Struggle isn’t proof that you’re failing—it’s the raw material of growth. In this post, I share how my son’s creative journey, my own seasons of burnout, and years of running a metalsmithing school taught me that failure, when reflected on, becomes a forge for resilience and innovation.

At 46, I paused long enough to trace the road behind me—and realized just how much I’ve built, burned, and rebuilt again. This isn’t a resume—it’s a reflection. One part grit, one part story, all real. And maybe it’ll inspire you to write yours too.