What's Next? Starting fresh at 48

They say, "You can't teach an old dog new tricks." Well, I recently made the decision to learn a few new tricks of my own. And not just a new job, diet, workout routine, or even another way to test my knees playing volleyball—but a brand new company!

Back in February 2017, I joined a small consulting firm called Advoco to build its HR department from the ground up. With just 35 employees, the team had big ambitions to bring in 10 new hires that year. By the end of 2017, we’d more than doubled that goal, adding over 25 new team members—and then 30 more the following year. Advoco kept growing, and so did I, until we reached 125 people strong. It was the most fun I've ever had in my career, sparking a passion in me for finding, developing, and championing the right talent.

I firmly believe that you win with people—period. While many companies say this, few live it. But Advoco committed to winning with people, and it paid off, creating a powerhouse consulting team that was acquired by a Fortune 100 company in 2021.

As part of the acquisition, I worked closely with a large M&A team, representing Advoco’s side of the deal. Although the acquiring company was strong, with fantastic people and resources, I quickly realized that large corporations aren’t for me. I’m not a cog-in-the-machine type—I need to be hands-on, seeing the tangible impact of my work on both company success and employee lives. I had a three-year commitment with the new organization, but the wheels for something new were already turning.

Fast forward three years, and here we are. I'm launching By Design Advisors with two of the best mentors and partners I could ask for, Tom Johnson and Marty Osborn . We share a common passion: helping business owners succeed by maximizing their team’s potential, executing with excellence, and increasing the value of their businesses. With By Design Advisors, I’m bringing together the best of my 25-year career—working with incredible people, driving success, and making a real impact on teams, organizations, and lives.

I’m beyond excited (and, honestly, a little scared) to start this new journey. But as the saying goes, "If your dreams don’t scare you, they’re not big enough." So, here’s to new beginnings at 48 and dreams big enough to keep you reaching higher!