WELL, it’s been a CRAZY time around here. What’s new!

I’ve come to embrace a slightly different role over the past twelve or so months. In-between writing and editing our stories, these days my role has expanded to include things like hosting events, public speaking, and travelling to attend events and experiences a lot more frequently.

I didn’t really intend for these things to become a major part of my job… for a long time, I sort of viewed them as an ‘extra’ obligation, to fit in on top of my ‘actual’ job. But in recent months it’s become clearer than ever how important these IRL moments are. They signal a shift away from anonymous online interactions, and a return to real-world connections, and truly memorable experiences.

That brings me to one particularly AMAZING event I experienced this week – Benz by the Beach, hosted by Mercedes Benz Vans. I spent two days this week on the NSW North Coast, getting to know the Mercedes team, experiencing an adventurous itinerary with the Mercedes X-Class, V-Class and Marco Polo… and learning how to surf with three-time surfing World Champion Mick Fanning. WHO even am I!?

It may all seem a little extravagant, but in truth, it really was a powerful way for Mercedes to communicate the spirit of their brand, and it felt sincere and generous. In the current climate, where social media has reduced our attention spans to mere seconds at a time and has dampened our appetite for meaningful storytelling, it was so refreshing to slow down and experience the hospitality and human connection, the old fashioned way.

I made a few new memories this week, and it really reminded me that ‘memorable’ is something to strive for in everything we do.

A huge thanks to Mercedes Benz Vans for hosting me, to Halcyon House for the most spectacular accommodation and food, and to the team at Of Character for looking after every detail. I’m inspired and energised – what a gift!