What does it mean to live an awesome life?

In 2016 Lauren LeMunyan attempted to answer that question by way of a quick-and-dirty blog called “The ABCs of Awesome Living.” It was so rough that she even forgot the letter “Y”!

A few years later as she attempted to reorganize her online content, she tripped over a new idea.

“What if we really explore what it means to live awesomely?”

“What if it’s not just my perspective?”

“What if I ask my friends, family, new colleagues and complete strangers what it means to them?”

And thus The ABCs of Awesome Living was born! This collection of 26 essays, stories, adventures and lessons learned are directly from the 26 authors you see below. They are meant to inspire fresh perspectives, remind us of who we are and further connect us all to the universal principal that we all are here to live an awesome life!

Meet Our Awesome Authors!

Author Bios and Contact Deets

Lauren Ammon  | Unlimited Leader, LLC

(B is for Bravery)

Lauren Ammon is a certified professional leadership development coach dedicated to radically shifting workplace cultures by empowering the next generation of leaders through self-awareness and harnessing their energy to lift [others] as they climb. She works with young professionals and emerging leaders whose professional ambitions include leading others and who are in the process of figuring out the most effective way to bring their definition of leadership to life to positively influence themselves, their teams, and their overall workplace environment. She fosters an open and engaging relationship to fully explore what’s going well as well as what’s holding young leaders back from stepping into their full potential.

Stephanie Chen Banjo  |  Stephanie Chen Banjo LLC

(W is for Worth)

Stephanie is a certified Life Coach, trained by iPEC and The University of Cambridge. Her specialty is in helping emerging female leaders multiply their impact by ditching the status quo and creating their own path to success using their unique story and strengths. She is Chinese-American and has lived, worked, and studied in the U.S., Spain, Hong Kong, U.K., and now currently lives and runs a global coaching business from Jamaica with her husband and two young children.

Maria M. Bartos  |  Milkworthy.

(N is for Nourishment)

Maria Bartos, owner and head baker at Milkworthy, discovered her professional passion at the unexpected intersection of music and dessert. A self-taught small batch baker, her unique artisanal cookie creations are inspired by songs, artists and her personal experiences at live music events. With flavors ranging from classic to whimsical, each cookie seeks to evoke the spirit of the song or artist for which it was created. When not jamming out in the kitchen covered in flour or hosting Milkworthy pop-ups, you can find her drinking endless cups of coffee, quoting obscure lyrics and movie quotes, indulging in foodie fantasies with friends in and around DC or running outside (because treadmills are the worst). Maria lives in Northern Virginia with her two brutally honest cookie-critic children, Avery and Andrew, and bacon-addicted lap cat, Lola.

Dina Smith Brenci   |  Sweet Life Coaching

(L is for Love)

Watching people struggling through the dating scene and continually being frustrated with their results (or lack of results), Dating Coach, Dina Brenci has made it her mission to support individuals in making organic connections in partnerships that last. Combining years of animal behavior studies, with her unconditionally loving and non-judgmental persona, she has designed a unique approach to dating that feels completely new. She is an ICF certified coach that specializes in helping her clients date without dating apps. So, if you are sick of swiping on faces, and endless texting to never even meet up with someone, then Dina will be the right fit for you. She offers a variety of different packages and price points so that she can support as many people as possible to reach their dating goals. 

  Patricia C. Brooks   |  The Courage Catalyst, LLC

(Y is for Youthfulness)

Stuck in a corporate job, Patricia Brooks was living an uninspired life. After her dad died, she realized that we could all go at any moment. That’s when she developed the strength and conviction to face her fears and follow her dreams. Now Patricia helps professionals who recognize that there is more to life than the 9-to-5 grind pursue what is most meaningful to them and confidently leave behind regrets of what could have been. Patricia is a Certified Professional Coach, speaker, and host of the Discovering Courage. She is also the author of two books on courage, including her latest, Live a Bold Life: Your 30-Day Mission to a Fearless Future which recounts the boldest move of her life: leaving her corporate job and moving from the United States to the south of France, where she is currently living and pursuing her dreams.

Victoria Bruce   |  Victoria Bruce Media Strategies

(F is for Fearlessness)

Victoria is an experienced writer, director, media trainer & publisher who works with individuals and corporations for their writing and video coaching needs and to create compelling media campaigns. She is the author of four books on topics from volcanoes to international politics and a skilled communications director with expertise in technical and scientific topics, international relations, China policy, political campaigns and more.

Stacy Campesi   |  SLC Coaching

(R is for Respect)

Stacy has over 10 years of experience in executive and career coaching, leadership training, organization development, and career counseling. She is passionate about helping passionate, high energy leaders make the necessary shifts that allow them to empower their team to autonomously handle the day to day operations, so they can fully step into their role as a visionary. Stacy loves working with people who are tired of the same old leadership development. Using innovative and evidence-based strategies, such as Appreciative Inquiry and Strengths Based approaches, she helps her clients uncover their hidden strengths, mitigate their blind spots, and find their own unique formula for success. She has extensive experience leading strategy sessions/retreats/workshops for Sr. Executives and their teams. In addition, Stacy serves as an External Instructor for the George Washington University’s School of Business and an Assistant Trainer for iPEC Coaching.

Cassandra “Caz” Gaddis  |  More Than a Parent

(D is for Dynamic)

Cassandra “Caz” Gaddis aspires to empower moms to “be your more. Live your and.” She feels most alive when she’s helping others to break through what’s holding them back from showing up and living the life that wants to be lived through them. Caz is the host of the More Than A Parent video podcast; Certified Professional Coach; a keynote speaker, filmmaker’s wife, mom of two-under-two, and creative consultant with a M.Comm. 

Les Gaddis  |  Gaddis Visuals

(V is for Vision)

I'm a Director of Photography, Podcast Host, and Blogger passionate about educating future filmmakers. I'm a husband and father pursuing work/life balance every day.

Karen Hatcher | Town of Peterborough, NH

(X is for Xenial)

Karen volunteers her time and talents to causes that align with her commitment to building strong, healthy, vibrant communities. In 2018, she was elected to the Peterborough, NH Select Board, her first elected position. Karen is co-founder of the Peterborough Welcome Team and the Monadnock Nonprofit Network; currently serves on the boards of the NH School Funding Fairness Project and the 100+ Women Who Care- Monadnock. She also chairs the recently formed Peterborough Community Task Force on Housing. Previously, Karen was the leader of the statewide nonprofit, Celebrate NJ and was National Director of Students in Action for the Jefferson Awards Foundation. She is a Fellow of Leadership NJ and trained at the Center for Whole Communities. 

 Susan J Hilger | Susan J Coaching

(O is for Openness)

Founder of Susan J Coaching, Susan is an entrepreneur, innovator, executive coach, and writer … a free spirit in pursuit of joy, justice, and meaningful connection. Susan works primarily with accomplished women to raise their self-awareness, develop a clear understanding of their who in order to live an authentic life that aligns with their values. Susan also enjoys working with leadership teams to work on challenges within their organization, improve communication skills and enhance relationships. She is passionate about helping creatives and entrepreneurs learn to trust their gut, to use a creative approach to self-reflection and mastery, enhancing all aspects of their lives. As soon as you choose to live authentically, you feel more connected, less anxious and begin hearing your true voice.

Carla Howard | The Professional Woman's Mentor, LLC

(K is for Kindness)

Carla Howard is a keynote speaker with a passion to help women become more Influential and Promotable so they can Rise with Confidence and Grace! She has served as a trusted advisor and mentor for over two decades. Her background includes experience leading successful transformational change, coaching professionals to achieve their personal and business goals, and gracefully navigating office politics. She understands the challenges facing woman professionals in the workplace today, and helps her clients take charge of their careers. Carla’s experience includes successfully coaching entrepreneurs, front line employees, and members of the C-Suite. Typical topics discussed during mentoring sessions include how to lead and manage change, tactics to increase individual change agility, how to navigate emotionally charged conversations, and tips on playing the political game with integrity. She is a results-oriented leader who values kindness, accountability, celebrating mistakes, and remembering to have fun in the workplace.

KiKi L'Italien | Tecker International | Association Chat

(T is for Trust)

KiKi serves as senior consultant for Tecker International for association strategy consulting work and operates as CEO and Host for Association Chat, an online community and media platform for the association industry. Association Chat reaches over 32k industry professionals every month and podcast guests have included Seth Godin, Nir Eyal, Dorie Clark, and many others.  Her combined 20 years in membership and marketing with 10 years as the leader for the online community and podcast, Association Chat, has led KiKi to the creation of a purposeful model for communities and our role in them. She serves as a visiting lecturer for the capstone Masters Technology Management class at Georgetown University and was also a contributing author to the books, The Component Relations Handbook (2nd edition, ASAE, 2012) and Social Networking for Nonprofits: Increasing Engagement in a Mobile and Web 2.0 World (ASAE, 2010).

Lauren LeMunyan   |    Spitfire Coach

(Z is for Zeal)

Lauren is a PCC ICF-accredited coach with more than 2000 hours working with over 300 clients from Fortune 100, technology, non-profits, design, startups, real estate, oil and gas, and entertainment. Prior to becoming a coach, Lauren served as Executive Director of three trade associations and has over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience, which inspired her to work with overloaded professionals and executives and write her book, “Spitting Fire: Your Guide to Reignite Your Passion at Home, Work and Beyond”.  Lauren believes that learning is a continuous process that works best with individual curiosity and collective application.  When she’s not coaching, you can find Lauren rapping online and throughout the DC Metro area as JRSY FRSH. Lauren has been featured on CNN, Aljazeera English, Reuters, Yahoo News, The Washington Post, Washingtonian Magazine and DC Luxury Magazine. 

Rebekka Mars | Rebekka Mars Yoga & Coaching

(M is for Mindfulness)

Rebekka Mars brings a contemporary twist to the ancient practices of Yoga and meditation. Her eclectic approach pulls from a dance of many styles of Yoga; and her meditation style reminds us all that we were born built to meditate, letting these practices easily flow into modern living. Blending years of guiding transformation through personal training and teaching classes, she realized there was more she wanted to dive into with clients and, in response, her coaching practice was created.  She guides individuals to reignite their inner light which in turn, she believes, will brighten the light of the world. Rebekka currently lives in Sarasota, Florida, and works with clients in person and online, blending Yoga, meditation and mindset, fitness and overall wellness.  She believes that when the mind, body, soul “work”, life works.

Anne M. Nevel CAE

(P is for Presence)

Anne M. Nevel is currently the Vice President, Industry Education for the Healthcare Distribution Alliance (HDA). Prior to joining HDA, she was responsible for the oversight of the education and certification programs for the American Gastroenterological Association, Helicopter Association International, and multiple associations for SmithBucklin, an association management company. Anne graduated from Florida State University with a degree in Criminology and managed habilitative programs for the Florida Department of Corrections and the Ounce of Prevention Fund of Florida before moving to the Washington DC Metro area. She is passionate about learning and connecting people for the purpose of sharing and growth, which drives her personal pursuits.

Melissa Sanabria | Sanabria & Co Interior Design Studio

(S is for Space)

Melissa has over 15 years of experience in banking managing complex, large-scale projects at institutions such as American Express, the Federal Reserve, and PricewaterhouseCoopers. In 2017, Melissa founded Sanabria & Co. interior design studio, where she brings her professional and methodical approach to problem solving and her eye for detail to her design work. Known for spaces that feel modern and practical yet rooted in history, Melissa is driven by the belief that the house is her client too. As principal at Sanabria & Co., Melissa leads a team of smart and talented women who share her passion for design, love of systems, and dedication to client service. Together they create spaces that are unique and inviting, and, most importantly, where their clients feel right at home.

Apryl Zarate Schlueter   |  The Cheerful Mind, Inc.

(A is for Accountability)

Apryl Zarate Schlueter is the Chief Energy! Officer of The Cheerful Mind, Inc. – a personal empowerment and lifestyle brand committed to cultivating REAL confidence and success through productivity, passion, and play. Services and products offered to educate and entertain people on their path to a productive, positive, and fun life. Apryl’s superpower is creating customized solutions to help people and organizations FOCUS on WHAT TRULY MATTERS. She is the founder of The Accountability Success Circle, a community supporting adults in having more fun as they accomplish personal and professional goals, and Cheerful Mind Media, a positive energy media space. Apryl is also a motivational speaker, professional emcee, holds certifications as a professional coach and body language trainer, and is the Author of Finding Success in Balance: My Journey to The Cheerful Mind. She is featured in many media outlets including Forbes, Business Insider, Real Simple Magazine, Today.com, and Health Magazine.

Ebony Smith  |  Ebenum Equation

(Q is for Quality)

Ebony Smith, “The Resilience Architect”, is CEO of Ebony Smith & Associates, Inc. After 13 years on the oil trading floor, Ebony brings a straightforward, no BS approach to leadership development. Ebony is direct without being abrasive. Ebony knows that left-brain leaders need an equation to create a leadership style that uncovers and highlights their unique acumen. Leaders research ideas, thoughts, and processes to acquire knowledge on the topics, but rarely integrate the information. Ebony developed a proprietary YOUx model which combines a set of core principles, methods and tools help her clients design better interactions with the people who matter most. Ebony’s goal is to get her clients over their people issues, so that they can focus on products, processes, and profits.

Rebecca Tiffany   |   ALX ASSOCIATES

(J is for Joy)

Rebecca has been recognized for professional accomplishments including helping create and lead the National Breast Center, an Alexandria organization that helped the lives of thousands of at-risk women. During her 4 years leading marketing for the DC region for Sentara Healthcare, her WHY Sentara initiative to help connect the community with care providers and bring a human touch to healthcare was featured in the Washington Post, on iHeartRadio & NBC, and subsequently achieved viral traction throughout the NoVa community, driving hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue and increasing local social media following and engagement over 1000%. Her online social community entitled Medications of a Happy Parent – focused on helping inspire parents – garnered over 40,000 followers within a few months of launching. Her writings on business, leadership and life is followed and shared on numerous online platforms. Rebecca excels at outcomes because she approaches audience targeting from a mindset of empathy and a commitment to effective research and data, and most importantly, results.

 Justin Trawick | Singer-Songwriter

(E is for Experience)

Justin Trawick has been performing in the Washington DC area and along the East Coast since 2006, citing musical influences like Bob Schneider, Greensky Bluegrass, The Tallest Man on Earth, G. Love, Old Crow Medicine Show, and David Gray.  In February of 2014, Trawick won “Song of the Year” at the Washington Area Music Awards for his solo recording of “All the Places That I’ve Been.” Trawick and the band have performed for the Kingman Island Bluegrass Festival, Appaloosa Roots Music Festival, Floyd Yoga Jam, TedxEast in NYC at the City Winery, TedxPennsylvaniaAvenue in DC at the Newseum, and has opened for over 30 national acts including Suzanne Vega, Wyclef Jean, Brett Dennen, Blues Traveler, Enter The Haggis, Bob Schneider, and Edwin McCain, and shared bills with Dr. Dogg and The Avett Brothers.  Founder of the nationally touring show “The 9 Songwriter Series” and co-founder of “The Circus Life Podcast” with guests such as Kevin Eubanks, Chris Thomas King, Ernie Halter, Yarn, and Snuffy Walden, Trawick has built a brand that extends far beyond his home base in DC. 

Sara Uzer

(H is for Healing)

Sara Uzer writes about personal growth with a touch of humor. Her work has been featured in HuffPost, Thrive Global, Thought Catalog, and Elite Daily.

 Lauri Wakefield  |  Be Your True Style

(U is for Uniqueness)

I'm a multi-passionate, life-long learner who enjoys reading about and studying personal growth. As an aspiring author and course creator, my goal is to help women discover their own unique style, confidently embrace it and fearlessly express it. I want to help women shine from the inside out. I believe it's about self-awareness and being comfortable in your own skin. It's about knowing who you are and what you think and (most importantly) accepting yourself for who you are.

 Gary Ware  |  Breakthrough Play

(C is for Curiosity)

Gary is a corporate facilitator, keynote speaker, coach, and self-proclaimed Creative Catalyst. Gary has over 14 years of experience in the corporate word holding various leadership positions. Being a multifaceted individual Gary also comes with nearly a decade of experience as a performer in improv theatre. After experiencing burnout in his pursuit for success and happiness, he realized that what was missing was play. Committing to a life of play is what led Gary to discover his passion for facilitating. Gary uses the power of applied improvisation and other playful methods to assist people in unlocking creativity, confidence, and better communication. When Gary isn't leading workshops or speaking, you can find him learning magic or off an adventure with his wife Courtney and son Garrett.

Rebekah Weintraub   |  Release Resentments LLC

(I is for Intuition)

Rebekah is a creative force intuitively and artistically, yet also spent over a decade in business managing executives. Years ago, she intently studied spirituality and underwent a powerful transformation that inspired her to help others. Rebekah focused on her mental, emotional, physical and spiritual blockages and processed 600 of her own resentments. Once cleared, she stepped into a new clarity and gained heightened intuition. For the first time she began living as the best version of herself. She then immediately created a process that could help transform others as well.  Rebekah became a Certified Professional Coach and started her coaching practice. The process she created works consistently and allows her to witness life-changing transformations frequently. She now teaches her process to other coaches.  Rebekah is so grateful she can truly live her purpose as she helps her clients expedite their personal, and intuitive, growth.

 Ashlie Woods  |  Wildhearted

(G is for Gratitude)

I believe you are infinitely powerful and inherently creative. My work is about you knowing that truth in the most undeniable of ways so that you can embody it in every area of your life. My journey to freedom began over a decade ago when I attended a weekend workshop and discovered that I wasn't broken. That life-changing moment propelled me along an endless path of self-love and authentic living. In the decade since, I've come to know the wholeness of who I am, to trust my intuition for guidance and to believe that I am worthy of what I most desire. I believe there is nothing sweeter or more liberating than loving ourselves exactly the way that we are.