Meet Pamela | Retired Budget Director, Digital Publisher, Marathoner

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

Hi Pamela, we’d love to start by asking you about lessons learned. Is there a lesson you can share with us?
“Nothing is a Loss”

The most important lesson my business and career have taught me is that nothing is a loss. Every experience—whether it’s a dip in sales, a lack of resources, or even building through personal loss and a global pandemic—holds value.

Rather than seeing setbacks as failures, I’ve learned to count them as lessons. I was married for 18 years and lost my husband to cancer in 2019, just a few month before the Covid shutdown. During that time, I was in retirement for about 7 years as a Budget Office from local government of 34 year. After the passing of my husband and after the shutdown was lifted, I decided to return back to the workforce in July of 2021. During the process of interviewing and job searching, I learned some very interesting things along the way and decided to write an e-book entitled “Unstuck: A Guide for Entering Back Into the Workforce After Loss, Divorce or Leave of Absence. I took my loss and turned it into something others in the world could benefit from when going through loss and difficulty. That is why I believe nothing is a loss in life, business or career. Use your experiences no matter what they are to advance other as well as yourself. A Every challenge is a stepping stone, a moment of refinement that pushes me forward into success. It’s about shifting perspective—understanding that even in moments of difficulty, there is something to be gained. Whether it’s resilience, strategy, or deeper wisdom, every experience contributes to growth.

This mindset has shaped my journey, allowing me to navigate uncertainty with faith and purpose. Instead of dwelling on what’s missing, I focus on what can be built from it. Because in business and in life, nothing is truly lost—it’s all part of the process of becoming.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is storytelling—digital publishing, content creation, and writing that speaks to the heart of Christian dating and personal growth. Through my brand, I create eBooks, guides, and resources that help individuals navigate relationships with wisdom, faith, and a kingdom mindset. What sets me apart is my ability to merge biblical principles with real-life experiences, offering content that is not only inspirational but also practical and transformative.

One of the things I’m most proud of is my latest eBook, “You Are Royalty: A Guide for Dating With a Kingdom Mindset.” Knowing that my words are reaching people globally, helping them approach relationships with clarity and purpose, is what excites me the most.

My journey to this point has been anything but easy. I’ve built through loss, grief, and uncertainty. Losing my husband just before the COVID-19 shutdown was devastating—I grieved in isolation, searching for meaning in my pain. But that experience reshaped me. It deepened my purpose, refined my faith, and fueled my desire to create resources that would uplift and guide others, especially widows reentering the dating world.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned? Nothing is wasted. Every challenge, every setback, and every moment of uncertainty has been a stepping stone. I’ve learned that resilience is built in the moments when you feel like giving up, and purpose is often found in the most painful places.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is this: I am here to empower, inspire, and equip people with the wisdom to date with faith and purpose. My content is more than just words—it’s a movement, a call to approach relationships with integrity, and a reminder that we are all worthy of love that aligns with God’s plan.

I am living proof that even after loss, success and joy are possible. My story is still unfolding, and I’m just getting started.

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?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d want them to experience the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, amazing food, and unforgettable vibes. Here’s how I’d plan the best week ever:

Day 1: Brunch & Coastal Vibes

Start the trip with a Marina Brunch Cruise, sailing along the beautiful coast while enjoying mimosas and a gourmet brunch. The ocean breeze, stunning views, and good conversation set the tone for an amazing week.

Spend the afternoon at Santa Monica Pier, where we can take in the oceanfront energy, play some classic arcade games, and ride the iconic Ferris wheel.

Wrap up the evening with a cliffside dinner at a stunning oceanfront restaurant, watching the sunset over the Pacific while indulging in fresh seafood and delicious cocktails.

Day 2-3: Luxury & Golf in Palm Springs

Drive out to La Quinta Resort & Spa, one of my favorite spots for an elegant escape. We’d spend the next two days golfing on world-class courses, soaking in the sun, and unwinding with luxury spa treatments.

Evenings would be spent enjoying the resort’s fine dining, sipping wine under the desert stars, and simply recharging in paradise.

Day 4: Breakfast & Exploring LA

Back in LA, we’d kick off the morning with breakfast at The Griddle, famous for its oversized pancakes and decadent dishes.

Spend the afternoon exploring the city—maybe checking out street art in the Arts District, shopping on Rodeo Drive, or visiting a cool museum like The Getty or LACMA.

Relax with a low-key evening, grabbing dinner at a trendy rooftop spot with city skyline views.

Day 5: Hollywood Glam & Live Jazz

A day dedicated to classic LA culture! We’d take a Hollywood tour, walk the star-lined streets, and maybe sneak in a quick visit to a legendary film studio.

The highlight of the evening? A jazz concert and picnic at the Hollywood Bowl. There’s nothing like live music under the stars, surrounded by good food, great company, and an electric atmosphere.

Day 6: Beach & Sunset Relaxation

Spend the day at Malibu or Manhattan Beach, soaking up the sun, grabbing tacos at a beachfront spot, and maybe even trying paddleboarding or a sunset walk along the shore.

End the day with a laid-back dinner at another cliffside restaurant, reflecting on the week and enjoying the sound of crashing waves.

Day 7: Farewell Brunch & Final Moments

Before my friend leaves, we’d have one last brunch at a cozy café or revisit The Griddle for one last amazing meal.

Depending on their departure time, we might squeeze in a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway for one last breathtaking view of the ocean.

The Best Week Ever!

This trip would be the perfect blend of luxury, adventure, relaxation, and incredible food. It’s all about experiencing the beauty of California, making lasting memories, and just enjoying life to the fullest.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to those who have profoundly impacted my journey.

To my spiritual mentor, Patricia Butts—your wisdom, guidance, and unwavering faith have been a light in my life. Your leadership and your long-standing dedication to The Westside Church of Christ continue to inspire me.

To my running community—Movement Runners and The Breakfast Run Club—thank you for pushing me, encouraging me, and reminding me of the strength found in movement. Running has been more than just a sport; it has been a source of healing, resilience, and community.

A special thank you to Dr. Marlon Rollins—his book, Healing The Impoverished Mind, was a lifeline during one of the most challenging seasons of my life. Losing my husband and grieving his loss in isolation during the COVID-19 shutdown was an incredibly painful experience, but your words provided comfort, clarity, and the strength to move forward.

Above all, I am continuously uplifted and encouraged by my family and grandkids—their love reminds me daily that even in the hardest times, I am never alone.

Grateful for every lesson, every mile, and every moment of growth.

Website: https://www.stan.store/Pamela_Digital

Instagram: @_pamela_digital

Facebook: Pamela Donaldson

Other: My email is:
pdonaldson808@gmail.com

Please feel free to reach out to me there!