Inspired by the groundbreaking work of thinkers like Mia Birdsong, who champions the power of human connection and the inherent strengths within communities; Shasta Nelson, whose research illuminates the essential ingredients for deep and meaningful friendships and belonging in adulthood; and Diane Musho Hamilton, who expertly navigates the complexities of human interaction and conflict through a lens of awareness and compassion.

I translate these insights into practical community designs that prioritize vulnerability as a strength, encourage generosity in sharing and support, and establish consistent rhythms of interaction that nurture the deep roots of true belonging.

By understanding the science of how relationships thrive, we can intentionally create the conditions for individuals to feel seen, valued, and deeply connected within your community.

Guided by the profound wisdom of pioneers in trauma research and healing, including Bessel van der Kolk, who illuminates the impact of trauma on the body and mind; Peter Levine, whose Somatic Experiencing approach emphasizes the body's innate capacity to heal; Deb Dana, whose Polyvagal Theory offers a powerful framework for understanding the autonomic nervous system and its role in safety and connection; and Resmaa Menakem, who brings a vital lens to racialized trauma and the importance of somatic awareness in healing.

My practice is deeply rooted in creating environments where safety is paramount, members are supported in regulating their nervous systems, and consent is honored at every level.

I design communities that foster resilience, promote well-being, and allow for authentic connection to unfold at a pace that feels safe for everyone.

Secure relationships are foundational. I draw from attachment theory (Bowlby & Ainsworth), highlighting our lifelong need for connection and the generational seeds of relational patterns we carry within our bodies.

I also deeply value authentic relating (Tara Brach & Jason Gaddis) for genuine communication, recognizing our remarkable capacity to transform patterns ingrained over decades and cultivate healthier, more connected ways of being.

Drawing inspiration from Priya Parker's transformative insights on the art of gathering – how to create meaningful and purposeful collective experiences – and Peter Block's foundational principles of community building, which emphasize asset-based approaches and the power of local wisdom.

We would weave together intentional connection, a clearly articulated shared purpose, and restorative approaches to conflict resolution.

Furthermore, by being informed by Internal Family Systems (IFS), created by Dr. Richard Schwartz — a powerful model for understanding the diverse "parts" within each individual, fostering greater self-empathy and regulation.

This understanding extends to the community, enabling members to navigate differences with more compassion, resolve conflicts constructively, and build stronger, more resilient relationships rooted in empathy and integration.

Inspired by James Clear's actionable principles of habit formation, making meaningful engagement an accessible and natural part of everyday life within the community.

I also draw from the insights of relational neuroscience, including the work of Dr. Stephen Porges on the Polyvagal Theory and Dr. Dan Siegel on interpersonal neurobiology, understanding how our brains and nervous systems are wired for connection and learning in relationship. By integrating these understandings with cognitive science, I craft multi-modal and inclusive experiences that cater to diverse learning styles, promote lasting growth, and ensure that key insights not only land but also stick, becoming embodied knowledge within the community.

We’d design together micro-practices and consistent rhythms that foster a sense of predictability and safety, essential for deeper engagement and learning.