Celebrating Seven Years: A Journey of Resilience and Growth

When I first embarked on a change from corporate communications and marketing to product marketing, I didn’t realize I would find a path of learning, pride, and resilience. In fact, I didn’t even see it coming! Thanks to an old friend in the industry, he saw my resume was a fit to join the marketing team at McGraw Hill. The education industry. I’ve always loved education, but didn’t realize the impact I could have until I really dove in—head-first. In the industry of ed tech, we always say it takes about three years to really get your footing. Well, at year two, I decided to take on a bigger portfolio… and at year four-and-a-half, I decided to move from a specific product to our award-winning, industry-leading platform.

Navigating Change

This month marks seven years in this industry and I believe I can say I’ve almost mastered the art of adaptation. Four job titles, seven managers, three corporate layoffs. With time, comes change, and with change we can choose to be stagnant and content—or we can choose to look at how far we’ve come on our journey. We hear about the “seven-year itch”. Some look for greener pastures at seven years. I think it’s a time to reflect and forecast. At the seven-year mark, we can lose our footing or embrace the path ahead.

Innovation and Growth

With the fast nature of our world, I’ve seen technology evolve during the past seven years—and I have witnessed teamwork to improve processes and ultimately see our company rise with the launch of new tools and updated user experiences. Our platform team has a bright future, and I’m thrilled and #redcubeproud to be on the cutting edge of the implementation to improve outcomes for future generations!

 In these seven years, I’ve also had a personal journey. McGraw Hill has been the constant during a time of growth—becoming a wife in 2019, a mom in 2021, and welcoming baby #2 in 2022. Becoming a full-time working mother is a journey in itself! (Especially when they don’t sleep.) Being part of a growth culture that is supportive of my new-ish role as a working parent is by far one of the most important benefits I have. A culture of pride, flexibility, and celebration of one another is a value you can’t find just anywhere.

 In reflection and celebration of seven years—both personally and professionally—I’m grateful for culture, change, and the future.

The Importance of Culture

When we choose to work for a specific company, it is more than just the job—or even the career trajectory. Yes, of course that is important, but I’ve realized throughout the past few companies where I’ve worked, it can become who you are. After all, we spend more time at work than we do at home! The people, the place, the environment… the feeling! It’s so important.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work in many environments—a massive publishing company, Time Inc., a privately-owned male-dominated company, growing financial company, small employee-owned engineering firm, and for myself freelance writing and editing. Finally, in my current role at a large worldwide education company, I feel at home. But, why?

It really became evident when moving from a bustling office environment, jumping on planes to visit customers and meet with sales reps, driving with the team for corporate meetings… and. then. HALT. Pandemic of 2020 hits and everyone works from home. The teams came together like you wouldn’t believe, making a difference throughout the country so students could still finish their courses! We banned together and made it happen, offering access codes, implementation trainings, and sharing knowledge. It was awesome. Our culture of “learning changes everything” and customer-first mentalities really shined through.

But, personally, something was now missing. When I moved home to Iowa I honestly didn’t love it here, but when I began at McGraw Hill, a fire inside me knew I was where I was supposed to be. The office in Dubuque, Iowa is special. The people, the environment, the smiles and compliments on a daily basis! The cubicle chats, “how was your weekend” conversations, homemade goodies on the counter after a child’s birthday party, team Taco Tuesday potlucks. I was now missing a huge part of who I had become. My work family was now scattered and meeting over computer cameras (with hair in a bun after not washing it for days). There’s something about everyone working toward the same goal in the same environment that is exciting, motivating and electric.

We don’t know what the world holds for going back and we must face this new remote environment. Many crave the freedom of remote, but in a way, it is confining—all your responsibilities are within the walls of home. You can’t get away! One day at a time, one project at a time, I’m learning to prioritize. And, try to make coffee dates and happy hours happen. Thankfully with a strong leadership team, our culture remains. I’m confident we will get back to those daily conversations, getting in more steps (just by walking to the bathroom!), and feeling the inspiration from colleagues in the office next door.

Whether we realize it or not, when we join a company, we join a family.

How Motherhood Enhanced my Career

My career has always made me proud—from an article being picked up by CNN and a campaign that humanized trucks (“Some Heroes Wear Capes. Others Wear Hard Hats.”) to growing a product list, launching a virtual product amidst a pandemic to help thousands of students and instructors, and earning Marketing Manager of the Year. That all seems somewhat minuscule now…

This year, I became a mother. I had no idea how it would change me. This little boy, our pride and joy, has been the biggest catalyst for change in my life. Honestly, I never thought I would be a mom because I was so late to the game! I met and married my perfect mate, turning 40 three years later. Now, here we are. Every day is a new challenge, but also a triumph.

I used to burn the midnight oil working on emails, projects and reports. Now, I have to sleep (I envy those parents whose babies sleep through the night at six months!). Before motherhood, I would take advantage of any and every trip—work or personal. Now, I can’t wait to just stay home. And, then there are also the days of a fever or ear infection that pop up and I can’t work because I have to stay home and care for my child.

Amidst all this change, becoming a mother has taught me more about my career than I could have ever imagined. The same skills in motherhood can be applied in my day-to-day work. Here are some things I’ve learned and consistently strive to put into practice personally and professionally.

• Stay Organized and Focused. This little boy has given us a run for our money when it comes to sleep and ear infections, so time is limited when you’re not sleeping, doing daycare drop-offs/pickups, and fitting in doctor appointments. We all have 24 hours in the day, but it’s what we do with those hours that make a difference. I may now not spend as many hours behind the computer screen as I used to, but I’ve learned to focus on the task at hand, manage my to-do list and focus on the most important priorities.

• Master the Balance. And a routine! Babies love a routine. Apparently so do mamas. I’ve discovered I am better able to balance the work/family priorities when things are departmentalized. Early morning, I spend cuddling and playing for a short while before daycare. Then, it’s coffee and work time! (Workouts will hopefully exist in this routine one day again.) Early evening is dinner and then what I call the three B’s—bath, book and bed. If baby gets out of this routine, bedtime is rough. Oh, and let’s not forget about the multitasking—that’s truly an act of balance!
  This time has also helped me understand the balance of work and family. A huge milestone, one-year-old birthday, will take place simultaneously as a work event. Although I felt guilty, I am proud of the decision I made to choose this milestone, only-happens-once event, over a work opportunity. (Thankfully I have a wonderful work culture to support family first!)

• Be Committed. We do what we have to do as mothers. Is there really any other choice? If there is, I would never make it because on that day when little Vincent was brought into this world, I was fully committed. Committed to feeding, holding, raising and loving on this little human.
  Work, although to a lesser extent, is a commitment. It’s a choice to do the best I possibly can every day. Deliver on promises, show up to meetings on time, choose to say ‘yes’ (or ‘no’ when necessary), meet with reps, customers and colleagues. Always take one more step and repeatedly give it my all.

• Be Creative. I’ve always loved arts and crafts. Having a little one means there are lots of outlets to make things! Thinking of sensory play, listening to more music, and games to create. I’m also learning to get creative with healthier foods and planning the days. It has also opened up so many more emotions that lead to me writing more in this career blog and thinking outside the box for future campaigns.

• Be Intentional and Enjoy. Every minute counts. It’s crazy to enjoy even the most “not fun” things that come with being a parent: bottle washing, laundry folding, cleaning up after eating (my least favorite), and messy diaper changes. Every wonderful thing has drawbacks—we can’t enjoy every little part of our job or every single challenge that comes with family—but in the big picture it’s your attitude that makes the difference. It’s a choice. And each day I choose joy in my parenting—and I choose joy in my work.

Breaking Barriers

From a young age, I always wanted to do things differently. When all my friends liked pink, I picked purple. While everyone ordered cheeseburgers, I asked for an ice cream sundae. When most of my school was staying in Iowa for college, I went to Missouri. While the majority of classmates moved home after college, I moved further—to Alabama.

When the majority of girls in middle school were playing volleyball or basketball, I wanted to swim.

So, swim I did. Although I was the only one at my school who pursued the sport, I loved it and made many friends. My poor parents did a lot of driving to and from practice—for which I’m so grateful. Because not only does an individual sport like swimming teach dedication and resilience (it’s not easy!), it also taught me a few years later the importance of leadership and decision-making skills.

The school district I was in did not offer reciprocity, so I had to go where we lived. But, there was no swim team! I was given an option to hire a private coach, or maybe my parents should look into moving. The first one didn’t sound fun and the second was not an option. I asked my parents why I couldn’t just go in and swim if they took me (again, bless their hearts for all the driving!). It didn’t sound completely crazy, so we asked around. My parents made it my responsibility that if I wanted to do this, then I needed to present to the school boards to ask if this would be possible. Nobody had ever done this before! And, I really didn’t know anyone. But, they said yes.

That was 26 years ago. Today, swimmers from Western Dubuque High School swim for the Dubuque County School District. It was a barrier that needed to be broken to allow all students the opportunity to pursue their dreams. Swimming in high school led me to become more independent and confident. Without swimming, I don’t think I would have gone six hours away for college—by myself. And, I don’t think I would have had the desire I do now in my career to always bring about change for the better, making a difference, if I wouldn’t have been brave enough to break down that barrier.

The One Thing that Can't be Taken

Many things in life go away—whether we want them to or not. Relationships change, pets pass away, material things lose their luster. Jobs get lost, homes get sold, and children move away. But there is one thing nobody can take away. This one thing you will never lose once you’ve earned it. Your education. My grandma, my hero who never ever complained and never had the luxury to get an education always said: “Education is the only thing that can’t be taken from you.”

This priceless knowledge after years of studying and effort results in a piece of paper we put in a shiny black frame and adorn on an office wall. But, behind that glass are years of a journey that led us to experiences and memories. Experiences that have shaped us and can never be removed. Education becomes a part of us.

Whether it’s a science class that made you decide to become a nurse—and help bring lives into the world or saving older lives, or a math class that created a dream job to help high schoolers pass trigonometry. Or, in my case—a writing class and internship that sparked a passion to make a difference through words. My education journey began at a smaller school, but when my dreams were bigger, took a transfer to the University of Missouri. I thought broadcast was my calling, but soon discovered I’d rather write and share stories. My first job out of school was writing for magazines, but we all know the world went digital too soon for that career to really take off. Plus, I knew whatever I did next, I wanted to make a bigger impact.

Marketing bucket trucks might not sound so glamorous, but realizing those bucket trucks saved lives and turned on the power, I made that job meaningful. Now, full circle… I feel like the difference I was supposed to make was the true thing I’ve always loved: Education. Whether it be high school, college or post-collegiate courses, learning is everything.

I feel so fortunate to now work for, in my opinion, the best education company. I get to talk about digital tools to help student success, the importance of a higher education degree, the amazing experiences that come with putting everything you have into those courses. I will continue to spread the message of the importance of education—no matter what happens in our world. It is truly the one thing nobody can take from you.

Why I Race

Running has always been something I’ve just done. Part of my identity, I guess. It’s part of me.

So, when I was asked, “why do you run races? I mean, I understand running and exercise, but I just don’t get the whole race thing. I don’t get why you’d want to go hurt your body like that.”

My first reaction was to agree. Of course, that’s so true. Why do I run? I’ve had a labral tear in my hip (including surgery), numerous steroid injections, seen orthopedic doctors about everything from my hips down to my metatarsals (the little bitty bones at the bottom of your feet). X-Rays, MRIs, physical therapy. Even, working one-on-one with coaches to perfect my running technique. Not to mention the countless dollars spent on running shoes, specialized orthotics, pain meds, the gear. …And all for what?

To put on my running shoes is freedom. It’s a Band-Aid, an escape. It’s silly now, but in 2002 I thought I was dating the love of my life. Of course, at 19 years old, there couldn’t be anyone else in my future, right?! Well, when I found him with another girl in college, my heart shattered. I had been having the time of my life in college and everything in my world just came to a halt. Life was out of my control. Nothing I could do would make him my boyfriend again. So, I ran. And, I ran some more and it felt good. I ran before the sun came up and it helped me face each day. I ran and felt the sweat and strength in my legs. Sure, it hurt a little, but it felt better than the pain I was feeling in the rest of my body. I kept running. And, I’d add on a little more each day. Between the most difficult journalism school in the country and paying my way through out-state-school with a minimum of 25 hours selling jewelry, I ran. And, I felt fulfilled. I set a goal and ran some more. It made me better at my job and better in school.

A swimmer by nature, I did my first triathlon and won my age group. I signed up for a 10K and placed 2nd overall. Ran my first 26.2 and qualified for Boston… and did it again, and again. Battled through a 50K trail race through the foothills of the Appalachians and earned 5th place female overall. Two weeks later, earned 3rd overall in a brutal hill climb 10K trail race. It was about the accomplishment inside my soul. My dad always told me not to do anything “half-assed,” so why would I just run and not at least be better than average?

I can work hard at my job and my career, put 110% into all my friendships and relationships, and lead a healthy, good life. But there are no guarantees, and no control of what will happen. Friends will let me down, lovers will go, and material things and vacations can’t make you happy for long. But, hard work, fulfillment, and the feeling of alive…that can’t be taken away. I control that. And, thank our faithful God for the gift of allowing me to wake up early, lace up my running shoes, force a few peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and bananas into my system, and join a bunch of crazy people on a chilly Saturday morning to run more than 10 miles…and cross a finish line. Because the adrenaline of finishing something you love just feels good.

So to answer the question of why I race? Honestly, there isn’t one straight answer, other than flat out: I love it. It feels good, and it makes me better. With each long run, I am stronger, and more confident.

La Verace Via

Searching for "the true path". For some, it's obvious where the path will take them: graduate high school, college, marriage, children. That's what we as humans are supposed to do, right? Where I grew up, this was—and still is—the norm. I told my parents at age 10, I was leaving Iowa as soon as I was able because that would not be me. 

So when I graduated high school, that's what I did. I remember road trips as a kid, spending hours looking at the atlas and dreaming of all the places I wanted to see. From the Seattle market to Portland, Maine, down to the music and dirt paths in Austin, Texas, and the salty beaches of Florida. And, from the Southern Cali surf to Sacramento, and across the country to the Eastern shores of the Carolinas. After college, I entered a career of travel and writing, and then turned to marketing and event management, traveling a minimum of 15 days a month. 

By default, I learned how to get around, book plane tickets, hail a cab, check into hotels (and take advantage of all the travel perks of points and elite benefits), who to talk to—and who not to. Where to eat and drink—and what not to eat and drink. How to crank up the laptop and write press releases and reports during a 2-hour layover or 4-hour flight, and how to sleep in a hotel with crying babies next door. Leaving home at 17 is the best advice I can give anyone. It forces you to learn, get outside your comfort zone, meet new people and become a well-rounded worldly person.

There’s always a downside to everything, I suppose. I wasn't able to become involved in my community or volunteer on a regular basis. Missed out on the occasional party or get together. And, didn't allow myself to become vulnerable to another relationship. I've really searched for my Verace Via for 15 years. I've searched my soul, read books, talked to God, ran many miles deep in thought, and had in-depth conversations with friends and my amazing mom. 

What I've come to realize is that my True Path is right in front of me... I just have to embrace it. There's nothing to search, I just have to take one day at a time and trust the good Lord I am already on my Verace Via. 

Now, in 2016, 16 years after leaving home and 23 years after telling my parents I would never live in Iowa...here I am. My marketing job in the South was no longer fulfilling and I wasn't growing, I was in a relationship that I thought was not good for me, and the amazing sister I never had (my sister-in-law) and brother were about to have twins. Family is important and where I was just wasn't making sense anymore. 

Needless to say, I haven't done everything right. I tried the whole get married thing and failed. I'm 32 years old and don't have children. But, God has put me where I am for a reason. And, though I don't fit the norm, I never really have. I'm good with where I am—and that's because I've chosen my Verace Via. And, when I've least expected it, God has given me gifts. All I had to do was look up and see them along my path.

"Life is about the journey, not the destination."—Ralph Waldo Emerson