Awe in All

Lily Hulsman finds awe in mysterious sea creatures, brewing beer, and Bhutan's happiness index

Lily Hulsman is an experimental beer brewer in Portland, Oregon, one of a growing number of women in a traditionally bro-y field. She finds mind-blowing moments eyeing octopuses underwater and learning about alcoholic beverages in ancient Mesopotamia.

Uyen Nguyen finds awe in creativity during chaos, sharing a great meal, and releasing regret

Uyen Nguyen ís a founder and owner of the international cuisine hub Nue in Seattle. Uyen believes in the prejudice-destroying power of sharing food and not sweating the road not taken.

Jennifer Slemp's mind is blown by the Pantyhose of Justice (!), live music, and being a public defender

Jennifer Slemp's earliest mind-blowing moment was dancing to the Grateful Dead at an outdoor concert when she was three. Live music still sustains her as she dons the Sensible Shoes of Fairness as a Public Defender.

Kate Beck finds wow moments in sober community, blue state bliss, and friends who ask gentle questions

Kate Beck is a mortgage broker, charitable do-gooder, and midwest transplant to the progressive west coast. She makes friends in convenience stores and (finally) knows she is unconditionally loved.

Melinda Green is blown away by a cold cure for monkey mind, hidden history, and millions of peaches

Melinda Green is a writer and historian living in a small beach town in New England. She is hilarious and wise and has naturally red hair.