Everything Happens for a Reason… But What About When It’s Still Happening?

Group Tours, Staying in a Jailhouse, and More From My Trip to New Zealand

I’ve been gone for a second but felt inspired to record a little life update. If you’re curious what it’s like to do a group trip, I share my positive experience in New Zealand. I also stayed in a hostel for the first time!  Find inspiration in my experiences and also in Steve Irwin, who has recently been inspiring me and this episode.

Everything Happens for a Reason… But What About When It’s Still Happening?

I turned a missed teaching abroad placement and a declined job offer into an au pair adventure in Australia and explore what it means to “live in the happening”—the uncertain space where growth happens. You can use practical, simple strategies to get through uncertain times—sleep, movement, sunlight, hydration, micro-goals, and leaning on community—while developing patience, resilience, and the mindset that things can happen for you, not to you. This episode is a warm, relatable guide to navigating the unknown and finding meaning in periods of transition.

I Moved Alone to a New City- Here's How I Found My People

In this episode, I share my personal experience moving to Brisbane and offer practical advice on making friends in a new city. I discuss tools like Bumble BFF and local run clubs, emphasize being intentional with meetups, suggest low-stakes first dates (coffee or walks), and encourage using social media and local events to connect. The episode covers managing expectations, nurturing friendships through varied activities, and staying open to new people while prioritizing meaningful, long-term connections.

6. What it's really like living in Australia as an American

In this episode, I share what it’s really like living in Australia as an American — from why I decided to move here to what everyday life actually looks like. I moved from Chicago to Brisbane in search of a more laid-back, beachy lifestyle and a new perspective on what kind of environment makes me feel my best. Spoiler: not all of Australia is on the beach, and the reality has been full of surprises. From the Aussie coffee culture and early morning routines to the slower pace of life and emphasis on work-life balance, I dive into the cultural differences, the logistics of moving abroad, and the small quirks that make Australia so unique.

5. The Secret to More Energy, Success, and Spontaneity

One-month update from Brisbane: settling into a host family, navigating the surprises of nannying three kids, and missing familiar people-watching rituals. How building simple routines inspired by Atomic Habits — Anchoring habits to your identity, starting small, habit stacking, designing your environment, and minimum viable habits — has helped create stability, energy, and space for creativity. Quick personal wins, gratitude practices, and a plan to start journaling as I head off on a Gold Coast trip next week.