From Pain to Purpose: My Journey of Prevailing Against All Odds

How I transformed personal struggles into a thriving business built on authenticity, community, and second chances

The Bottom Line: My story proves that our deepest struggles can become our greatest sources of strength. Through radical self-transformation following my father's death, I built Stacked by Prevail—a business that turns obstacles into opportunities while championing sustainability, animal welfare, and community connection in Tampa Bay.

When Life Forces a Reset

Some mornings begin with coffee and quiet reflection. For me, as founder of Stacked by Prevail, they start with two demanding cats serving as furry alarm clocks, followed by feeding 15 feral cats in my neighborhood—a responsibility I gladly embrace. It's a fitting metaphor for someone whose life is built around giving second chances to those who need them most.

But my journey to this purposeful existence wasn't always so clear. Just a few years ago, I describe myself bluntly: "I was a really sad person. Seriously. I had all the wrong focus, the wrong people in my life, no ambition, no goals—just this constant loneliness and searching for fulfillment in all the wrong places and relationships."

The turning point came in April 2020 when my father passed away. While grieving, I found myself in Nashville, trapped in what I call "a terrible relationship." His death became the catalyst for radical change. "That gave me clarity," I reflect. "I made the decision to leave and start over back in my hometown of St. Louis, Missouri."

The Art of Starting Over

What followed was nothing short of a complete life overhaul. I invested in therapy, made healthier choices, established true independence, quit smoking, and most crucially—learned to love myself. "That was the game changer," I can say now.

This transformation birthed Stacked by Prevail, named for the concept that drives everything I do: to prevail means to overcome against all odds. "Life is a wild ride and too short to be filled with misery," I explain. "My life has so much more quality now than ever before, and I'm genuinely happy to share this version of myself with the world."

Building Community Through Authenticity

Today, I operate what I call "organized chaos with a clear purpose." As a licensed Florida real estate specialist with over 20 years of retail industry experience, my days are beautifully unpredictable. I'm constantly developing creative community initiatives like "The" Swap Soirée, a sustainable clothing swap I co-founded that has already diverted over 1,000 pieces from becoming fashion waste.

My latest venture, Common Grounds Coffee Club, created with my friend April from fayVen, provides a space where entrepreneurs gather to mastermind and strategize. When I'm not immersed in business, you'll find me volunteering for animal welfare causes, particularly promoting events like the annual Meow Mix & Mingle Ybor bar crawl benefiting local animal rescue Mercy Full Project.

The Power of Being Real

What sets me apart in the business world is my commitment to radical authenticity. "Authenticity isn't just one of the best marketing tools—it's the only way I know how to show up," I explain. "People can sense when someone is being genuine versus putting on a show."

This transparency extends to sharing my healing story, discussing business challenges, and expressing my passion for second chances—both for people and rescued animals. "When people see themselves reflected in your story—your struggles, your growth, your values—that's when real connection happens," I've learned.

The vulnerability creates a ripple effect. "When I show up as my real self, it gives others permission to be authentic too. That's how we build a community where everyone feels they belong. People don't just buy products; they invest in stories and values they believe in."

Turning Obstacles Into Opportunities

My transformation philosophy is deeply embedded in my business model. "Through navigating my own obstacles and challenges, I discovered that true strength comes not from avoiding difficulties, but from moving through them with purpose".

This mindset extends to my view on second chances: "We all deserve second chances, whether we're people rebuilding our lives or rescued animals finding new homes." It's why community and support became foundational to Stacked by Prevail, built on the principle that "together, we can turn our obstacles into opportunities and stack our lives with purpose."

The Courage to Keep Changing

Perhaps most importantly, I advocate for the courage to make difficult decisions when situations no longer serve growth or values. My biggest fear? "Not having the courage to advocate for myself and take action when my situation stops serving my growth, values, or potential."

I've reset my career multiple times when happiness and fulfillment were missing, with each "scary pivot" bringing me closer to my true purpose. "Life's too short to spend it in spaces that drain your energy instead of fueling your passion," I reflect. "The question isn't whether change is risky; it's whether you can afford not to change when your current path isn't leading where you want to go."

A Legacy in the Making

Today, I get to do what I'm passionate about: making a real, tangible difference in my community, supporting other small businesses, and championing sustainability. My work exemplifies what I call "meaningful work"—the kind that emerges when you align your deepest values with your daily actions.

From feeding feral cats at dawn to masterminding with fellow entrepreneurs over exceptional coffee, I've created a life where every conversation has the potential to spark the next big idea. My story serves as a reminder that our struggles don't define us—how we choose to transform them does.

"Recovery isn't just about personal growth", "It's about rising into a way of being that allows you to help others do the same." In a world that often feels divided, I and Stacked by Prevail offer something increasingly rare: proof that authentic community, built on shared values and mutual support, isn't just possible—it's profitable, purposeful, and deeply fulfilling.

This piece was inspired by my interview with VoyageTampa.com, where I shared my journey from struggle to success and the values that drive my work in the Tampa Bay community.