The BolderLife Festival Family is growing. Linda Garneau is the newest staff member.

BolderLife Festival: Linda, you are brand new in our  BolderLife-Family. How did you get involved in BolderLife Festival?

Linda: I turned to Erin Kelly for coaching back in the spring when I was starting up my own coaching practice. I saw that she was starting a practice and launching a website as well with a similar concept, and that our visions were very much aligned. I instantly connected with her and saw myself working with her and  BolderLife in some capacity. And here I am!

BolderLife Festival: Why do you believe in the vision and mission of the BolderLife Festival?

Linda:    BolderLife explores paradigm shifts and encourages all of us to be leaders in embracing a new mindset that optimizes the potential of each person for the good of the world. I believe that personal growth is a lifetime experience, and that being self-conscious and creative is more important than ever. We have come a long way from the past, yet continue to be exposed and victim to greed, exploitation, and political division as a nation. To change that, we have to challenge the status quo, be willing to go to the inner core to examine problems, and consciously choose to do things differently. The concept of diversity, authenticity, and vulnerability is still foreign to many. Embracing these ideologies is a process that will influence positive change over time. And I very much want to be a part of that. I realized I can’t do this alone, and that I could make a bigger difference by being a part of a larger-scale concept such as BolderLife. I love this quote by Margaret Mead: “A small group of thoughtful people could change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

BolderLife Festival: What is your job with the team at BolderLife? What will you be doing over the next few weeks?

Linda:  My specific role for 2014 will be determined after the festival. I am like a “Jill of all trades” and can see myself involved in various aspects of the program. Most of my background and experience is in organizational coaching, diversity, and engagement. Managers, executives, employees, and business owners can all benefit from the education offered by this program, and I would really love to see a corporate outreach program added for future festivals. For the next several weeks, I will be taking over the finalization and organization of all educator documents and information for the education and outreach programs. It’s a great way for me to connect with filmmakers and educators, and to learn more about BolderLife internal operations and marketing. I’m here to lend support and help out in any way I can.

BolderLife Festival: What are you doing when you are not working for the BolderLife Festival?

Linda:   I recently retired from 30 years with the federal government and IT contracting, and have been exploring new endeavors more aligned with my passions. I discovered that all my interests center around health and wellness…our thoughts and what we say, our environment, what we consume in our bodies, and physical fitness. For months, I felt completely torn by a multitude of interests. But then I realized that it’s okay to focus my career on two or three interests at any given time. The key is to look for that open door and market that can use your unique skillset.These days, we really can’t depend on one steady job to stay afloat. And when we do what you love, it doesn’t feel like work!

As for my hobbies, I love to cook. Over the past year, I dabbled in food journalism, which included writing reviews that help promote local restaurants and sharing favorite recipes through my blogs. I am in the process of writing a cookbook that includes resources and recipes for tasty, healthier versions of the foods we love (imagine a non-GMO organic Hostess cupcake!) My culinary dream is to go to Italy to take cooking classes, tour the olive groves, and go truffle hunting!

I am also a trained running coach, former competitive distance runner, and hip hop dancer (both street and sensual). Most people my age think hip hop is a punky thing for kids (and even I don’t like rap music!). It’s great exercise, challenges mind-body coordination, and helps bring out your inner self and confidence through art and expression. I’m working on bringing my training to a more advanced level so that I teach and start my own dance company for 50+. It’s been a great privilege to train and perform with the best of the BEST in our region!

BolderLife Festival: What do you expect from the festival films and plays?

Linda:   As one of the first round judges for the films, I was deeply moved and inspired by the real-life characters, creativity, and diversity of topics. I am expecting the film and theater selections to target on content that directly aligns with the BolderLife mission and concept. That is, films that stimulate conversation and promote awareness on personal challenges and controversial subject matters. I love both the human and animated mix of content that inspires, provokes thinking, and can make you laugh and cry at the same time!

BolderLife Festival: What would you say to the world: Why should people come to the festival?

Linda:   Personally, I don’t think there’s a better way to experience the festival than to be fully present. The all-inclusive atmosphere, films, plays, and workshops are certain to create a sense of community.  It’s an opportunity to have open discussions in a safe, facilitated environment, and hopefully inspire one another to become a part of the solution. To me, there’s no better way to make a difference. My hope is to see this type of programming expand on a larger scale. To sum it up, it’s a fun learning experience for all…so get your butt out here to Denver Dec 5-8th!

BolderLife Festival: What are you looking forward to the most?

Linda:   This is my first time attending the festival. I’m using it to savor the experience and to see how I can best contribute for future programs. I am really looking forward to hearing some of the amazing speakers I saw on the agenda and seeing the films and plays in action. I’m also excited about seeing the local “Point Your Damn Toes” dance performance. http://www.bolderlifefestival.com/2013-program/2013-dance-program/ And above all, finally meeting the staff in person!

Have fun!

Thank you, Linda.