From Skeptic to Believer: My Story with Essential Oils

I never imagined I’d be reaching for a stick of Serenity before bed or carrying Frankincense oil in my bag everywhere I go. But here I am, years later—amazed at how nature supports my well-being in ways I didn’t expect.

A Career Shift and a New Path

After a solid career in HR and eventually serving as a Vice President, I took a much-needed pause. During a coaching session, someone asked me what I had wanted to be when I grew up. I paused, then answered:

“I thought I wanted to be a child psychologist or an attorney who advocated for children.”

As we explored that response, I realized I had indeed spent my career advocating for people—by influencing corporate culture. It was meaningful work, but I felt drawn toward something more personal. That’s when I returned to school and earned a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University.

In my psychopharmacology class, a professor said something that stayed with me:

“Try lavender before Xanax.”
That idea—using natural, gentler interventions before pharmaceuticals—resonated deeply.

A Personal Wake-Up Call

Around the same time, someone close to me suffered a heart attack. As he recovered and transitioned to a plant-based diet, I found myself wondering: Could nature really offer tools for prevention and healing?

That curiosity grew.

The Oils Keep Showing Up

Meanwhile, a well-meaning friend at work kept dropping by with her essential oils—trying hard to convince me to start a side business. While the hard-sell approach turned me off, I was intrigued. A trusted friend, raised on essential oils, confirmed much of what I was learning both in school and through this persistent coworker. It seemed there was something real here.

By the time I met my husband, I was already a loyal customer. When another opportunity came up to learn more—this time through a science-focused seminar—Ron came along. With his chemistry background and interest in natural health, he was curious.

Halfway through the seminar, he slid a note over to me that said:

“Let’s do this!”
That was ten years ago.

From Curiosity to Everyday Use

Since 2014, essential oils have become a normal part of our lifestyle. I now offer doTERRA oils as a natural alternative for people looking to support their health. I also educate clients and friends on safe, appropriate use.

People often think I was “lured into the business,” but that’s not how I see it. It’s less about selling and more about serving. Whether I’m coaching or teaching others about oils, I simply love helping people learn how to live their best lives.


Want to Learn More?

If you’re curious about essential oils or want to explore natural ways to support your wellness, I’d love to help. my.doterra.com/plt