My name is Amanda. As a dynamic speaker, I encourage teams and individuals. Through story-telling, I share successes and cringe-worthy moments and offer space for listeners to do the same.

I am married to an awesome guy named Bon and mother to a precocious and hilarious 8-year-old son named Carter. Carter's dad, Steve, died in 2017. I never anticipated being 39-year old widow. In grief, I found that even on the hardest journeys, joy still exists. By telling my own stories, encouraging my son to tell "happy daddy stories," and remembering God's promise of light that no darkness can overcome, I moved through grief with grace. I am still moving. It is my honor to come alongside others as they recognize joy in their own messy journeys.

Places I have lived: Phoenix, North Dakota, Minneapolis, Cashton, WI

Degrees: Bachelor's in Communication, University of North Dakota
Masters in Leadership in Higher Education: Student Affairs, University of St. Thomas
Masters of Divinity, Luther Seminary

Career Adventures: Waitress, Public Relations and Communications director, Residence Hall Director, Student Activities Advisor, Restaurant owner (glorified waitress), Afer School Program director in an elementary school, golf cart bartender, and pastor

Other things that bring me joy: dinner parties, group text threads, Instagram, striking up conversations with complete strangers, strong coffee, hoppy local beers, movies, and anything that involves my family and/or friends.