For over twenty-five years I have dedicated myself to empowering Michigan's youth, teaching them not only physical defense but the vital skill of trusting their own intuition. I have watched quiet students evolve over time, finding the inner strength to stand tall and navigate conflict with a steady confidence born of self-awareness rather than force.
This journey led me to the world of fiction. Sam Hill, the protagonist of my mystery series, embodies the grit and perseverance I have witnessed on the dojo mat. Crafting this story was its own lesson; my first drafts felt too much like manuals. Learning to let Sam's unique voice steer the narrative became my new creative path.
When I am not at the dojo or immersed in writing, I treasure every moment spent with my kids, even from across the country.
Whether you are an educator, a librarian, or a fellow reader, I would love to connect. Please reach out to start a conversation.
About
Teaching Experience
Dojo Owner
For nearly 20 years, I've run a martial arts program built around practical, real-world self-defense — ground defense, tactics, and traditional weapons training — for students of all ages, including a dedicated children's Jujutsu program. It's hands-on, no-nonsense training, the kind that teaches kids to think clearly and stay calm under pressure, not just throw a punch.
Martial Arts Accomplishments
3rd Degree Black Belt – Shorin Ryu Karate
2nd Degree Black Belt – Moo Duk Kwan Tang Soo Do
1st Degree Black Belt – Shotokan Karate
1st Degree Black Belt – Bojutsu
1st Degree Black Belt – Nihon-Ryu Jujutsu
1st Kyu – (Brown Belt 2/stripes) Kumoyama Ryu Jujutsu
Results that matter
Teach in-school self-defense programs to children of all ages. Concentrate on empowerment, as well as verbal and physical defense strategies and tactics. Increase self-esteem and self-confidence through training and education, giving them the voice to say “no”, and the physical skills to defend themselves when necessary
TAPP, Michigan (Training, Awareness, Prevention and Protection)
2010 - Present
_edited.jpg)
Earning my first black belt - the start of twenty-five years on the mat.
Middle School
For over ten years, I've taught self-defense to middle schoolers across Southeast Michigan — working directly with kids in the exact age range I now write for. I've seen firsthand how quickly confidence takes root when a kid learns to trust their own instincts. That experience — real classrooms, real students, real results — is the foundation everything I write is built on.
Community College
I also spent roughly a decade teaching women's self-defense at the community college level, often working with marginalized women and survivors of abuse. Watching their confidence and sense of safety rebuild firsthand shaped how I write vulnerability and resilience into my characters — especially the character who becomes a target in the story.
University
At the university level, I taught students of all ages, genders, and needs — experience that reinforced how differently confidence shows up in different people, and how important it is to meet each student where they are.
Private & Community Instruction
I also travel to churches, senior centers, and private homes to deliver self-defense training customized to each group's specific needs — no two sessions look alike.
My Motto
Train Hard. Read Harder.