Who let the dogs out?

Surprise! It's a bonus Thursday – the 5th of the month – and we're doing something extra special today. ✨ We’re kicking off our first-ever Subscriber Spotlight, where we get to showcase one of the incredible people who make up the Modus Medley community. This quarter, we’re excited to highlight someone who truly embodies the balance of work and life, while spreading joy and fulfillment along the way.

And don’t forget to grab your freebies at the bottom of the newsletter – just a little something to say thank you for being a part of this community!

1. How do you spend your time on a typical day?

   • I am a freelance graphic designer and professional dog trainer. Which may sound bizarre, but the balance between hands-on, physical work and flexible, creative solitude works for me. I worked in both fields full-time for a number of years and found a way to combine my skills that works for my lifestyle, as I do travel a lot with my competition dogs. 

   • When I am at home, I usually spend my mornings getting a short workout in at the gym. When I come home, I spend a lot of time at my desk designing brand kits and logos for clients primarily in the dog industry. When I take breaks, I enjoy training my own dogs in the backyard, getting out and exploring Utah, or taking some time to clean and organize the house. 

   • When I am on the road for dog trials, I continue to train with a large network of other “dog folk” on the west coast while working on designs out of a camper van with my boyfriend, Max, and all six of our dogs. Travel has always been an important part of my life and I feel blessed to be able to take my design work with me while I’m on the go!

2. What's a recent accomplishment you're proud of?

   • I've completed 11 trials in my first year as a certified decoy with the Protection Sports Association (PSA). In a primarily male dominated role, I am proud to have worked hard and represented myself and other females in the sport. I always want to encourage other women to push yourself on a daily basis towards big goals even when odds are against you.

3. What's a productivity tip or tool you swear by?

   • Asana for all my freelance design organization. I use the free version, but if you have a larger team I would recommend upgrading. As a freelance graphic designer with ADHD, this tool helps me hit deadlines and stay organized with my clients. I love the calender view and ability to create templates for various project types. The iPhone app is straightforward and easy to use as well which is a huge plus when I am on the road!

4. What’s a quote that resonates with you?

   • "It's hard to beat a person who doesn't give up" - Babe Ruth

   • This quote always rings in my head when I am in a tough moment. As much as I love the life I’m building, there have many, many failed attempts at making everything work together smoothly. But I am a firm believer in pushing through the difficulties to create a life worth living!

5. What's a book, podcast, album, show, or movie you're currently enjoying and would recommend?

   • Podcasts - Armchair Expert will always be top on my list. I love the mix of guests each week, and the chemistry between Dax Shepherd and Monica Padman. They bring a vulnerable, intelligent, and honest approach to every topic and stay true to themselves whether they are interviewing a prince, noble peace prize winner, or a sitcom actor.

     • I also recommend their subpodcast, Synced hosted by Monica Padman and Liz Plank. This is a podcast geared towards women’s sexuality, relationships, fertility, and overall approach to handling things as a young adult woman. They take listener questions every episode and always make me feel like I'm right there in the room having some quality girl time.

   • Movie - Trouble (on Netflix). This is a Swedish action comedy that shows the quirky, eventful journey of an electronics salesman who is wrongfully convicted of murder. This was entertaining from start to finish and had me laughing out loud in multiple scenes. Worth the watch if you don't mind English voice overs.

6. What's your go-to recharging activity?

   • Sunlight/Outdoors. Especially on the days where I have more hours doing design work. Even a quick 15 minutes outside with my dogs or just laying in the sun can work wonders to refocus my brain. If I have been traveling and being more physically active with dogs, then I love a couch rot and tasty dinner at the end of the day :)

7. Who makes up your community?

   • I spend most of my time with my PSA community, my lovely boyfriend and our dogs. I have found over the years that too much time working alone stunts my growth. I enjoy problem solving, setting goals, and collaborating with a likeminded group. A positive community really helps me stay encouraged and can give valuable perspective on days where I feel overwhelmed!

Enjoy these fun freebies as a thank you for subscribing! We’ll share some every quarter.