Wellness for Real, Part Six of Series

With Kathy Anton Galietti, Director of Hospitality at Coeur d' Alene Casino Resort and Hotel

My sixth interview in my "Wellness for Real" series, is with Kathy Anton Galietti, Director of Hospitality at Coeur d'Alene Casino Resort and Hotel. It was such a joy to share ideas, perspectives, as well as practical tools we can implement into our lives, as we embrace "wellness for real." Hope you enjoy!

Me: Do you have your own definition of "wellness" that you can share?

Kathy: What a perfect opening question. I live my life, and look at my life as a series of decisions. Whatever I am presented with, I have one of two choices. There is no dancing in the middle. My priorities are very defined and with my faith, I hold family first, my productivity at home and work, then growth in my career. After I left Marriott in 2008, I redefined myself. I realigned my life and priorities. All I do focuses on my family’s security and well-being and my career compliments this. Most of my decisions are based upon my priorities, and my decisions are based upon being responsible and decisive. Being decisive, is what "wellness" is. I believe the key component to wellness is realizing that at every turn in life, there is a choice. We can learn from "wrong " choices and accumulate our best choices for us. This is growth and this ultimately makes for the best choices for the people around us, and in front of us. As far as physical wellness, I have exercised since high school, and am always aware of what I eat and when I eat.

My takeaway:

So profound. Choices. We all have choices. This is a wonderful perspective, and not one we hear of too often, when speaking on the topic of wellness- thanks Kathy!

#wellnessforreal #choices

Me: So tell me a bit about the experience of leaving your "big" job and position at Marriott. That seems like it was quite a "defining" moment for you.

Kathy: Well, back in October of 2008, I experienced a huge job loss, and as I look back, it was "tragic" for me. I made a lot of money so I had to "readjust" on many levels after I was laid off. At that time, I was the breadwinner and I had two little boys. Looking back, Mondays were indeed the hardest, given I had nowhere to be so I doubted my value. I was with this organization for 15 years and worked at least 60 hours a week. I loved my job and I was good at it. As I look back now at my career and where I spent my time, I did miss a lot of experiences with my youngest son. My husband worked from home so he was with the kids more than I was. I did a lot of busy work to try to wrap my head around my situation. I sure did a lot of crossword puzzles during this time. It was indeed a struggle, but I was sure with 100% conviction, that I would come out of it well.

My takeaway:

From my own experience, it seems like those "forced" forks in the road, can somehow provide us with a "pivot" in our perspectives, thoughts, actions, and future decisions, that may lead to a "better" overall life. Tough to have this perspective while going through the "muck" of life, but there is indeed something positive awaiting, as we navigate, and move through to the other side of it. Kathy is one strong and amazing woman!

#innerstrength

#resilience #faith

Me: So it is clear to me, that you love working at the Coeur d'Alene Casino Resort Hotel. How did this come about?

Kathy: During this time of "transition" one of my best friend's (from Spokane) father had passed. My high school friends went to the funeral, and after the service went out and through that interaction, I was contacted to see if I was interested in relocating back to Washington State and apply for the role of Hospitality Director. I did and was offered my position in May 2012. Prior to this, I was doing some consulting for Hilton Grand Vacations where I was given the opportunity to work with eight of their key properties. The experience was awesome and through that journey, I learned so much.

My takeaway:

Good for Kathy! So thrilled she landed in a place where she is fully happy and fulfilled. We all deserve to be happy , fulfilled, and inspired. I am also thrilled that she works with such amazing people at Coeur d'Alene.

#workplacewellness

Me: So I know that you now work at an amazing place, with terrific people. How have these past few weeks been for you, through this 'closure" due to Corona Virus?

Kathy: What has been so inspiring is given we are owned and managed by the Coeur d’Alene Tribe and during the closure, the Tribe paid all of the employees the entire time we were closed along with our medical benefits. We closed on March 20th at noon, five days before the Idaho Governor’s order to Stay Home. They kept us “whole” for over 5 weeks. The Casino is the economical driving force for the Tribe so the money the Casino earns, fuels the Tribe’s social service programs, veterans programs, early learning programs – essentially the tribe’s overall sustainability. We’re valuable to this region in the form of jobs, charitable donations, and we’ve donated over 33 million towards education.

My takeaway:

I could tell the leadership at Coeur d'Alene is spectacular. From my own experience, and listening to others' stories/experiences, while observing other companies and corporate cultures , it is clear that the "health" of any organization always trickles down. If the people in leadership are "healthy" in their perspectives, and how they treat those who work for them, then their employees will all be happier, and in turn, healthier overall. The ability to thrive at work, seems to correlate with how well workers are treated in their own workplace environment. Conversely, if the people in leadership are "unhealthy" in their perspectives, and how they treat those who work for them, then their employees will be frustrated, unhappy, and not thrive, for the most part.

#workplacewellness

#healthy leadership

Me: With so many in the Spa/ Hospitality industry now at home, what types of things are you implementing into your hourly/daily/weekly routine, if anything? What do your "typical" days/weeks look like?

Kathy: Every Tuesday our executive team meets with consideration to social distancing and we talk. I do have the opportunity to go into work a couple times a week. It was nice to get caught up and nice to plan for a new normal when we open back up. For any of us that went to the workplace during the closure and worked, the employee was compensated additionally for helping during the closure. With more time at home, I am cleaning and nesting. I cleaned out my china cabinet and it just sparkles! My youngest had just went off to college and most recently had to move out of his dorm because of the COVID-19 virus so he moved back home. My oldest works at Albertsons, spending up to 60 hours per week working to keep the shelves stocked. I believe our grocery workers are all hero’s. He is a senior at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington and intends to go to law school or into medicine. My husband is working out of our house so we are enjoying a lot of family time. Prior to the pandemic, I was enjoying my Barre exercise class at 6 am, 4 times a week but now I am doing some virtually online which is really hard to stay motivated but twice a week is better than none. I have to say, I really am enjoying this time at home to spend with family; puttering and nesting; and cleaning and organizing.

My takeaway:

It is quite wonderful that as Kathy still goes in to work some days each week, she is still also embracing her extra time at home. It is my opinion, that those who enjoy their life outside of work, and have hobbies and things that bring them joy, are overall "healthier" individuals.

#balance

#priorities

#findyourjoy

Me: So I notice from all your emails to me, (not just some, but all) , your kindness and hospitality come through your words. There is an elegant, genuine, and sweet energy behind your words, which someone like myself can feel. Whether you buy a product from me or not, you are so professional and sincere in your communications, it is clear to me that you are always present with what you are doing. Even during this interview, I can tell you are very present. In times when most are "multi-tasking" and not being truly present with what they are doing in the "now" – how do you stay present?

Kathy: I am always engaged in what I am doing or I couldn’t do it well. I stay present because I choose to be present. My priority is always the person in front of me, whether on the phone, with me physically, or as you referenced, by way of email correspondence. I know that someone would not "come" to me, if they did not "need" me, and I know that people need to be heard and feel valued. I choose to be responsive and I put myself in check if I am ever in a "bad" mood. So my ability to be present, just boils down to choice. My choices that I make are centered and conscious. I am very thoughtful, and know that there is good in everything and good in everybody – I choose to believe that.

My takeaway:

Kathy's keen ability to make choices from a very centered and conscious place is inspiring. Being able to truly be and stay present with another, is a "gift", and very few, in my option, are able to live moment to moment like this. Words are powerful, and even more powerful is the energy behind the words. We are living in a 24/7 "communication" society where many rely on email and text. In a time where most seem to be "short,” "abrupt,” somewhat "rude,” or even "robotic" in their communication "styles" in emailing and texting, it is quite refreshing to communicate with those like Kathy who are conscious of the words and energy that they are putting out to another human being.

#choices

#presence

#consciouscommunication #energy

Me: So let's talk about all your amazing experiences. I believe that we all bring our own life experience, as well as energy, perspectives, and consciousness to all we do. You have a BS is Sociology, with an emphasis on criminal justice. I have a BA in social psychology and attended law school for a year, where I attained law review status. How do you think you bring some of this experience to all you do at the Resort/Casino, and in addition, how do you think we can all contribute more of who we are, as whole and integrated human beings, into all we do?

Kathy: With my education, I intended to work with juvenile delinquents. In my Spring quarter I had to go to a group home which was a place where kids go before they are reintroduced back into society after a situation with the law. I had experienced what it was like to be with these kids and it was very tough on me emotionally. I was crying to my dad about some of this, and I remember him saying to me that I really can't do this kind of work, saying "you are not made for this". Years later when my husband took a job in Hawaii, I learned about hospitality. When we were living on Maui, I worked four years as the executive assistant to the GM where I learned so much about Hospitality leadership. When we moved off the island, and back to California, I started with Marriott where I learned so much through their training initiatives. I still use my strengths and still impact people in a positive way. I believe in the vital importance of human capital. In my position, I work late and my door is never shut- it is always open. As a leader I am available to those that depend on me physically and mentally. The human capital is key to any successful business. I believe when we take care of the employees, they take care of the business. Through this pandemic, the Tribe is the epidomy of this mantra given the care they have shown to close to 1000 employees during this closure. I am so honored to work for the Coeur d’ Alene Tribe.

My takeaway:

I have noticed through most of my life experiences, that those who have gone to school and have a degree in sociology or social psychology have a unique interest not only in people but also in culture. Kathy continues to use her talents, gifts, and leadership to impact and inspire others. It really does not matter the form or "title" of what we do, as it is really the "content" and "thread" that holds it all together.

#contentoverform

#corporateculture

#leadership

#human capital

I want to thank Kathy so much for this interview, and her time- it was truly a joy!

To learn more about Coeur d’Alene Casio Resort and Hotel in Worley, Idaho, please check out: https://www.cdacasino.com/hotel/

Be sure to also check out their Spa- Spa Ssakwa'q'n at https://www.cdacasino.com/spa/

Wellness for Real, Part Five of Series

With Rich Case My fifth interview in my "Wellness for Real" series, is with Rich Case . He is one of the most compassionate, centered, mindful, as well as truly kind individuals that I am blessed to know. He lives his life by example. His actions speak loud, and his words are always filled with wisdom and empathy. We are both huge Jewel fans, and this seems to have been the thread from which we have built a wonderful friendship. Hope you enjoy! Me: So, I usually start off with this question- Do you have your own definition of "wellness" that you can share? Before that though, I know today is your Anniversary- Happy Anniversary. Rich: Well, thank you for that. My own definition of wellness- I think I am still coming to my own conclusion. One of the books I am in the process of re-reading is Radical Forgiveness by Colin Tipping. This book seems even more meaningful today than when I bought the book back in 2008/ 2009. I was facilitating a group, and there was a gentleman in the group who mentioned this book. What I really enjoy is that a lot of these things speak differently to me, than when I originally read it. My takeaway:

Many times I find when reading a book, if I read it again years later, there are indeed things that speak differently to me as well. Possibly we are at different "stages" in our development, and also have experienced other things in between the times we read and re-read, where we have developed some different perspectives. This book, Radical Forgiveness, that Rich mentions is definitely on my "book list." Thank you Rich! #radicalforgiveness #perspective #wisdom #colintipping

Rich: I have also been blessed to meet some of the folks whose books I have also read. One of which is Father Joseph Martin who is famous for the film- Chalk Talk, about alcoholism and recovery. Later, I would have the chance to meet John Bradshaw who had a number of series on PBS on recovery and inner child work. I was also fortunate to meet Earnie Larson, who wrote a book- Stage Two Recovery. Here I learned the principle of : "What we live with we learn, what we learn we practice, what we practice we become, and what we become has consequences". And these consequences can be positive or negative. So, my "wellness" definition, would ultimately be learning who we are and what our purpose is. Over the years, I have found out more and more about authenticity and what my purpose in life may still be, and I am comfortable with this. My takeaway:

Some very profound insights that Rich shares. Authenticity and purpose are always areas that are worth chatting about! As Socrates said : “to know thyself is the beginning of wisdom.” I think on many levels we are all in "recovery" for something. Inner child work is always something precious, if we allow ourselves to do the deep work, and embrace the process. On the other side, does come many layers of healing. What Rich mentions about what we live with we learn.... much truth. Ultimately what we become does indeed have consequences. Many times, we are on a road to becoming who we really are not- this is where consciousness, as well as deep healing at the core can be transformational. Rich's definition of "wellness" is probably one of the best definitions, in my opinion. To learn who one is at the core, this is the journey. When we do this, we can then uncover our purpose. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said (he has been one of my favorites since I was a little girl) - "to be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment". #socrates #emerson #ralphwaldoemerson #authenticity #purpose Me: So I think we all may have a similar purpose- which is helping others. The more authentic we become and the more we live from the core of who we are, and thus express ourselves in our own unique and creative ways, we are helping others do the same. Helping others be their true selves. Thoughts? Rich: Yes, when I help others, I, in turn, help myself. Pieces of you are pieces of me. As I listen to others I find pieces of me. Thus, more healing for me My takeaway:

Some deep truth- "pieces of you are pieces of me" #healing #authenticity #betruetoyouself Me: You are definately someone who "walks their talk". You share personal experiences, as well as insights. You are one of the most compassionate listeners that I know. This coupled with the fact that you are not one who is in any type of "interrogator" energy. This I find to be rare, as I believe we live in a society that is filled with much judgment, and condemnation. Others can be our biggest "hindrance" to moving forward and being happy. Many times, people ask a lot of questions, and put others on the defensive as to how they are feeling, and/ or what their perspectives are. We are all entitled to our own feelings, as well as thoughts and perspectives. Practicing non-judgment of others is key and instrumental to truly assisting another with their own soul's growth and evolution. I would think that you have been instrumental in much of many people's growth and transformation? thoughts? Rich: Back when I was a family therapist. I worked with family members as well as addicts and alcoholics. In 1978 I went to my first Al Anon Meeting, and they talked about "just for today." Can I do these things every day? Some days one can be good at some; other days maybe only do one or two of them. Some days one is attuned and some days not. It is almost like a bio rhythm. I try and stay in my own rhythm. When moderating/ facilitating domestic violence or anger management, I would often use some of the things I learned in Earnie Larson's book Stage Two Recovery. Though the facilitator and myself had different backgrounds, ( she was an RN who worked on the medical side) - while doing the counseling/ therapy work, one of first things we tried to get across to people sent by the courts, was that we were not there to punish, but to help them see that what they were doing was not working well, and we offered some alternative. Alternatives that may work better. We only had two " repeat customers" in the six years. The idea was for them to get to know who they are, and one of the things they learned was they are not their behavior, but they are responsible for it. One of the things that happens... we do one or two things in life, and have a lot of shame. But we should not be characterized by that. People need to be responsible, but also understand that they are not that behavior. They are more than that behavior. Jewel talks about this a lot- we are not our behaviors and not our thoughts and not our emotions. We may be having thoughts and emotions, but we do not have to act on them. Most important, we are more than our behaviors, feelings, and thoughts. My takeaway:

Having others who can reflect back to us, who we truly are, is invaluable. "Seeking wise counsel" ( what I call it)- is always not only wise but essential. Questions I like to ask myself : is what I am listening to and who I am communicating with - is this authentically speaking to who I am? Taking one day at a time, always works well for me, and knowing I am doing my best. I know my rhythm, and as Rich says, so eloquently, some days we are better and more attuned at staying in our flow and "bio rhythm". I think it is important to not allow others rhythms to "dictate" how we need to navigate our own day. I love what Rich shared about his working with the RN in the therapy/ counseling work. Powerful insights and much kudos on only having two 'repeat customers" in six years. #rhythm #flow #wisecounsel #intheflow #discernment #justfortoday Me: Let's talk for a moment about "choices" and options. Sometimes we forget that we have the power of choice. One of the few freedoms we still have. Many are not consciously choosing. While others are very conscious. When making a decision, how do you make decisions that are coming from a clear and pure center? Rich: It is always important that I realize that I have choices and don’t need to jump the train track based on others decisions, actions, or words and emotional state. I find that it is a new freedom that I didn’t realize that I always had. How wonderful it is to learn that however long we have been alive, we can always learn more about ourselves. My takeaway:

Always powerful to know we are always 'at choice". When there is intention, deep alignment, and consciousness- we "decide" better. Decisions that come from a centered place are usually the ones that bring peace. #choices #powerofchoice #powerofintention Me: This brings me to the term that you have used before: "enlightened self interest". I never heard this term before, and it is a "good one"! What does this mean for you? Rich: I have to keep remembering that I am powerless over a number of things, and that I also have choices or options. One of the things I am powerless over is other peoples’ choices and behaviors. It is important for me to recognize my "enlightened self-interest". That is to say what is healthiest for me. Selection of this often includes consultation with my Higher Power and soul. Being an observer of others' choices and behaviors doesn’t mean that I am forced to be involved. If I see a whirling dervish it doesn’t mean I have to join the chaos. In addition, sometimes "enlightened self interest" will involve projects that would be healthier for me to do, to benefit the group. I am one of many. If I develop new behaviors will this also benefit others, as well as myself. My takeaway:

Love this! Much wisdom in this! #enlightenedselfinterest #choices #powerlessness Me: You mentioned Jewel in a previous question, and you and I are huge fans! . She talks a lot about nature versus nurture. I believe that she is a true example of a " phoenix rising". And, most importantly, she leads by example. As a young girl, I wrote poetry, played concert piano, and was gifted in art. So much of her creativity and self expression resonates with me on a very deep level, that most do not understand. She is spectacular in being raw, real, honest, and true to herself- especially in putting pen to paper for her songs/ poetry. She is also very vocal about the fact that her "goal" is to be a whole happy person first and musician second. Why do you think Jewel, her story, her lyrics, and her life resonate so much with people like us. Do you think it is primarily because we all want to rise from the ashes of our own personal stories to triumph and be examples for others that they can do the same? And secondly, are we not all trying to find true happiness in our own unique journeys? Rich: Jewel talks a lot about the importance of forgiveness and gratitude. "Hard Wood Grows Slowly". This is an important principle and takes a while before it takes root in our lives. When we learn to not only forgive ourselves, and forgive others, we free up energies, and our creative force inside is unleashed. Thus, we continue to move forward, and not remain stuck in that area any longer. When I first got involved in recovery, someone shared about "walking up the down escalator". If we don't continue walking up, we end up at the bottom. The "escalator of recovery" is also just like the "escalator of joy".... Joy is not a destination but a journey. My takeaway:

Jewel talks a lot about the three pillars to change: transformation, transmutation, and transcendence. And "hard wood does grow slowly". As Rich mentions when we forgive ourselves, as well as others, we free up energy, and creativity can be unleashed. I believe we all want to be the "phoenix rising" in our own lives, and with this journey, we can embrace joy along the way. As Rich says, joy is indeed a journey. Continuing to "walk" up" the "down escalator" does take intention, and consciousness. Rich is a great example of someone who continues to take steps "up" and keeps moving forward. It is a true privilege and a true joy to know Rich, and I am grateful for this time we had to chat. #joy #gratitude #hardwoodgrowsslowly #jewel

Wellness for Real, Part Four of Series

With Lara Davidson, Spa Director at Spa at Pebble Beach My fourth interview in my "Wellness for Real" series, is with Lara Davidson, Spa Director at Spa at Pebble Beach. What a great time we had on this interview, so much to chat about! Hope you enjoy! Me: So I usually start off with this question - Do you have your own definition of "wellness" that you can share? Lara: I think "wellness" has become a kind of "catch-all" phrase. Wellness and happiness go hand in hand. If I am happy I am well. If I feel good, healthy, am achieving something - I am happy. Happiness and well being go hand in hand. My takeaway: I agree with Lara, and think this is one of the truest definitions of "wellness." It sounds simple, but it is also profound. Simplicity is always where there is truth. In my opinion, many in the "wellness" community are not genuinely happy. When I think back to the times in my life when I was the happiest, I was also the healthiest. As soon as an individual or a group tells me, what I need to be doing, how I need to be doing it, what I need to be eating, or how I need to be thinking- this is not what "wellness" is about. We are all born with the right to think for ourselves, express ourselves creatively, and believe what we want. I also believe we know what foods make us feel good and vibrant. What works for one, may not work for another. When we are aligned with who we are, and take actions from this place- we are happy.. Lara is a true example of "walking wellness"- she is happy, aware, and thus encompasses what it means to be "well" for real! #simplicity #truth #happiness #beinghappyiswellness Me: I know that you have been the Spa Director over at Pebble Beach for a long time. In an industry where there is a lot of "movement" - it is my opinion, when someone stays at a location for a while, it speaks to the management. Good leaders keep people, and create some longevity with their employees. Tell me a bit about how you have been able to stay at Pebble Beach- obviously you enjoy your job. Anything more? Lara: I have been at Pebble Beach for 19 years. I love what I do. For many of the larger corporations, they have "management training programs", and grow their own managers. Part of this sometimes requires movement as they see that there is " value" in moving, and theoretically growing. One of the things Pebble Beach does, is encourage growing within the company. It is a property that values longevity and history. Founded in 1919, every year we celebrate our " twenty five year club" within the company. There are 250 active employees who are active members of this club. This is really unheard of in hospitality. Our company values us and values their team. They give us the freedom to do our job, to take care of our guests, and to be successful . One gentleman here, who is banquet captain, has been here 53 years. My takeaway: I studied Social Psychology at Tufts, and took a class called "Psychology of Corporations." I learned back then, that when a corporation and its leaders are "healthy" at the top- it trickles down. The reverse is also true. When a corporation and its leaders are "unhealthy" at the top - it trickles down too. Being in the Resort/ Boutique Hotel arena for over 15 year, I have observed this, while interacting with small boutique hotels, large brands, mediums sized companies. "Healthy" companies versus "unhealthy"- has nothing to do with the size. Has everything to do with the leadership. I can always tell when employees are valued and appreciated. I am so happy that Lara is treated well, as she is no doubt a valuable asset to whomever she may work with and for. I am glad she is in an environment where she can thrive, be happy, and be fulfilled. #healthyleadership #healthycompanies #healthycorporations Me: So, I am thinking after this last question, I would think that you must also then get a lot of regular guests. Typically, in these types of environmentts where employees are happy, the guests can feel this, and want to return. Do you get a lot of regulars? Lara: Yes, we do get a lot of regular guests. Some people have been coming here for forty years or so , and come every year at the same time. Many of them also request their same room. They know everyone in our front office, and we also have lots of groups coming here, some thirty years or so, year after year. Many of our guests feel like they are coming to their "other home." It is a very nice feeling. Kinda like "Cheers" - our regular guests like coming to a place "where everyone knows their name." My takeaway: We all want to feel "at home." Whether traveling for business, personal, leisure... with so many choices, most choose where they feel most welcomed and treated well. People are not "numbers" and the number of guests/occupancy should not be reviewed by "spreadsheets." In my opinion, the true value and barometer of a good Resort/Hotel is do their guests love coming there, as well as coming back. And are the employees happy and do they feel appreciated. #hotelloyalty #resortloyalty #happyemployees Me: I know you have been like many of us, who have been embracing their time at home. There are some who are "bored"- I have never in my life been bored. And there are some who are constantly calling others, and want to chat , and "infringing" on what others are choosing to spend their time "off" doing. I know you have been baking a lot, and enjoying this time at home . In my opinion, this is indeed an aspect of "wellness"- being able to fill one's days with things that bring them joy. There is not a "one sized" fits all approach to this. People find their joy and inspiration in all different ways. I have been finding all the blessings in this time, and I think some of us, will come out of this stronger in who we are , and healthier in all aspects, as well as with some deeper connections with others. This is an amazing time to "know thyself" and not allow others to tell us who we are, and what we need to be doing and thinking during this time. Thoughts? Lara: So , I am working from home, and I also come in once a week, and take care of things that I can not do from home. I am definitely maximizing my time at home, and this is the most my children have seen me and they are appreciating it. Aside from baking, I am gardening. and reading books. I alternate between good fiction and trashy types of beach reads. I was just reading an article in Harvard Business Review, on the topic of career change and how this is a time to really process a lot of emotions and desires, and just be. I do not feel like I have to do every project around my house, I do not have to spend all my time reading books on self improvement. etc... I signed up for a Yale course online, on wellness, but I haven't started it yet. Our brains need time to just be, to have space; and also capacity to expand. My takeaway: I could not have said this any better. I am a big believer in spending time in joy and doing things that light us up. I have always had a lot of hobbies and things to do that inspire me. In my opinion, as Lara said in our opening... the term "wellness" has become some "catch all" phase . I predict in the very near future, that we will have a new and more evolved term to reference when we speak on "wellness"- possibly the words " wellness alignment " may work better. As Lara so eloquently shared in this interview, at the core of "wellness" is happiness. and to be happy we really have to be aligned with who we are, and what makes us happy. #justbe #beingversusdoing #wellness alignment Me: So would you be able to share that article, I would like to reference, and also of course read it. Lara: Sure. I'd be happy to. My takeaway: It was not one minute after this interview, that Lara emailed me the Harvard Business Review article! Please see below referenced link: Hope you enjoy it, as much as I did. These are terrific times to just "be" and reinvent. #harvardbusinessreview #reinvention. https://hbr.org/2020/04/reinventing-your-career-in-the-time-of-coronavirus Me: So you mentioned not taking the Yale online class. For those like us that have so many interests, we really have to prioritize our time and energy, and make good decisions from our core. How do you make decisions, whether to do something or not? Lara: I have been blessed with so many opportunities to learn and grow. Here at Pebble Beach I had to learn retail, and F&B; I also went to massage school. Learning new skills and finding things that interest me is always terrific. Twenty seven years ago I started in this industry, and it is important for my own sanity to continue to have something fresh. It does not have to be "huge" like getting a Masters/ MBA. I look to whether or not it would really be worth my time, energy, and money. My takeaway: Love Lara's answer!! I am a huge believer in looking especially at the "energy expenditure", when it comes to making decisions. Even if a "small decision." I wrote a poem a while back on Energy ROI - there is indeed a "cost" to our energy expenditure. Lara is one of the few that I know who mentions time, money, and energy. When making decisions, obviously there is always a time investment, as well as things may also require a financial investment. Most importantly, for me, I always look to the energy. How much energy will I need to expend, and will I find joy, and fulfillment from this expenditure. If there is no joy, no fulfillment - it is hard for me to invest energy. #joy #fulfillment #energyinvestment. Me: So in reviewing your bio, I saw that you went to school for English and History. You have a BA in both. How did you evolve into Hospitality and Spa? Lara: I have a degree in English and African American History. All in my family are scientists.( parents and grandparents, cousins) - all but me. I went to school and was a chemistry major. I was always good at science and math. In college, it was not as interesting to me, and I chose to take classes that were interesting to me. English and a lot of authors (southern authors and African American), I really enjoyed. In my junior year, I was told that if I took two more classes, I could have a "double major." My takeaway: Like Lara I have a double major - Social Psychology. Like Lara, I was very good at science and math, and took honors physics in high school. I thought I would end up being a physics major. When I went to college, though I was still interested in physics, I gravitated towards the psychology and sociology classes, as I enjoyed them the most. When it was time to 'declare" a major I was top heavy in both these areas, so this was my major. To this day I am fascinated with energy, especially as it relates to individuals. I believe that we all hold a frequency, based upon our level of consciousness, and based upon the healing that we have done at our core, (dealing with any conscious and / or subconscious blocks). We are here to be well, thrive, and be happy, vibrant, and fulfilled. This interview with Lara was definitely a deeper eye opener, as to how many of our "relationships" hold deeper threads of commonality than we may think. Getting to know Lara on a deeper level was such a treat for me, and I really enjoyed our chat! It was light, fun, and quite refreshing! I so appreciate Lara's time to chat about "wellness for real." To learn more about Pebble Beach and the Spa at Pebble Beach, please check out: https://www.pebblebeach.com/the-spa-at-pebble-beach/ https://www.pebblebeach.com