #1 question I’ve been getting is “how’s retirement?” In short, it’s wonderful. To elaborate… A typical day goes something like this: I feel complete Retirement is wonderful, but not because I hated my job. I loved being a professor for over 25 years, and I engaged in
These photos accompany episode 13 of the Ready to Be Strong podcast, Swing State Stories. Listen on your favorite podcast platform to hear what I learned when I talked with, and listened to, voters in Hazleton, PA. In mid-October, I found myself in Pennsylvania after a speaking engagement. I made a last-minute decision to stick
I recently returned to my hometown for my 40th high school reunion. My trip to Charlottesville was sandwiched between speaking engagements about navigating political division, and I arrived in the midst of the contentious 2024 election season. Growing up in Charlottesville set the stage for my work on bridging divides. As a bi-racial, Chinese, Jewish
I arrive at the studio ready to go. Having narrated the audiobook of my first book, I had learned a thing or two. I know to wear soft clothing and avoid jangly jewelry. I am equipped with throat lozenges and tea. And I am well rested — this will take a lot of energy. This
Growing up in Charlottesville, Virginia, the Gordon Avenue public library was a few blocks from my elementary school. Some days, rather than taking the bus home, I would hang out at the library until my parents could pick me up. I perused the shelves, discovering books and authors, and settling into a comfy chair to