Normalizing hate speech is not cultural progress
I’m embarking on a year of despair antidotes, focusing each month on a group or area that has been belittled, insulted, or targeted by the new administration.
Stop myselfing around
“Myself” is one of the most misused words in the English language. People seem to think it makes them sound more polite or formal, when in fact they are almost always using the term incorrectly.
Word of the year 2025: Sway
I choose a word each year. I’d been considering a few for this year, waiting for one to call fiercely to me.
A Lament
I'm still reeling and terrified for the most vulnerable in our country. Filled with fury and despair and so much grief.
From hack to halt: How social media managers are left vulnerable
Nine days ago someone hacked into my business Instagram page, and Facebook deactivated my account.
What I learned at Holden, #5: Daily contemplation cultivates clarity
Contemplation can help you shift your thinking from the negatives to the positives in your life and help you feel more content and resilient.
What I learned at Holden, #4: Celebrating failure boosts creativity
Failure becomes an opportunity for growth when we view it as an important element of creativity and success.
What I learned at Holden, #3: We all need more joy and play
Did you know the average 4-year-old laughs 300 times a day, but the average 40-year-old laughs only 4 times?
What I learned at Holden, #2: Going off the grid resets you
The average person sees 74 GB of information every day (equal to 16 movies). Going off the grid can restore our minds and bodies.
What I learned at Holden, #1: We all need community
Being part of a community makes you and your life better, no matter your age or living situation.
Elevate your feed: crafting a professional, inspirational online presence
Because the Internet is forever, what you say today can haunt you for years to come.
Business doing good: five takeaways from BLD NW 2024
I found it exhilarating to meet local leaders committed to creating an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy.
Eight ways white people can avoid being jerks on Juneteenth
This task, not being a jerk, does not come easily to us white folks. Here’s how not to be a jerk on Juneteenth.
In praise of stay-at-home dads
Today I celebrate how my wonderful husband has supported me and my career.
Celebrating five years: the highs and lows of running my own business
Five years ago I named my company “Fertile Ground Communications” because I’d worked for a few ineffective, toxic bosses. No regrets!
Time to adopt a new word for “stakeholders”
The term “stakeholder” can be offensive to Indigenous people and is viewed as a colonialist term.
Cover letters that wow
“Company ABC is pleased to submit our proposal to the City of Portland.” Most boring opening ever.
Creating a welcoming environment for Muslim people
Is your workplace or environment welcoming to people of all faiths?
Three reasons why you should always start with a story
The best speeches, articles, sermons, and blog posts begin with a story.
Eight ways to inspire inclusion of girls and women through your communications
The way we communicate can greatly influence the way women and girls are viewed and valued in society.

