Author Archives: Maren
November benefit for Standing Rock
Wow, are we living in tumultuous times. The US presidential election is upon us, and the political season feels more frenzied and dark than I can ever recall, with most Americans (not to mention others around the globe) feeling some … Continue reading
Opening to vulnerable communication about race
I don’t need to tell you that we are living in fraught and stressful times. In the USA, we are facing a Presidential election that promises to be bitter and disappointing for most Americans. The nation is focusing on huge … Continue reading
Dream Into Change salons coming up + a new Meetup group!
Hello, fellow culture shifters! After a bit of a hiatus during the winter months, the Dream Into Change salons are back! I wanted to let you know about three upcoming ones in the Portland area, but I’m also looking to … Continue reading
Inviting the power of empathy into our lives
When I meet people socially, and they learn that I run a professional empathetic listening practice, I hear a wide range of responses. Some people are confused, not sure what that entails. Some are surprised. (“Wow, people pay you to … Continue reading
Honored to be featured on InspireMeToday.com
Hello, all! Just a quick note today: I’m thrilled and honored to have a piece of my writing featured as “Today’s Brilliance” on the website InspireMeToday.com. This daily feature showcases “everyday” writers as well as some celebrities, such as Richard … Continue reading
The Dream Into Change Salon… and a new tour?
On Thursday, July 30th, I hosted the inaugural Dream Into Change Salon, and now I’m really excited to host more of them, both here and elsewhere. The salon—a free event—is a place for us culture shifters to come together … Continue reading
Trusting my pace, in a Portland summer
Do you struggle sometimes? I’m guessing you do. I struggle sometimes. I struggle with life in general (existential ponderings have always been a part of my daily life) and also with this Dream Into Change Practice. (When is … Continue reading
Interview: Anne Berry and Angela Jacobus, Travel That Matters
Travel That Matters (tagline: “Be more than a typical tourist”) is a mother-and-daughter-owned company that caters to adventurous women in the United States, aiming to connect them in a meaningful way with nature, local economies, and women in the countries … Continue reading
Successful campaign: Amtrak to offer vegan meals on the dining car!
Well, we did it!! Yesterday, I spoke on the phone with Tom Hall, Amtrak’s VP of Customer Service, and Gary Gunderson, head of their Food and Beverage Services department. Mr. Hall had received helpful letters from a number of you, … Continue reading