A few things that you might also want to know…
I’m a whole person. We all are. We are multi-dimensional and far more than just our professional life. Skip this section if you want to learn more about that side of me, otherwise read on!
1. I’m a ROCKSTAR: I’ve had a lifelong crush on Barry Manilow.
I sang his tune “I Write the Songs” to a roomful of my 7th grade peers (who in retrospect were surprisingly receptive). This early opportunity proved to be a springboard: in the years that followed, I performed in bands playing a range of music from alternative rock and cocktail lounge to punk and pop-rock.
My favorite band was Lava de Mure. Our stated mission was to provide an eclectic mix of “exotic, erotic pop songs.” But we were also renowned for our costumes, danceable tunes and an ability to bring people together. All that said, I’m horrible at Karaoke. I much prefer to make up my own lyrics and melodies.
2. I’m a REBEL: I chose the name that suits me best.
My mom named me Melissa. But at 14, I came up with the moniker that would shape the rest of my life. I’ve always been inspired by animals – especially big cats. I was also artistic from an early age, drawing life-size cats on giant sheets of paper. Determined to live in the jungle, I had a self-styled menagerie constantly prowling the walls of my room. Add to that a proclivity for making up new words, and there you have it: Feroshia.
I legally changed my name when it became financially possible. It was a bold move at the time. Yet three decades later, I’ve never regretted it. Yes: I am ferocious! And no: there isn’t an ethnic background related to the name, unless you identify with lions and tigers… which I do, deeply. ROAAAR!!!
3. I’m a BIKER
I love bikes of all shapes and sizes. I ride a road bike, mountain bike and a motorcycle. I’ve only crashed twice, once on a mountain bike and once on my Dual Sport. Both times, my mind was elsewhere.
Lesson learned: always be present. And if you fall, get back up, laugh it off, and never give up
4. I’m a DANCER: I love to dance.
Join me!
5. I’m an INNOVATOR: I got fired from almost every job when first starting out.
Why? I was a process improvement junkie (still am actually). But in those early stages, I couldn’t escape the need to blaze my own trail. Ironic that I’d go on to support major corporations and businesses to build better teams.
I became an entrepreneur because I wanted to hold the reins. Through that process, I quickly learned – thank goodness – that it takes a team (nay, a small village!) to run this show. So I surround myself with the best team ever and treat them accordingly!
6. I’m a LIFE-LONG LEARNER: I was almost Dr. Feroshia.
I nearly completed a degree in pre-med, pivoting away during the last physics course into something I loved more: visual and broadcast communication. As a more “focused” adult, I went into leadership and organizational systems renewal during grad school.
In case you didn’t know: I’m a fervent lifelong learner. It started with an early passion for school fueled by some truly inspirational teachers. I took everything I could possibly cram into my schedule. My trainings and certifications range from eco-psychology, NLP, hypnotherapy, restorative yoga, narrative coaching, somatic psychology, somatic mindfulness, and interpersonal neurobiology to project management, conflict resolution, and Jungian archetypes (…among numerous others).
Yet despite my love for the classroom, my biggest and most significant lessons were learned in life. It’s a fact that reinforces one of my core beliefs: each of us has something vital to contribute, regardless of where it was learned!
7. I’m a FUN-LOVER: I laugh a lot.
More to the point: I’m a helpless giggler. I’ve been known to laugh for the better part of an hour over something entirely insignificant. BUT… I’ve been told my laughter is infectious. So I’m always looking for a chance to spread the condition to everyone I meet. You’ve been warned!
8. I’m a MULTIPOTENTIALITE: I don’t go to bed at night until I’m a little better than I was the day before.
I love to continually develop and master the skills that matter most to me. I’m always on the prowl to grow in some new or unexpected way.
But I also deeply value the specialists in my life… in particular those who can effectively wield a spatula. I’m a horrible cook. So I’m on a first-name basis with many of the top chefs in the Portland area. Up for takeout?
9. I’m a big time ANIMAL/NATURE LOVER: I have two fur babies that act like children (…because I treat them that way).
My pups, Molokai (a Papillon/terrier mix) and Kumi (a Pomeranian/Chihuahua mix), were both rescued from the wonderful folks at the Oregon Humane Society. Now living in the lap of luxury, or whichever lap happens to be closest at hand, they work as therapy dogs. But recently, they’ve been known to “disappear.” Small enough to hide under a coat or in a backpack (ahem!), they’ve become something of a hot commodity for those seeking unconditional love and irresistible cuteness.
If you’re tempted, keep in mind: all bags that wiggle are now searched at the end of every session
Update: As have many good souls, I decided to become a foster parent for the Oregon Humane Society during Covid And, as you might guess… I failed. Tiglet, our newest household member holds a very important role: dog groomer. While Covid has had it’s challenges, I’m proud to say that fostering is now my new favorite hobby! And, cats do love dogs.
I’m an ADVENTURER: I live what I call a “life exotic.”
In essence, it’s the practice of keeping my life infused with interesting people, places and experiences. I’ve developed that mindset throughout travels to Brazil, Argentina, Costa Rica, Mexico, Guatemala, Canada, Indonesia, China, Japan, Korea, England, France, Italy, New Zealand, Russia and soon the Galapagos.
I love to explore. But I always return home to the city in which I was born. I’m proud to be a Portland, Oregon gal. It has been the launchpad for my global excursions and a refuge that offers endless opportunities to recharge and inspire.
11. HELPER: I’m like you.
I love to help others. I want to be loved for who I am. And I strive each day to make the world a better place for my family, friends, acquaintances and even those I pass on the street or sit next to in a restaurant.
My life is rich. Yes, I’ve been financially successful at everything I’ve put my mind to. But my true wealth is the result of constantly investing myself in the success of others.
12. EMPATH: My inner introvert would probably prefer I didn’t share this one, but…
I’m a highly sensitive person (HSP). It’s not something I’ve readily shared before. But as we come to understand more about the way our personalities affect our lives, it’s important to stand up and tell our truth.
In contrast to what the term implies, an HSP is not someone who is easily upset (but you’re welcome to insert your favorite ‘fiery redhead’ joke here). An HSP is someone deeply in tune to the energy and emotions of people and environments. As a coach, it’s a superpower because it enables me to sense things that slip under most other people’s radar.
The upside is it makes me highly adept at helping people understand what is truly holding them back, empowering them to address it quickly and effectively. The downside is I must vigilantly maintain strong energetic boundaries and practice regular self-care. I love people! But when I’m full, I’m full. In these moments, I venture into nature to reground and center into my being.
Knowing and embracing your wholeness is one of the biggest gifts you can give yourself. When you come to know yourself, you can authentically align your life so you can flourish as who you are! I hope what I share helps you to see that you have so much to share with the world – just as you are! A whole person! Now, if you want to read about my street cred… Scroll a bit further…
Feroshia,
The more I read your autobiography, the more I am in awe of this universe introducing you to me. We are very much alike in many many aspects!