My mama saw the writing on the wall in ’89, and we fled the Soviet Union under political asylum. We rooted down in Atlanta, Georgia, where I grew into a classic overachieving-immigrant-kid chasing the American dream.
I spent my 20s in NYC hustling in ad sales, closing multi-million-dollar deals and breaking company records.
I also broke myself.
Burnt out by 29, I took my life savings and a backpack and left for a 28-month world tour to train with masters, gain fresh perspectives, and build braver stories.
Before leaving NYC, an old client dared me to try the iconic storytelling competition, the MOTH. I cried in front of 300 strangers my first time on stage. The second time, I won.
That night changed my life. Someone found my story on YouTube and asked me to speak at a conference. One “yes” to adventure launched a speaking and teaching career.
Seven years ago, I founded my story-solving advisory BRAVE NEW STORY. The vision: start with story and stand out authentically.
Today I work with leaders, founders, and organizations on narrative intelligence — the science and art of how stories shape behavior. I’ve collaborated with TED, advised venture capital firms and Fortune 500 leadership teams, and host the global storytelling series FRESH CUT Story Salon. This year I’m launching the Brave New Founder Accelerator — a cohort program for founders ready to take their voice seriously.
In this work, I’ve watched things shift. Clarity follows. Inspiration strikes. Courage awakens. Bigger deals close. Better relationships form. Bolder visions get funded.
I’m based in Lisbon. I tour globally, teach virtually, and consider it the most meaningful work I’ve ever done.
Life is long. Let’s create something extraordinary.