Founder's Story
How did it all begin?
My journey in emotional intelligence goes back nearly 10 years. I co-founded a men’s group as a supportive and authentic space for men to talk through issues in their lives. At about the same time, I joined a meditation group. Initially, my motivation was to navigate my own struggles. Encouraged by positive experiences, I began going to meditative retreats and emotional intelligence intensive workshops. Eventually, I was leading a meditation group and doing emotional intelligence coaching on a volunteer basis. After looking into different training options, I chose Six Seconds and HeartMath. I am now certified through both organizations to work with individuals and groups using a wide range of tools.
What other experiences do you have?
Besides my EQ journey, my educational journey has spanned disciplines and the globe. I studied philosophy in Germany and TOEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) in India. I assistant taught English in Japan, student taught in the Netherlands and eventually full-time taught high school science in central Ohio. Though I ended up back in my hometown, my teaching and travels taught me to empathize and see different perspectives. I have learned to connect with people of widely different backgrounds.
Why Appleseed EQ?
I left teaching in 2019 to found Appleseed EQ in 2020. I feel passionately that schools can be transformed and communities uplifted if more emphasis is placed on emotional intelligence. What motivated my career shift was the realization that EQ had become the area in my life where what I’m good at, what I enjoy and what allows me to serve others all align. The work I am doing now draws on all my past insight and experience in science, philosophy and EQ. I have found a way that lets me connect head and heart and do my part to leave the world I’ve traveled a better place.