My Story
My career journey has been anything but conventional.
I started my career as a cancer research scientist, earning my PhD in Molecular Cancer Biology and working in both academia (Cornell, Harvard, Duke) and pharmaceutical drug discovery for 17 years. I loved the work, but as my life changed, especially after having kids, I began to feel restless and disconnected from the scientist lifestyle. I realized that my drive to learn and grow was pulling me in a new direction.
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In 2018, I made a bold decision to leave bench science behind and start my own oncology medical writing business. I quickly found new meaning in this work, and was pleasantly surprised by how my scientific background still contributed in meaningful ways, even outside of traditional roles.
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During this transition, I realized how challenging it is to break free from a path that once felt right but no longer serves us. The questions of “What do I really want?” and “What will others think?” can be overwhelming. That’s part of why I became passionate about supporting others in navigating change with self-trust and confidence. I believe the most powerful work comes from following what feels right for us, no matter how much time, effort, or expectation we've invested in a past path.
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I've trained with the best—I'm a Martha Beck–trained coach, an ICF-certified professional, and I hold a credential in Women's Entrepreneurship from eCornell. Over the years, I’ve expanded my coaching skills and worked with clients from all walks of life to uncover what they truly want, build deep self-trust, and lead with clarity and authenticity. Now, I specialize in coaching women small business owners and entrepreneurs to embrace their unique strengths, build businesses aligned with their values, and create real impact in the world. I absolutely love this work, and I believe that by strengthening leadership through self-trust, we can create the change we want to see in both our businesses and the world.
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If you're ready to explore what’s next for you, I’d love to connect and support you in leading your business with confidence and impact!
Some ways I spend my time (in no particular order):
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Tackling puzzles of all kinds—I love the search and satisfaction in understanding how everything fits together (in puzzles and in life).
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Cross-stitch, my latest creative adventure.
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Acting as the unofficial chauffeur and social director for my kids’ wonderfully busy lives.
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Reading books, mostly non-fiction (but I’m always on the hunt for great fiction recommendations, too!).
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Settling in at cozy coffee shops with a chocolate chip muffin, my laptop, and some people-watching.
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Chasing the waterfalls of Ithaca on hikes with my dog.
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Navigating the joys and challenges of parenting daughters.
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Attempting (with varying levels of success) to declutter the house.
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Releasing my inner novice artist with adult coloring books.
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Listening to wind ensemble music, which takes me back to my flute-playing days. Someday, I dream of picking it up again, or maybe trying to learn the oboe...
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Helping out at the horse barn down the street.
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Pausing to notice the beauty of nature. I may occasionally go overboard in taking pictures of interesting, colorful leaves!
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Watching the deer family that visits our backyard. Sometimes, momma deer naps here, and I love imagining our yard as a little sanctuary for her.
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About Me
Top values that drive my work (and life):
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Curiosity
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Connection
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Kindness
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Authenticity
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Growth and Learning
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Resilience
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Impact