1. Where were you born and raised; current city; family; hobbies; past business highlights...
Duane and I were both born on the north side of Houston, TX. It’s where we met, married, and raised our family. We just celebrated our 26th wedding anniversary. We have been blessed! We have four amazing sons, a daughter-in-law, a handsome grandson (our Peanut), and a precious granddaughter (our LadyBug).
Our family has always loved adventure. Camping, hiking, and all sorts of outdoor activities have kept us close to one another. Now that we have a travel business, our adventures have gone global.
We did not know about PlanNet from day one, but we did get here as quickly as possible (day 381!). Our lives will never be the same. With no experience in the industry, we accomplished Directorship after only three months and earned the Sapphire Ring after only two years in the industry. However, our greatest joy in the business has been the accomplishments of our team – builders and bookers throughout the US, México , and beyond. Watching (and assisting) our great México team lead the way in that new market has been exhilarating!
2. How have you grown or personally developed since joining PlanNet?
This business is truly a self-development program with a compensation plan attached. The more you improve yourself, the more your bank account improves!!
I’ve had to be honest with the person in the mirror. We all have room for improvement. Learning to handle adversity, lead a team, and manage my time have been my focus. Most importantly, I’m learning who I am through this process. As a wife and mom, it’s easy to lose your identity. This business has helped me rediscover my passions and learn who I am. For the first time in my adult life, I feel whole. I am independent and self-confident.
3. What drives you; what motivates you?
There are several things that drive me. First, my family. My husband has worked far too hard for far too long. I want him to be able to retire early and have a business that he enjoys every day the way we do with PlanNet. I want my sons to never have to know true struggle. Never have student loans or debt. I never want my grandchildren to have knowledge of tougher times.
Next, I wanted to know that if anything happened to my husband, I would be okay. Financially depending on one person put me in a vulnerable place. I wanted to know that I could support myself, support my sons, and spoil my grandchildren if tragedy occurred. Medical emergencies have been a reality in my life. I wanted to be prepared...just in case. That led me to realize there are so many women in this world who need that same peace of mind. I want to help them achieve that! There are also women in abusive marriages who need the finances to free their family. They should never have to stay in a bad situation simply because of finances. Whether personal or financial, there are so many people who need help out there. Helping them is a passion of mine.
Finally, my family has a heart for mission work. We want to help those in need around the globe, starting in Puerto Rico where multiple disasters have occurred in recent years. Doing that type of work requires finances. We want to be able to self-fund and not be dependent on others’ donations to do the work we know we are called to do.
4. Who would you consider a role model and why?
In life, I look to my faith for direction. As a Christian, I am a follower of Jesus Christ. He is the ultimate example.
In business, I have two men I follow (and consider coaches). Aquarius Jackson has been by my side since the day we met. His experience, guidance, and belief in me is responsible for the success I have seen this far. He never holds back and tells me what I need to hear, not what I want to hear. He is dedicated to this business and loyal to PlanNet. His example has taught me so much. If I can be to others a fraction of the coach he has been to me, lives will be changed.
The second would be Donald Bradley. He and Mrs. Bradley are the example of success I want to achieve. Their integrity and dedication to others has shown me that this industry is truly about relationships. They have created a culture of family and professionalism that sets the standard for my personal business. When someone has achieved what you want, you should follow them. That is certainly the case with the Bradleys.
A female role model in this business doesn’t take much deliberation. Eileen Ross sets the bar for class, poise and professionalism among women. It doesn’t matter that we are not in the same “pay line,” she has been an advocate, support, and example for us all. Her example shows the entire company how to truly put people above profit and help the entire PlanNet. I try to gauge most of my decisions as a woman in this company by asking “Would Eileen Ross do that?” She is my standard.
5. The three words that describe you best are:
Loyal, Driven, Competitive.
6. If you had some sound advice to give to anyone what would it be?
Get very deep with your why! Find the why that you NEED like you NEED to breathe and nothing can stop you. If you can think of something that would make you quit, your why is not strong enough! Quitting (or slowing down) is not an option. You can’t stop breathing for a few days and start again, so treat your business the same way. It’s constant and consistent.
7. What does your life look like five years from now?
We have no question about our five years. It was decided long ago. The goal is set and will be accomplished. We will be at $1 million/year by then and helping others get to that place as well.
