We had the good fortune of connecting with maegen rzasa-cleary and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi maegen, what’s your definition for success?
Being rooted in my values with integrity…when what I feel on the inside matches what is expressed on the outside…and vice versa.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
‘Career’ is a big word. As someone who has a lot of interests and is a combo of right- and left-brained, professional life can feel meandering, confusing and overwhelming…especially when I try to nail it down to ‘one thing’ to commit to. I’ve been learning that it doesn’t have to be so straightforward and our culture is definitely moving in a direction that is really starting to support that. When I let go of the ‘shoulds’ and try to untangle myself from perceived expectations, I find the path a little easier to move on. I’m proud of all the ways that I’ve found to support folks in living the lives they deserve even if they’re not wrapped up in one perfect package.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We’d hit a new hiking trail every morning – Franklin, Fryman, Temescal to name a few. We’d drive the PCH and pick a random point to park and chill. Maybe test the water depending on the time of year. There would be walks along the canals, biking on the beach and for sure some stand up paddleboarding. Of course, we’d have to hit as many farmers’ markets as possible – definitely Echo Park, Hollywood, Central Ave, Crenshaw and Atwater – and stock up on fresh, local goodies to get us through the week.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Wow! So many touchpoints along the way! But I think the biggest piece of gold over the last decade+ would be my husband, Dan. He has been my mirror, my advocate, my cheerleader and my button pusher and at the root of it all, he basically steps back and says ‘you do you’. Sometimes I’d like him to be a little more specific ’cause that’s a messy proposition but ultimately it’s that freedom to be and to search and to stumble that keeps me going.

Website: https://seela.org/

Instagram: @thehfm

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HFMLA/

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