I currently work as a Senior English Teacher for 51Talk American Academy. I teach children in primary school the English language in all areas of China through video software. I also spent time teaching college level Thai students the English language on the ground in Bangkok, Thailand. Who would have thought, as a person who stutters, my life’s work would become about teaching others to speak and communicate?! Well, it has. I took an unorthodox approach and built my life on my “weaknesses” as opposed to my strengths. Challenge and growth through this route have been exhilarating. Its effects are becoming liberating in these more recent stages of my life. I know many people who stutter who have full lives, challenging speaking careers, and live as if no limitation exists.
Before discussing the things I do, I’d like to bring up what I believe are two of the most important areas of life. In no particular order, these two things are (1) one’s quality of life internally, and (2) the level of positive impact one is having on others.
In reference to (1), I have reached a place in life where joy, excitement, contentedness, and peace are a regular part of my daily experience.
In reference to (2), I strive to impact others positively in my day-to-day interactions, my personal projects, and my professional life. I am currently a speech-language therapist in the school system and work hard to impact each student as positively as I can. I talk all day long and honestly enjoy my job.
In the past, I have taught English to Chinese students through video software and even to college students on the ground in Thailand. I have written a book, managed large online communities, and operated a longstanding website which now generates its own traffic.
As a hobby, I have written, produced, and recorded five musical albums. In keeping life balanced, I love living by the beach, playing pickleball, golf, and/or enjoying the company of family and friends. I know many people who stutter who have full lives and challenging speaking careers!