PERSONAL

Family Life

I am a native of Wayzata, Minnesota. I met my husband, Ken, while attending college at the University of Arizona. In 2017, after over a decade languishing in the desert heat, I convinced him to move our family back to the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

Ken and I have been married since 2011, and we have two young boys together. We like to spend our free time outdoors—especially on the water. Or, in the winter months, enjoying the snow.

Sailing

I’ve been sailing competitively since I was about 9 years old, and I served as an instructor on Lake Minnetonka for several years. I now crew on a J-25 and race in the evenings after work, and on weekends.

Words to Live By

In a commencement address to the University of Texas at Austin in 2014, US Navy Admiral William H. McRaven told the graduating class, “If you wanna [sic] change the world, start off by making your bed.”

I am a firm believer in putting in extra effort today as a “favor” to our future selves. The momentum gained by completing small tasks propels us toward bigger challenges, and in doing so, gives us the confidence needed to tackle them. By making your bed every morning, you accomplish the first small task of the day. With any luck, the remaining hours will also also be filled with accomplishments—but if not, at least you’ll come home to a made bed.

Thrill Seeking

My husband is a SCCA certified racing instructor. A few years back, he spearheaded the construction of a road course in Southern Arizona. With his help, I once held their record for the fastest female lap time on a motorcycle—largely because I was the first female to try. We are both avid motorsports enthusiasts, whether it be on land, by sea, or in the snow.

The Wheel

I tried out for the Wheel of Fortune in 2015 while 7 months pregnant with my second son. I was awarded a spot on the show, but I asked that my appearance be postponed so that I could give birth and focus on the new baby for a bit.

I was inspired to audition so that my dad—who had recently been diagnosed with dementia—could get a kick out of seeing me on his TV. The taping was a fun, high-energy experience; if you’ve ever been interested in spinning the wheel yourself, I highly suggest you apply!