I started The Five Journeys blog in 2017 as I realized that my energy, health and spirit were in serious need of an overhaul. The negative mood of the country was affecting me, and not in a good way. I desperately needed to make some changes, so I began to carve out time for fun things, like writing. As I sat down to build the framework for this blog, I kept returning to the elements that contribute to my efforts to build a fulfilling life: a healthy lifestyle, financial independence, community, happiness, and inner peace. Voila! The Five Journeys was born. I hope you’ll join me on this journey of discovery.
I am the middle of five children born into a Midwestern farm family. I grew up milking cows, baling hay, enjoying Friday fish fries, and cheering for the Packers. Yet even as a child, I knew there had to be more to life than what I saw in my small town. I left the farm for the university – an adventure that would open my eyes to an amazing and diverse world.
I traded the Wisconsin countryside for graduate school at Syracuse University, where I eventually earned my doctorate degree in Sociology. I was positive that the PhD behind my name, combined with my extreme work ethic, would open many doors for me. Reality was another matter. I experienced many years of hardship before finally landing on my feet.
In April 2018, after spending more than 16 years building a career on justice reform and aging issues, I was fired! And I was more than ready for it. I traded in a toxic work environment for a new future, working on The Five Journeys and creating the Early Exit Academy. My current passion: helping the everyday person strive for and reach financial freedom and newfound happiness.
I remain close with my family and enjoy occasional visits to the farm. Simple things, like hiking on forest trails and admiring the sun rising over the Atlantic, are a source of contentment and inspiration. In my spare time, I am an amateur naturalist, aspiring artist, world traveler, and knowledge seeker. I call Williamsburg, Virginia home. Life is good!
Thank you for joining me on this journey!
Brenda
P.S. You can find a more formal bio here.
