Meet Emily.
I’ve always joked that I’m “genetically unemployable,” driven by an innate entrepreneurial spirit and a thirst for independence.
In a previous chapter of my life, I had the privilege of diving headfirst into the freelance business world. I founded and nurtured the largest local-specific freelance business project community in Austin, paving the way for exciting initiatives like The Freelance Conference and National Freelance Business Week, celebrated every April with gusto. Not to mention, I spearheaded the Freelancers Choice Awards, shining a spotlight on the incredible talent and innovation within our dynamic community.
But now, it’s time to flip the script and embark on the next thrilling chapter of my journey. I’m ready to dive into the unknown, fueled by passion, creativity, and a whole lot of adventure. Watch this space – there’s plenty more excitement to come!
How I landed here.
Let me take you back to where it all began for me. Picture this: it’s me, nose buried deep in the pages of “Salty Piece of Land” by the legendary Jimmy Buffett. Those stories of salty sea dogs and far-flung adventures sparked something deep within me – a yearning for the open sea that I just couldn’t ignore.
Before I knew it, I was knee-deep in sailing certification courses and scouring the listings for my very own sailboat. And let me tell you, when I finally got my hands on that 30-year-old beauty, it was like a dream come true.
But here’s the kicker – as soon as I stepped foot on that deck, reality hit me like a rogue wave. Fear gripped me tight, turning my excitement into pure fear as the wind whipped through my hair and the boat leaned into the swell.
Yet, despite the fear, there was something undeniably exhilarating about facing those challenges head-on. It’s all part of the sailor’s journey – the highs, the lows, and everything in between. And let me tell you, I wouldn’t trade a single moment of it for anything in the world.
With the guidance of two exceptional sailing instructors, I dove headfirst into the challenge, unraveling the knots of my fear and mastering the art of sailing in the process. Fast forward to today, and I stand proud as a certified sailing instructor, confidently navigating the seas and passing on my hard-earned knowledge to eager learners.
Now, as I return to the helm after weathering the storms of a difficult relationship, my passion for sailing burns brighter than ever. There’s something truly magical about the whisper of the wind, the dance of the waves, and the freedom of the open sea that keeps me coming back for more.
But what truly sets my heart aflutter is the opportunity to empower fellow women on their own sailing journeys. Witnessing the transformative moment when a woman discovers her own mastery of the seas is a joy beyond compare, and it’s a privilege I cherish with every fiber of my being. So, let’s set sail together and chart a course towards adventure, empowerment, and endless possibilities on the water!
SailStrong
I am currently involved in a local Austin 501c3, SailStrong, they introduce at-risk youth to the opportunity for personal growth through exposure to and instruction in sailing. To teach self confidence, decision making and risk taking in the context of sailing as building these important traits into a means for personal growth.