01/22/2026
2016 was a paradox of emotions—loss and awakening, endings and beginnings. It remains the single greatest catalyst year of my life.
In late 2015, I experienced a devastating loss when my uncle passed on December 20th. At the time, I was deep into what would be my final contest prep after decades of training—but this one was different. The goal had shifted. I cried through most of my workouts, yet I still stepped on stage and smiled—an authentic smile—because in that moment, none of the noise mattered. Only the experience. Only the journey of finding myself through the pain.
I quickly realized I couldn’t sustain what it took to compete while also giving 110% to a new calling that emerged from my uncle’s passing. During our last FaceTime, while he was in the hospital, I promised him I would live a more heart-centered life, the way he had always modeled—without having any idea what that truly meant.
Three weeks after he passed, I was giving mediumship readings to anyone who gave me permission. I jumped headfirst into group mediumship work. I didn’t just come out of the spiritual closet—I blew the doors off it.
I rode my motorcycle to stay present. I continued training to stay grounded in my body, because my head was often in the clouds. The grief was overwhelming, and the only things that brought me even a sliver of peace were being of service through mediumship and spending time with my daughter.
Before 2016, everything in my life was about pushing through pain—overcoming circumstances I believed were beyond my control. Since around 2010, I had been studying how mindset shifts can transform an entire life, using bodybuilding as a laboratory to work through anxiety, to feel everything, and to learn how to be seen.
But 2016 changed the rules. It became a year of alignment—of intention and purpose. No more pushing. Instead, I followed the pull in my heart. I trusted myself enough to do things that scared me even more. I let go of the wheel and surrendered to a path I couldn’t yet see. If you’ve been here along that journey and chose to stay, thank you.
I couldn’t possibly condense everything that’s unfolded over the last decade into a short reflection. What I do know is this: I now live with more love, peace, and faith than ever before. My daughter remains the brightest part of my life—her love, her strength, the way she carries herself. I’m endlessly proud of her. She’s going to do more than I ever did—I know it.
Now, in 2026, I see clearly that all the inner work was preparation. It’s time to thrive with others, in community—and I’m fully here for it. I continue to allow people, places, and patterns that no longer align to fall away, while staying attentive to the pull that draws in what does.
I’m excited for the beginnings this year brings and the changes ahead. I love feeling deeply. I love being connected. And I love helping others heal, remember who they are, and find themselves—again and again.
