Stepping Into the Spotlight: My Experience at Bird & Bear Collective’s Ascend Panel

I recently had the opportunity to join the Ascend Panel hosted by Bird and Bear Collective, and if I’m being honest, I almost talked myself out of it.

Not because I didn’t care, but because stepping into the spotlight has never come naturally to me.

Photo Credit: Noun Photography

Battling the Quiet Voice of Imposter Syndrome

There’s a certain comfort in doing meaningful work behind the scenes. Showing up, building, contributing without necessarily being seen. That’s always been my lane.

So when I was asked to be part of this panel, that familiar voice crept in. “Are you really the right person for this?”

But this time, I didn’t let it win.

And for that, I have my friend Erin to thank. She nudged me, out of my comfort zone and into a space where I could share not just what I do, but why I do it.

Speaking From a Place of Purpose

What grounded me that day was focusing on the things I truly care about.

I spoke about Miles Creek Farm, a labor of love that my husband and I have built with a simple intention, to serve our community in a meaningful, honest way.

Our farm isn’t about scale. It’s about connection.

We’ve made a conscious decision not to increase our fresh egg prices, even when costs fluctuate. Why? Because we believe that quality food should remain accessible. It’s a small choice, but one that reflects our values.

And the community has met us right there.

We have regular customers who come back week after week, not just for the eggs, but for the trust, the consistency, and the relationship. We rarely have surplus inventory, and that, to me, says everything. It means what we’re doing matters.

Turning Small Moments Into Meaningful Impact

Another piece of my story I shared is my passion for Diversity and Inclusion, not just as a concept in the workplace, but as something I try to live out daily.

In my corporate role, in our farm, in community spaces like this panel, I’m always looking for those small pockets of opportunity.

The moments where you can, invite someone in, amplify a voice, and create space where there wasn’t one before

Because those small actions, when done consistently, turn into something more concrete. Something that actually moves the needle.

Photo Credit: Noun Photography

Growth Happens When You Step Forward

Walking into that panel, I felt uncomfortable.

Walking out of it, I felt grateful.

Grateful that I said yes.

Grateful for Erin’s push.

Grateful for a community like Bird & Bear Collective that creates spaces for these conversations to happen.

Sometimes growth doesn’t look like a big leap. Sometimes it looks like quietly choosing to take up space, even when it feels unfamiliar.

And maybe that’s the reminder I’m taking with me.

You don’t have to feel ready to show up. You just have to be willing.