Jo learned to embrace what stands in the way. Like the day the wedding party got locked out, she saw a guest lying on the grass and joined her. That same attitude helped her reframe stressful times by enrolling in writing programs, which led to a Master's in Creative and Critical Writing. Jo unwinds at a neighbourhood pilates/yoga studio and is figuring out how books, writing, mindfulness, and connection come together in a retreat format.

Jo often jokes about being a downhill runner and wonders every year whether she should train for the 10k. “I just need to show up,” she reminds herself, and brings this same approach to her writing. When asked what comes after showing up, Jo responds,

“Sticking to my ritual. Writing is really hard and ritual is a mountain, but crafting stories that are universally relevant to how we view the world means everything to me.”