BURNOUT. SELF-DOUBT. STARTING OVER. (And what came next.)

“Stuck” is how I’d describe the past year.

Wanting change but barely moving.
Inspired by possibility yet overwhelmed about where to begin.

Nolensville, Tennessee

I wouldn’t trade being “multi-passionate” for anything.
But when your head’s not on straight, burnout wins and progress stalls.

I don’t have it all figured out. But I finally feel pointed in the right direction —
taking better steps, and working with momentum instead of against it.


“How did I get here?”
I’ve asked myself that more than once.

I was stuck — not challenged at work in ways I needed.
So I jumped into a new role and new company.

The mission was great. I liked the hustle.
But the culture? It didn’t fit. I knew it wouldn’t last.

Layer on some shaky confidence — and, if I’m honest, moments of low self-esteem.

The last decade has brought its hits:
• A divorce.
• Putting down my creative tools.
• Leaping into a new industry.
• Reevaluating my faith.
• Feeling like I didn’t know enough — about anything.

So yeah… it’s been hard.

Miami, Florida

I’m grateful for my wife, family, and friends.
They stood beside me, whether they knew it or not.

I’m thankful for my doctors.
And the new things I’m trying.

For the books and teachers lighting a better path forward.
And slower moments to ask: “What’s one thing I could do right now?”

For walking at least 10 minutes a day.
And remembering that “an object in motion stays in motion.”

Along with joining a new team with new opportunities — and a healthier culture.

New Orleans, Louisiana

The pieces are finally starting to click.

A few weeks ago, walking into a store, I found myself reflecting.
And the biggest confidence boost didn’t come from anyone else.

It came from me.
From my own internal voice, quietly saying:


“I loved who you were today.
And I love who you’re becoming.

You were helpful. And kind.
You moved things forward.
You worked with your team.
You stayed present.

You have experience. You have confidence.
And you care.”

And it landed:
I liked me.
Hell, I loved me.

Chicago, Illinois – Photo by Shanda McReynolds-Spitzer

I’ve been reminded that I’m good for people. And myself.

Here’s to a new day — to live, breathe, and enjoy.

P.S. I’m sharing this mostly for me. But maybe it’s for you too.
Keep going. The small steps add up.

A TRAVELER AND HIS TURTLE

**Yes, this really happened**

“Bet you can’t guess what’s in my backpack.”

I glance up, half-listening, pegging him as another oddball. “No clue”

“My snapping turtle.”

I scan his face for a sign he’s joking. Nothing.

“Seriously?” I picture a cranky little turtle wedged between socks and toothpaste.

“WINNNNSTON” he says, grinning like he’s announcing a prizewinner. “He’s my buddy, and he can’t wait to see Michigan today.”

“Family up there?”

“Yep, Christmas with my sister for two weeks. You want to meet him?”

“Huh?”

“My buddy, Winston. Let me get him out.”

“No, not here. I’d hate for something to happen to him.”

Instead of listening, he cups his hands around his mouth and calls out, “Help! Help!”

Heads in the line swivel. My heart skips a beat.”

“What are you doing?!?”

“I like it. People look at you funny. Try it.”

“No thanks. I’d rather not get extra attention from TSA – especially with Winston in your bag.”

He grins wider. “That lady… she has a real nice butt.”

I feel my cheeks flush. Oh god, not this. He says it again. Louder. I brace for chaos.

But the woman chuckles. “Thank you,” she says with a smile before shuffling ahead.

I exhale, stunned.

He adjusts his backpack as if nothing happened.

“I’m going ice fishing tomorrow. You want to come?”

I laugh, shaking my head. “No thanks. I’m flying back home to Nashville.”

He pats his bag, “Your loss. Winston’s gonna love it.”

THE ENDNew Orleans, Louisiana