We had the good fortune of connecting with Darcy Meehan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Darcy, what inspires you?
I am inspired by everyday heroes. I am a lover of stories. The stories we tell. The stories we don’t. Every single one of us is a set of stories, lived experiences and dreams worthy of sharing, being spoken, honoring, celebrating and relishing. The best stories have plot twists, unexpected events, detours, pitfalls, triumphs… we are all living heroes, with an epic life story asking to be expressed, told or reinvented… this is the ultimate life adventure, transforming through self expression and service. Putting words to things that seem indescribable is one of my gifts and where I am happiest. It weaves together some of my favorite things: conversation, communication, connection and creativity!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a lifelong learner, I continue to pursue growth and transformation (whether consciously or not, my life is proof that these are themes). Drawn to discover what matters and add value to others, my professional journeys reflect my deep desires to connect people with who or what they need as I continue to explore this in my own life.

A pursuit to know myself in more honest and true ways has moved me to and through various programs and certifications, each holding its own gems of wisdom, learning curves and real rewards. These professional development experiences have included a Master’s in Counseling Psychology, formal training as a Marriage and Family Therapist, Creative Depth Coaching, Yoga Teacher Training, SMART Recovery, hospice and end of life care to name a few.

My own personal hurdles with emotional and mental well being has been an underlying driver to hold the human experience with extreme care and real compassion, as well as strength and belief that healing happens and evolution is always possible. Making sense of the unexpected changes life brings has been an ongoing journey, supported by creativity. psychology, spiritual exploration, mind body awareness, non traditional modalities and writing. Writing is one of my early saviors, showing me that expression and freedom can go hand in hand.

The road here, where I stand today in more confidence and freedom than ever before, has been anything but traditional. Fitting into a labeled box is just not part of my story. Entrepreneurial and creative by nature, I appreciate living in a time where I can share my gifts and empower others through multiple modalities, all of which make day to day life more meaningful, peaceful, purposeful and maybe even magical.

I have been so many things, all of which have taught me that transformation and transition are inevitable and can make any life story way more epic. Therapist, coach, consultant, writer, content creator, business owner, dog trainer, end of life companion//death doula, intuitive counselor, auntie and dog momma… the list goes on and no label captures all of me, as I know is true of you too. Each life experience, professional as well as personal, has connected me with more of my essence, core values and vision for the future. Service is a through line and I am blessed to be present for life, trusted by many to be present alongside their transitions, turning points and transformations.

What I know for sure is this:
– It is possible to re-story our stories in any life phase and discover more alignment, peace and meaning.
– Safety, support and accountability can turn tough times into turning points that want to be remembered, recognized and respected.
– Healing happens and overcoming hardship is what often introduces us to our passion, purpose, vision, values and life mission.
– Learning to be present, bring loving awareness to ourselves and then others, is what changes the world.
– Creativity can be accessed by everyone and it will probably make each of us more excited to be alive when we discover how to create in our daily lives (through thoughts, ideas, interactions or actions).

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I LOVE this question… After asking “what do you want to see, feel or experience?”
Here are a few ideas:

Lake Shrine
Frozen yogurt of course
Beaches: Charlie to Venice to Santa Monica to Malibu
Pop up events with dancing, sound baths and fresh air
Veda yoga in Culver City
Urrth Cafe for iced almond milk matcha or americano and the sound of the fountains going on the patio
Leisurely walks and talks anywhere
Atlas Obscura for many more amazing options

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Cat Caracelo, Founder of JourneyPath Institute Sacha Sterling, Exploring All That is Sacred Podcast + Bee Sisterhood Co-Founder

To name a few of so many muses and allies

Website: www.darcy-meehan.com

Instagram: @darcychoosesjoy

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darcy-meehan-ma-4779a560/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/darcy.helene1

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.