She Rode 3,000 Miles Across the U.S. on a Tandem Bike

Burnout can feel like a locked room, but Teri Brown found the key on a tandem bicycle. After years in an emotionally abusive marriage, she rode 3,102 miles across the United States and returned with a bolder truth: the hardest question isn’t “can I do it?”—it’s “what do I want?”

In Episodes 86 and 87 of Reignite Resilience, Teri shares her journey from burnout to book deals, from scar to story. We explore how her experiences shaped her creativity, her writing, and her approach to life. These episodes are for anyone seeking resilience, reclaiming their voice, and turning personal pain into purposeful action.

Featured Episodes

Episode 86: From Burnout to Book Deals
Teri Brown reveals how leaving an abusive marriage and riding across the U.S. sparked the creation of her novels. She discusses character-driven fiction, the emotional DNA of people across centuries, and the delicate process of crafting compelling, flawed protagonists.

Key insights:

• Creativity often lives in the margins of life—storming along a beach, writing in intuitive bursts, or retreating to a café can create the mental space needed to produce meaningful work.

• Perfection is the enemy of progress. Teri emphasizes embracing messy first drafts, deleting unnecessary words, and prioritizing authentic storytelling.

• Physical acts, like cycling over 3,000 miles, can anchor personal transformation and reinforce new narratives.

Memorable quote:
“Give yourself permission to go ahead and do the thing.”

Episode 87: From Scar to Story + Resiliency
Teri shares the tactics of emotional abuse and the practical steps that helped her rebuild her life. She walks us through establishing boundaries, rebuilding friendships, and finding allies who support without judgment. This episode highlights the deep link between emotional healing and creative resurgence.

Key insights:

• A single measurable boundary, such as financial control, can become the hinge of a new life.

• Therapy and supportive relationships rebuild the pillars of self—work, friendship, and agency.

• Sharing your story can inspire and guide others facing difficult circumstances, turning scars into stories.

Memorable quote:
“If you have a bucket list, throw it away. Look at your bucket list, find the one thing that speaks to you the most, and then find one thing you can do today to move you toward doing that thing. Even if it's going to be a five-year process, what's one thing you can do today to get started?”

Themes and Takeaways

Creativity and Margin

Key takeaway: Protect time and space for creative work, even if it feels selfish. Boundaries around chores, interruptions, and obligations honor your art and mental clarity.

Emotional Healing and Agency

Key takeaway: Identify controlling patterns, set clear boundaries, and seek therapy or allies. Rebuilding your inner pillars creates space for personal and professional growth.

Courageous Action

Key takeaway: Big steps—physical, emotional, or creative—can anchor transformation. Taking measurable, intentional actions shifts identity from “I can’t” to “I did.”

Intentions of the Week

1. Cultivate Emotional Intelligence and Empathy
   Notice the emotions of others and yourself without judgment. Respond with understanding and curiosity to deepen connections.

2. Lead with Integrity and Authenticity
   Make decisions aligned with your values. Honor your voice, your story, and your creative pursuits.

3. Pursue Knowledge and Self-Improvement
   Seek experiences, learning, and reflection that expand perspective and strengthen your resilience.

Reignite Live 2026

If you are craving clarity, balance, and renewed direction for the new year, join us for Reignite Live 2026. This one-day experience is designed for leaders, professionals, and entrepreneurs who carry a lot and are ready to strengthen focus without sacrificing well-being.

You will walk away with:

• A grounded sense of purpose

• Clear next steps for the year ahead

• A plan that supports who you are becoming

Meet vendors and sponsors offering resources to nourish both your personal and professional life. For anyone feeling stretched, overwhelmed, or pulled in many directions, this event offers the reset your mind and body have been asking for.

Thank You to Our Featured Sponsors

Join Our Resilient Community

Subscribe to the Reignite Resilience Thinkletter for weekly insights, inspiring stories, and actionable strategies to transform challenges into growth. Join a community committed to hope, creativity, and empowerment.

Tools to Resiliency

• Boundary Mapping: List areas where you feel drained or controlled. Define one measurable boundary to regain agency.

• Creative Anchors: Schedule small daily practices—writing, walking, sketching—to reclaim your mental space.

• Ally Support System: Identify friends, mentors, or therapists who offer presence over pressure. Regular check-ins build accountability and emotional resilience.

• Physical Action: Engage in activities that reinforce accomplishment and confidence, whether cycling, yoga, or long walks.

Teri Brown reminds us that by embracing our scars, taking bold steps, and nurturing creativity, we can transform our lives and inspire others.

Here’s to your week of courage, creativity, and reclaimed agency.

Until next time,

Pam & Natalie, Reignite Resilience Co-hosts