Writing. Learning. Connecting. Sharing.
I’m a writer, podcaster, and breast cancer survivor who found my voice through unexpected turns in life. My career in telecommunications introduced me to technical writing, but it was a 16-month, plane-free journey in 2008 to 2009, and a breast cancer diagnosis in 2014 that enhanced by abilities at storytelling. Blogging through cancer led me to explore evocative autoethnography in my PhD research and inspired my memoir, Never Knew I Wanted to Be a Breast Cancer Survivor.
Today, I write about travel, survivorship, and writing.
Definitely Not Famous: More Extra Than Ordinary
It is hard to find good memoir written by and about people who are not famous. And yet, these are some of the best memoirs to read. They are so much more relatable than celebrity memoirs. This is what inspired me to create Definitely Not Famous, a podcast where I interview memoirists about their stories. My goal with this podcast is to elevate the stories of everyday people who truly are More Extra than Ordinary.
Writing About Writing
Writing About Writing is my lifelong learning blog—a space where I reflect on my professional pursuits and personal growth as a writer. Originally started during my PhD in Education, it has evolved alongside my career, from sharing insights on teaching instructional design to now exploring my journey into creative nonfiction. As I take a more intentional step into authorship, my latest posts focus on the craft of writing, storytelling, and the process of shaping real-life experiences into compelling narratives.
Never Knew I Wanted to be a Breast Cancer Survivor:
A BC Becky Podcast
Never Knew I Wanted to Be a Breast Cancer Survivor is a candid, story‑driven podcast where I share my experience of navigating a life‑changing diagnosis while searching for who I was and who I was becoming. Three weeks after moving to California—and with no family history or warning signs—I found myself thrown into the American healthcare system as a Canadian newcomer, a PhD student in crisis, and a human being wrestling with identity. This show is where I unpack those moments: the fear, the absurdity, the learning curves, and the unexpected clarity that comes from being pushed far beyond what you think you can handle.
Never knew I wanted to be a breast cancer survivor
Never knew I’d want to be a breast cancer survivor brings you into Becky’s world as a young breast cancer survivor. Becky shares her experiences with treatment starting the day after she first heard the words “you have breast cancer”. Throughout her treatment, she explains her thought processes as she grapples with life altering treatment decisions: which chemotherapy regime? to reconstruct or not reconstruct?
Humorous at times, serious at times, this memoir will have you laughing and crying as Becky shares her feelings but also what she is learning as she discovers what it means to be a breast cancer survivor.
BC Becky
Short for Breast Cancer Becky—is where I document my lived experience with breast cancer. I started the blog just days after hearing the words, “You have breast cancer,” and it has been a space for raw, honest storytelling ever since. Through two diagnoses, I have shared the physical and emotional realities of treatment, the mental health challenges I faced, and the ongoing journey of survivorship. From the fear and uncertainty of the first diagnosis to the complexities of life as a two-time survivor, BC Becky is a testament to resilience, reflection, and the power of sharing our stories.
Going East
Going East began as a chronicle of the 16-month, around-the-world plane-free bike journey my husband and I embarked on. What started as a way to document that life-changing adventure has since evolved into a space where I continue to share my travel experiences. Whether cycling across continents or exploring new destinations, Going East captures the stories, lessons, and unexpected moments that come with seeing the world at a slower pace.
Demystifying Instructional Design
Demystifying Instructional Design is a podcast and blog dedicated to exploring the real-world practice of instructional design and the art of teaching it. Whether you’re an experienced designer, an educator, or just starting in the field, you’ll find insightful conversations, practical advice, and thought-provoking discussions that break down the complexities of instructional design. Each episode features interviews with professionals who share their experiences, challenges, and strategies. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts and join the conversation!
Be a Patron of My Art
Help support the podcasts financially. I’m not asking for big donations. I’m looking for $3 per month via the Patreon app. This app allows you to support me as an Artist. Your support is amplified as it gives me a greater opportunity to access grants. Your $3 per month makes a difference!
